Stocking Stuffers for Travel Lovers

Happy Thanksgiving! It feels a bit odd to not be watching the Macy's parade + endless episodes of FRIENDS with my family right now, but I'm also so thankful to be spending more time abroad. Haley + I already celebrated with some friends last weekend, which was so fun because we were actually the only two Americans.  I'm certain that eating turkey, mashed potatoes and other traditional fare with wonderful people from Milan, Dubai, Switzerland and all over England will be a Thanksgiving I always remember. Since we already had our big meal (and don't feel like cooking again) we thought today it would be fun to still do something festive, but also unique to London (because how many Thanksgivings will I get to spend here?) So tonight we're heading to Winter Wonderland, a popular Christmas festival that takes place in Hyde Park during the holidays. It looks incredibly fun and I'm so excited! 

While tomorrow will officially kick off the Christmas season in the states, we're clearly already full force in the holiday spirit here in London. I've loved seeing all the beautiful lights, drinking mulled wine and seeing all the festive window displays in the department stores. 

Regardless of when you started getting in the holiday spirit, I think it's safe to say we can all transition into that mindset now. This weekend is the most popular time to shop all year as we begin creeping up on Christmas. To help you with your holiday shopping, I'm going to be posting several blogs the next few days pertaining to travel gifts: what's the best luggage, ideas for both male and female travelers, etc. But in case you're still easing into this whole holiday shopping thing, let's start small: stocking stuffers that travelers will love. 

LEATHER POUCH: FASHIONABLE

A small leather pouch is a great gift for anyone, but especially a traveller. I have all sorts of these for various essentials: lip balm, credit cards, writing pens-- you name it. Fashionable is also one of my favorite brands because of their business model which strives to alleviate poverty by creating job opportunities for women both locally and globally. 

PASSPORT CASE: ASPINAL OF LONDON

A chic passport case is a fail-safe for any travel lover. I adore this Aspinal of London one that Haley got me (also the option of getting the matching currency belt!) but there are literally endless options to choose from (like here, here, here, here or here). 

TRAVEL TOOTHPASTE: MARVIS

Imported from Italy, this stylish toothpaste makes brushing your teeth so much more than routine. I was a bit skeptical at first because let's be honest- toothpaste imported from Italy seems a bit unnecessary. But Marvis is a simple pleasure that really is noticeably different than any ordinary toothpaste you'd pick up at the store (plus it looks much more chic in your travel bag!)

cord taco: fashionable

Another Fashionable product for the win! This simple item is sheer genius. We all know how obnoxious it is to have your headphones tangle inside your bag. This cord taco is the perfect solution to keep them nice + tidy in one place (and it's simple enough that you'll actually use it).

LUGGAGE TAG: CUYANA

A nice luggage tag is something you can have several of, because you need one for every travel piece. This chic + simple Cuyana one is my latest favorite, but there are endless options to choose from (also here, here, here and here). 

TRAVEL SIZE PARFUME: CHLOÉ

I don't need any unnecessary weight to add to my suitcase, so a full-size bottle of parfume is out of the question on my packing list. That's why I love this chic travel-size bottle by Chloé. Not only does it smell lovely, but it's TSA approved so you can even carry it on in your purse. 

FOLDABLE BALLET FLAT: YOSI SAMRA

A foldable pair of ballet flats is a must for any avid traveller. I've pulled these out of my carry on to save the day dozens of times: when I have to wear my heaviest (yet most uncomfortable) shoes on a flight to free up weight in my suitcase, when I'm wearing heels (for whatever reason) but have to do a bit of walking... the list goes on. 

CARRY ON COCKTAIL KIT

Flights can be long. Throw in some turbulence, and you’re really in need of a cocktail. I fell in love with W&P designs carry on cocktail kit to give as gifts, but also to actually use myself. This small tin fits easily in your purse and gives you everything you need to make 2 delicious cocktails at 30,000 feet. Not to mention, they're good conversation starters when someone good looking ends up in the seat next to you (hence the reason the kit makes 2 perhaps?)

EAR BUDS AND PORTABLE CHARGER SET: KATE SPADE

Headphones + portable chargers are something every traveler needs (I speak to the reasons why in my 10 Things Every Traveler Needs in Europe post) This chic gift set by Kate Spade is a one stop shop that covers both (another portable charger I love is here).

SOLD OUT BUT SIMILAR CHARGER HERE AND SIMILAR HEADPHONES HERE

CASHMERE SOCKS: J CREW

There's nothing better than cashmere socks on an airplane. This simple little luxury is a great stocking stuffer because I find it's rarely something people treat themselves to, but are so happy to receive as a gift! I love this festive print from J Crew for the holidays, but if you prefer a more traditional look, try these or these. 

