As someone who tends to panic-shop right before a trip, I can confirm that it isn't wise and typically leads to a lot of unsuccessful purchases. For my summer 2024 travel, I opted to plan a bit more than I usually do and have made more successful, smarter purchases as a result. So far this season, I've traveled to Paris; Los Angeles; Washington, D.C.; and Asheville, and next, I'll be heading to the beach and Seattle. As you can see, my destinations have all been quite different and have required different wardrobes, but I've managed to invest in some items that work for almost any destination.
Because sharing is caring, I'm divulging the travel-friendly items I'm referring to, which I may have purchased for a moment in time but, in many cases, will wear and use for years to come. Scroll on to shop the items that I already vetted for you.
I snagged these perfect pull-on pants on sale.
This compact blush is perfect for a travel bag. My go-to shade is Piggy.
This is the best linen vest, IMO, and the hue is especially elegant.
I purchased this hoodie for the long flight to Paris and found it to be the perfect weight and fit.
Another smart pre-Paris purchase that I now want in every color.
Given how comfortable and perfect these are, I'm not surprised Madewell can't keep them in stock.
These stylish ear plugs will drown out all the flight noise.
Paris can be rainy, even in summer, so I packed this lightweight trench.
These magic patches work wonders on tired travel eyes.
I think I've worn these more than any other shoes this summer.
Travel is a great excuse to buy new socks.
Peony makes some of the chicest swimwear in the game.
I've tried so many portable chargers—this one's the best, and comes in a bunch of colors.
I feel like I'm going to pack this for every single trip.
These versatile sunglasses are the only pair you need to pack.
She's as chic as she is effective.
I'm such a fan of these shorts that I now own them in three different washes, and the black ones are my latest acquisition.
This is the most stunning travel bag I've ever owned, hands down.
I'll wear this throughout the fall, too.
If you're petite like me (I'm 5'4"), you need these pants.
These are the shoes that convinced me to start wearing flip-flops again.
Isn't she cute (and affordable)?
The only hairstyling product I'm packing for the foreseeable future.
I've tried so many full skirts lately—this investment-worthy one is the best.
A requirement for every long-haul flight.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
-
My Style Is Thoughtful and Tasteful—30 Must-Have Luxe Pieces I'm Shopping for This WinterA+ finds.
-
10 Wardrobe-Improving Things to Buy in JanuaryYour monthly shopping list.
-
You Had Me at Cashmere Sale—30 of the Chicest Finds to Shop Before They Sell OutYou'll wear these forever.
-
It's True—Every Chic Person Is Wearing This New Top TrendCheck it off your list.
-
Get a Head Start on the Top 2025 Trends With These Key Pieces From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly SaleYou'll actually wear these forever.
-
Shop Now, Apologize Later: These New Winter Finds Will Sell Out If You Wait Another SecondDon't miss out.
-
Wait, I Just Found the Best Shoes, Pants, and Sweaters From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly SaleThe sale cheat sheet.
-
I Can't Get Over Nordstrom's Sale Department—Yes to These Sweaters and ShoesDeals and steals galore.
