Presentable #38: How I Pack — Short Trips

Including links for everything I pack whenever traveling for a few days

Victor Kernes

Sep 23, 2023

How I Pack For Short Trips

Two months after having a baby, my wife and I are starting to travel again.

For our first trip, we visited our hometown and stayed for a few days.

I packed just the right amount.

We have another trip a month from now, and since I plan on packing the same way, I figured it would be helpful to share everything I pack for short trips.

I keep the amount of things I bring to a minimum, only packing clothes that go together. Depending on the weather, I’ll usually swap out the outerwear pieces for something warmer or cooler.

Quick Update

I’ve included links for everything I packed using a new service called Carrot—who is currently featuring me as one of their tastemakers at carrot.link.

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1. Shirts

I love a good t-shirt, and one of my favorites is by Camber—a brand that GQ’s Gerald Ortiz wrote about last year. The tank pairs well with the chambray, providing an extra layer for cooler nights, and is also great underneath a crewneck sweatshirt. And you can never go wrong with a polo.

2. Pants

I picked up both pairs on eBay and love them. Denim and chinos are wardrobe staples and go with almost anything. Each has a little wear and tear, and after taking them to the tailors, I’m happy with their overall fit and patina.

3. Shoes

I need something comfortable to walk in all day. I also need a dressier option for dinner or semi-formal events. Eventually I want to replace my beaten-up New Balances with a new pair of 993s. My loafers—which I talked about last week—are perfect for a night out.

4. Accessories

The bags are from a brand out of San Francisco called DSPTCH, made in the USA. I’m looking to upgrade my duffle bag someday, but it works for now. The socks are from Uniqlo and Nike, which I’d also like to upgrade soon. The only missing accessory is a belt, which I hope to pick up on my next trip.

5. Outerwear

It usually depends on the weather of where we’re traveling to, and given that it’s still technically summer, I got away with a simple chore coat and sweatshirt. I picked up the sweatshirt a few months ago at one of my favorite vintage shops in San Francisco, and it’s become my go-to whenever I’m in sub-60-degree weather.