10 Travel Styles That Never Leave My Carry-on Bag

After visiting 31 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and beyond, I’ve learned a thing or two about travel essentials. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene beaches of the Caribbean and the colorful markets of India, I’ve discovered that the last thing you want is to be weighed down by a suitcase full of unnecessary clothing. That’s why I’ve perfected the art of packing light, focusing on a handful of key pieces that keep me comfortable wherever my adventures take me.

Think cozy socks that keep your feet comfortable through the countless steps you take while exploring new cities, versatile jeans that transition seamlessly from European cafés to cool evenings in the tropics, or a simple white tank that layers beautifully. Workout sets are ideal packing solutions for spontaneous hikes or early morning yoga by the beach, while a trusty swimsuit is always needed for impromptu dips in the sea. I’ve tested each piece firsthand on my journeys, so you can be ready for anything the world throws at you. Really, the only thing you should be focusing on while traveling is which café to discover next.

Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle Jeans

Wherever my travels take me, Levi’s Ribcage Straight Leg Jeans are the ultimate companion. Their flattering high-rise fit and functional style are just what I need for shopping my way through the streets of Istanbul or eating my way through Lisbon. I have them in multiple colors, and at 5’7″, they hit right at the ankle, making them ideal for pairing with boots or sandals. One shopper shared that they “found the perfect ‘French girl’ jeans” for a trip to Paris. “They’re so flattering, comfy, and structured.”

Zesica Crewneck Ribbed T-shirt

In my opinion, every carry-on suitcase needs a top that effortlessly transitions from day to night. Ideal for city dinners, it also pairs beautifully with shorts and flowy skirts for tropical vacations — whether I’m sipping cocktails on a rooftop or exploring local markets. 

90 Degree By Reflex High-waist Power Flex Leggings

High-waisted leggings effortlessly transition me from plane or car rides to a workout class or sightseeing in between. 90 Degree By Reflex’s stretchy, comfortable fabric makes long voyages a breeze, while the high-rise fit provides support and coverage on the waist. One traveler said that they “stood up to 18 days of travel, hiking, rain, etc.”

​​The Gym People Workout Tank Top

I always pack an athletic workout top in my suitcase to go from the gym to a coffee date. One of my favorites is The Gym People’s longline sports bra, which provides incredible support and breathability. The soft, lightweight fabric dries quickly, making it great for humid, tropical days or long mountain hikes.

Pro Mountain No-show Socks

It took me too long to realize the importance of quality no-show socks while traveling, but now I see they’re fundamental for shifting from the plane to the city streets and even through long hikes. Available in various color packs, I especially appreciate the natural shades that blend with any shoe. They strike the perfect balance—not too thick or thin, they won’t rub your feet and stay invisible in most shoes. 

Free People Clean Lines Muscle Cami

A classic tank top in white, black, or gray is mandatory for any of my trips. It effortlessly complements every outfit, serving as an easy layering piece for any occasion. I love Free People’s Clean Line collection for its stretchy, soft nylon fabric, which offers a sculpted look with seamless construction. This tank looks fabulous on its own or layered under a jacket or sweater. 

Pink Queen 2-piece Outfit Sweater Set

Thanks to their lightweight and breathable fabric, linen pants are a travel necessity no matter where you’re going. Whether I’m exploring temples or lounging on a tropical beach, they give off a relaxed, yet polished, look that effortlessly transitions from day to night. Even when they wrinkle — one of linen’s charming traits — they still maintain a cool look. Here, you get versatile travel pants and a cute sweater for the price of $40. This mix-and-match set will double your outfit possibilities. 

Hunza G Domino One-piece Swimsuit

I love brands like Hunza G and Youswim for their one-size-fits-all silhouettes, which are designed to accommodate any body changes. While these swimsuits are an investment, they’re absolutely worth the price to me, and mine never leaves my carry-on bag. I’ve worn mine everywhere from a hot tub in snowy mountains to a beach while paired with a sarong. 

Nordstrom Crewneck Cashmere Sweater

Cashmere effortlessly transitions from day to night. While it may be an investment, the timeless style ensures you’ll get your money’s worth on every trip. A lightweight 100 percent cashmere sweater is ideal for cooler mornings and evenings. It fits nicely with jeans in the mountains, leggings during long travel days, and even sweats while lounging in my favorite hotels. I love having one on-hand to drape over my shoulders or throw over a tank top while I’m on the move.

Amazhiyu Long-sleeve Button-down Shirt

Nothing embodies an effortlessly chic look quite like a long-sleeved linen button-down, which is perfect for any season. It pairs beautifully with my linen pants or jeans for city escapes, and I even love throwing it over my swimsuit as a chic cover-up. The breathability of 100 percent linen fabric is strong, durable, and holds up no matter where I go. With its timeless appeal, a linen button-down has become a packing essential I can’t travel without.

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