How Tastemakers, Expert Travelers and People I Find Cool Pack
Inside the suitcases of people who know how to travel well—their packing tips, rituals, essentials, regrets, and go-to island picks.
While Memorial Day weekend is widely considered the unofficial start of summer, that may feel a bit out of sync—at least in New York City, where the weather has been moody and chilly lately. We’ve been juggling layers, with the exception of actual Memorial Day, which brought a brief taste of warmth. Still, that shouldn’t stop us from settling into a summer mindset and planning our upcoming getaways.
With that in mind—and looking to get you into a summer state of mind as well—for this new installment of The Art of Discovery, I spoke with twelve tastemakers, expert travelers, and people I find cool, all about one of travel’s great challenges: packing.
They answered some of the most pressing packing questions, from their personal packing method, mantras, rituals and essential tools, to their go-to travel outfits, making room for shopping or souvenirs, and the items they never travel without. They also shared the most surprising thing they’ve ever packed, what they’ve regretted leaving behind, memorable packing disasters, and of course, the classic: which three items they’d bring to a deserted island.
Speaking of insights, I sent out a little reader survey last week. If you haven’t had a chance to share your thoughts yet, consider this a gentle nudge—I’d really love to hear from you. Your feedback is incredibly helpful as I continue brainstorming content ideas and refining discoveries for you. Thank you, truly, for being here—reading, sharing, commenting, and liking. It means the world to me!
Things I’ve learned from tastemakers, expert travelers, and people I find cool about packing:
The most stylish people are just like us: last-minute packers who often have to sit on their Rimowa to get it closed.
Latinos love to pack food when returning from home.
Most people I surveyed weigh their suitcases before heading to the airport. Maybe I should start doing that too, instead of just guessing based on how heavy it feels.
Natalia Swarz, Founder of Hôtel Weekend
As a mom, Natalia has become a great example of the smart packer, thanks in part to her husband. Packing is a well-planned, two-step, shared activity in their household. However, her final anecdote serves as a reminder not to forget about yourself amidst motherhood.
Packing list or not? Yes, but only since I had kids.
Describe your packing method in three words: Hopeful, light, simple.
Who or what taught you how to pack? My husband is the one teaching me. He’s extremely organized (is that a Capricorn trait?), and while I also appreciate being super tidy, he’s the one that leads the whole packing situation. ONLY when I’ve already made the selection, otherwise he would forget lots of things! I’m the concept, and he’s the execution. Our routine is simple: I make the selection of all the things we need, put everything on the bed and my husband packs it in the bag, he’s very organized so this helps a lot!
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? Obviously depends on the trip, but I always try to leave room for shopping. If it’s really worth it, I will travel with a suitcase inside another so I can bring back and extra one.
Your go-to travel outfit? An oversized jacket with pockets, a T-shirt and some comfy pants. The trick is to keep it simple but with great quality. I like to look good and put together, but never compromising style.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? I don’t love packing when we are going to weddings.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? My Artipoppe, because I’ve been traveling for the past 3 years with a baby! I couldn’t live without it.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? Every time I go visit family in Colombia, I always bring back arepas and a can of Milo, which is a chocolate powder I loved as a kid.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? I really needed an humidifier on my last trip but thought it was a bit silly to bring on my suitcase.
Ever had a packing disaster? On our last trip to Copenhagen I packed for everyone and forgot about most of my things. I had to wear a bunch of my husband’s clothes!
Lucia Cuesta, Stylist and Jewelry Designer
Lucia has never had a packing disaster—she just recently regretted not packing any outerwear. A last-minute packer, carry-on-only connoisseur, who doesn’t use specific organizers, she always manages to leave some space for souvenirs and shopping. Tell us how you do it! She is the packing magician.
Packing list or not? Always! In my little agenda.
Carry-on or check-in bag? Carry on always. Even for trips lasting weeks, I manage to pack everything to avoid checking in. I hate it!
Describe your packing method in three words: Tetris, tetris, tetris.
