Packing Light & Looking Polished: What I’m Bringing to Connecticut This Summer

Planning a summer trip and unsure what to pack? Here’s my go-to list for looking polished while traveling light.

I’m getting ready to head to Connecticut for a special family trip and packing has officially begun! My mom is celebrating her 60th birthday, and I’m flying up with two of my sons. (Hubby might beat us there depending on his work schedule!)

Since I’ll be seeing family, catching up with friends, and maybe squeezing in one or two must-see stops, I’m keeping things cute but simple, exactly how I like it. Here’s everything I’m packing to keep things light, polished, and real.

Luggage Game Plan

I usually do both carry-on and checked luggage for longer trips like this, or even the short ones, who am I kidding. I like having my essentials with me but also want room for extras, especially since I plan to dress up for the party and (like always) shop and grab a few items.
For the past year, I’ve been using my Samsonite luggage, and it’s truly been everywhere, from quick getaways to our trip all the way to Dubai. It’s held up beautifully and still looks nearly new, and I credit that to the hard-shell plastic cover I use to protect it.
That said, after so many flights and airport baggage carousels, the cover has started to tear in a few spots and might need replacing soon. It definitely did its job, though, and I still think it’s a must-have to keep your luggage looking polished after heavy use.

What I’m Wearing on This Trip

From casual family days to something a little more dressed up for my mom’s birthday dinner, these are the outfits and accessories coming with me.

My Airport Travel Outfit
I always keep it casual but pulled together on travel days, and this look checks all the boxes. These joggers are lightweight and comfy, the bodysuit tee stays smooth (no bunching!), and the sneakers are perfect for getting through the airport without a second thought. I usually throw on my favorite Guess denim jacket too, it’s the perfect layer for chilly planes and adds just the right touch of structure to the look.

Shop the Looks:
Click here to shop my airport outfit on LTK

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Go-To Accessories I Never Travel Without

I always bring a few glam accessories to elevate any look, plus my favorite jewelry case to keep everything organized.

Shop Accessories:
Click here to shop the full collection

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Vacation Shoes I’m Loving Right Now

Cute and comfy shoes are a must. These sandals and heels are perfect for both long days and dressy nights.

Shop Shoes:
See my picks here

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What’s In My Toiletry Bag

I keep my beauty game strong on the go! Here’s what’s packed in my toiletry bag this trip:
    •    Toiletry Bag: Click to shop
    •    Alien Goddess Perfume: Click to shop
    •    Pond’s Dry Skin Cream: Click to shop
    •    Wet Brush Detangler: Click to shop
    •    Kenra Volume Spray 25: Click to shop
    •    Dior Glossy Lip Color (Pink): Click to shop
    •    Maybelline Fit Me Matte Foundation: Click to shop

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Final Thoughts

I always say that packing smart doesn’t mean sacrificing style and this trip is the perfect mix of family, fun, and fashion. From my toiletry must haves to vacation ready sandals and accessories, everything I’m bringing fits my “polished and real” vibe.

If you’re looking for outfit inspo or travel-friendly beauty favorites, I’ve linked everything in my LTK shop and Amazon storefront so you can shop directly from the post.

Let me know what you always pack for a family getaway, I love discovering new favorites!

Stay polished,
Machavely

Coming soon:
My full Connecticut travel recap + what I wore to the birthday party (and the cocktail dress I finally chose!)

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