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Anna Marie

Top Travel Essentials for Your Fall Getaway

Fall travel trends often reflect the season’s unique characteristics, such as cooler weather and a shift in popular destinations. Similarly, fall travel requires us to adjust our packing approach. PullOverandLetMeOut shares some of the top travel essentials for your fall getaway.
A woman sipping coffee outside
Hi, I’m Anna Marie. I’m a wife, mother, Irish dancer, and pug mom living in North Carolina. I also love to travel. Come along for the ride! If you see something you like, don’t be afraid to say, ‘Pull over and let me out.’

There is something magical about fall travel. The cooler temps, the autumn activities, the stunning fall colors, and the crisp air seem to blend together creating an ethereal, revitalizing atmosphere. For me, it’s my favorite time to travel and experience nature. And while the autumn months offer gorgeous possibilities for travel, packing for these autumnal escapes also needs to be adjusted a bit. To that point, I have put together a list of some packing tips for the season. Here are the top essentials for your fall getaway.

Top Travel Essentials for Your Fall Getaway

a barn surrounded by colorful fall leaves
The vineyards at Philip Carter Winery in Hume, Virginia

A Great Weekend Travel Bag

This is a year-round must, but nonetheless, it is essential to have a great bag for your fall getaways. The key to a great weekend travel bag is finding one that has plenty of room for your things, but is also easy to carry and fits your travel style. Whether it be a sturdy duffel bag, a backpack, or a small suitcase, finding a quality piece of luggage is a must for fall travel.

a blue duffel bag
We got this for my husband and it is a great bag for the price.
a lady wearing a backpack
This is my most recent purchase, and I love it!

A Versatile Sweater or Denim Jacket

Two words capture the essence of fall travel; Sweater Weather!

With the cooler temps comes the need for a great sweater or denim jacket that can be worn for a variety of looks and occasions. Ideally, you will want to select a color that works with the primary colors of your wardrobe. Neutrals are always a safe bet.

a lady wearing a cozy sweater
A cozy sweater is ideal for leaf-peeping and more!
a man in a brown sweater holding a cup of coffee
Neutral fall colors work well.
a lady in a denim jacket
A denim jacket is a multi-season must.
a man wearing a dark blue denim jacket
A denim jacket is a classic look for fall travel.

Comfortable Shoes

It goes without saying, but I’ll say it. Comfortable shoes are mandatory for a successful trip. If your feet are uncomfortable, you’re not going to enjoy the trip. That being said, finding the perfect shoes for fall adventures, is fairly simple. There are so many fantastic options. I try to adhere to the three shoe rule. One pair of casual shoes, one comfy pair, and one pair that is a little bit dressier.

That isn’t always easy to do, but however many shoes you take with you, be sure to invest in a high-quality pair that offers good support and fits well. You don’t want to end up nursing a blister or sitting out of the fun.

a black ladies Chelsea boot
A Chelsea boot is a versatile choice that works with a lot of outfits.
a white oxford ladies tennis shoe
Tennis shoes are always a good comfy shoe.
a black ladies ballet flat
Ballet flats can be dressed up or dressed down.
a tan men's oxford shoe
This men's casual Oxford is fashionable and comfortable.

Cozy Travel Pants

Comfort is a destination in its own right and having the right pants for your fall travels is crucial for reaching it.

Today’s travel fashions prioritize comfort without sacrificing style, offering a range of pants that look great and feel comfortable. Soft yoga pants and trousers, buttery leggings, and stylish joggers work wonderfully for fall travel. In addition to being comfortable these are great for packing light and keeping bulk to a minimum.

a lady wearing wide leg black yoga pants
Wide leg yoga pants can be dressed up or worn casually.
a woman wearing black leggings
Leggings can be used as sleep pants or work under a shirt or sweater.
a man wearing blue joggers.
Cargo joggers offer style and comfort.

Rain Gear

I don’t want to rain on your parade, but rain happens. Even when we make the most meticulous plans, there are some things beyond our control. That being said, embrace the cool mist and arrive prepared to adapt.

Packing great rain gear will keep your rainy days from turning miserable and allow you to keep calm and carry on. It’s as simple as packing a rain jacket or an umbrella.

a woman wearing a rain jacket
A water proof jacket can double as a casual fall jacket.
a man wearing a hooded rain jacket
A weather proof hooded jacket is a staple for fall travel.
a compact travel umbrella
A compact travel umbrella is light and takes up little space.

Hats!

A trendy hat is a mutli-purpose must for fall getaways. Not only does a good hat provide warmth, protection from the sun and wind, but it is also a major fashion statement. Incorporate a chic hat and your travel clothing turns into a classy fall fashion.

a dark brown fedora hat
A fedora works well for fall getaways.
a man wearing a newsboy cap
A classic newsboy cap says hello fall!
a chocolate brown beanie hat
Beanie hat's are warm and fit easily into your luggage.

A Travel Set

Travel sets are extremely popular right now and they are perfect for fall. Besides being totally comfy, they can be used with other items in your bag to mix and match. You can wear the top with a pair of jeans or swap the pants with a different shirt. They really fit nicely into a fall getaway wardrobe. Even better, they are ideal for wearing on a plane, a train, or in a car.

a lady in a two piece travel set
Travel sets offer style and comfort.
a woman wearing a two piece travel set and holding a coffee
Mix and match the pieces to stretch your travel wardrobe.
A woman wearing a travel set with a gray color block on the front
Dress it up or down, it's perfect for the change of season.

A Knit Dress

A cute knit dress is a fantastic addition to both your fall wardrobe and your travel essentials. It can be paired with tights and a stylish pair of Chelsea boots or flats (see above), and it folds up neatly, ready to wear whenever you are. After a day of autumn outdoor adventures, this piece is perfect for a nice dinner or enjoying a glass of wine by a cozy fire.

a woman wearing a sage colored knit dress
A knit dress travels well.

Long Sleeve T-Shirts

A great long sleeve t-shirt is my go-to for fall. They are wonderful for wearing alone or as a layering piece. Pop a flannel shirt over a cute white t-shirt and you’re set for a fun fall afternoon.

I bought a couple from J. Crew—one in black and one in white. I’ve worn them repeatedly, and they pack easily into my suitcase. They pair well with jeans, leggings, or yoga pants and are a staple in my core travel wardrobe.

a long sleeve t shirt
Long sleeve t-shirts make great layering pieces.
a white men's long sleeve t
Long sleeve t-shirts are easy to pack and are stylish for men and women.

Ready for your fall getaway?

These essentials will help you stay comfortable, prepared, and stylish as you enjoy your fall travels. You may also want to toss in a great pair of jeans too, but that’s up to you.  If you’re ready to explore building your travel wardrobe, I’ve written a post all about creating a travel capsule wardrobe that is stylish and functional. You can learn more HERE.

If you’re ready to plan your next adventure you can get started HERE.

Wishing you happy travels and delightful fall adventures!

Anna Marie

What better way to enjoy the fall colors than sipping wine in the mountains?

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