Packing routines or rituals? I leave everything on the bed and little by little, after procrastinating, I finish packing.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? I’m able to store even coats in the carry-on. My friends are amazed, they say I’m Mary Poppins.
Packing tips you'd like to share? Clothes on one side, shoes on the other, and the toiletry bag goes in last!
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? I plan them, so everything is already organized.
Your go-to travel outfit? In winter, jeans and basic t-shirts. In summer, tank tops with skirts and dresses.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? A comfortable pair of shoes and comfy clothes to save me from any situation.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? An iron, which I’m always asked to take out.
Monica Mendal, Travel Writer
Monica is not a procrastinator in most areas of her life, but when it comes to packing, she always waits until the day before the trip. She doesn’t use a packing list, but instead relies on an experience-based packing system focused on efficiency. She’s the efficient packer.
Carry-on or check-in bag? Carry-on, no question!
Describe your packing method in three words: Strategic, streamlined and instinctive.
Packing mantra or rule you never break? I have two packing mantras: (1) If I don’t want to wear it in my daily life when I’m not traveling, then I won’t want to wear it on a trip! (2) If I wouldn’t wear it twice, it’s not coming.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? Just the fact that I can pack one month’s worth of travel into a carry-on always surprises people, ha!
Who or what taught you how to pack? Growing up, my dad never let us check bags on family trips—he was a stickler for efficiency—so that definitely shaped my packing habits. Beyond that, it’s really just experience. Working as a fashion editor taught me how to do more with less, and now, as a travel writer constantly on the move, I’ve learned what’s essential and what I can leave behind.
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? If I’m going to a city, where I can basically just wear my everyday uniform, then no, I don’t plan outfits. I’ll just pack what I wear everyday! But if it’s a beach vacation, for example, sometimes I like to conceptualize a bit.
Your go-to travel outfit? I love the relaxed pants by Attersee or the cropped flares by High Sport, or these chic and comfy Leset ones, or these by Donni. Then I’ll usually throw on a tee, like the margo by Leset and a cashmere sweater by my favorite cashmere brand, People’s Republic of Cashmere. I also always bring the cashmere travel wrap by White + Warren, as it’s also just a great essential to have for layering on every trip.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? Well, a ski trip makes my carry-on only rule quite difficult!
Overweight? How often? Always, probably. But I get away with never having to weigh it since I do carry-on only!
One item you consistently pack on every trip? This is so niche but for the past few years I’ve packed The Row beige sock flats on every trip. They’re just so easy to wear with everything, I can’t explain it. I also won’t travel anywhere without at least two of my Porto Studio pouches, which I own in every color.
Ever had a packing disaster? Last summer, I spent a month in Greece and somehow forgot to pack pants—I only packed three pairs for an entire month. It was the weirdest oversight!
Amanda Murray, Creative Consultant
The confident packer. No packing disasters. No regrets. She doesn’t really follow dress codes—or a packing method. “I just pack whatever speaks to me in the moment, and I always overpack, unintentionally.” Overweight? Often.
Last minute packing or how well in advance? I’m a last minute packer, it’s the Taurus in me. My last trip, I left for the airport at 3am, I was still packing at 12am. I want to do better.
Packing mantra or rule you never break? I always pack a great outfit with underwear in my carry-on, god forbids my luggage doesn’t arrive with me.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? I try to pack sage if I remember, I’ve been to some hotel rooms where the energy is off from the go and I won’t be able to sleep.
Who or what taught you how to pack? My grandma!
Packing tips you'd like to share? Place your perfumes or bottled products in ziploc bags and roll it in a pair of jeans.
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? I don’t really plan, but I usually have an idea of how I want to feel and let that be my guide.
Your go-to travel outfit? It used to be a pair of jeans and a cool knit with a light coat and Manolo Blahnik hangisi slides. Now it’s my Miu Miu leather slides, a knitted pant, a knit and a cool t-shirt with a light coat.
