On a recent trip to Tennessee, I was limited to a medium-sized carry-on and had to be really intentional about what I packed. The weather in Tennessee is changeable, just like New England, and I needed items that I could layer for warmth and inclement conditions. As predicted, when we arrived it was warm but by game day (Go Vols!), when we needed to be outside for a good three to four hours, it was raw and cold. I also needed items that I could wear on the plane and be comfortable with the shifting temperatures and tight seating. So, what to pack? After decent amount of travel over the past few years, I have found some great items and I’m always on the lookout for new ones to make traveling easier and more comfortable. These items are also great for a chilly game day or any low-key outdoor activities. Here are the items that worked well for me and that I recommend on your next trip!

My Favorite Cozy Travel And Game Day Essentials

Good Quality Non-Athletic Sneakers - Hear me out on this one. First of all, non-athletic sneakers are much more versatile and the ones made with all leather protect your foot from rain and cold much better than the fabric and “new material” construction of many of the athletic sneakers now. They also look better with your outfits! This pair from Soludos is very similar to what I wear when I travel and the neutral color goes with everything. I was very happy I wore them on a particularly rainy day because my feet stayed dry. They are also easy to take on and off at security and look great with both jeans and sweats. Soludos Ibiza Platform Sneakers $139
A Lightweight Rain Resistant Hooded Jacket - Depending on the weather, I like to bring a lightweight, breathable hooded jacket that can easily fit over a warm sweater or sweatshirt and is also rainproof. I really love this jacket by The North Face. It’s nice looking and the blend of cotton, nylon and polyester makes it breathable but also good for dashing from here to there when it’s raining or a little windy. The North Face Women’s Rainsford Jacket ON SALE for $49.57.
Lightweight Wool Socks - When I think of wool socks, I think of the thick-knitted variety that I wore growing up and had to stuff, along with my foot, into my winter boots. Not anymore. The wool sock has evolved and it turns out that wool may be much better for your foot than cotton and certainly synthetics. Wool has this natural temperature regulating ability that keeps your feet cool, dry and warm depending on the conditions. I needed a warm sock for the game and the nice lady at the general store in downtown Knoxville convinced me to try them. They were warm and comfortable but not itchy and I’m pretty sensitive to wool. I really like both Smartwool and Darn Tough brands for well-made, comfortable construction and a wide variety for various activities and needs. I bought these long socks by Darn Tough and the no show socks by Smartwool and they were perfect for everything we did that weekend, even on the plane ride back my feet were warm and comfortable. Darn Tough Socks Wool Socks $24 and Smartwool No Show Socks $16.
Comfortable Sweatshirt and Sweatpants - If you’ve talked to anyone who traveled in the “golden age” of air travel you know that attire was much more formal and people took how they looked seriously. Like the wool sock, air travel attire has evolved just a bit. Truthfully, and with no disrespect, if I am going to be packed into a metal tube like a sardine, I’m going to dress comfortably. I am also not going to look like I just rolled out of bed either. A cute and comfortable sweatshirt, sweatpants and sneakers are my go-to. I, personally, do not like to travel in clothing that I am going to wear at my destination because of the risk of staining and that I always feel so grimy after sitting in airplane or car for a few hours. I love this comfy matching sweatshirt and sweatpants from Madewell. It comes in 6 colors as well as petite, regular and plus sizing. Another thing I love about Madewell is that they are almost always running some type of sale or coupon deal. Madewell MWL Superbrushed Easygoing Sweatshirt $65 and Sweatpants $75.
A Neutral Lightweight Scarf or Wrap - This is an essential for me. A lightweight wrap or scarf is an easy way to add warmth. I wear it on the plane and out and about, if needed. I like to bring it when I’m out to dinner in case the restaurant is chilly. A neutral color or motif makes it easy to pair it with any outfit. This double layer wool/cotton blend scarf from Madewell is similar to the one I take with me on trips. It’s comfy and cute. Madewell Double-Faced Plaid Scarf $52.
A Neutral Knit Hat - A knitted hat is an easy thing to throw in a suitcase or bag in the event that you need that extra layer of warmth. I was very happy I had one on this last trip. One note: bring a hat with no pom-pom so that you can easily wear your jacket hood if needed. Trying to stretch a hood over a pom-pom hat is not a great look and not comfortable. Also a neutral color allows you to wear with whatever jacket you decide to pack. Herschel Elmer Knit Beanie in Heather Black $25.
Dark Denim Jeans - I don’t think there is anything more versatile than a pair of dark denim jeans. You can wear them both day and night and denim is sturdy enough to stand up to several wears. I have a few denim brands I really like but I brought these Everlane ‘90s Cheeky jeans in Deep Atlantic. They are well-made, comfortable and very reasonably priced. They also come in seven washes and three inseams. Everlane The ‘90s Cheeky Jean $108.