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Curating a tight packing list is much like creating a capsule wardrobe: There are the foundation pieces, and then there are the fun bits of flair that tie it all together. Our fashion-forward picks include a little from column A, a little from column B, from chic bags and sleek boots to cozy slippers and throws, all ringing in around $300 or less.

Our editors independently select the best products to help you have amazing travel experiences. If you purchase through links on our site, ϲʼʱ may earn a commission from the retailer.

a woman on a bike in a tropical locale, wearing Warby Parker sunglasses
Pay homage to your wanderlust with sunglasses from Warby Parker's Escapist collection © Courtesy of Warby Parker

1. Warby Parker Lydia frames

It’s an immutable law of nature: A good pair of shades just makes you look cooler. Add to the mystique – and pay homage to your wanderlust – with a pair from Warby Parker’s aptly named Escapist collection. The Lydia’s angular tortoise frames are set off by gleaming gold arms and polished rivets, with UVA- and UVB-blocking lenses, for a look that’s as dramatic as it is functional.

Lydia frames, from $145; .

A person dressed in a grey sweatshirt, wearing Hardgraft's phone pack across his back
Hardgraft's phone pack is a high-quality fanny-pack alternative © Courtesy of Hardgraft

2. Hardgraft Phone Pack

If you like the hands-free thing but can’t get behind the idea of a fanny pack, Hardgraft’s glossy vegetable-tanned leather phone pack is a high-quality alternative. A small, Italian-made crossbody with an adjustable belt, a hidden double zipper, and a main compartment just roomy enough for your daily essentials, it’ll keep you traveling light.

Hardgraft Phone Pack, $305; (available in November).

Away's backpack, opened to show the interior pockets
Away's backpack is just as well-designed as its wildly popular suitcases © Courtesy of Away


3. Away backpack

For those days when you’re toting a bit more, a backpack is an ergonomically friendly way to carry the load – but it doesn’t have to be any less stylish. Away’s backpack is just as well-designed as its wildly popular suitcases, with clean lines, plenty of organizational options inside and out, and a sleeve at the back that slides over your suitcase handle. A concealed zippered pocket is perfect for passports and plane tickets. Plus, it comes in a neutral color palette, so it’s sure to match whatever you’re wearing.

The Backpack, $195; .

Uniqlo cashmere cap in grey
Uniqlo's wool-cashmere cap is an elegant spin on a classic style © Courtesy of Uniqlo

4. Uniqlo wool and cashmere cap

Even the best-coiffed individual has a bad hair day every now and then, but if you have a great hat on call, it won’t put a damper on the proceedings. Uniqlo’s wool-cashmere version is an elegant spin on the classic cap, with a nubuck adjuster and a herringbone-patterned flannel lining for an extra-comfy fit.

Wool and cashmere cap, $20;

prAna's Permafrost hooded vest in cream
prAna's Permafrost vest lets you keep warm without looking like you're heading out for a hike © Courtesy of prAna

4. prAna Permafrost vest

Chilly climates call for warm gear, and prAna’s hooded Permafrost vest lets you layer up without looking like you’re heading out for a hike. Created from 100% recycled material, its high-pile bouclé is ultra-cushy, and its handy side pockets keep everything you need within easy reach. Throw it on over a pair of black leggings, pair it with your favorite boots, and boom, outfit made.

Permafrost vest in dream dust, $89; .

A man and woman in a barn, wearing Naadam's $75 Essential sweater
Naadam's Essential sweater boasts quality cashmere at an unbeatable cost © Courtesy of Naadam

5. Naadam Essential $75 sweater

Cashmere is one of those unbeatable little luxuries, with a price tag that often puts it out of reach for budget-conscious shoppers. But Naadam’s Essential $75 Cashmere Sweater bucks that trend, transforming raw fibers from Mongolian goats into a super-soft, sustainably made jumper that works for men and women alike. Available in v-neck or crew, in subdued hues or neon brights, it’s a lightweight wardrobe staple you’ll find yourself packing for pretty much any occasion.

The Essential $75 sweater, $75; .

A stack of multicolored wool and cashmere throws from Garnet Hill
Upgrade that scratchy in-flight blanket with a cozy cashmere throw © Courtesy of Garnet Hill

6. Garnet Hill wool and cashmere throw

Since we’re talking cashmere, you can’t really ask for more if you’re looking for an upgrade on that scratchy in-flight blanket or who-knows-where-its-been hotel-room duvet. Garnet Hill’s fringed throw weaves the luxe fiber with wool to such cozy effect that you won’t want to take it off – which is OK, because it also doubles as a wrap, so you never have to leave it behind.

Wool cashmere throw, $129; .

a side shot of a black Chelsea Blackburn boot from Quëro Shoes
A sleek Chelsea boot never goes out of style © Courtesy of Quëro Shoes

7. Quëro Shoes Chelsea Blackburn boot

The right footwear will take you from brunch to cocktails in one fell swoop, and the Chelsea Blackburn boots from Quëro Shoes are a sleek, comfortable option that fit the bill. Between a pull-on style that makes clearing airport security a breeze and a thick sole with studded treads for maximum traction, you won’t even have to pack a change of shoes.

The Chelsea Blackburn boots, $199; .

Three pairs of Glerups slippers, arranged on and around a stepstool with gift-wrapped boxes
Make your hotel room feel like home with these unisex slip-ons from glerups © Courtesy of glerups

8. Glerups slippers

To be fair, though, you can’t live in boots alone. A snug pair of slippers will give your toes a break – and make your hotel room feel like home, too. These slip-ons from Glerups feature a flexible calfskin sole and a wool-felt upper that absorbs moisture and repels odors, so they won’t offend any delicate sensibilities during random bag checks or visits from housekeeping.

Glerups unisex slip-ons, from $95;

Parker Clay's rust brown Presidio laptop sleeve with a computer sticking out halfway
A leather laptop sleeve is a nice step up from neoprene © Courtesy of Parker Clay

9. Parker Clay Presidio laptop sleeve

Nothing against neoprene, but if you’re looking to give your laptop a little extra love, a leather sleeve is a nice step up. As with all of the company’s offerings, Parker Clay’s Presidio is made in Ethiopia with leather sourced from local tanneries – a byproduct of the country’s massive cattle industry – and produced under ethical standards. With a soft, lined interior and a tight fit, it’s like wrapping your precious computer in warm hug.

Presidio laptop sleeve, $88; .

Dash Steamer in suitcase.jpg
Get the wrinkles out with a portable hand steamer © Courtesy of Dash

10. Dash hand steamer

It doesn’t do you much good to pack your best clothes, only to have them wrinkle up in transit. This portable hand steamer from Dash comes with a connector that works with most 12-ounce bottles, so you only have to find room in your bag for the appliance itself – and it heats up in less than a minute, so it won’t hold you up when you’re trying to get out the door in a hurry.

Dash hand steamer, $28; .

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