What's In My Carry-On + Last Minute Christmas Gifts

The weekend before Christmas is always one filled with traveling. It doesn't matter if it's just a short road trip to Grandma's or a flight home to see friends or loved ones, there's always some distance to cover! I flew home a a week early, but I know many of you that are traveling today, tomorrow, or on the 23rd to get home to your families in time for the holiday. I thought it would be the perfect time to share a little about what I usually pack in my carry-on during this travel-packed time of year, as well as some last minute Christmas gifts because I also know that most of you aren't done shopping!

My Outfit: Top: Urban Outfitters | Jeans: Old Navy | Necklace: Sequin (c/o) | 

Packed Items: Cross Zipper Boots: Zooshoo | Plaid Scarf: Old, Similar | Purple Sweater: Target | Jeans: Old, Similar | Sunday Shirt: Marshalls, Similar | Cut-out Sandals: Nordstrom Rack (sold out), Similar | Pink Wallet: Old Kate Spade, Similar | Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray (c/o) | Hat: Old, Similar | Carry-on Bag: Delsey

The first thing about packing smart, is wearing your bigger items. If I'm going on a plane, I'll typically only bring my carry-on and try to fit everything in there or my purse. That means my bulkier items, like scarves, tall boots, a heavy sweater, etc are worn onto the plane to save space. Cars are a different story, as most likely you'll have more space! Here's my list on what I typically pack in my carry-on bag when traveling home for a few days:

Clothes

DUH. This is an obvious one, but I wanted to break my choices down a little further so that you can utilize your carry-on space as best as possible! If I'm traveling for a weekend or even a few days, I'll typically pack 5 outfits. Normally this means a pair of leggings, a pair of jeans (wearing one of these), and three different tops ranging from comfy to more dressy (including the one being worn on the plane), and one dress. This gives me a few options, especially during the holidays when there are different parties and events going on. I also like to pack two pairs of shoes along with the ones I'm wearing, however if I can get away with two pairs total that's even better!

Jewelry

Jewelry is always a little troublesome when packing. I'm lucky that this carry-on has inside pockets that are perfect for tucking jewelry into, however I'm still paranoid that all my little chains and clasps are going to twist together. I've learned that finding a nice little jewelry bag to put all your necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc into is the perfect way to keep things from getting tangled or getting lost!

Entertainment

I wish I was one of those people who could sleep on planes, but I'm not! So to keep myself busy I pack a book that I love! Right now I'm currently reading The Great Gatsby, one of my all time favorites. And since I'm apparently living in the dark ages, I pack a few DVDs to watch when I get to my destination as well. 

Toiletries/Make Up

If you don't have a toiletry or makeup bag, you definitely need to get one. For trips that I'm only using a small bag like this, I'll combine my toiletries and makeup into one bag to save space. Pack your makeup and skincare essentials, and then a few fun extras just in case you feel like adding a little flare to your makeup look one day!

And I'm not going to lie, I always forget to pack one thing or another, so if you can, leave a little extra space for those items! 

Now for those last minute gifts that I know you are waiting for!

Too Faced White Chocolate Eyeshadow Palette | Leopard Print Scarf | Hello Gorgeous Mug | White/Gold Tassel Earrings | Odds And Ends Catch-all | Bear Slipper Socks (Only $6!) | The Year Of The Cozy Book | | Voluspa Mini Candle Set |  Too Faced 'Under The Kissletoe' Lip Set | 

Hope you all have a wonderful holiday!