I love packing paraphernalia

In early February I’ve got a trip planned to Los Angeles, and just learned I’ll be traveling briefly to Houston in about a week or so, which means it’s time to engage in one of my top-ten favorite activities: shopping for travel stuff. Who knows why, but few things make me happier than finding bags, pouches, cubes, etc that help keep me organized while in transit. I mostly like these items to be in bright colors, so they’re easy to find in my bag or suitcase, and this quilted cosmetics case checks that box, and is so pretty too.

This set, part of a collab between Baggu and Collina Strada, is just so amazing—I’d wear a dress in any of these prints—and currently marked down.

I just acquired this fun toiletry bag: each one they make is a different color combination, which makes for a cool surprise.

An elegant leather set from Cuyana—it comes in several subtler shades, but as I mentioned, I like a brighter one.

I own a Comme des Garcons pouch not unlike this patchwork tartan one, and it’s the perfect little size for lip balm, bandages, and the like.

I already own a perfectly serviceable set of packing cubes, but these toile ones (which are also monogrammable) are tempting me hugely. They’re a little splurge that might make some of travel’s less glamorous moments feel more glamorous, or at least that’s what I’m telling myself.

And here are some bright and happy packing cubes that go for less than the ones above.

I’m going to try these cosmetic containers from a brand called Cadence. They’re supposed to be spill-proof and indestructible. Will report back.

And finally, most of the above items will be carried in my Luka Duffel, which some of you recommended to me and which is the ideal personal item bag, I really do think. It’s also well-priced, ringing in just a bit over $100.