Do It For The Gram: Your Insta-Ready Holiday Travel Checklist

As temperatures drop and sugar highs soar, it’s time to buckle down and get ready to burn some seriously-earned PTO. Chances are, some of your travel plans include seeing family to celebrate various holidays. Whether you’re headed for your folks’ place in upstate New York or a dreamy cabin getaway in the Smokies, packing smart is a necessity. It’s crucial to consider keeping warm (obviously), but just because you’re away from home doesn’t mean you’re suddenly allowed to be a slob. After all, everyone is a local on their own Instagram feed; make sure yours stays golden.

Among all the cheer, the holidays can get stressful—don’t let packing be an added burden. To ease things up for you, we've broken down a list of vital items to pack for this season’s travel. And, trust, you’ll be thankful you listened to us when you’re all cozy wrapped in soft wool in your piny-smelling Airbnb in the middle of winter.

Ideal for layering or wearing solo, this all-purpose sweater works great for travel. The knit details are fine enough to not distract from the rest of your outfit while maintaining an interesting texture. Roll it up in your suitcase or instead don for a cross-country flight—either way, you’ll be happy you brought it along.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Let’s face it, not every hotel room smells as welcoming as you’d hope (not to mention a random aunt’s guest room). Lock in the fir forest and herbal vibes with this long-burning candle from Sydney Hale. Pro-tip: Wrap it in a scarf and nestle between other clothing in your suitcase to keep it safe. And bonus! That way, some of the heavenly scent will surely spread to other garments, too. Pretty sure that’s what they call a win-win.

Shop now at Sydney Hale Company.

Spending time in your hometown—in public—can raise a lot of anxiety, namely in the way of possibly running into high school exes and other folks of that ilk. Make sure you’re not caught looking like a shlep. Toss this stylish four pocket jacket in your bag to later wear to the only dive open Christmas Eve. Then, when you inevitably run into ghosts from your Christmas past, you’ll only emanate cool hiker chic vibes. Heck, maybe they’ll even buy you a drink.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Get right for patio brunching with these elegant tortoise frames and understated blue tint. The delicate gold details may be quiet but they truly bring the look together.

Shop now at Crap Eyewear.

No one wants to think about exercise when there’s so much pecan pie to house. However, sneaking in a quick hike or at least a rigorous speed walk will help you stay on track with healthy habits (not to mention, surely it means you earned a congratulatory beer after, right?). This impossibly soft pullover is just the ticket to get you out and moving.

Shop now at Patagonia.

Add instant class to your typical winter get-up with this number. The tailoring is sleek and quality, impeccable. Bonus: it goes with pretty much anything. But—sorry—we still recommend actual pants over sweats, assuming you’re venturing out into the world.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Airline prices for even the simplest cocktail are bananas. Instead, stir your own with this fashionable kit. Choose from a festive hot toddy, vacation-classic margarita, or straight-up forever-fav Old Fashioned.

Shop now at Nordstrom.

Cuff these numbers and pair with a rugged boot for the ultimate in chill winter looks. The tailored silhouette keeps your style on point while the flannel-like cotton feels nice and cozy. Post-holiday, team it with your favorite brogues for work and beyond.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Similar to airline cocktails, airline blankets almost never hit the mark. Skip the disappointment and BYOB(lanket) with this thick, Americana-emanating Pendleton throw. Plus, you’ll need something to keep you company during couch naps after all that tryptophan.

Shop now at Pendleton.

Traveling for the holidays? Keep your look first-class and upgrade your joggers for these instead. The jeans have a little stretch for comfort and keep their shape for the long haul, so you won’t look like you slept in your clothes—even if you just did.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Why did it take us so long, as a society, to develop a carry-on-ready suitcase that also charges your phone? Add to the mix this design’s 360-capable wheels and you’re ready to party both in the sky and back on the ground.

Shop now at Away Travel.

Pacific Northwest-bound? Great, this handy little dude keeps liquids hot for 12 hours. Actually, just kidding, you’re en route to Cancun? That works, too—it also keeps beverages chilled for a whopping 24 hours. Whatever your adventure, S’well can keep you hydrated (or drunk or caffeinated), ensconced with a rocking white marble sleeve. Choose from 9-oz., 17-oz., or 25-oz.

Shop now at S'well.

Don’t forget: Holiday travel isn’t just holding cousins’ babies and hoping they don’t spit up on you—especially when it comes to New Year’s. Gear up early to look super slick in this classy silhouette. The navy blue is versatile enough to match your date while also adding a pop of subtle ardor to the night.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Look totally rugged while secretly feeling so cozy with this faux fur-lined hat. It’s easy for grab-and-go get-ups and, frankly, ideal for hiding a mop mussed from a possible hangover. No one will know, plus, you’ll look like you can totally survive in the wilderness solo—even if that isn’t actually accurate.

Shop now at Banana Republic.

Sneak a snooze in the airport or hotel lobby waiting to check in with this discrete, snuggly must-have. The secret is in the three hidden magnets, making it able to adjust to all neck sizes while keeping the cushion in place. And even if you accidentally dribble a little eggnog on it, it’s all good—the outermost layer is both removable and washable. Boom, baby.

Shop now at eBags.

For more of the best Insta-ready looks, check out the latest and greatest at Banana Republic's special Holiday Packing List shop.