Packing For California

As you read this I’ll be flying high across the country to my favorite place — my grandmother’s house in the Napa Valley! Usually I am pretty organized with my packing and have piles ready to go but this year I procrastinated — read on to see the 6 things I always bring when I travel to California!

1. A comfortable cover up – Most days are spent lounging by the pool and I want something that I can also wear around the house, make lunch in etc.

2. My own sunscreen that travels well. Austin and I have been hooked on Hawaiian Tropic’s Sheer Touch for years now — and bottle never explodes in my suitcase. For extra protection I keep it sealed up in a Truffle pouch.

3. Truffle Clarity Clutches. I use these non-stop when I travel. I keep liquids with me in my carry on up-right in them and also use the Document Clutch for my tickets and iPad. They are great for bringing to the beach and pool and keep your electronics safe.

4. Multiple books. I hate that I only make time for reading when I’m on vacation but — right now it tends to be the case. For this trip I got The Vacationers, Where’d You Go, Bernadette and Astonish Me.

5. Cotton PJs: I bring 2 sets of cotton PJs and one soft cotton nightgown to get me through a week. I love feeling cozy and refreshed after my nightly shower.

6. Airplane Distractions. I hate to fly. I love it when my flight time allows for a pre-boarding cocktail. 11am might be a little early for that this time, but I’ll be sipping a Bloody Mary post-take off, don’t worry. I bring a note pad + ball point pen (had an explosion with an ink pen once in flight) for making lists, thank you notes to catch up on, a book I know I’ll get lost (i.e. distracted) in, music + headphones, a pashmina and Bach Rescue Remedy.