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Whether you’re off for business or pleasure, traveling can be a stressful thing if you’re not properly prepared. When it comes to packing for your trip, your actual wardrobe will naturally vary depending on your destination. But when it comes to what to wear and bring onto the plane, I’ve come to adopt a basic uniform that has alleviated any pre-flight anxiety. This is geared specifically for guys, but aside from the clothing, the rest is totally applicable to the ladies as well. Here’s what I always have on my carry-on:
If you’re only going on a short trip (1–3 days), I’ve found this multifunctional bag by Qwstion to be the perfect solution. It's not too big, not too small, and fits with ease in the overhead compartment. It comes with an attached padded sleeve inside for a 15-inch laptop or tablet, and it even includes a separate shoe bag. The best part is this bag not only acts as a duffle, but it can also convert to a backpack as well. QWSTION, $310.
In addition to the carry-on bag, I also bring a small tote that has a shoulder strap. It's just convenient to have another bag where you can throw magazines, snacks, a tablet, etc. This L.L. Bean Field Canvas tote is great because it's not too wide and has a zipper so everything stays inside when you throw it underneath the seat in front of you. You don’t have to fuss with any buckles or straps. L.L. Bean, $89.
When it comes to my travel outfit, I usually stick with solids and monochromatic/dark colors. Solids are preferable because they don’t leave as strong a visual impression as something with a print, and that’s helpful when you want to minimize what you bring and re-wear certain pieces.
A black or white T-shirt is a perfect base layer. You can never go wrong if you start with the basics.
RVCA, $27.Layering is key when it comes to travel. While a simple tee is my most comfortable go-to, I like to layer a long-sleeve, light blue button-down shirt on top. It works well in just about any circumstance. Quiksilver, $49.50.
You never know the climate conditions in airplanes and airports, so a lightweight jacket is always a good idea. This jacket by COS is a perfect example: It’s thin, made of a durable technical fabric, and walks a perfect fine line between casual (but not too casual) and just a bit fashion forward. COS, $125.
I prefer traveling in a nice broken-in pair of jeans, but ones that don't have holes, are too distressed, or have a light colored wash. Jeans are about as classic as it gets—as with the shirt mentioned above, you can easily dress them up depending on what you pair them with. Old Navy, $29.50.
This is optional, but I also like to throw a very lightweight zip-up hoodie into my bag. These fold down really easily, don’t take up much space, and layer well underneath a jacket. In times when it suddenly gets super cold and windy, or if it’s raining and you didn’t pack an umbrella, an extra hoodie can be a lifesaver. J.Crew, $78.
I think most of us dread going through the security line, and although some airports no longer require you to take off your shoes, most still do. Slip-on shoes are the best solution. They are also good because your feet tend to expand once you're 30,000 feet in the air, and slip-ons will expand with them. Vans, $60.
For some reason, I have the unfortunate luck of always ending next to the row with the screaming child or loud talker. That's why noise-canceling headphones are a godsend. They might be expensive, but they are well worth the investment for the bit of solace and sanity on every flight. I like these earbuds from Bose—they are less bulky but still as powerful as a full-sized pair. Bose QuietComfort 20i, $299.95.
There’s nothing worse than reaching for your phone or tablet and seeing your battery indicator in the red. It’s a good idea to bring an extra battery charger. This one by Fluxmob can double as your wall charger (so that’s one less thing to bring) and converts to an extra on-the-go battery charger. Just remember to pack the original cable your phone or tablet came with. Fluxmob, $59.99.
After being on the plane for a few hours, the constant recycled air can wreak havoc on your skin. These individually wrapped face wipes are an easy way to stay refreshed and look sharp right out of the gate. Ursa Major (box of 20), $24.
I like to throw an immune system supplement and a couple bags of ginger or peppermint tea into my carry-on. With all the weird things you’re exposed to in airplanes and airports, its just nice to have a little healthy backup. Just in case. Emergen-C (box of 30) Emergen-C (box of 30), $12.69.
Finally, if nothing else, a good pair of shades is essential. You are an international jet-setting man of mystery, after all—right, Mr. Bond? Westward Leaning, $210.