If this summer has taught me anything, it’s this: pack light, but pack smart.
I’ve been living on the road lately—bouncing between cities, climates, and carry-ons—and I’ve had to get crystal clear on what I actually need in my bags. Between in-flight temperature swings (why is it always either freezing or boiling?), unexpected weather, and long days in the sun, these are the systems and essentials that have kept me feeling calm, collected, and organized.
My Two-Bag Travel Strategy
After years of overpacking and lugging things I didn’t touch once, I’ve finally settled on a simple system:
One roomy suitcase with clothes, shoes, and bulkier items
One small backpack or weekender tote that stays on me at all times (especially during flights)
The key? Keeping my in-flight and daily essentials accessible and lightweight—and that’s where my tiny travel purse pack comes in.
My Tiny Purse Pack: In-Flight Must-Haves
This small-but-mighty pouch fits inside any bag and keeps me feeling human on long flights or travel days. Here’s what’s inside:
- Hand Lotion
- Hand Sanitizer
- Lip Balm with SPF
- Mini Perfume
- Ritual Oil (refilled mini I use over and over)
- Silk Scrunchie
- Green Tea Matcha (just add hot water)
- Airpods (and summer playlist)
- Gum or Mints
- Hand Screen
It all fits perfectly in this pouch—compact, organized, and ready to toss into any bag.
Beauty That Travels Well
When it comes to beauty, I like to keep it minimal but effective. My go-to for summer travel? The Merit 5-Minute Morning—a clean, glowy routine I can do in under five minutes.
A few reasons I love it:
It travels well (small, no-mess packaging)
Looks natural but polished
Doesn’t melt off in the heat
Pro Packing Tip: Refill & Reuse
One simple strategy that makes a huge difference?
Save your reusable minis and free samples.
I refill travel containers from my full-size products (especially for skincare and SPF), and keep a dedicated drawer of mini items to rotate through. That way, I’m never scrambling to pack and I don’t end up with a dozen half-used plastic bottles.
Systems That Make Travel Easier
Whether you’re traveling with kids, going solo, or juggling work on the go, systems are everything.
A few of mine:
Washable toiletry bag with self care essentials
Document Pouch with ID, cards, travel insurance, itinerary and routine/ ritual journals
Rolling clothes in packing cubes by category (tops, bottoms, pjs, workout, etc)
Keep chargers + tech in a dedicated tech pouch
Heating pad – yep, even in the summer. It’s a pillow on the plane, a warmer when that air is freezing, and a warm snuggle when you’re solo.
Whether you’re heading out for one last summer getaway or just dreaming up your next destination, I hope this roundup helps you travel lighter and smarter—without sacrificing your style or sanity.
Let me know in the comments: What’s one thing you always bring when you travel?
