10 Staples I Packed for Every One of My 11 Trips This Year

Tokyo, Stockholm, Riviera Maya, Copenhagen—just a few of the places I’ve been to in 2024 so far. I’ve racked up countless airline miles (hello, United Gold tier status), earned approximately five new stamps in my passport, and familiarized myself so well with the JFK departures terminal that I debated buying a room share at the TWA hotel. In other words, I’ve traveled a lot this year. And if there’s one thing I learned throughout the process, it’s how to pack efficiently in a carry-on for just about any trip far or near, short or long. It all comes down to a handful of hardworking wardrobe staples.

Whether I was sitting down to pack my well-loved Away Bigger Carry-On suitcase for a quick weekend trip or a longer international journey, there were several through lines in my travel wardrobe that I truly could not have done it without. (If you’re curious about my in-flight essentials, I’ve documented them here.) But back to the contents of my actual suitcase. Basic but versatile tops, pretty yet walkable flats, and single-statement accessories were all pieces that I kept packing over and over again. Here, I’m outlining my top 10 most packable items, including some of the outfits I created with them.

1. Reformation Dusk Top

This is 100 times chicer than any plain white tank you could reach for, but just as easy. The high neckline looks so polished while the stretchy fabric makes it so comfortable to wear. I found myself styling this over and over while traveling with maxi skirts, jeans, and even capri leggings.

2. Éterne Francis Sweater

I don’t need to outline the reasons a cashmere sweater should be in your wardrobe, but I do need to bring this perfect one to your attention because it’s been my trusty travel companion for years now. It’s surprisingly warm for being light as air and thin, which makes it the perfect layer to wear on and off the plane.

3. Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans

Easy, relaxed, and classic. To me, it just doesn’t get any better than Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans, a relaxed straight fit with a mid-rise and button fly that are the next best thing to genuine vintage denim. I usually limit myself to packing one pair of jeans per trip because they take up so much space in my suitcase, and more often than not, this is the pair that makes the cut. Before you ask, yes they’re even relaxed enough to fly in.

4. Dehanche Hollyhock Belt

My packing philosophy is to lean on classic clothing items and punctuate them with cool accessories so my outfits don’t look too plain. Dehanche’s Hollyhock belt is the ultimate outfit addition that can take something as simple and jeans and a tee to another level.

5. Free People Carrie Tube Top