E’s Edit: What I Packed
Late Fall/Winter in Barcelona & London
Packing can feel like a challenge—we all tend to overpack, trying to prepare for every possible scenario. After years of work travel, I’ve learned how to do more with less, but even I still have moments of stuffing my suitcase and hoping for the best.
Hugo and I recently spent 13 days in Spain, with a bonus stop in London. The trip centered around a five-day soccer tournament in Salou, about 50 miles from Barcelona, but we started with six nights in Barcelona for sightseeing and soccer training. After the tournament, we wrapped up with a few days in London for a Chelsea game and Christmas markets. Packing for this mix of activities—half soccer mom mode, half tourist—was trickier than usual.
I’m typically a carry-on-only traveler, and I pride myself on keeping things light. But this time? I had to sit on my suitcase to get it closed—ha! Here’s what I actually wore (on repeat) and found most useful on the trip.
Not many pictures of myself this trip, just a couple of selfies and a single shot Hugo took of me on our lazy lunch day, but I always love a good floor tile.
Accessories
Crossbody
I bought the Bandolier Dillon bag before a three-week trip through Italy last June, and it’s been my go-to travel companion ever since. It fits passports perfectly, has a designated phone slot, and includes a small envelope pocket for a lip balm and earbuds—basically, everything I need within reach.
I also have the Maya phone case with a built-in wallet. The setup is perfect for travel. They just released a brown croc version, which feels so right for the season, and a leopard version that’s super fun. If I were repurchasing for fall/winter, I’d go croc or black instead of my current bag.
Cotton Mesh Tote
One of my travel must-haves is a cotton mesh bag. We use it daily—picking up groceries, keeping small purchases together, storing extra layers, and often, carrying a soccer ball (just in case). This one has been a favorite for years, both for myself and for gift giving. I actually have an idea to improve upon it, so expect a reimagined version fromVia Elena!
Baseball Cap
A baseball cap is another essential for me—great for bad hair days, sunny days, and rainy days alike. This trip, I brought two wool caps, one in cream and one in dark gray, and wore them constantly.
The sunnies on my head? Obsessed. A hot tip from my sister-in-law, they perform like a far more expensive pair. I brought them thinking they’d be my “no big deal if I lose them” sunglasses, but when I thought I had lost them, I panicked. They’re that good.
Packing Strategy: The Neutral Palette
TOPS
Lightweight cashmere sweaters: I packed a heather gray crewneck, a navy crewneck, and an oatmeal deep V-neck.
A white V-neck tee for layering.
An oversized denim jacket—super versatile.
An oversized blazer that coordinates with everything.
I always stick to neutrals when packing so everything mixes and matches seamlessly.
Bottoms
Balloon jeans are having a moment, and they were a great choice for a trip full of walking (and eating). I packed two pairs—one in classic blue denim and one in washed-out black. These are a great option (size down if you don’t want them too baggy) without a big financial commitment.
For a cleaner fit, I’ve been wearing the Levi’s Ribcage Straight Ankle for years—classic, flattering, and perfect with all the best travel-friendly shoes.
Shoes
Flats – Lightweight, comfortable, and easy to pack. These lie completely flat in a carry-on.
Sneakers – My go-to walking sneakers have logged many miles. This pair never lets me down.
Boots – The lightest and most comfortable boots I’ve found. I usually pack them and wear sneakers on travel days.
Mules – I couldn’t find my exact pair, but these are close—classic with a cozy faux fur lining. Great for slipping on for a quick bite, a drink at the hotel bar, or a cool-but-sunny day out.
The One (style) of dress I always pack
A shirt dress in a neutral color (usually black). Easy to dress up or down, perfect for layering, and an effortless piece that always works. This trip I packed polka dots.
Final Thoughts
Even with a little overpacking this time, my most-worn pieces followed my usual formula: neutrals, layers, and versatile accessories. If you’re heading to a similar destination in fall/winter, I hope this helps you streamline your packing just a little—so you can spend more time enjoying the trip and less time wrestling with your suitcase!
