Ever catch yourself daydreaming about that Tuscan villa, a Parisian weekend, or a quiet beach in Tulum—only to glance at your calendar and sigh? If you’re a stylish, self-assured woman navigating a full life, you’re not alone. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to wait for the stars to align to explore the world.
In this guide, we’re unpacking how to travel more—without needing a sabbatical or a suitcase full of PTO. We’re talking smart strategies, elevated tools, and curated travel gear that make every escape feel seamless and chic. Think of this as your passport to doing more of what you love, even with the schedule you have.
How to Travel More
Table of Contents
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, and at no additional cost to you!
Why You Don’t Need a Gap Year to Travel More
Let’s start with a little mindset reset.
Travel doesn’t have to mean two-week trips across the globe. It can be a three-day escape to a city that surprises you, a slow Sunday morning in a new neighborhood, or a long weekend in wine country with your best friend.
The secret? Reframing what travel means for you. And once you redefine that, the opportunities to experience more of the world open up—without overhauling your calendar.
Here’s what makes travel more accessible than ever today:
- Remote work flexibility (hello, work-from-anywhere Fridays)
- Streamlined booking platforms
- Boutique stays that feel like a second home
- Digital tools to plan every detail ahead of time
Time-Smart Ways to See the World (Even with a Full Calendar)
You’re not alone if you feel like time is your biggest travel blocker. But here’s the truth: you probably have more opportunities than you think. It’s all about leveraging them intentionally.
1. Use “Micro-Moments” for Macro Adventures
That extra-long weekend? It’s not just a bonus—it’s a getaway waiting to happen. Think Thursday night to Monday morning escapes that feel restorative and adventurous.
Ideas to try:
- Plan a 4-day culinary tour in Charleston or Oaxaca
- Book a direct Friday flight to a new city and back Sunday
- Layer travel onto work trips (add 24–48 hours for play)
2. Make Your Calendar Work For You
Take a peek at your year ahead and mark possible travel windows now—before life fills them in. Use color-coded calendar blocks to visually prioritize travel.Pro tip: Pair this with a digital planner that helps you outline your dream trips by season. This makes it easier to act when deals or inspiration strike.
Packing Gear That Elevates Every Journey
Let’s be real: showing up stylish and stress-free is half the travel battle. Here’s the gear that makes that happen—while looking like it came out of an editorial spread.
1. The Right Carry-On Luggage
Look for a structured piece that fits overhead, rolls like butter, and has a polished, elevated look. Think soft neutrals, brushed gold hardware, and luxe interiors. This mixi Carry On with Cup Holder, Phone Holder and Charger fits more than you’d think.
2. Chic Packing Cubes
Game-changer. Especially when you color-coordinate by outfit or travel day. Try the Bagsmart Compression-style cubes and fit more without feeling cluttered. Keep different outfits in separate compression cubes and always be ready for what’s next!
3. The Travel Wrap That Does Everything
Oversized scarves are the secret weapon of the stylish traveler. Wear it on the plane, use it as a blanket, or dress it up with heels for dinner. I have several, but this likemary travel shawl is absolutely my go-to!
4. Wireless Earbuds That Keep You Centered
Noise-cancelling, sleek, and powerful. Perfect for in-flight playlists or those first sips of espresso in a foreign café. My top pick is alway the Apple Airpods with voice control.
5. A Compact Travel Steamer
Wrinkles? Not on your itinerary. A lightweight travel steamer keeps linen dresses crisp and blazers sharp, all without needing an iron. This Rylena combination steamer/iron is a game changer. Sleet, compact and won’t take up much space.
6. A Curated Travel Skincare Kit
Long flights and hotel air don’t stand a chance when your skincare routine travels with you. This Emma Hardie Hydration On The Go Kit will leave your skin super hydrated, firmer and smoother. Did you know? Gold is known for promoting collagen production and improving skin elasticity!
Small Changes, Big Travel Wins
When you zoom out, traveling more isn’t about adding stress—it’s about subtracting friction. A few intentional changes can unlock a world of possibility.
Try These Simple Shifts:
- Set up a travel fund that auto-pulls monthly (small amounts add up fast)
- Keep a “ready-to-go” toiletry bag packed, Yasss!
- Follow flight deal accounts or set Google Flight alerts
- Indulge in one spontaneous trip a year
It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing more of what matters. And when you travel with intention, even short getaways feel rich and soul-filling.
You deserve to travel often, beautifully, and with zero stress about having “enough” time. With a little planning and the right essentials in your corner, you can step off the plane feeling like your best self—no matter how full your life is back home.
And remember: your passport isn’t just a document—it’s a symbol. Of curiosity. Of freedom. Of choosing to prioritize what lights you up.
You’ve got this.