Carry-on essentials – Live Laugh Love Do http://livelaughlovedo.com A Super Fun Site Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:57:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.9 6 Travel Essentials for the ‘Airport Theory’ Challenge http://livelaughlovedo.com/6-travel-essentials-for-the-airport-theory-challenge/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/6-travel-essentials-for-the-airport-theory-challenge/#respond Thu, 16 Oct 2025 07:57:14 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/10/16/6-travel-essentials-for-the-airport-theory-challenge/ [ad_1]

How early should one arrive at the airport before a flight? Two hours? Maybe three? While this answer typically varies from person to person, one internet theory posits that you only need 15 minutes to make your flight—and travelers are now risking their seats to put it to the test.

The premise of TikTok’s now-viral Airport Theory is simple: You should be able to walk right up to your gate at boarding time within 15 minutes of your arrival at the airport. The theory suggests that a quarter-hour cushion is enough to make it in time, without having to sit around at your gate before takeoff.

Now, hundreds of thousands of travelers are documenting their Airport Theory attempts every step of the way. While many TikTokers have been able to successfully pull it off by finding ways to save time, like traveling carry-on-only or enrolling in TSA Pre-Check, others have failed, forcing them to scramble to book a later flight.

Considering the exorbitant cost of flights and the general unpredictability of air travel, we’re hesitant to suggest that anyone should test the Airport Theory out for themselves. But if you’re up for the challenge, we recommend enlisting the help of a few time-saving travel essentials. Ahead are six products that can help you shave off the time it takes to get to your gate, including stretchy slip-on shoes, TSA-friendly toiletry sets, and one-and-done airport outfits, starting at $10.

Best Overall Airport Theory Travel Essentials

Trendy Queen Matching 2-piece Set

Amazon


The Airport Theory challenge is all about finding sneaky ways to save time, and one easy way you can do this is by planning your airport outfit the night before. We recommend opting for something fuss-free and easy to move around in. This stretchy two-piece set from Trendy Queen—complete with flowy, wide-leg pants and a versatile t-shirt you can wear with just about anything in your suitcase—is perfect for the job.

Samsonite Freeform Carry-on Spinner

Amazon


Checking a bag takes time, so consider going carry-on-only for this challenge. The key is to pack a carry-on that’s both spacious and easy to maneuver. This Samsonite Freeform Carry-on is so roomy, you won’t feel like you’re compromising on space; it expands to accommodate extra clothes, and one traveler shared they were able to fit everything they needed for a four-week trek to Scotland. It’s also equipped with a telescopic handle and four 360-degree spinning wheels that move in every direction, allowing you to zip through your airport terminal quickly.

Tocelffe Travel Toiletry Bottle Set

Amazon


A clear, travel-sized toiletry bottle set will help you avoid the time suck of getting your carry-on inspected at security. This Tocelffe set includes 10 TSA-approved silicone bottles, plastic jars, and spray bottles so you can bring your favorite haircare and skincare products with you—all packaged neatly within a see-through, zippered travel case.

Waterfly Crossbody Sling Bag

Amazon


For this challenge, you’ll want to be able to access your electronics, boarding pass, or passport at a moment’s notice. An organized sling bag can help you whip out these items without having to fumble through your carry-on or personal item bag. This Waterfly Sling Bag, on sale for $25, is large enough to fit an 11-inch tablet and is flush with interior and exterior pockets and compartments, providing dedicated spaces for all of your must-have essentials.

Charmast Portable Charger

Amazon


You’ll want to start your Airport Theory challenge attempt with a fully-charged phone, of course, but you should also have a backup power bank on deck. Even if you’re able to pull right up to your gate with minutes to spare, you may not have enough time to recharge your devices—and we wouldn’t wish an hours-long flight without Netflix on our worst enemies. Keep your phone charged on the go with this Charmast Portable Charger; it’s slim, powerful, and has four built-in charging cables, so you won’t have to waste time fishing around for one in your carry-on.

