How many times have you packed “just in case” and ended up wearing the same three things the whole trip? We’ve all done it. You start off with good intentions, then suddenly your weekend bag looks like you’re moving house.
Packing light is a skill—and the trick is to stop thinking about how much to pack, and start thinking about what actually works. The key? Accessories that earn their keep. We’re talking about those small but mighty extras that can turn one outfit into three, and make you look instantly put-together—even if you’ve been living out of a bag for five days.
Let’s get into the travel-friendly pieces you’ll actually use (and love).
That One Belt: The Reversible Leather Dress Belt
Right. If you pack just one belt, make it the reversible leather dress belt. Honestly, this is one of those items that sounds too practical to be exciting, but once you’ve used one, you’ll wonder how you ever travelled without it.
It’s two belts in one—black on one side, brown or tan on the other—so it works with pretty much everything. Office-ready with tailored trousers? Sorted. Smart-casual with jeans and a shirt? Yep. Fancy dinner look with a tucked-in blouse or knit? Absolutely.
Flip the buckle, change the vibe. It’s so simple and it saves you having to pack a second belt “just in case”. Plus, a good reversible leather dress belt doesn’t just blend in—it quietly upgrades your whole outfit. You’ll feel sharper, neater, more “on it”. And isn’t that what we all want when we’re living out of a suitcase?
Scarf It Up—It’s More Than Just Neckwear
Let’s talk about scarves. Not the chunky wool winter kind—but a lightweight scarf that folds down to basically nothing. You’d be surprised how useful this little bit of fabric can be.
Cold plane? Scarf. Visiting a church or temple? Scarf. Hair not playing ball? You guessed it—scarf. You can even tie it around your bag strap or wear it as a headband. One piece, loads of looks.
Pick something neutral with a subtle print and it’ll go with every outfit you pack. And if you forget your cardigan? No problem. Your scarf just became your chic little shoulder cover.
Jewellery That Goes With Everything
Here’s where you keep it simple. Don’t go for a full jewellery box—just pick your everyday heroes.
Small gold or silver hoops, a thin chain necklace, maybe one or two stackable rings. These are the pieces that go with a blazer during the day and a dress at night. You don’t want to be fussing around untangling earrings on your hotel bed. Choose things you can wear with literally anything and leave the rest at home.
If you wouldn’t wear it on the flight, do you really need it? Probably not.
The All-Day, Any-Night Bag
You want one bag that handles everything—daytime wandering, casual dinners, even the occasional smarter event.
A medium-sized crossbody with a detachable strap is your best mate here. During the day, it’s comfy and hands-free. In the evening, take off the strap and boom—you’ve got yourself a clutch.
Stick to a colour that works with most of your wardrobe—black, taupe, navy—or go for a textured finish like croc or pebbled leather to give it a bit of personality.
Sunnies That Do the Job
Sunglasses might seem like a summer-only thing, but trust us—you’ll want them year-round. City breaks, beach trips, even snowy getaways (snow glare is real).
Go for a classic shape that flatters your face and can survive being tossed in your bag repeatedly. Tort frames, gold rims—whatever feels most to you. Just don’t bring five pairs. One trusty pair you actually wear is all you need.
Final Thought: Pack Less, Travel Better
You don’t need loads of stuff—you just need the right stuff. Pieces that do double (or triple) duty. Items that make you feel like your best self, even when you’ve only had five hours of sleep and your flight was delayed (again).
So next time you're laying out outfits and wondering how to squeeze it all in, stop. Ask yourself:
"Can this do more than one thing?"
If not, it stays home.
Trust your scarf. Back your bag. And always—always—pack that reversible belt.
