13 Austin Travel Essentials, Per a Real Austinite

When I tell people I grew up in Austin, they usually start by saying, “No way!” Then, they kindly ask me for a mini download of my local recommendations and must-dos around town. Lucky for them (and now you), I have a catalog of the best restaurants, attractions, things to do, and what to wear since becoming an Austin-based content creator 10 years ago; I’m constantly sharing my day-to-day life as an Austinite on social media. So needless to say, I am just the perfect girl to ask. 

In my opinion, there’s never a bad time to visit Austin. If it’s been on your autumn vacation bucket list, I am here to help you not only survive the in-between Austin fall weather but also thrive while you’re in town — and look good while you’re doing it. Below, I’ve curated the ultimate cool girl Austin packing list of must-bring outfits and accessories for you. You’ll also find multitasking beauty products from my brand DIBS Beauty, which I co-founded three years ago. I’ve had the pleasure of creating and formulating clean and conscious products that are easy to use and pack to deliver makeup that can go everywhere you do. 

Anrabess Matching Set

While Austin is definitely stylish and a little eclectic, it leans toward the casual side. A matching set is one of my favorite ways to look chic and put together in a simple way that is perfect for traveling. This top and pants set is lightweight, ultra comfy, and easy to pack, so you don’t have to deal with wrinkles. Even better, you can mix and match the pieces with other items in your suitcase to double your outfits. And, it makes a great travel outfit for the flight. 

AGOLDE Harper Ankle Wide-leg Jeans

You can’t come to Austin and not pack denim. In the summer, you can catch me in my AGOLDE denim shorts, and as the weather cools down, I’ll be reaching for something relaxed but still elevated, like the brand’s Harper Ankle Wide-leg Jeans. These are the perfect things for running around and exploring during the day. Nice denim is always worth the investment, as it gets better with age and wear, so don’t skimp here and grab this pair. 

Skims Cotton Jersey T-shirt 

Hands down, Skims makes the comfiest travel tops. Summer Courtney sported the brand’s Stretch Cotton Rib Tank daily, whether it was to go on a walk, or as part of my outfit of the day. This closet staple can easily be layered underneath sweaters and jackets, or you can upgrade your fall outfits with the same coziness by adding the Skims Cotton Jersey T-shirt into the mix. The bodysuit fit makes it easy to tuck into pants, skirts, and jeans.

Reformation Balia Linen Dress

I always love to pack a simple dress that can be dressed up or down (depending on what you’re doing). The key to smart packing is versatility. You could throw this Reformation linen dress on for dinner and drinks with heels or wear it during the day with sandals or sneakers. 

New Balances 574 Sneakers

A comfy walking shoe is something you will absolutely want to pack for your trip. Austin is a super active city and you won’t want to miss out on all the pretty trails and views because you forgot to pack supportive sneakers. I like to travel in my sneakers, that way I save a little suitcase space but still have them when I get to where I’m going.

DIBS Beauty Desert Island Duo 

Contrary to what you may think, cream makeup formulas are actually key for the Austin humidity. The beauty of DIBS is that each product actually wears better with time, plus, is clean, multitasks, and is so easy to use. Designed to be your “desert island” makeup product, the Desert Island Duo is a dual-ended bronzer and blush stick that can be layered, which makes touch-ups on the go a real breeze. Use it on your cheekbones, lips, and eyelids! 

DIBS Beauty Duo Brush Face

The best face brush of all time, our DIBS Duo Brush Face is truly the do-it-all tool for travel and everyday glam. We were the first to make a cream and powder application possible, together into one brush, making this a no-brainer purchase for your toiletry bag. 

IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream With SPF 50+

A tried and true product for me, the IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream is something I find myself reaching for daily. Perfect for any season, it contains SPF 50+ protection and provides a your-skin-but-better coverage to hide imperfections and make you look refreshed after a long travel day. 

Feisedy Vintage Square Cat-eye Sunglasses

If you’re spending time on the lake, you’ll want to make sure to leave your nice sunnies at home. I’ve seen one too many people lose something valuable in the lake, so there’s no reason to risk it. I’ve been wearing these Amazon sunglasses for a solid five to six years and they’ve stood the test of time. They’re always heavy in the rotation and have remained irreplaceable for me. They even look good with no makeup for a coffee run in the morning. For the price, you really can’t beat them for a weekend away. 

Carza Shoulder Handbag 

How cute is this bag? Big enough to fit everything you need for a full day in a new city (your camera, makeup touch-ups, sunnies, etc.) but is still small and chic enough to look amazing with your nighttime fits, it’s a quality, budget-friendly travel purse that adds a high-end touch to multiple kinds of outfits. 

Zolucky Corduroy Shacket

Never, and I do mean never, underestimate the Austin humidity, even in the fall (aka why I always travel with LMNT hydration packets). But as we enter the rainy season, I’d recommend having some sort of jacket in your arsenal. This lightweight shacket has that coveted worn-in look with its oversized fit and faded fabric, ensuring that you stay warm as temperatures dip. 

Curie Aluminum-free Deodorant 

The hunt for the perfect clean deodorant has been long and tedious, but I’m happy to say that this one is unreal. It actually lasts throughout the entire day. In addition to smelling amazing, it isn’t sticky at all like a lot of other clean deodorants. If you get extra sweaty on travel days or when you’re walking around, you’ll want to check out the mini versions that are so tiny and cute and can very easily be thrown in your bag for all-day rescue.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.