Skechers Go Walk Flex Hands-free Slip-in Sneakers

Amazon


Finally, we recommend stepping into a pair of supportive slip-on sneakers before attempting this challenge. Not only will they cut back on the time it takes you to get dressed for your flight, but in the event you have to make a mad dash for your gate, you’ll be able to run there comfortably. These Skechers Go Walk Flex Slip-ins, which have stretchy laces, are a solid choice. They’ve got padded heel pillows to prevent blisters, flexible traction outsoles, and cooling memory foam insoles to help you chill out on the plane (after successfully completing the Airport Theory challenge, of course). 

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21 Packable Jackets You Can Fit in Your Carry-On http://livelaughlovedo.com/21-packable-jackets-you-can-fit-in-your-carry-on/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/21-packable-jackets-you-can-fit-in-your-carry-on/#respond Sat, 23 Aug 2025 22:05:18 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/08/24/21-packable-jackets-you-can-fit-in-your-carry-on/ [ad_1]

In a perfect world, you could pack multiple jackets—leather, quilted, raincoats, jean jackets—on every trip. After all, jackets are the easiest way to elevate casual outfits and tone down overdressed ones. But unless you’re traveling with multiple suitcases, packing more than one or two per trip really isn’t feasible. Because of this, the ones you do pack need to pull their weight.

This fall’s trends make finding the right packable jacket a bit easier. Popular outerwear is leaning toward both sophistication and performance wear—a tough combination to pin down, but one that bodes well for mixing and matching outfits. The shift toward basics can be seen in both high and low-brow spaces: At this year’s New York Fashion Week, Calvin Klein debuted a Fall/Winter collection that called back to the simplicity of the ’90s and early 2000s. Simplicity isn’t just trending in street style and high fashion; it’s a practical way to look great in the outdoors, as evidenced by brands like Aritzia and Lululemon making athleisure cooler.

Our inspiration also comes from fashion creators who are embracing practicality in their respective cities with ease: Emelie Lindmark is sporting lightweight trench coats in Barcelona, Moya Mawhinney highlights the rugged, lived-in ease of workwear in Paris, and Manu Rios shows off a timeless leather jacket in Madrid. Pulling from their looks and keeping practicality in mind, we’ve compiled a list of lightweight, packable jackets that make passing through airport security, enduring rainstorms, and trudging through wind look chic.

Jump to:

Packable puffers

Woman in beige jacket

FP Movement

Pippa packable puffer jacket

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL

Don’t be fooled by how lightweight this boxy puffer from FP Movement looks—it features PrimaLoft insulation to keep you warm and dry on chilly fall days. It’s also water-resistant and has snap-tab cuffs to lock in extra warmth. The Pippa packable puffer comes highly recommended by commerce editor Meaghan Kenny who says it’s, “the perfect lightweight jacket for fall temperatures.” We also love that it packs into its own pocket and is ultra-soft.

Woman in blue jacket

Patagonia

Nano Puff jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–L; men’s XS–3XL

As far as trustworthy jackets go, you can’t go wrong with the Patagonia Nano Puff. Available in both men’s and women’s sizes, this year-round essential is windproof, water-resistant, and wrapped in a 100% recycled polyester shell and lining. Made of highly compressible PrimaLoft insulation, this ultra-lightweight jacket packs up tightly in any carry-on. It also features two hand-warming zipper pockets and an adjustable drop-tail hem to seal in extra warmth.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, and Blazer

Everlane

The Quilted Liner

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL

Quilted jackets are a great option for travelers—they’re usually very lightweight, layer well with other outerwear, and because they’re not as warm as a down jacket, they remain a staple almost year-round. We love this one from Everlane that can be worn over a turtleneck during the fall and underneath a wool coat come winter. It’s sustainably made, features handy side pockets, and is available in a few different colors, from navy and black to olive green and a mustard shade of yellow.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, and Overcoat

Quince

Featherless quilted puffer jacket

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL; men’s S–2XL

This affordable option from Quince offers a high collar and insulation to keep you warm on cooler days. Despite providing decent insulation for a quilted jacket, this puffer isn’t bulky at all. We also appreciate that it features a water-repellent finish and deep front pockets. Plus, it’s made of 100% recycled materials.

