I've lived out of my suitcase for 3 years as a digital nomad. Here's what I always pack — from my carry-on essentials to electronics.

26.11.2023 - 13:51 / insider.com

In January 2021, I traded in my NYC apartment for a carry-on and kissed much of my material possessions goodbye. What I thought was going to be an immensely difficult adjustment turned out to be one of the most freeing decisions I've ever made. 

Realizing that you can live with less has not only saved money over the years (bye-bye, Amazon addiction) but has helped to shift my priorities. I now believe if you can't carry it, you may not need it.

Now that I'm older, I can't just roll out of bed and maintain an air of effortlessness — at 22, I used to travel 10 to 12 times a year with little more than a few pairs of leggings, face wash, and a toothbrush. Now that I'm 36 and on the road full-time, skincare and fitness matter more and my packing list of "must haves" has grown to fit my style and needs. 

As pared down as this list is, some of it could still be left behind if necessary, but I believe I've found a great balance between routine, comfort, and traveling light.

It may go without saying, but I always have my passport with me. I'm also sure to check what countries need travel visas in advance. The other essential item I never travel without is insurance. I purchased Allianz AllTrips Basic, which offers year-long protection for one rate of $125 per year and covers any kind of trip up to 45 days in one destination. 

I use a combination of a carry-on-sized bag, which I check, and a travel duffel. I love this travel duffel because it has a zipper compartment underneath that can hold three to four pairs of shoes. I'm not exactly a suitcase expert but I'm partial to the hardcase spinner wheel suitcases. I bought a dupe of a bag from the popular but pricey brand Away — which I hear are worth the splurge — and it's just not the same, so I plan to buy a real Away bag next year.

Recently I've come to cave to the cross-body bag obsession, so much so that I've done away with a purse altogether. Cross-body bags are incredibly useful: Mine holds my credit cards, small sunscreen, sunglasses, headphones, lip gloss, and, if we're at the airport, the passports and boarding passes, saving me valuable minutes instead of rummaging through a large purse.

If you're on the road full-time, you will usually have the opportunity to do laundry, so never pack as much as you think you need. My capsule wardrobe includes two pairs of long pants, two pairs of shorts, five neutral-colored tank tops or t-shirts, joggers or leggings, dresses, a cardigan, two bathing suits, underwear, socks, bras, and sports bras. 

I also pack a pair of sandals and running sneakers and, if there's room, dress shoes and hiking shoes. That shoe compartment holds a lot. Pro tip: Always wear your bulkiest shoes on the plane.

I try to tailor nicer pieces