12 things I always pack…
The day I arrived in Mexico City to “stay for a month” in August 2022, I lost my debit card.
Perhaps I should be more accurate.
I left my debit card in the ATM because I was so excited to eat the sizzling veggie tacos at a cart across the street that as soon as the money was ejected I grabbed it and left. Only the thing here is, the money ejects before the debit card, so you have to wait.
Well, it was a big mess. I had the not-so-affordable but still better than nothing opportunity to make cash advances on my credit card. Which raised my interest rate to 27%.
But sh*t happens and I was pretty grateful that the cash advances were an option, as Mexico isn’t an easy place to live without monedas. It was a harsh reminder of the value of a backup credit card number (and the value of knowing your pin number. Because if you think you’re just going to “call your credit card company and get the pin because you forgot it” I’m here to tell you it ABSOLUTELY DOES NOT WORK THAT WAY and you'll save yourself a major migraine by knowing that stupid pin number ahead of time.)Anyway this simple-yet-powerful lesson has shaped the way I pack for trips. An action in which I partake often, with an approach that’s as practical and unemotional as possible.
I actually quite enjoy packing. There’s something I find satisfying about it – like finishing a jigsaw puzzle. Everything must fit in exactly the right way and the colors must be aesthetically pleasing. And since I more-or-less refuse to travel on anything larger than a carry-on, the puzzle ain’t always an easy one.
Now – how can I help you? By sharing with you my very simple list of on-the-road essentials.
A back up credit card & pin number.
Underwear: I do not believe in overpacking except in the case of undergarments. How many sets of underwear have you already packed? Double that number. Add a few extra. You can never have too many sets of underwear and you’re not going to hand wash them, either.
One pair of dark-colored versatile pants: Flowy or form fitting, they must allow for lots of walking and transition easily from day to night with a simple accessory (i.e. a scarf, jacket, watch, lipstick). Colors like black, dark grey, or navy blue work well, as you can wear them everyday and no one will notice or care.
One stylish pair of sneakers: Vans are my go-to for their variety of patterns and colors. They can convert from ruins to rooftop with the right accessory. Please note: this category does NOT include running shoes of any kind. If what you need is arch support, there are plenty of good inserts available. If you plan to buy new shoes, break them in before you go.
One to two scarves: Fun and multifunctional, a scarf keeps you warm in cold climates and overly air-conditioned airplanes and can make almost any outfit fancier, no matter your gender.
Solid colored shirts: I bring simple tees or button downs that are both comfortable and discreetly wearable for days and days. Solid colors are easy to dress up with a scarf or jacket and match nicely with any kind of bottoms.
Fluffy socks: For overnight flights and cold hotel rooms.
Coconut oil: In lieu of multiple bottles containing moisturizer, sunscreen, lip gloss, lotion, makeup remover, mouthwash, and Neosporin, I bring 1 small bottle of coconut oil and use it for everything.
Bandaids: You just never know.
One jacket: For temperate-to-warm climates I go for a fitted jean jacket, for colder climates I bring a tan, knee-length coat.
Two kinds of bags – A cloth bag and Ziplocks.
A Journal – Especially if I’m traveling alone. It must be small and easily transportable. I bring it to my solo dinners so I can recount my day over wine and avoid human interaction when desired.
Happy travels!
With love,
Bethany