Rain jackets

woman wearing green jacket

Patagonia

Outdoor Everyday rain jacket

Sizes available: Women’s XS–2XL

Every traveler needs a packable rain jacket in their wardrobe. This waterproof jacket is perfect for outdoor adventures, and comes highly recommended by Traveler’s global digital director Arati Menon after wearing it nonstop on a rainy and windy trip to Fogo Island. She loves its slightly oversized fit, offering enough room for layering a shirt and sweater underneath. It’s made from recycled fishing nets to help reduce ocean plastic pollution—a major plus in our books. More pros: It’s easy to fold up and pack, features an internal chest pocket, and the hood never falls off.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, and Raincoat

Sizes available: Women’s XS–3XL; men’s S–3XL, plus tall sizes

This one is great for more adventurous trips. At under 10 ounces, it’s ultra-lightweight and can be packed into nearly any bag you’re bringing (it folds up into its own pocket). You’ll be well-protected from any rain and extreme wind, thanks to its water-repellent finish and nylon material that can handle winds up to 60 MPH. Stash any large essentials like an umbrella in either of the two internal drop-in pockets and small items like your phone and wallet in the two zippered hand pockets.

Patagonia

Torrentshell 3L rain jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL; men’s XS–3XL
A simple yet sleek option for travelers to wear everywhere is the Torrentshell 3-liter rain jacket. It packs up to fit in its front pocket—taking up little space in your carry-on, so you don’t need to feel guilty about throwing it in your suitcase last minute for those “what if” scenarios. This breathable, light-as-air rain jacket is completely waterproof and is made to last for years (have you heard of Patagonia’s Ironclad Guarantee?). It also features a two-way-adjustable hood and a micro-fleece-lined neck to provide a comfortable waterproof yet breathable barrier.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, Person, Knitwear, and Sweater

Cotopaxi

Cielo rain jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–4XL; men’s XS–3XL

For something a little more fun, you can’t go wrong with Cotopaxi’s rain jacket that features the brand’s signature colorblocking pattern. The retro-inspired jacket is made with fully waterproof fabric and full seam taping to keep rain out. Breathable and easy to pack, this colorful option adds a pop of color to otherwise neutral outfits.

khaki rain jacket

Outdoor Ventures

Hooded soft-shell rain jacket

Size available: Women’s XS–4XL
In addition to being waterproof, this affordable Outdoor Ventures fleece-lined jacket maintains its breathability, making it ideal for trips to places like Banff, where you might be hiking, dining, and shopping all in the same weekend. Since it’s a windbreaker, it can easily fold or roll up to be stored in your carry-on. However, I recommend wearing it to the airport as it’s versatile, comfortable, and pairs well with casual wear.

Workwear jackets

Man in black jacket

Banana Republic

Twill shirt jacket

Sizes available: Men’s XS–XL

Workwear jackets are great travel jackets because of their warmth-to-weight ratio. This twill shirt jacket from Banana Republic can be worn over a T-shirt or hoodie, and is ideal for outdoor social events. The cotton twill makes the jacket surprisingly comfortable while maintaining its rugged finish. With a standard fit, you can pack its front pockets subtly with accessories while maintaining a relaxed silhouette. Consider this one ideal for a city-focused, backpack-only weekend trip.

model in whiskey colored coat

Todd Snyder

Japanese Selvedge chore coat

Sizes available: Men’s XS–XL
Inspired by his love of New York, Todd Snyder’s designs blend rugged workwear with timeless simplicity. The canvas material on this chore coat makes it a fairly lightweight addition to your carry-on. One customer noted that the coat breaks in fast, making it feel like an invisible layer with a high warmth-to-weight ratio. With a warm yet refined look, this piece is a go-to option that pairs well with tan or brown boots, dark jeans, or black trousers.

Man in white jacket

Sizes available: Men’s S–XL

When it comes to menswear in particular, barn jackets create a polished finishing touch on rugged looks. The Barn Jacket by Everlane earns points for its ability to block out wind and cold temperatures. With corduroy on the collar and cuffs, this jacket maintains a relaxed look. Make sure to order true to size as it runs large—plus you’ll want to layer this jacket on top of sweaters and hoodies. I am pro taking travel wardrobe risks even with the basics this year, but if the birch color is too bold for your taste, pivot to black or fennel seed (tan).