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? I don’t! I’m not really a souvenir shopper unless it’s a fridge magnet.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? My Vivienne Westwood silk scarf just in case I’m having a bad hair day.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? Everything I pack can be justified.
Caitlin Burke, Fashion Stylist
Caitlin is the epitome of the experienced stylist-packer. With nearly 20 years as a stylist—essentially a professional packer—she has it down to an art. For her, the physical act of packing always happens at the last minute, but only after everything has been carefully thought through and planned in advance. She creates look boards for every trip, even personal ones, where “each day has a slide with photos representing the different locations we'll be at—down to a restaurant reservation—and a photo of my outfit next to the location.”
Packing list or not? I have a personal packing list and shoot packing list in my phone that I reference once I'm all packed to make sure I have everything on it.
Carry-on or check-in bag? Always both. Checked for products and because I just always have a lot of clothes, and carry-on for jewelry and most expensive items.
Describe your packing method in three words: Thematic, over-prepared, and inevitably... overweight.
Packing mantra or rule you never break? Always pack a bathing suit, no matter where you're going.
Packing tips you'd like to share? Packing cubes are amazing! Keep a general packing list in your phone of everything you could ever need and scan it before you leave. Stuff bags with sunglasses, socks and underwear. Buy a luggage hand weight to avoid overweight fees.
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? Yes, an obsessive amount. Every look is photographed and slotted into a deck next to a photo of the place I'll be wearing it—this way you'll end up packing so much less.
Your go-to travel outfit? Loose tailored black pajama pant, to give the illusion of a trouser, black loafers, a white tee, cashmere sweater and a trench, with my large Bottega hop bag that fits everything.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? I love a dress code, the more specific the better.
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? Usually the latter, but I will always find a way to squeeze shopping and souvenirs, even if it means buying a new suitcase or shipping things home.
Overweight? How often? Always, but thankfully I have reached a miles status where I don't have to pay for it anymore.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? Wellness Formula (iykyk).
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? Maybe my collection of 20+ wigs? They come with me to every bachelorette. I'm sure there's been weirder though for shoots.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? Portable speaker is something I recently added to my general packing list after realizing I always want one. Now that it's on the list though, I won't forget again.
Ever had a packing disaster? Going through customs in Mexico, every stylist/photographer will feel my pain. Make sure your carnet is AIR TIGHT!
Sebastian Cabrices, Fashion Editor
I met Sebastian last September in Paris during Fashion Week through a mutual friend, Leo. It’s no surprise that he’s learned to pack smart especially thanks to Paris Fashion Week—after all, he does the full week, which involves not only multiple shows and presentations, but also coffees in between, dinners, parties, and more. He’s what I’d call the humble packer: he packs at least the night before, without a packing list, and says he’s open to suggestions. But he’s also adapted his wardrobe to be carry-on friendly, and he’s always so stylish that I suspect he has a few tips to share with the rest of us.
Describe your packing method in three words: Occasions, neat, stuffed.
Packing mantra or rule you never break? Any specific packing routines or rituals? Dinner jackets always in the bottom, folded inside-out, underwear & socks in packing bags, all shoes in dust bags. Don’t bring sunscreen, if there’s a beach, you’re likely to find it there.
Practicality, style or both? Both.
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? Always, especially when traveling with carry-on only. If I’m checking luggage, you better believe I will overpack and have options.
Your go-to travel outfit? A jacket with pockets, light jumper, loose pants. Normally loafers, but recently Birkenstock 1774.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? Lint roller, steamer when possible.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? I’m Latino, my luggage has seen things. When coming back from Venezuela, definitely a preoccupying amount of chocolate.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? A raincoat for Paris. You always need a raincoat in Paris, no matter the season.
Ever had a packing disaster? Spilled bottles of sunscreen, melted chocolate…
Irene Kim, Stylist and Author of the Substack ‘In Moda Veritas’
Irene has absorbed a lot of packing advice over the years and now uses whatever works best for each trip. “Not all packs are the same!”, she says. She generously shared her packing strategy and what she packed for a quick trip to Miami Art Basel in her newsletter.
