Because sweater weather + skyline strolls = pure autumn bliss

Master the Art of Layering

🍂 Layer Like You Mean It: My Go-To Fall Combo

 

Fall weather loves a good plot twist and when it comes to fall city trips, layering isn’t just smart—it’s a style adventure. I always start with my trusty Foxy Tunic Cami from Torrid*. It’s smooth, stretchy, and the perfect base layer that keeps things comfy without bulk.

Next up: a classic long sleeve Henley. It adds warmth and texture and gives that cozy “I’m ready for cider and cobblestone strolls” vibe. Then I toss on a festive T-shirt—something with a pop of color or a cheeky fall slogan. It’s a fun way to show personality and keep the mood light, even if the skies aren’t.

To top it off, I reach for a hoodie (hello, snuggly street style) or a rain coat if the forecast looks moody. This combo keeps me warm, dry, and ready for anything—from market browsing to rooftop lounging.

 

  • Pro tip: All these layers play nice together, so you can peel off or pile on depending on the weather or your next stop. It’s like packing five outfits in one!


 

Go smart, go small - leave the big bag at home

👜 Bag Strategy 101: My Two-Go-To’s for Vacation Days

 

When I’m on vacation, I like to keep things light, flexible, and ready for whatever the day throws at me—whether it’s a charming local market or a historic walking tour. That’s why I always pack two trusty sidekicks: a foldable tote and a compact crossbody.

 

For shopping days or spontaneous finds, I bring a small, light, foldable tote bag that tucks neatly into my pocket. It’s perfect for outings where I might pick up souvenirs, snacks, or that irresistible handmade soap I didn’t know I needed. It weighs next to nothing and saves me from juggling bags or turning down treasures because I “don’t have room.”

For more active days—think walking tours, museum hopping, or catching a ferry—I have a small crossbody wallet that keeps my essentials close and my hands free. My favorite? The Clip & Go from Save The Girls*. It’s sleek, secure, and designed for quick access to my phone, cards, and a lip balm or two. I love that the wallet and my phone clip right onto the strap/chain and doubles as a wristlet if I want to switch things up.

With this combo I am ready no matter the vibe of the day—whether I’m treasure hunting or trailblazing—and keeps my packing light and my options open.


 

Tech & Travel Must-Haves

🔌 Tech Travel Hacks That Keep Me Charged and Chill

When it comes to travel, I like my tech to work with me, not against me. That means no tangled cords, no dead batteries, and no scrambling to find an outlet when I’m halfway through a walking tour. Over time, I’ve fine-tuned a few go-to gadgets that make every trip smoother, smarter, and way less stressful.

🚗 For the Road: Retractable Fast Car Charger If I’m renting a car, I always bring a Retractable Fast Car Charger. It’s compact, tangle-free, and powerful enough to juice up my phone while I’m navigating scenic routes or hopping between historic stops. The retractable cord keeps things neat, and I love that I can charge multiple devices without cluttering the dash.

🏨 For the Stay: Magnetic Wireless Charger Once I’m settled into my lodging, I switch to a Magnetic Wireless Charger. It’s sleek, folds flat for easy packing, and doubles as a phone stand—perfect for checking maps, watching a show, or scrolling through tomorrow’s itinerary while my phone powers up. No fumbling with cables, just drop and charge.

🚶‍♀️ For the Go: Slim Power Bank For days packed with walking, tours, and spontaneous detours, I rely on a small, slim, lightweight power bank. It slips into my pocket without adding bulk and gives me peace of mind when I’m out and about. Whether I’m waiting for a rideshare or tracking down the best bakery in town, I know my phone won’t quit before I do.

📱 Favorite Apps: Map + Munchies My digital map app is my lifeline—especially when I’ve pinned all the must-see spots, hidden gems, and restroom breaks. And when hunger hits? Yelp* is my go-to. I use it to find local favorites, read reviews, and make sure I’m not missing out on the best bites in town.

These 3 little hero hacks make city vacation life smoother—and more fun.

 

*Disclaimer: I mention products in this post simply because I use and love them—they’re part of my personal travel routine. I’m not paid, sponsored, or compensated in any way for these mentions. Just sharing what works for me in hopes it helps you pack with confidence!

 

