I'll Be Home for Christmas: Holiday Travel Packing List and Outfit Style Guide
- Emma Hamrick
- Nov 16, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 3
The holidays are here, and whether you’re heading home for a family gathering, a snowy getaway, or a cozy staycation, packing thoughtfully can make the season stress-free and stylish. With a little planning, you can create a wardrobe that’s festive, functional, and versatile—perfect for the mix of holiday dinners, chill days with family, and maybe even a New Year’s Eve bash.
Over the past ten Christmases, I've endured 60 thousand miles of holiday flights, 350 hours of working from home, 12 hours of plane delays, and one canceled flight. All that to say, I've experienced enough holiday travel to put together the perfect Christmas packing list with outfit inspiration, and even some helpful travel hacks to make holiday travel a breeze.
Making a (Packing) List and Checking it Twice: The Perfect Holiday Travel Packing List
The 12 Layers of Christmas
From unpredictable winter weather to cozying up by the fire, layers are your best friend. Think cozy but lightweight pieces that can adapt to any setting:
Base Layers: A comfy t-shirt or tank top for warmth without bulk. I love a cute holiday-themed graphic t, like this one from Abercrombie & Fitch.
Sweaters: Oversized knits or cute cardigans in neutral tones. Bonus points for festive reds, greens, or sparkly details. I love the Madeline Sweater, also from Abercrombie & Fitch.
Jackets: A packable puffer, stylish wool coat, or bad-ass leather jacket can elevate any outfit while keeping you toasty. If you've read my blog before, you know I'm a long-time fan of the Patagonia Nano-Puff, but I'm adding a wool coat like this one to my holiday wish list this year!
Bottoms that Jingle Bell Rock
Versatility is key when space in your suitcase is limited. Opt for items you can mix and match easily:
Denim: A classic pair of light-wash jeans can go from casual to polished. I've hopped on the baggy, low-rise denim trend and I'm never looking back!
Leggings: Faux leather or fleece-lined options are a chic, comfortable staple for lounging or outings. I bought these fleece-lined leggings for my trip to Joshua Tree last winter and have gotten good use out of them!
Skirt or Dress: A nice skirt or dress pairs beautifully with tights and boots for a holiday dinner look. I love this long-sleeved green option from Abercrombie & Fitch that can be dressed up or down!
Shoes for Rocking Around the Christmas Tree
Sneakers: For running errands or post-dinner walks. I live in my Hoka Clifton 9's.
Boots: Opt for ankle boots or knee-highs that can handle cold weather and look good with your dressier outfits. I love these ones from DSW!
Slip-Ons: I love to include a smaller pair of shoes that don't take up much space in my suitcase. These mules from DSW are perfect to pair with plenty of outfits.
Accessories Yule Love
Beanie and Gloves: Stay warm while looking effortlessly cute.
Jewelry: Pack a couple of statement pieces like gold hoops or a dainty necklace for an elevated touch.
Versatile Bag: I always carry one nice purse with me to elevate any look and keep my essentials close. This Christmas, I'm asking for the Coach Tabby Shoulder Bag.
Pajamas for a Not-So-Silent Night
When the family gathers for movie marathons or late-night board games, you’ll want cozy and photo-ready options:
Matching Pajamas: Classic plaid or fun holiday prints make for great Instagram moments. Target and Old Navy have tons of fun options.
Sweat Set: A chic, neutral co-ord is perfect for lounging but still looks pulled together.
Fluffy Socks: Keep your feet warm while adding a cute pop of color. My favorites are my "ruby slippers" which are available on Amazon.
Spa-La-La-La-La: Beauty and Self-Care Essentials
Holiday travel can take a toll, so don’t skip these self-care must-haves:
Moisturizer and Lip Balm: Cold weather means dry skin—pack hydrating products to stay glowing. I swear by the CerVe Night Cream and a good ole tube of Aquaphor.