Describe your packing method in three words: Methodical, efficient, versatile.
Packing list or not? Mostly not. I mentally picture myself walking through the days ahead and for each step, I note what I’ll need. e.g. Wake up, need xyz toiletries. Go to meeting, need xyz things. Sometimes, like when I did the Tour du Mont Blanc, I needed to be both extremely prepared and extremely efficient and keep my pack under 10kg. In that case, I had a packing list—and packed weeks in advance.
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? I plan my outfits "ahead of time”—even if last minute, they’re planned—usually using separates that I can make multiple outfits with.
Your go-to travel outfit? Sweatpants almost always. My thrifted men’s Nike sweatpants have been my go-to for years. I’ll wear my Tibi Calders if I’m not planning on wearing them during the trip—I have this thing where I feel like everything that enters the inside of the airplane needs to be washed before being worn again, including my body. I’m not a germophobe at all, so it’s a weird quirk I have.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? Fashion-related work trips are always the least efficient and most stressful. Most of the time, they involve pieces that aren’t easy to pack because of their structure and I have to be extra careful. During Fashion Week, I often won’t be repeating a piece more than once and sometimes I’ll pack multiple options, all of which means more luggage. And favorite? On personal vacations, I’m the most easy-going packer. Versatile, low-maintenance separates for the win.
Overweight? How often? Never, but have been close many times! I always weigh my luggage at home before I leave. I weight myself first, then weigh myself carrying the luggage and determine the difference. For some reason, I think it’s more accurate than if I put the luggage on a tiny scale.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? My Jacquemus Santon hat has a diameter of 21” which barely fits my XL check-in luggage! I also have to be careful to pack around it so it's cushioned and doesn't bend in transit.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? Nail clippers. If you’re going for more than week, you’ll need them!
Giulia C., Editor at Net-a-Porter and Author of the Substack ‘The Inside Pocket’
The emotional yet resourceful packer. Giulia finds packing genuinely overwhelming. It’s not that she has too many clothes—though that’s debatable—it’s more that her outfits are built around her mood. “So having to decide in advance what I’ll want to wear in three to five days (or two weeks!) feels like a lot.”
Packing list or not? I keep two trusty bullet-point lists in the Notes app on my iPhone. One is purely practical: it covers all the essentials I can’t risk forgetting and a few thoughtful extras (read: emergency snacks and a mini perfume). The second list is where the magic happens: the outfit plan. To make the most of what I’m packing, I try to get at least two looks out of each key piece. I think about all the possible outfit combinations, and voilà! If I wake up with absolutely no clue what to wear, I’ve got a cheat sheet ready to go.
Carry-on or check-in bag? If there’s one luxury I try to give myself, it’s bringing a carry-on with me even for short trips, just so I can pack my jewelry and have them over my head while I fly. If there’s one thing I refuse to travel without, it’s that little box of joy and sparkle. It also helps me massively feeling good when I’m outfit repeating.
Who or what taught you how to pack? My mum is a packing magician and I learned everything I know from her!
Your go-to travel outfit? I have a Sporty and Rich set in brown that is perfect for travelling. I don't love activewear at all, so I only wear it when it’s strictly necessary. However, that brown set makes me feel put together and comfortable at the same time.
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? I always leave at least 1kg for potential purchases. If I’m planning to buy a lot, I just buy another suitcase—so far it only happened when I went to Japan and the bag was full of snacks! When I travel back home to Italy, the free kg becomes at least three because I will most definitely bring back cheese.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? Not me, but my very Italian mum once put 2kg of pistachio spread cream in my hand bag as a surprise gift and I got stopped in Heathrow for hours.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? Plasters! I love exploring cities by walking and, no matter how comfortable your shoes are, emergency plasters are always useful.
Ever had a packing disaster? When I went to Russia—I forgot all my underwear and I had to spend a lot of money to re-buy all of them. I stayed there for an entire month...
