Best Travel Bag Combos for Your Next Getaway
All travel bags are not created equal.
That may sound dramatic, but I’m serious. I’ve traveled with a lot of different bags over the last 30 years, and I’ve finally landed on my favorite combos for just a weekend away or for two glorious weeks abroad.
A Quick Work Trip or a Long Weekend Away (2-4 days)
Luggage: AWAY Bigger Carry On
I own 3 different sizes of AWAY luggage, and I whole heartedly believe the Bigger Carry On is the most versatile in their line. These suitcases are incredibly durable with their polycarbonate shell, the 4 wheel design makes it easy to push and pull, the built in TSA-approved lock provides peace of mind, and the portable charger is just…<chef’s kiss>.
Backpack: Calpak Kaya Laptop Bag
This bag is equal parts gorgeous and functional. It has super durable zippers, plenty of handy pockets, and a padded sleeve that fits up to a 15” laptop. I’ve had several people stop me in the airport to ask where I got this bag!
Packing Cubes: Calpak Set of 5 Packing Cubes (I personally have Calpak, so I can confidently recommend them. These are a bit cheaper and look identical - can’t speak to quality, though.)
For shorter trips, I don’t ever feel the need to use packing cubes to compress or organize my clothes, but they are fantastic for keeping dirty shoes away from your clean clothes.
Cosmetics: Calpak Mini Clear Cosmetics Case
Holy moly, I love this thing. This unzips right down the middle with equal capacity on both sides. The clear siding makes it easy to find your makeup and skincare, and DO NOT be fooled by the word “mini” in the name. This bag fits way more than you’d expect. Don’t believe me? I’ll prove it!
Makeup Brushes: Tanto Makeup Brush Holder
This may seem frivolous, but it’s a great way to keep the makeup on your brushes from getting all over your makeup bags and products. This is one of those things you didn’t know you needed. You’re welcome.
A Week Long Getaway (5-8 days)
Luggage: AWAY Bigger Carry On
Told you it was versatile!
Backpack: Walker Family Goods Valley Pack
The previously mentioned laptop bag would totally work for this length trip, but if I’m going on a longer vacation I like to use a more “suitcase-like” backpack. This one comes from a small family business, and it’s so dang functional.
Packing Cubes: Calpak Set of 5 Packing Cubes
I’d recommend the same cubes for this length trip, because I’m still not worried about compression for my typical packing style. Put more of the cubes to use for this stretch of time to help organize your clothes & shoes.
Cosmetics & Brushes: Calpak Mini Clear Cosmetics Case; Tanto Makeup Brush Holder
Other Toiletries: LeSport Sac Rectangular Cosmetics Bag
I’ve had this nylon bag for years with absolutely zero signs of wear and tear. I use this for my hairbrush, retainer, deodorant, toothbrush, scrunchies, headbands, and brush holder.
An Extended Adventure (10-15 days)
Luggage:
For Summer Trips & Light Packers - AWAY Bigger Carry On
If you’re changing locations throughout your trip, opt for a smaller bag. When we went to Croatia & Greece in the same trip, we were so grateful we packed small when we were hauling our bags up and down ancient stairs in both cities.
For Winter Trips & Average/Over Packers - AWAY Medium Suitcase
This doesn’t have the portable charger because this one is required to be checked. If you’re waffling between the Medium and the Large - opt for the Medium. I feel like the large has more room than you’ll ever need, but again…this is just my two cents.
Backpack: Walker Family Goods Valley Pack OR Solo All-Star Hybrid Backpack
The Walker Family Goods bag is what I would opt for if your trip has a lot of excursions. It has snap-in compartments that allow for you to pack clothes in an organized way for your flight, and then you can unsnap them easily to be a regular backpack.
The Solo All-Star Backpack is what I would opt for if I have a lot of clothes that won’t fit in my checked luggage. I basically treat it like a second suitcase that can slide onto the handle of my roller bag. It’s meant to be unzipped lying flat, so it’s not as easy to use as a daily pack.
Packing Cubes: Compression Packing Cubes
This is the type of trip where I want my packing cubes to compress my clothes and keep things organized. I’m a huge fan of packing cubes in smaller to medium sizes, and these fit the bill. 2 medium, 2 small, 1 rectangular shape, and a laundry bag come in this set.
Cosmetics & Brushes: Calpak Mini Clear Cosmetics Case; Tanto Makeup Brush Holder
Other Toiletries: LeSport Sac Rectangular Cosmetics Bag
Happy Trails, my friends!