The jet-setting travelista

I have to admit, this entry idea is a result of my crazy last night of stressful packing. Currently, I’m sitting on a plane jetting to Las Vegas for a little r&r by the pool and shopping with friends. (Ah, perfection!) But I wasn’t always this excited.

Let’s rewind to the night before this story was written. Picture me, an empty suitcase, a long to-do list and a pass to board a plane in a mere 15 hours. Madness.

I can’t be the only person in the world who has issues with knowing what to pack! What should I wear during the day? To the pool? Out to dinner, out to the club? Will it rain? What will photograph well? What will stay wrinkle-free (that’s a big one). These were only half the questions flying through my head. Fast forward to the present moment. My bag is packed and I’m on a plane to Las Vegas! So what did I pack? Read on to find out, and feel free to use the tips below to melt away some of the last-minute stress of preparing for relaxation.

1) An airplane outfit. Layer it up! Not only is your origin hopefully chillier than your destination, but planes can be cold! See my outfit to the left, I’m all bundled up on a warm June day with a tank, a lightweight jacket (which will keep me warm on cool desert nights), a scarf and sunglasses for a nap on the plane and a hat which will not only serve as protection from the heat for hair and face, but provide an easy way to pull myself together in style on a moment’s notice.

2) A daytime outfit. When you’re out and about, whether in the Dells, by the ocean or in the country, choose no-fuss outfits that will allow you to experience all the joys of your vacation without worry. Personally, I packed several pairs of shorts, and lightweight tops and sandals. The added fun of your outfit comes from the accessories you choose! I plan on using the same stack of silver bangle bracelets and flashy stud earrings for most of my trip. If you bring jeans, avoid several pairs. Not only will they be hot and restricting, but will take up tons of space in your suitcase.

3) A pool outfit. Yes, I said outfit. Let’s get real. We’re talking Vegas, baby! I have been dreaming of the moment when I could lay poolside without a care in the world, a fruity drink in my hand. The suit is important, but you wouldn’t strut all the way to the pool in just your itsy bitsy bikini, would you?  Find a beach cover up that flatters you. So many are a fan of a baggy old tee as a cover, but may I suggest a cute tunic and strappy sandals, or in a pinch a sarong twisted and tied to your liking. Go ahead, strut your stuff in style.

4) A nighttime outfit. Not every destination may require a night outfit, but for those heading to a destination that does have nightlife, might I suggest a little black dress (aka LBD). Really, how could you go wrong? To go with a more conservative look for, say, dinner and a show, throw a cardigan or shawl over your shoulders. The best thing about a LBD is its versatility. See how I can change from my conservative look to my late night look in a snap? If you head out to a dark dance club, make sure you add some kind of color pop, like this bright red clutch. You won’t be missed!

Now that we’ve covered our bases, you’ll have to sit on your suitcase in order to get it closed. I did.