Francesc Planes, Photographer
As a photographer, Francesc prioritizes his camera equipment—he packs that first, then adds clothes for cushioning. Traveling solo as a backpacker has also taught him how to pack efficiently and keep things simple. He’s the practical packer.
Last minute packing or how well in advance? I usually pack last minute, because if I do it too early, I end up taking things out of the bag to use them. Lately, though, I’ve been trying to pack in advance so I don’t spend the night before a trip packing and getting no sleep.
Carry-on or check-in bag? Carry-on, always. I don’t want to carry big bags or too much stuff. I want to move fast and light.
Packing routines or rituals? I have a small travel toiletry bag that always stays in my travel bag, with all the essentials (toothbrush, razor, cream, nail clipper). I only access it when I’m traveling.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? I always wear a technical vest with a lot of big pockets—it’s like a backpack for me. I put everything I need for the plane or train in the pockets (passport, AirPods, food, cameras, battery, charger, etc.). It’s the best. I have like five of those vests and always travel with one. Sometimes, they’ve saved me from a lot of situations.
Your go-to travel outfit? Big, comfortable pant with big pockets. Comfortable shoe.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? Keep it simple and comfy. No heavy clothing.
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? If I’m traveling far, I always go with very little and buy a cheap, big bag at the destination to bring everything back.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? A camera and an external battery for my phone.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? A big, heavy candelabra made of clay in the shape of a bull. Or some crazy, long, 70 cm pointy boots.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? A painting of a bullfighter—a really cool handmade copy of Botero’s bullfighter portraits. I found it at a weird street market for a great price but didn’t buy it because it would’ve been hard to ship. I regret it every single day.
Nuria Rothschild, Fashion Model
With over ten years of experience as a fashion model, Nuria has essentially taught herself how to pack with both purpose and style. “You learn through practice, and now, I’m honestly an expert!”, she says. She embodies the purposeful packer.
Packing list or not? I always use the Notes app on my iPhone. It’s super practical! I write everything down there and, as I pack, I check things off. Then I do a final review and delete each item to confirm I’ve packed everything.
Describe your packing method in three words: Categorized, organized, and practical. Every bit of space counts!
Any specific packing routines or rituals? I always follow an order. First, on the right side of the suitcase I place all the clothes—jackets, pants, tops. On the left side I divide it in half: at the top I put tall boots that don’t fit in a carry-on, plus handbags, and at the bottom, toiletries.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? When I pack shoes, I cover them with the disposable foot covers they give you at airport security control. I always keep them—or even grab extras while waiting in line. They’re super handy because they don’t take up space like plastic bags do and they mold to the shape of the shoe, so they don’t dirty the rest of your stuff. It’s very hygienic. Highly recommend it!
Do you plan your outfits ahead of time or pack separates? I always plan my looks in advance. I put them together, take photos, and then just pack exactly what I know I’ll wear. It’s much more efficient.
Your go-to travel outfit? I always wear a tracksuit—literally always. Being comfy is the most important thing at the airport. And I always bring a hoodie with pockets—they’re super useful for carrying my passport, headphones, tissues, whatever.
Overweight? I never go over the weight limit, but only because I weigh my suitcase before going to the airport. I have a little portable scale that I take on every trip.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? I always bring my camera, some paints, and a stuffed animal named Spotty. He comes with me on every trip. He’s seen more of the world than most people.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? Artificial turf, but don’t ask me why.
Ever had a packing disaster? Just the usual, like a bottle leaking in the toiletry bag or a broken powder compact. But since I keep everything in a toiletry bag, any damage is usually contained.
Linda Cui Zhang, Tastemaker
Since I met Linda at Pedro Garcia’s 100 Years event, I haven’t stopped admiring her incredible personal style. When it comes to packing, she admits to planning her practical yet stylish outfits in advance. To me, she’s the stylish planner-packer.
Packing list or not? Yes, always! A calendar of days with an outfit listed for each day. Then general categories like Tech (laptop, charger, converter) and Health (AG1, vitamins, sunscreen)… and so on.
