When coordinating an outfit for traveling it is recommended to dress in layers to facilitate adjusting to changes in temperature and comfort needs. Choose fabrics that are breathable and ones that allow you to move with ease. The goal is to combine comfort and style, so that you will be ready upon arrival. When considering which pair of shoes you will be sporting at the airport, consider wearing your bulkiest pair (to save room in your luggage) while also ensuring that these are easily removable for when you pass through security. If you will be bringing your favorite hat on vacation, it is also recommended to wear it on the plane to prevent damage to your hat in the suitcase. However, the disadvantage of lugging a hat around the airport (particularly if it is an oversized floppy) is lugging an oversized hat around the airport. Note that it may cause some annoyance and you will find yourself holding it in your hand at times, but you will have a well assembled outfit once you arrive at your destination with the added bonus of your hat remaining intact.

Now, let’s discuss bags. The bag you are traveling with must be roomy enough to fit all of your carry-on essentials, be comfortable to carry around for long periods of time, and coordinate with your outfit. The key is a balance between function and style. The following lists recommendations and considerations for different types of bags.

Totes: 

Pros: spacious, available in a variety of designs, versatile

Cons: unbalanced weight distribution, handles are often not designed to hold much weight

Consider: using a bag that has a zipper in the overall compartment to prevent contents from spilling in the plane, a stain resistant material for accidents,  an integrated laptop compartment if you plan on bringing a laptop or tablet and/or if you plan on carrying heavy items, packing a small crossbody within the bag for ease of use during your trip

Backpacks: 

Pros: spacious, easy to carry, sturdy, can have a modern and youthful look

Cons: lack of quick access to belongings, easier target for pickpockets

Consider: using one with plenty of internal and external compartments to organize your belongings, an integrated laptop compartment if you plan on bringing a laptop or tablet and/or if you plan on carrying heavy items, not overpacking so that you prevent straining your back and shoulders

Mini duffel or weekender bags

Pros: spacious, can resemble a handbag, can have a highly stylish appearance

Cons: lack of internal compartments, may be uncomfortable to carry

Consider: using cosmetics bags to replace the lack of compartments, using a duffel with a trolley strap that will slip onto your suitcase, ensure the measurements fit the airport’s guidelines as some of these tend to have generous dimensions, packing a small crossbody within the bag for ease of use during your trip

Satchels or dome bags

Pros: versatile (can transition well between occasions), can have a highly stylish appearance, some dome bags are designed to be boarding bags

Cons: lack of internal compartments, may be uncomfortable to carry, may not be sufficiently spacious for your traveling needs

Consider: using cosmetics bags to replace the lack of compartments, using a bag with a trolley strap that will slip onto your suitcase, packing a small crossbody within the bag for ease of use during your trip, an integrated laptop compartment if you plan on bringing a laptop or tablet and/or if you plan on carrying heavy items