in flight {10 travel essentials for check-in}

By the time you're reading this, I'll already be a few thousand feet up in the air (again) en route to Vancouver for a long weekend getaway (more on that later so stay tuned!). But first, seeing as how I've been packing and repacking a lot this summer, I wanted to share a few tried and true packing rules I've come to swear by over the years. Most of which, I have trial and error to thank. 

So without further adieu, let's review, shall we?

1. It all starts with a sturdy, reliable bag. And trust me, I've tried my fair share of cheap versions (all of which usually end up breaking on you at the most inopportune time, like, say, running to the check-in counter when you're already late for boarding -- yep, true story). Luckily, when Kipling asked me to try out their luggage line, I was pleased to find that not only is it easy on the wallet, the nylon casing makes it perfect for expanding for extra clothes souvenir storage. Plus, their new monogram collection (I have the large Darcey here) is a fun personal spin on luggage tags (great for me since I'm usually the paranoid person at the carousel worrying where my bag is).

2. Extra magazines. OK, so I know what you're thinking. Wouldn't you just bring those with you in your carry on? My answer -- of course! But since I'm notorious for reading through all my magazines on the flight over, I like to stock up on a few glossies (and books), reserved solely for the trip back home. 

3. Bathing suit. I can't tell you how many times I've gone on trips that weren't actually beach or tropical destinations and I've regretted not bringing a bathing suit BIG TIME. If there's anything I've learned in life, it's that there is almost always a hotel pool, SOMEWHERE.

4. Panama hat. I might as well call this my traveling hat. It hides a lot of hair evils on those early morning flights.

5. TSA-ready sandals. These bad boys are off in less than 1.5 seconds. Just make sure you bring some easy to slip on socks for when you go through security (not to be worn with the sandals, of course). 

6. A wrap-me-up scarf. You never know when a light scarf might be needed wherever you're headed. I've used mine as a wrap, a shawl, even a blanket.

7. Comfortable statement shoes. The key pair is easy to coordinate with a lot of different types of outfits and is comfortable to walk in (read: ideally less than 3 inches). 

8. Skin care condensed. I used to bring pretty much my entire bathroom counter on trips, everything from the makeup remover wipes, facial cleansers and a bunch of lotions. While it's great to keep the routine alive, it was a burden to tote around and I experienced so many awful leaks and spills. I now limit myself to bringing one facial cleansing brush and a small travel size cleanser. It's really all you need, since the brush does a lot of the heavy lifting.

9. Tinted moisturizer. Because you're on vacation! 

10. Sunglass options. I have two that I swear by. A pair of aviators because they never look bad while you're traveling. And a glam, oversized black pair to hide your red eyes after the red eye.

Now, I'd love to hear yours -- what's on your travel essential list? (Plus, stay tuned next week, when I'll be sharing a few of my carry-on must-haves.)

This post is sponsored by Kipling. As always, all opinions and styling are my own. Thank you for supporting posts that keep This Time Tomorrow's doors open.