#travel-packing

#travel-packing

For many, the first sign of fall is the leaves changing. But for me, a shopping-loving travel writer, it's when Uggs go on sale. Right now, Ugg boots, slippers, and more popular styles from the brand are marked down at the boutique retailer Gilt, perfectly coinciding with when you'll want to stock up on seasonal essentials to pack for your travel plans throughout the coming months.

The reason for this is multipronged. In an effort to reduce packaging waste, the European Union (EU) announced a plan last year to have single-use plastics-like mini shampoo and conditioner bottles- banned by 2030. Most European hotels have now switched over to bulk-sized dispensers in order to reduce plastic waste, with many only offering shampoo, body wash, or two-in-one shower gels.

As a Floridian, I can pack a summer suitcase in my sleep. But when it comes to fall, I have to think carefully about versatile items that won't be too bulky and will layer well (I'm eternally chilly). A minimalist fall wardrobe may sound simple in theory, but it faces the challenges of unpredictable weather and drastic fluctuating temperatures. Packing for fall means keeping practicality, lightweight layers, and the right footwear top of mind.

It's no secret that the silk scarf has enjoyed a moment in the spotlight - a Euro summer, if you will. Its styling options are plentiful and it seems every celebrity and fashion influencer on Instagram has packed a suitcase full of them as they take to the skies, shores and streets of our favourite destinations. Printed bandanas pair well with sleek sunglasses for boat trips along the Italian coast, monochromatic designs (tied at the waist) contrast flippy maxi skirts for Barcelona city strolls,

Packing light can be tricky any time of year, but once the temperatures begin to dip, the struggle to fit everything into a carry-on bag becomes even more difficult. As someone who flies multiple times a year and refuses to pay for a checked bag, I've cracked the code for squeezing as many looks as I can into just a carry-on. My secret? Only sticking to one or two-sometimes, three-bottoms that can go with anything.