Window Seats & Wanderlust

By Sharon Bridge • November 1, 2025
🚂 Why Train Travel Might Be the Most Underrated Joyride in America Let’s bust a myth right out of the station: train travel isn’t just for European backpackers or vintage movie buffs. In fact, hopping aboard a train might just be the most relaxing, scenic, and soul-satisfying way to explore the U.S.—especially if you’re craving a slower pace, a window seat to wonder, and zero baggage fees (looking at you, airlines). Whether you're planning a girls’ getaway, a solo soul-search, or a cozy couple’s escape, here’s why train travel deserves a spot on your itinerary: 🌄 1. The Journey Is the Destination Unlike planes that whisk you above the clouds or cars that demand your full attention, trains let you see the country. Think rolling vineyards, misty mountains, sleepy towns, and golden fields—all from a wide window with a cup of coffee in hand. It’s like watching a living postcard unfold in real time. Bonus: no need to navigate, refuel, or reroute. Just sit back and let the rhythm of the rails do its thing. 🧘‍♀️ 2. Stress-Free Vibes, All Aboard No TSA lines. No middle seats. No “your gate has changed for the third time” announcements. Train stations are often centrally located, boarding is a breeze, and you can arrive minutes—not hours—before departure. Once on board? Stretch out. Walk around. Grab a snack from the café car. Or just curl up with a book and let the gentle sway lull you into a state of pure travel zen. 🧳 3. Pack What You Want (Within Reason) Most trains have generous baggage allowances—often two carry-ons and two checked bags for free. That means you can bring your favorite boots and that extra bottle of wine from Napa without playing suitcase Tetris. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Built-In Bonding Time Train travel is surprisingly social. Whether you're catching up with your besties over wine in the observation car or striking up a convo with a fellow traveler, there’s something about the shared rhythm of the ride that invites connection. Planning a girls’ trip? A train car becomes your mobile lounge. No one’s stuck driving, and everyone gets to enjoy the ride. 🌎 5. Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly Trains are one of the most sustainable ways to travel, with a lower carbon footprint than flying or driving. And with flexible fares, rail passes, and discounts for students, seniors, and groups, it can be surprisingly affordable—especially when you factor in the savings on gas, parking, and hotel nights (hello, overnight sleeper cars!). 🚫 6. No Sketchy Pit Stops Required Let’s be honest: road trips can be fun… until someone needs a bathroom break in the middle of nowhere. Train travel skips the whole “seedy gas station” and “greasy spoon with one Yelp star” experience. Onboard restrooms? Clean and accessible. Café car? Stocked with snacks, drinks, and actual tables. Better yet bring your own picnic! You can sip wine, nibble on cheese, and never once wonder if the bathroom key is attached to a hubcap. 💡 Train Travel Tip: Try Your Luck with Amtrak’s Bid Up Feeling fancy? Amtrak’s Bid Up program lets you name your price to upgrade to Business Class or a Roomette. After booking your ticket, you might get an email inviting you to bid for an upgrade. If your offer wins, you’ll enjoy extra space, priority boarding, and other perks—without paying full price. It’s like travel roulette, but with legroom and free coffee. ✨ Final Boarding Thoughts Train travel invites you to slow down, look out the window, and fall in love with the in-between. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about rediscovering the joy of the journey itself. So next time you're planning a trip—whether it’s a weekend escape to a charming small town or a cross-country adventure—consider trading the fast lane for the rail line. Your future self (and your Instagram feed) will thank you.

How to Make the Most of a Holiday Layover in the U.S. (Yes, Even During Peak Travel Season)

By Sharon Bridge • October 10, 2025
Holiday layovers (or layovers in general) in the U.S. don’t have to be a travel nightmare. With the right mindset—and the right airport—you can turn that in-between time into a moment of joy, discovery, or at least a decent meal. Whether you’re stuck for two hours or six, here’s how to make the most of your layover without losing your holiday cheer. 🛫 1. Pick a Layover-Friendly Airport (If You Have a Choice) Some U.S. airports are practically destinations in themselves. If you’re booking flights with a layover, aim for one of these traveler-approved gems: San Diego International (SAN): Wine bar, 36 restaurants, and easy access to downtown beaches Denver International (DEN): Art installations, outdoor terraces, and 500+ shops & restaurants Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP): High passenger satisfaction, comfy seating, and local eats Seattle-Tacoma (SEA): Pacific Northwest charm, live music, and great dining Austin-Bergstrom (AUS): Local BBQ, live music, and a laid-back vibe Nashville International (BNA): Close to downtown, hotel access, and Southern hospitality Myth to bust: All layovers are stressful. Not true—some airports are so well-designed, you’ll wish your flight was delayed. 🎒 2. Pack Smart for the Pause Your carry-on is your layover lifeline. Include: Portable charger (outlets are competitive real estate) Cozy layers (terminal temps are unpredictable) Reusable water bottle (hydration stations are everywhere now) Snacks (bonus points for festive treats) Entertainment (downloaded shows, podcasts, or a holiday read) 🧘‍♀️ 3. Recharge Your Body and Brain Seek out quiet zones, lounges, or even nap pods. Many airports offer: Meditation rooms (SEA, DEN) Spa services (MSP, SFO) Family play areas (DEN has five!) Sharon’s tip : Use apps like LoungeReview to find hidden gems for rest and relaxation. 🍷 4. Taste the Region Skip the generic food court. Try local flavors: BBQ in Austin (AUS) Seafood chowder in Boston (BOS) Craft beer in Portland (PDX) Gumbo in New Orleans (MSY) Snap pics, rate dishes, and share your finds—your readers will love the foodie angle. 🏙️ 5. Got Time? Explore Nearby If your layover is 6+ hours and the airport is near the city, consider a quick excursion: San Diego (SAN): Beaches and harbor views are minutes away Washington D.C. (DCA): Monuments and museums via Metro Nashville (BNA): Honky-tonks and hot chicken just 7 miles out Pro move : Set alarms and leave buffer time for security and boarding. 🎁 6. Be the Holiday Hero Use the downtime to: Wrap gifts (some airports offer gift-wrapping stations) Write postcards Pick up local souvenirs Organize travel photos for your blog or socials ✨ Final Boarding Thought Holiday layovers in the U.S. don’t have to be a drag. With a little prep and a playful mindset, they can become part of the adventure. So next time you’re stuck between flights, channel your inner travel elf and make the most of the moment.
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