Last minute packing or how well in advance? 90% the night before, with toiletries and tech packed day of.
Carry-on or check-in bag? A change of clothes in a carry-on, and one side of a checked bag—saving space for souvenirs!
Describe your packing method in three words: Meet the moment.
Is there something you do when packing that you feel nobody else does? I spray a fragrance allover to create a scent memory for the trip. I also don’t pack perfume!
Packing tips you'd like to share? I like packing outfits for the exact number of days I’m traveling—saves me from bringing too much.
Your go-to travel outfit? A shirt and loose-legged pant with socks. In cooler months, layer on coat and a sweater to use as cozy blankets in flight. A sneaker or sandal with socks.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? Shirt and skirt is my default outfit, and I try to pack smaller accessories to make a look special.
Do you leave space for souvenirs/shopping, or do you have trouble closing your luggage before departure? Yes, half of my checked bag depart empty.
The most unusual or surprising item you’ve ever packed? An unopened boxed Labubu was transported to give a friend their first experience.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? A steamer.
Victoria de la Fuente, Founder of ‘Zillion Trillion’
Meet Victoria de la Fuente: the overpacker—and proud of it. Traveling solo since the age of 15, she’s a self-taught packer who has learned through trial, error, emotional baggage, and countless baggage fees.
Packing list or not? Absolutely not—except for that one (briefly insane) time traveling with my firstborn, when anxiety made me channel my inner Virgo. Spoiler: it was exhausting, pointless, and honestly, who has the energy? Never again.
Describe your packing method in 3 words: Overpacked, vibes only, sartorial chaos.
Packing mantra or rule you never break? More is more. I rather be overpacked than regret not bringing the perfect outfit for a trip.
Packing tips you'd like to share? Limit shoes—this is aspirational, obviously, ignore me. Ziploc everything liquid—you'll only skip this once, and your silk blouse will never forgive you. Charger in your carry-on, because airports steal joy and battery life equally.
A favorite or least favorite dress-code when it comes to packing? Workout gear. Truly the Debbie Downer of packing—nothing kills vacation vibes faster than leggings whispering judgment from the suitcase. Plus, who even invited exercise on holiday?
Overweight? How often? 99.9%.
One item you consistently pack on every trip? A book.
What is an item you recently regretted not packing? A pair of Saint Laurent black shoes that would have gone great with an outfit I wore on Palm Springs Saturday.
Ever had a packing disaster? Once, I flew to Spain for an interview only to discover they'd lost my checked bag. My carry-on? Stuffed with expensive shoes and jewelry, but zero actual outfits. Cue frantic morning-after panic shopping—honestly, a nightmare. Now I’ve learned: always pack at least one full outfit (plus the luxe bits, obviously) in the carry-on. Lesson very much learned.
And now, on to the last bits of Q&A…
Do you roll your clothes or use specific organizers?
Amanda Murray: I lay everything flat!
Sebastian Cabrices: Packing bags for underwear and jumpers mostly.
Irene Kim: Combination of roll, fold and flat-lay. If I’m short on space, I smoosh socks, underwear etc into empty spaces, purses, shoes, etc...
Monica Mendal: I roll everything that’s rollable! I’ll use packing cubes if I’m going to multiple destinations with different climates or each destination warrants a different wardrobe—like city and beach—to keep myself organized on each leg of the trip. This is also a helpful strategy if you’re attending a wedding or a formal event just to keep everything separate. Then I think compression cubes are great for winter travel, as your clothes are bulkier, so it’s a good hack to squeeze more in while optimizing space in your suitcase.
Natalia Swarz: I'm a pro-roller, and my husband is a flat packer. We're going with his methods—they work better. I'm definitely trying the cube organizers on our next trip; we're a family of four already and need more structure! I also saw a hack I want to try with the kids: bringing a shoe organizer and putting each outfit in a pocket—it sounds smart.
