Fall Travel: 6 Things to Pack
Fall is one of my favorite seasons, but figuring out what to pack for warm days and chilly nights can be a challenge. Especially if you’re visiting more than one destination and/or trying to get by with a carry on suitcase. Just last week I to pack for snow in Colorado and then a heat wave in California.
As cold weather clothing is usually bulky, my approach is to account for possibly cold temps without embracing a full wardrobe.
1. Trench or Packable Down Coat
Traditional winter coats are too bulky and probably too hot for most of your trip. Stay warm and lightweight with a water-resistant trench coat. Bonus points if it’s lined or comes with a hood. Or choose a packable down jacket that can be folded down into a travel pillow.
2. Scarf
Possibly the most versatile wardrobe choice, scarves are great for all destinations. In temperate weather a thick scarf can be worn in place of a sweater, and are much easier to carry around and squeeze in a suitcase. In colder locations they can serve a dual purpose — providing an extra layer of warmth and adding interest to dark or blah outerwear.
Worried about catching a cold on your flights? Consider a Scough which has a built in air filter.
3. Dress + Tights
When I hear layering, I typically think several layers of shirts, but choosing dresses that look good with or without tights or leggings has been a great way to address temperature swings without having to deal with pants. Shed the tights on a hot day, don them when things start to get chilly.
4. Waterproof boots
I always hope for gloriously sunny autumn days, but more often than not they can be cold and wet. Whether you favor booties or tall boots, do yourself a favor and make sure they’re waterproof, especially if you favor suede! Then you can romp through leaves or puddles with impunity. 🙂
5. Lip Balm
Crisp fall weather and lots of time on planes wreaks havoc with my lips, so I make sure I bring extra moisturizing lip balm. ChapStick Total Hydration 3 in 1 and Vaseline Rosy Lip Therapy are inexpensive but effective options that protect your lips and add a touch of gloss.
If you’d like to pamper yourself for not that much more, try Red Flower’s Wanderlust Lip Balm or Dr. Lipp Nipple Balm
6. Smart touch gloves
Gloves don’t take much room and can make a big difference, particularly if they’re made for smart phones. Not having to pull them on and off every time I wanted to check my email or take a picture with my phone saved time and also kept my hands warmer and more protected from the elements.