Athletic jackets

Man in black jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–2XL; men’s XS–2XL

It’s no secret that Arc’teryx is having a moment—with a portfolio of sleek and functional outerwear, Arc’teryx is a go-to for outdoors-loving travelers. The Beta SL jacket is a bestseller thanks to its waterproof and windproof shell, helmet-compatible hood, and Reeco reflector which helps with visibility at night. Hike with it in the Azores, layer it for skiing, or wear it on a biking trip in the backcountry. All the better to buy it as a travel gift for an adventurous yet minimalist traveler who’s not one to compromise on quality.

Image may contain: Clothing, Knitwear, Sweater, Sweatshirt, Hoodie, Coat, Jacket, Long Sleeve, Sleeve, Hood, and Blouse

Lululemon

Always Effortless jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 0–14

This Lululemon Always Effortless jacket couldn’t have a more apt name. Snag it in light ivory or black to ensure it’s a staple in your capsule wardrobe. It’s a jacket that ensures you’ll be the best dressed in casual settings: It’s classy for hiking, well-defined for breakfast runs, and polished at the airport. Waterproof and windproof, it’s great in rainy climates. (Past customers recommend sizing up.)

model in brown track jacket

Aritzia

Golden Butter Distance zip-up

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL
Aritzia’s description of this full-zip jacket gets right to the point: “Speed walk, anyone?” The Aritzia Butter Distance Waist zip-up is ideal for canyon hikes, dry climates, and any shoulder season escape where it’s sunny yet chilly. The jacket folds up small enough to be included in a backpack-only packing list for short weekend trips as well. You can pair it with either the matching Hi-Rise 5″ short or a pair of neutral leggings. The ultralight, buttery soft sweat-wicking fabric makes it a go-to for hotel tennis matches, city runs, and outdoor yoga classes.

model wearing black jacket

Vince

Ripstop bomber jacket

Sizes available: Men’s S–2XL
Slightly heavier than a traditional bomber jacket, the Vince Ripstop jacket is lightly padded with Italian cotton. It’s ideal for days spent somewhere like Nantucket, where you might go shopping along cobblestone streets, walk down to Jetties Beach, and dine at Cru all by 6 p.m. The jacket fits true to size, so there’s no need to size up, even if you plan to layer. For a comfortable all-day outfit, pack it with the Vuori Cascade Tech chino pants.

Denim jackets

Woman in jean jacket

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL

In a digital sea of denim options, it’s the stitching on this one that makes it one of our favorite packable jackets. Despite its relaxed fit, the design of the front pockets give this jacket structure, making it a versatile choice for both day trips and a night of impromptu plans. Even better, it comes from Everlane, a brand that prioritizes sustainability and transparency (check out the pricing outline at the bottom of each product page). (Pro tip: If you’re really short on packing space, jean jackets are a great option to wear on the plane, freeing up room inside your suitcase for a rain jacket or other lightweight coat—or, for more clothes or shoes.)

Woman in jean jacket

Quince

Oversized Denim jacket

Sizes available: Women’s XS–XL

We know everyone won’t stop talking about Quince, but hear us out: It really delivers on its mission of proving you don’t have to overspend on basics. Consider this foldable Oversized Denim jacket to be the perfect supplemental product on our list—it might not be the one you wear day after day, but it’s a worthy addition if you’re planning to pack an extra in your carry-on.

Image may contain: Clothing, Coat, Jacket, Pants, Blazer, Vest, and Jeans

Sizes available: Men’s XS–2XL

Yup, this is another shopping roundup suggesting the Levi’s Trucker jacket. I admit: Levi’s promotion that the jacket “gets better over time with natural fading, stains, and holes” usually wouldn’t sell me. However, for travel we make–and embrace–that exception. Imagine wearing it on a moped in Greece, in the Sahara desert, or out west. Now that you’ve got the visual, buy the jacket in dark wash or black, pair it with cowboy boots, and book a trip to wear it on already.