UNIVERSAL TRAVEL ADAPTER

It may not seem like the most exciting gift, but getting this travel essential means it's one less thing you have to purchase on your own. With five different plugs (including at USB port) this kit works for over 150 countries and is as simple as matching the colors. 

Final Thanksgiving thought: Gratitude is not an emotion or something we feel-- it's something that we do. So let's practice showing gratitude for all the ways we're blessed.  Wishing you and those you love a very Happy Thanksgiving no matter where you are! 

xx,

Whitney

Barcelona Packing Guide

Hola once again! If you've been reading this week's posts, you know we've been talking about all things Barcelona (like where to stay and where to eat).  Today, we're continuing that trend by chatting about another important planning detail: what to pack.

No matter what time of year you visit Barcelona, chances are it probably won't be cold. The "winter" lasts from December to February (with average temperatures around 53°F). Most visitors go between April and October when it's generally sunny + warm. Assuming you fall into that majority, here are some items I'd recommend packing in your suitcase:

 

CLASSIC LEATHER HANDBAG

A classic leather bag is clutch for Barcelona (pun intended). The style in Spain is versatile, so you want a purse you could wear while browsing a market in a fedora + espadrilles, but also take to a tapas + wine dinner date wearing a chic pantsuit and wedges.  You'll also notice a lot of these suggestions are cross-body options, which was intentional to help protect you from pick-pockets (keep a close eye on your belongings regardless- it can happen here!) 

Go for real leather like this, this or this. If you prefer that vegan life, try a faux option like this or this. And if you prefer to add a little pizazz to your bag, try one with a little fringe (here or here).

 

OFF THE SHOULDER 

This look has already been having a moment this year, so there's no better time to embrace the trend and let the Spanish sun kiss your shoulders. During the day, opt for a bold print (like this) or pops of bright color (like this or this). And just because the sun goes down doesn't mean you have to cover back up. Opt for a darker piece (like this romper that could pair with an espadrille wedge). 

JUMPSUITS + ROMPERS

Maybe it was just me, but I feel like I noticed SO many Spanish women wearing chic jumpsuits and rompers. My favorite look was styling them with a sleek pony + bold red lip (which I saw done a few times.) If you're going for a daytime look, try lighter linen fabrics (like this or this). And for after dark? Try a chic pop of red (like this). 

 

CASUAL DRESSES

Casual shift dresses are pretty much always a traveling "must" for me. They're comfortable and super easy to make yourself look pulled together. Pair this staple (also here or here) with a with a fedora + espadrilles to give it a Spanish flare.

 

SANDALS + ESPADRILLES

I love Espadrilles in so many warm weather climates, but especially in Spain. This style of shoes have been made in the Pyrennean region of Catalonia since the 14th century, so not only is it a "cute" look to wear-- it's extremely historic in Spain. Today they come in all sorts of styles to pair with any look: wrap sandals (also here, here and here), wedges, and the traditional slide on style. 

 

 

FEDORAS

While fedoras aren't technically Spanish (the term actually comes from French dramatist Victorien Sardou's play. Thanks, Wikipedia) they seem to have adopted the look over the years. Aside from "looking the part," I love hats while traveling for lots of reasons (mainly because you can go longer without having to wash your hair, and they make you look more pulled together in an instant). You can go for a classic style like this or this if you want a "one size fits all" approach. If you want to step outside the box a little, go for a deeper tone straw like this, or even forgo straw all together with a wool version if you happen to visit in the cooler months. 

 

HAIR + LIP

Don't fuss with a massive beauty routine in Barcelona. In all honesty, you're likely to sweat off most make-up and the humidity will kill any curl you put in your hair. But 2 products that will serve you well? A bold red lip (like MAC's "Ruby Woo") and texturizing spray to combat humidity + embrace that undone look (Oribe is my favorite and smells amazing too). 

LUGGAGE

Depending where else you go in Europe, I recommend a larger hardshell suitcase for Barcelona. Even if you don't need all that space going over there, you'll want it coming home (coming from the gal who brought back SEVEN bottles of Spanish wine last time). If you're a light to moderate traveler, go for something chic + affordable (like this DVF piece). If you're on the go more frequently and want something more durable that will last longer, opt for something like this, this or this. 

Obviously this doesn't cover everything you need to pack, but hopefully you'll find it helpful as you plan your trip to Barcelona (or any warm weather climate in Spain for that matter!) 

Stay tuned for tomorrow's fourth + final Barcelona post from this trip: all about what to see + do! Until then, have a happy Thursday, friends!

xo, 
Whitney

10 THINGS EVERY TRAVELER NEEDS IN EUROPE

Happy Friday from London! Hope everyone has had a great week. Haley and I are getting ready to head off on a quick little adventure next week, and packing has been front of mind. 

I'm often asked what to pack for a trip to Europe (and I'd like to think I'm somewhat of a pro, considering I've been living out of a single suitcase these last 3-4 months).

