Spoiler: I’m Wearing the Same Clothes on Vacation

Happy Sunday (evening)! We’re heading out of town ON VACATION for the first time in a couple of years in a few days, and while I’m super excited about it…I haven’t even started packing.

Is it weird that packing for a trip stresses me out more than the actual traveling part? Not in a major way—but enough that I obsess over it and end up putting it off until the night before—then second-guess every piece of clothing I shove in my suitcase (and boy is there a lot of shoving, because I’m a level 10 #overpacker).

But over the years, I’ve learned a few things about myself. Most importantly, I don’t need to bring everything I own. I’m happiest—and comfiest—when I wear the same clothes on vacation that I wear at home. Sounds boring, I know, but don’t knock it, until you try it.

I used to feel like I needed to “dress the part” when we traveled. Like maybe I’d suddenly want to wear big flowy dresses or a sunhat the size of a serving tray. But here’s the truth—I won’t. I’ll want my soft denim shorts and a t-shirt. I’ll want my everyday Birks. I’ll want my worn in sweatshirt for the chilly nights. So, that’s what I pack.

Here’s how I pack these days—no stress, no extra fluff, no French horns, and no pretending I’m going to suddenly want to dress like someone else just because I’m traveling.

I Start With My Go-To Outfits

I pick three or four outfits I wear all the time at home and just pack those. The comfortable shorts, the soft tanks, my favorite button-down with the rolled up sleeves. If it’s been in my laundry basket more than once this week, it’s a yes.

I Repeat Shoes

Here’s what I bring: one pair of running shoes (because you know I’m finding the gym and/or getting my steps in) and a pair or two of sandals that can be dressed up or down. That’s it. I used to bring all kinds of shoes and defaulted to the same one or two pair for the whole trip (you know, the ones I wear everyday at home). So I save myself the effort now, and just leave the extra shoes at home.

I Pack Layers

Even if it’s going to be 90°—I always throw in a cardigan or a lightweight sweatshirt. Hotel rooms are cold. Airports and airplanes are cold. Thunderstorms pop up. I like to be prepared. And I always, always, always keep this in my carryon bag. I want to be able to grab it out at a moment’s notice.

I Keep Toiletries Simple

Just the basics for me nowadays—moisturizer (and sunscreen), concealer, mascara, lip gloss, and my same old hairbrush that’s missing a few bristles (haha). I’m not going to start wearing fake lashes and lip liner on vacation. I’m just not. Don’t bother packing it.

I Pack Snacks (Because I am Me, Obviously)

Granola bars, trail mix, my favorite pretzels, maybe even some candy I keep stashed in my purse. I like to know I’ve got something to munch on in the car, at the airport, or when dinner gets delayed. A hungry gal is not the vibe and there’s nothing better than a little bite of familiar food. And gum. I always pack gum.

So, if there’s one thing I really want you to know about packing for a trip (that I’ve finally learned myself), it’s this: you’ll enjoy the trip more when you just show up as yourself. You don’t need a new wardrobe or a whole new identity for a few days away from home. Bring the clothes you already love, the snacks you always reach for, and the book you’ve been meaning to read. You’ll feel more like you—and really, that’s the whole point, isn’t it?

And if you forget something? Oh well. That’s all part of the adventure.