Because sweater weather + skyline strolls = pure autumn bliss

Master the Art of Layering

πŸ‚ 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

πŸ‘œ 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

πŸ”Œ 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.

πŸš— 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.

πŸ“± 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!

 

By Sharon Bridge November 20, 2025
We’ve all been there: you’re finally on that long-awaited getaway, only to wake up with a scratchy throat or stuffy nose. Nothing derails a dream trip faster than catching a bug from crowded planes, cruise ships, hotels, or big events. The good news? With a little prep (and a lot of wipes), you can outsmart those pesky germs and keep your adventures healthy and fun. 🦠 Why Travel Can Be a Germ Magnet Airplanes: Recycled air, close quarters, and high-touch surfaces like tray tables and armrests. Cruises: Thousands of passengers sharing buffets, lounges, and pool decks. Hotels: Remote controls, light switches, and door handles that see more action than you’d think. Events: Concerts, conferences, and festivals where handshakes and shared spaces are unavoidable. πŸ’Š My Immune-Boosting Routine Before I even pack my bags, I start taking Nature’s Bounty Immune 24 Hour Vitamin C, D3 & Zinc. I keep it going during my trip and after I return home. It’s my way of giving my immune system a head start so I can focus on enjoying the journey instead of fighting off a cold. ✨ My Secret Weapon: Wet Ones® I never board a plane without them. Here’s how I use Wet Ones® to stay one step ahead of germs: On planes: I wipe down the tray table, armrests, air vent, and even the window shade before settling in. Restrooms onboard: Let’s be real—I avoid airplane restrooms unless absolutely necessary. But when I do, Wet Ones® are my go-to for a quick, clean refresh. They leave no sticky residue and my hands feel genuinely clean afterward. Cruises & hotels: Perfect for wiping down door handles, remotes, or even gym equipment. πŸ‘‰ Bonus: Wet Ones® come in 20-count resealable travel packs (easy to toss in your carry-on) or 24-count boxes of individually wrapped singles (great for slipping into your pocket or purse). 🍽️ Buffets: Friend or Foe? Here’s the truth: I usually try to avoid buffets. They’re high-touch, high-traffic, and a hotspot for germs. But let’s face it—buffets are often part of the travel package and where you can get the best bang for your buck. Hotels love offering breakfast buffets as perks, and cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts practically revolve around them. My advice? Eat well, but with caution. Use serving utensils carefully. If the handles are touching the food - avoid that item. Sanitize before and after eating. Scope out freshly replenished dishes rather than ones that have been sitting. Balance indulgence with smart choices—you’ll enjoy the perks without the pitfalls. 🌍 Other Germ-Busting Travel Hacks Hydrate like a pro: Water keeps your immune system humming. Pack a mini wellness kit: Think hand sanitizer, tissues, and Bismuth subsalicylate. Rest well: Sleep is your body’s best defense against illness. πŸŽ‰ Bottom Line Travel should be about joy, discovery, and indulgence—not fighting off a cold. With a little planning, a trusty pack of Wet Ones®, and a daily dose of Nature’s Bounty Immune 24 Hour, you can keep germs at bay and focus on making memories. So go ahead—book that flight, board that cruise, check into that hotel, or dance the night away at that festival. Just remember: the best souvenir is coming home healthy! ο»Ώ *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!
By Sharon Bridge November 1, 2025
πŸš‚ 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: πŸŒ„ 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. πŸ§‘‍🀝‍πŸ§‘ 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. πŸ’‘ 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.
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