Evening jackets

model wearing short, beige trench coat

Aritzia

The Esquire trench coat

Sizes available: Women’s 2XS–XL

The Esquire trench coat by Aritzia stands out for its detailed design. Content creator Kalila Craig paired the trench with a white sweat set, highlighting the jacket’s versatility. “I’m happy that I sized up with a medium because it fits over so many different layers,” said Craig on TikTok. With its water-resistant fabric, the trench is a shoulder season staple that can be packed in your carry-on or worn as a layering piece to the airport. If you don’t plan to layer it over bulkier sweaters, you may want to size down, as customers noted that the jacket runs large.

model wearing black leather jacket

Sizes available: Women’s XS–2XL

Oversized leather jackets can feel like a commitment; it’s often not the only jacket you want to bring with you on a trip. That’s why you want one that’s lightweight enough to make room for other staples. It’s a good option for those looking to forgo real leather, and reviews mention that the jacket’s material is dense and finely textured, giving it a vintage feel. It’s a versatile jacket to wear around a city, especially if you’re looking to go purse-free. “The pockets are a great size for my wallet and phone where I’m not scared that they will fall out when I’m walking around,” says reviewer Shruti Sharma. While the jacket is meant to be oversized, some reviewers recommend ordering down a size. If you want to go beyond basic black, this piece is also available in brown and red, which can style well with turtlenecks, dark jeans, and tank tops.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.



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If You Always Overpack, These 33 Things Will Help Keep Your Luggage Under The Weight Limit http://livelaughlovedo.com/if-you-always-overpack-these-33-things-will-help-keep-your-luggage-under-the-weight-limit/ http://livelaughlovedo.com/if-you-always-overpack-these-33-things-will-help-keep-your-luggage-under-the-weight-limit/#respond Mon, 28 Jul 2025 08:23:52 +0000 http://livelaughlovedo.com/2025/07/28/if-you-always-overpack-these-33-things-will-help-keep-your-luggage-under-the-weight-limit/ [ad_1]

BuzzFeed Editor Elizabeth Lilly owns this bag and says: “I snagged this backpack after hearing my colleague Chelsea Stuart sing its praises. I wanted a bag for some upcoming travel (2.5 weeks in Europe with *just* carry-on for five flights) that opens up like a suitcase for easier packing. Since buying, I’ve taken it on two long weekend trips with no complaints. In fact, for both of those trips I packed MORE than I needed

Inside, you’ll find a mesh zippered pocket and a plastic pocket perfect for your toiletries. I can fit enough wet toilet toiletries in the second pocket as I’d be allowed to carry-on for a plane. In the mesh pocket I put other necessities like cotton swabs, medicine, eye glasses, etc. The main compartment is deceptively deep so you can easily roll clothes and Lego-fit them in together without using packing cubes. In fact, I fit all of the stuff in the second picture in that section (a romper, PJs, a bikini, sunscreen, five pairs of undies, a pair of jean shorts, nap dress, three pairs of socks, two pairs of sandals, two T-shirts, a slip skirt, sleep mask, curling iron, mini flat iron, makeup bag, and tote bag). AND it has stretchy X-straps to keep it all secure like you’d see in a roller suitcase so when I unzip it, everything stays put. But before I forget, there’s a separate cushioned laptop pocket close to the backpack straps that I found works well for books or a Kindle if your travel leaves you laptop-less. 

I love that this backpack has DEEP side pockets so your umbrella or water bottle won’t fall out. In fact, I stuck a flashlight and an umbrella in one side pocket. (You could always use a flashlight.) Plus! It has a generously sized pocket on the front of the backpack with easy access for sunglasses, snacks, writing pens…all sorts of those little extras you need to access quickly. To top it all off, the backpack straps and top handle are STURDY. I felt totally secure toting it around and slinging it into overhead storage compartments on the trains. I love the look and construction of it with faux leather and sturdy black canvas, and the trolley passthrough to easily fit on my roller suitcase I’m about to drag through a bunch of airports. This isn’t the cheapest backpack option but if you’re a frequent traveler, you’ll get so much mileage on it and seriously save on some baggage fees, making it well worth the cost. This backpack and I are going places, for sure.”

Get it from Beis Travel for $118 (available in five colors). 

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