The Art of the Carry-On: My Essential Travel Tips for the Modern Woman
By Camille — Style isn't about clothes. It's about knowing who you are and dressing like you mean it. ·
The Philosophy of Packing Light
There is a specific kind of freedom that comes with walking off a plane and heading straight for the exit, skipping baggage claim entirely. Living in the West Village, I’ve learned that space is a luxury—and that philosophy extends to my luggage. Over the years, from my time running around the halls of Vogue to my current life as a creator, I’ve realized that the most stylish travelers aren’t the ones with the most options; they’re the ones with the most intention.
Style isn’t about clothes—it’s about knowing who you are and dressing like you mean it, even when you’re 30,000 feet in the air or navigating a cobblestone street in a new city. When you pack lighter, you navigate the world with more grace. Here is how I manage to stay polished, prepared, and entirely carry-on only.
The Capsule Wardrobe Rule
I’m a firm believer in the "Neutral Plus One" rule. Whether I’m heading to Paris for a weekend or just escaping to the Berkshires, my suitcase is almost entirely monochromatic. I stick to creams, navies, blacks, and camel. These colors play well together, meaning almost every top matches every bottom.
Then, I add the "plus one." This is your personality piece—a bright silk scarf, a pair of statement earrings, or a bold red lip color. This keeps your wardrobe from feeling like a uniform while ensuring you don’t waste space on items that only have one purpose. If a garment doesn't serve at least three different looks, it doesn't earn a spot in my bag.
My In-Flight Rituals
People often ask me how I manage to land looking somewhat human after an overnight flight. It isn’t magic; it’s maintenance.
First, I never wear tight denim on a plane. Ever. I reach for high-quality knit sets or a pair of tailored trousers with a bit of stretch. Comfort doesn't have to mean sloppy. I always carry a cashmere wrap—it’s my security blanket. It doubles as a blanket on the plane and an extra layer for a chilly evening dinner in a new city.
Skincare-wise, keep it simple. I pack a small, TSA-approved pouch with a hydrating mist and a heavy-duty moisturizer. Airplane cabins are incredibly drying, so I apply my moisturizer right before we begin our descent. It wakes up the skin and helps me feel like I’ve arrived ready to hit the ground running.
The Tech and Organization Essentials
Organization is the difference between a relaxing trip and a stressful one. I swear by packing cubes. They aren’t just for hikers; they are a godsend for keeping your delicates, your knitwear, and your tech cords in separate, compressed homes.
Another tip? I always travel with a small, lightweight tote tucked into my carry-on. It serves as my day bag once I arrive. A structured leather tote is classic, but a canvas version is easier to tuck away. And please, for the love of all things organized, keep your chargers and adapters in one dedicated pouch. Digging for a tangled mess of wires at the bottom of your bag is the fastest way to lose your cool.
Navigating the 'New' with Confidence
When you arrive at your destination, don't feel the need to see every single landmark. My favorite way to get to know a new place is to find a local market, pick up some fresh ingredients, and head back to wherever I’m staying to cook a simple pasta dish. It grounds me. It turns a temporary space into a home, even if it’s just for forty-eight hours.
Remember, your travel style is an extension of your life. If you feel frantic and cluttered in your packing, you’ll likely feel that way during your trip. Slow down, choose pieces that make you feel like your best self, and leave room in your suitcase for the things you’ll inevitably find along the way.
Travel is meant to be an experience, not a logistical nightmare. Keep it simple, keep it chic, and for heaven’s sake, wear comfortable shoes—Manhattan has taught me that the hard way.
I’d love to hear your go-to travel hack. Are you a chronic over-packer, or have you mastered the art of the carry-on? Let’s chat in the comments—I’m always looking for new ways to streamline my journey.