I also know that with the holiday's approaching, lots of us are looking for gift ideas. I'd argue travel essentials are always a great gift to give to someone you love (especially if they have a trip coming up). 

Combine all the factors above, and it seemed appropriate to put together a list of things to pack for a trip to Europe (no matter who you are or what time of year you go). 

1. CUYANA LUGGAGE TAG

Traveling in Europe means your suitcase is likely to be dragged around even more than it is domestically (consider planes, trains, taxis, ferries- you name it). Those flimsy airline tags are bound to rip off, so invest in a chic + sturdy leather luggage tag like this one from Cuyana. 

2. DURABLE LUGGAGE

I'm asked about luggage a lot. And rightfully so- it's the most necessary item for any traveler. I've learned that the cheaper the luggage, the shorter the lifespan. For domestic trips, I've loved my DVF luggage set (it's chic + light weight) but I've learned (after living out of it all year) it's not quite sturdy enough for a long term European adventure. Your best bet for luggage that will last (the case, the zipper, the wheels, etc.) even in the harshest conditions on trains, planes and automobiles, is going to be brands like Victorinox, Rimowa or Tumi. 

3. CASHMERE SCARF

 Temperatures while traveling are constantly changing-- especially in Europe. Light layers are key, and you can't go wrong with a cashmere scarf (especially this oatmeal color that goes with everything).  Wear it like a traditional scarf or wrap it around you like a blanket on the plane/train. Either way, you'll be so glad you have it. 

4. LA ROCHE-POSAY THERMAL WATER

Travel is so hard on your skin: the dehydration from airplane altitude, the ever-changing climates, the list goes on. I've learned to always keep a bottle of La Roche-Posay Thermal Water in my purse to spritz on my face whenever I need a quick refresher. It's scientifically proven for its soothing properties and has been used in Europe for centuries. It's mineral-rich micro-droplets provide immediate, intense soothing that you can feel. Order it online and keep your eyes out for more products by this lovely French brand, La Roche-Posay all over European pharmacies. 

5. ASPINAL OF LONDON CURRENCY BELT

I learned the hard way that carrying mulitple currencies around is incredibly confusing. One night in Croatia while attempting to pay for my gelato (I maayyyy have been a little tipsy), I hit my breaking point and dumped my entire wallet out on the counter top while searching for kuna that was hidden among dollars, euros and pounds. Luckily, Haley bought me this Aspinal of London currency belt that has been a life saver. It's slim and comes with 4 compartments labeled to separate your dollars, pounds, euros and other notes so you'll never find yourself digging for the appropriate payment. 

6. PORTABLE IPHONE CHARGER

We all know the struggle to keep an iPhone battery charged, but this pain-point seems to be amplified even more while I'm in Europe. When one device serves as your camera, map, and means of communication (among many other things) it's naturally going to be in your hands almost non-stop. So instead of having heart palpitations when your "10% battery remaining" notification comes on the moment you're about to see the Mona Lisa, just pull out this handy portable iPhone charger for additional battery to save the day. 

7. LIFESTYLE WALKING SHOES

Europeans know a thing (or 20) about stylish footwear. One reason why? They do TONS of walking.  While heels may look cute, they're not the most practical option. To fit in like a local, pick up a pair of stylish lifestyle shoes (like these adidas Superstars) you can wear with just about any everyday outfit

8. ASPINAL OF LONDON PASSPORT CASE

I used to think a passport case was unnecessary and that it just looked cute (especially since this one matches the currency belt). But it does extend your passport life if you're traveling in areas with inclement weather (Ireland anyone?) It's also become quite a conversation starter with fellow travelers when they ask me where I got it, which has been fun. Overall, I've found it to be a form of expression (similar to a lot of things we carry) for one of my most prized possessions- so why wouldn't I want one?

9. CUYANA WEEKENDER OR OVERNIGHT TOTE

In addition to durable luggage, be sure to have a solid carry-on tote. I have both this weekender tote and overnight tote from Cuyana and both are wonderful. Different airlines have different allowances for carry-on baggage, but both of these are always allowed (and if you don't get a personal item, they'll also fit your purse. Additional perk? I'm using them for shorter trips when I can leave my big suitcase behind (like the upcoming trip Haley and I are taking this week...stay tuned!) 

10. EARBUDS

I use my earbuds every. single. day. On a plane or on a train. Working on my laptop in a café or while walking and exploring the city streets. They're in my ears more often than not somedays. I loved these Sonix earbuds for the pop of color, but also the handy little leather pouch that comes with them so they don't get tangled up in everything that's in your purse. 

So there you have it! 10 essentials you should definitely have before hopping across the pond and exploring Europe. I hope you find these to be helpful! Any other packing tips you want to see? Let me know in the comments below!

Stay tuned for more travel adventures coming to the blog early next week. In the meantime? Have a great weekend friends!

xo, 

Whitney