Due to my job, I get asked about how I organize my purse and wallet on a frequent basis. When I travel, I am probably even MORE organized that I am usually. I love traveling but packing is THE WORST, even if you’re organized! Lately, I’ve invested in some nicer luggage that has made packing much, much nicer.
The Professional Organizer's Suitcase
First up, the suitcase. I had been using a suitcase borrowed from my mom during college up until I purchased a beautiful new one this summer. I chose a hard-side suitcase by Diane Von Furstenberg (on major sale at Macy’s a few months ago). So far, I love that it has two very distinct sections and doesn’t waste space with a bunch of extra pockets and zipper pouches. I use packing cubes to corral my smaller items in my suitcase, so I don’t usually need the additional separation. Inside, I always pack a laundry bag and put my tennis shoes in a small shoe bag to keep everything else from getting dirty. Jewelry is kept in a Pottery Barn jewelry roll. Clothes get rolled up in the zippered half of the suitcase.
The Professional Organizer's Carry-On
My Lo & Sons bag was a recommendation from my best friend, who carries hers religiously for all her grad school and work gear. Unlike my suitcase, this bag has tons of pockets that separate my tech accessories, personal items, and other small things. If I need to travel with my laptop, it has a built-in padded pocket as well as a pocket for a tablet. In my opinion, this is the PERFECT carry-on because it can hold plenty of stuff while still feeling manageable running around the airport and can easily fit under airplane seats.
The Professional Organizer's Cross-Body
I also travel with a small leather cross-body purse by Coach that holds my wallet and things I need for daily use. During my flight, I can stash it in my Lo & Sons bag to keep everything together.
So there you have it! The trifecta of the perfect suitcase/perfect carry-on bag/perfect cross-body purse has taken a while to come together, but I think I’ve found the winning combination.