I’ve been stuck in rainstorms in Philadelphia, a freak snowstorm in Iowa, and a chilly day in Chicago in the past 6 weeks (honestly, spring, where did you go?).  Either I’m unlucky or bring bad weather wherever I go (fingers crossed that the rest of my DC stay is sunny and warm!).
And in all three of these situations, I packed wrong. I froze in the Windy City and ruined a pair of shoes in the City of Brotherly Love. And while it gave me an excuse to go shopping (as if I needed one), it didn’t make my husband too happy.
Now that I’ve amassed an all-weather essentials kit that lives in my suitcase, those weather-induced shopping expeditions are over. Happy news for my husband, sad for me.
– one – two – three – four – five – six –
Given the wet nature of spring/summer all over the nation, it’s a no-brainer to keep a compact umbrella and rain jacket permanently packed in your suitcase. Throw in a pair of these rain flats for good measure, and you’re ready to face any monsoon heading your way without ruining your own clothes. Flights, conference rooms, and oppressively air-conditioned rooms can leave you freezing during the summer, but this Julie Vos scarf is just the item to combat the chill. Calling it soft would be a disservice – it honestly feels like you’ve wrapped yourself in the softest cloud in the world. Though it’s incredibly light, it’s deceptively warm. There is no substitute on this one (and check out the rest of my friend Julia’s shop while you’re at it – it’s full of amazing things). You’d be shocked at how often I forget to bring a pair of sunglasses with me – and thus, I’ve purchased another pair of my favorite baroque-arm shades that live in my Heys hardcase.
My items are permanently packed inside this Baggu tote (which I always carry with me on my trips, and will throw all my stuff in when it starts to rain), and never get unpacked (same goes for my toiletry case and travel sneakers). Not only does it ensure I’m ready for any weather situation, it also helps me pack fast.
Staying at home and hating the rain? Â My summer storm picks will have you covered.
What do you keep permanently packed in your suitcase? Â It used to be nothing for me, until I realized that keeping my toiletries and other essentials saved me quite some time! Â COMMENT below and let me know. Â I love hearing your tips and travel stories! Â For more travel tips I don’t share ANYWHERE else, be sure to sign up for my newsletter!