Travel-Size Makeup: A mini mascara, concealer, and your go-to lipstick (red for the season!) are all you need.
Mini Spa Kit: My sister and I have a tradition of doing sheet masks together every Christmas. We especially love picking out ones with silly faces on them like these.
Deck the Halls with Stylish Looks: Your Holiday Outfit Guide
What to Wear for Christmas Eve with the Family
We're starting out with an elevated dress for this special evening, but pairing it with accessories that can be used several times throughout your holiday stay.
Outfit Details:
Dress: Emerson Bubble Hem Satin Mini Dress, Abercrombie & Fitch ($90) Tights: G&Y Women's Sheer Tights, Pack of 3, Amazon ($9)
Necklace: Dainty 3 Pearls Necklace by CaitlynMinimalist on Etsy ($22)
Earrings: Pearl Teardrop Hoops by CaitlynMinimalist on Etsy ($19.60)
Boots: DV by Dolce Vita Flapper Boot, DSW ($90)
Bow: Velvet Bow Barette - Black, Terra Cotta ($24)
Purse: Tabby Shoulder Bag, Coach ($350)
What to Wear to Holiday Dinner with Your Boyfriend's Family
This casual yet elevated look offers some cheerful holiday nods while maximizing the comfort and re-wearability of key clothing pieces and accessories.
Outfit Details:
Coat: Wool-Blend Tailored Topcoat, Abercrombie & Fitch ($220)
Sweater: Madeline Crew Sweater, Abercrombie & Fitch ($60)
Jeans: Curve Love High-Rise Loose Jean, Abercrombie & Fitch ($90)
Purse: Tabby Shoulder Bag, Coach ($350)
What to Wear for Holiday Drinks with Your High School Friends
We're breaking out the leather to elevate an otherwise basic outfit with a subtle hint of the holidays in the fun graphic tee.
Outfit Details:
Jacket: Vegan Leather Utility Jacket, Abercrombie & Fitch ($110)
Jeans: Curve Love High-Rise Loose Jean, Abercrombie & Fitch ($90)
Belt: Triple Metal Keeper Belt, Madewell ($68)
Earrings: Pearl Teardrop Hoops by CaitlynMinimalist on Etsy ($19.60)
Shoes: Steve Madden Clapton Muel at DSW ($70)
Holiday Packing Tips & Travel Hacks that Sleigh!
All is Calm, All is Packed: How to Optimize Travel Space
Save space for holiday gifts by rolling your clothes, and keeping outfits grouped together for easy access. Packing cubes are a game-changer for organization. My favorites are available on Amazon.
Very Merry Carry-On Must-Haves
Keep a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a good book handy for travel delays or downtime. You can read more about what I keep in my carry-on in my travel essentials blog post.
How to Packing Gifts Like Santa
The easiest way to deal with holiday gifts is to have them delivered to your destination when purchasing them online. Of course, there are some gifts that can't be bought online. I always pack my gifts in a checked bag, wrapping anything breakable in my coziest holiday sweaters. While I have traveled with wrapped gifts without issues before, the FAA advises against wrapping items as they may be subject to search.
Jingle All the Way—Without the Lines: Holiday Crowd Hacks
Early morning flights are more likely to have fewer crowds competing for check-in and security lines. Flights on Christmas Day, the evening on New Year's Eve, and early on New Year's Day not only tend to be cheaper but less crowded as well (I've flown on New Year's Eve or Day almost every year without issues). That said, the holiday season is one of the busiest times to travel, so budget extra time for dealing with airports or fighting holiday traffic on the roads.
Let's Wrap this Holiday Packing Guide Up!
Whether you’re flying cross-country, taking a road trip, or staying just a few blocks away, this guide will help you pack like a pro while keeping your holiday style on point. With your suitcase ready to go, all that’s left is to enjoy the season’s sparkle, laughter, and joy.
Happy holidays! ✨
Comments