Travel Ready: How to Pack and What to Bring for a Smooth Summer Trip

Summer is the peak season for travel in the US, and with good reason! With beautiful weather and plenty of exciting destinations to explore, it's the perfect time to get away and make some memories. But before you jump on a plane, there's some important planning to do.

With a direct flight from RDU to Freeport, you can be hours away from your own personal paradise in the Bahamas. This photo was taken by Catherine in Abaco. Abaco was unfortunately devastated by Hurricane Dorian in 2019. In partnership with the Bahamian students at St. Augustine's University in Raleigh, New Horizons donated thousands of dollars in shoes and clothing to the residents of the island.

Jet-Setting from RDU:

Did you know Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) offers several direct international flights? There are currently direct flights to Iceland, London, the Bahamas and Paris and this summer, they've added new routes to Frankfurt, Germany and Mexico City, Mexico!  These exciting additions open up a world of travel possibilities without the hassle of connections.

You can fly into Mexico City, and about 3.5 hours away in the state of Michoacán Mexico you can catch the monarch migration. The yearly migration can be seen from October through March. Catherine was lucky enough to catch it in March of 2008.

Planning Makes Perfect: 

• Plan Ahead: Aim to start planning your summer trip a few months in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a popular destination. This gives you more time to find good deals on flights and accommodations. This also gives you plenty of time to find the perfect pieces to bring along. 

Travel Essentials: Comfortable Shoes for Every Adventure:

	Naot Arataki:  These versatile shoes are comfy enough for all-day walking adventures, yet stylish enough to transition to a nice dinner.
	Taos Leather Plim Soul: This sneaker is a chic upgrade on a classic, with amazing arch support to keep your feet happy on the go.
	Aetrex Jillian: Perfect walking sandals that adjust to your feet throughout the day, with built-in features for optimal foot health.
	Arcopedico Sneakers: Lightweight, machine-washable sneakers designed specifically for travel comfort.

Layering is Key!

This outfit from Habitat features travel friendly fabrics. We have a breezy top with a white denim jacket layered over. You can add even more layers by wearing a slim fitting tee or tank under. We paired this outfit with the fresh look of white leather sneakers from Taos Footwear.

Not only does layering create versatility in your travel wardrobe, it is a necessity! With cooler mornings and evenings, plus plenty of warm excursions, bringing layer-able outfits will make your trip much more enjoyable.

Pro Tip: Merino socks are anti-microbial and can be worn more than once thereby reducing how much you have to pack. Check out Chatham Outfitters for a large selection of merino socks, like Smartwool, Darn Tough, and staff favorite, Fits. 

Wrinkle-Free Style: Clothes That Go the Distance:

	Habitat Clothing: Say goodbye to ironing! Habitat offers stylish, easy-care clothing made from wrinkle-resistant fabrics with unique details to elevate your travel wardrobe.
	Chalet Clothing:  Embrace the crinkled look with Chalet's line of comfortable, lightweight, and layer-friendly clothing. Perfect for packing light and looking effortlessly put together.
	JAG Jeans: Take denim comfort to a whole new level with JAG's pull-on jeans and skorts. Look stylish and feel great throughout your travels.

We love this elegant outfit from Chalet. The pants can be worn tied up as shown, or let loose to be flowy with a slit. The layering tank adds length and volume to the button down shirt. We paired this look with a simple black cardigan from Habitat, a vibrant beet red Baggalini bag, and the much-loved Shocks from Arcopedico.

Smart Packing: Essential Travel Accessories:

	Baggalini: Founded by flight attendants, Baggalini is designed with organization and security in mind. Perfect for keeping your belongings safe and easily accessible.
	Joy Susan Bucket Bags: These versatile bags feature a removable inner bag – ideal for separating essentials you need quick access to.

Frankfurt is a great airport to fly into as a gateway to the rest of Europe. Here is a photo Catherine took in Croatia, a beautiful country that is only an hour an a half away by flight from Frankfurt!

Let's Chat Travel!

We'd love to hear about your summer travel plans! Share your destinations and tips in the comments below. With a little planning and the right travel essentials, you're sure to have an unforgettable summer adventure.