Earlier this summer we visited Montana. When I lugged my suitcase up on the baggage check scale, it came in hot at 49.5 pounds (an artform or fatal flaw?? We may never know). It got me thinking—I envy people who can toss a few things in a bag and go. Like, how? That has never been my forte or natural tendency.

However, I do try my very best, and these are the things I keep in mind when packing for a trip—products that help, thought processes, etc. I’d love to hear your staples, too—comment on the post so I can add to my packing repertoire. 

• I’m always, always, always considering what books and journals I’ll take. Very writerly of me, I know. I start by stacking them on the counter, which inevitably turns into a leaning tower of Pisa. Then I whittle it down from there. I recently got a Kindle to help me lighten the load. I’ll report back how that goes. 

• For the most part, I try to plan out what I’ll wear at my destination ahead of time. It makes packing easier, yes, but it also eliminates any OMG, what am I going to wear to this dinner?? moments when I’m hundreds of miles away from my closet. Taking these photos of each outfit I’ll pack as I try them on helps me see the common threads between outfits and what I could mix and match for efficient travel.

• Planning outfits in advance takes time. It means I have to dedicate a night to it before I leave. This structure really helps me, because I tend to be a last-minute packer by nature (anyone else??). I always underestimate how much time it’ll take to make packing decisions and round up my toiletries, makeup, supplements, etc. 

• Gathering up my daily supplements and clean-living stuff is a project in itself… As of June 2025, the steady constants I always pack are: Taylor Dukes Wellness Magnesium (makes sleeping in a new environment much smoother + helps with digestion on the road) + Electrolytes (I drink two on travel days and one each day I’m gone to keep me hydrated), and Magic Mind mental performance shots (these are a need at this point, ha. Use this link for $40 off your first order!). Plus, my daily meds, of course.

• These packing cubes make organizing a checked bag sooo much more efficient. I can easily fit so much more when I use them (which, perhaps, feeds into my 49.5 pound problem…). I designate each pouch to one category—”real” outfits, workout clothes, PJs/bras/undies, accessories, etc. 

• When it comes to skin care, toothbrushes, and hair stuff, I don’t have the perfect case or pouch (any recos?). However, I have started prioritizing a culled down makeup routine in this great bag. It’s the perfect size for makeup essentials, and it’s so easy to throw in a tote or backpack on travel days. Love the monogram option, too!

What parts of this resonate with or are opposite of you? Let me know in the comments below—especially if you have mastered traveling light (please… I’m begging, ha!). 

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P.S. I think you’d also like the essay After a Weekend Away!

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