Caitlin Burke: I use packing cubes and fold my clothes.
Nuria Rothschild: I never roll my clothes. I always fold everything really well to avoid wrinkles or damage. The only exception is jeans, and only if I’m using a carry-on and need to save space.
Francesc Planes: I try to travel with as less clothes as possible to be light. I just put my clothes around my camera equipment and stuff to protect it.
Giulia C.: No crazy organizers here! I roll only leggins and trousers, but it depends on the fabric. You won't catch me rolling linen, for example. I meticulously fold everything to make it flat, and I do not roll belts—I fit them around the suitcase perimeter and it works well!
Linda Cui Zhang: Neither—just fold outfits together and hope for the best on the other side!
Victoria de la Fuente: I recently started traveling with packing cube sets and it’s made a world of difference.
Destination for which you don’t even have to think about what to pack?
Amanda Murray: Los Angeles.
Sebastian Cabrices: Anywhere in the Caribbean—it’s my element.
Irene Kim: Any family related vacation, such as visiting my in-laws in Fredericton. I can and do wear whatever! The more comfortable the better.
Monica Mendal: Cities! I just get to pack my everyday uniform!
Natalia Swarz: Mallorca or Ibiza. All you need is a swimsuit and a couple of linen shirts or dresses, and you’re ready to go.
Caitlin Burke: I am never not thinking about what to pack.
Nuria Rothschild: Honestly, none. The type of clothes I’d take to my hometown, which is super relaxed and casual, is nothing like what I’d take to Ibiza with my girlfriends—party outfits—or to a fashion capital like Milan, Paris, or New York, where I’d need clothes for castings, plus street style looks… They’re completely different vibes! So yeah, I always have to think it through.
Francesc Planes: My hometown in Valencia.
Giulia C.: Sardinia or Rome, I have some bits back at home and I know I can always steal from my sister's wardrobe!
Linda Cui Zhang: Parents home in North Carolina.
Victoria de la Fuente: None. I always overthink everything.
A classic but I have to ask: if you were going to a deserted island, what 3 items would you bring?
Amanda Murray: I need music always, so my phone or laptop, a hoodie and a wide brim hat.
Sebastian Cabrices: My lint roller, steamer and a bottle of Sudocrem.
Irene Kim: Sweatpants, crewneck sweater, swimsuit.
Lucia Cuesta: Bikini, pareo and Havaianas.
Monica Mendal: I don’t plan, remember? ;) So I’ll let you know after I get to the island.
Natalia Swarz: Assuming there’s food there: a notebook, pen and chocolate.
Caitlin Burke: A large hat—because I'm the palest person alive—, ingredients for an Aperol spritz (if that can count as one item) and my phone.
Nuria Rothschild: A cute bikini, my phone or my camera to take photos, and some kind of tracker so someone can come pick me up when I get bored—or maybe the keys to a boat or a jet ski. Being on a deserted island sounds fun just for a little while.
Francesc Planes: Phone, gaffer tape, and a Leatherman.
Giulia C.: A bikini, my hair brush and a piece of Grana Padano.
Linda Cui Zhang: AG1, favorite snack and a Prada dress.
Victoria de la Fuente: SPF (aging gracefully is key, even in isolation), a satellite phone (survival skills are overrated) and a journal (someone needs to read this later).
Do you do any sort of post-trip packing review/debrief?
Natalia Swarz: Not really, but I sit down and unpack as soon as we get back and separate items to wash.
Amanda Murray: I don’t but I should.
Nuria Rothschild: Yes, I always review what I wore and what I didn’t. If there’s something I packed but didn’t use, I probably won’t take it on the next trip.
Thanks for reading! What are your packing tips, and what kind of packer are you? Share it in the comments or send me a message!
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Wow this is an incredible group of humans - so honored to be part of it !!
I definitely learned some tips that could make my life a bit easier when traveling !!
Thanks for including me ❤️
Wow! What a fun read packed to the brim with personality and insights! So inspired for my upcoming travels, thank you!