When it comes to creating the perfect travel wardrobe, it’s no wonder that fashion insiders are also packing experts. In our series, My Packing Style, we connect with some of the most well-traveled people we know to explore what’s in their bags and how they adapt their style on the go. You’ve planned the trip and saved outfit inspiration; now, let’s see how it all comes together.
A model’s life involves constant movement—from fittings to shoots to shows—so it’s no surprise that Taylor Hill has perfected her travel routine. We caught up with the model and founder of Stone Fruit jewelry during a whirlwind schedule: after a wedding in Malaysia and some relaxation in Thailand, and just before heading to London, Milan, and Paris for fashion month. This kind of itinerary could overwhelm even the most organized packer, so how does she prepare a wardrobe that can keep up?
Her approach mixes reliable essentials (like always wearing athleisure on the plane), practical tools (such as her dual-voltage steamer), and careful planning. She not only plans each outfit in advance but also creates photo albums to reference upon arrival, making it easy to get ready—even with jet lag.
Shop Taylor Hill’s Suitcase
The Cozy Cashmere
The Elder Statesman Zuma sweater
$1,190 at NET-A-PORTER
The Statement Pants
La Ligne Colby pant
$325 at LA LIGNE NYC
The Compact Carry-On
Rimowa Distinct cabin suitcase
$3,525 at RIMOWA
We asked Hill to share her favorite vacation wardrobe pieces, the designers behind her go-to travel sweaters, and the item she always packs too much of.
Are you a pre-packer or a throw-in-and-go type?
I usually start packing about two days before a trip. I plan outfits for each day based on the type of trip, which helps me avoid over-packing.
Do you pack in outfits?
I pack complete outfits but try to use the same shoes and bags with multiple looks. I even take photos of each outfit and save them in an album for reference when I arrive—if I can’t see something, I forget it exists.
I also love using packing cubes, organizing them either by item (like pants in one, tops in another) or by outfit. That way, I know where everything is and what goes together.
Photography by Taylor Hill
– Marant Étoile Carlee ruffled top
$350 at NET-A-PORTER
– Jimmy Choo Amel 50 logo-embellished slingback pumps
$1,075 at NET-A-PORTER, $1,032 at MYTHERESA
– Dôen Henri eyelet voile top
$278 at NORDSTROM, $250 at NET-A-PORTER
– Kingdalux Packing cubes (Set of 8)
$14 ($12 with 14% off) at AMAZON
What’s your go-to brand for vacation dressing?
Isabel Marant is one of my all-time favorites. Their dresses and flowy pieces capture that effortless boho cool girl vibe with a French twist.
Do you have a travel outfit formula?
Comfort is key, but it depends on the flight length. For long-haul flights, I love sweat suits—the Alo Yoga ones with loose sweats are perfect because I don’t like elastic at the ankles. For shorter flights, I wear looser pants, like suit pants or relaxed denim, with a t-shirt and layers, since plane temperatures can be unpredictable.
– Alo Accolade pullover
$138 at ALO
– Alo Accolade sweatpant
$138 at ALO
– Rimowa Distinct cabin suitcase
$3,525 at RIMOWA
– Lisa Yang Zera socks
$155 at NET-A-PORTER
What’s your go-to travel bag right now?
I’m obsessed with my Rimowa carry-on. They’re really worth the price in my opinion. I’ve had mine…For five years, it’s been running perfectly—like a dream—which is essential since I travel so much!
What are your in-flight non-negotiables?
A cozy sweater. Either a nicer cashmere one or a sporty activewear crewneck. Plus, warm socks; if I’m feeling fancy, I love cashmere socks because my feet are always cold.
Team travel scarf or travel sweater?
I honestly love both, but I lean toward a sweater because I like draping it over my shoulders if I take it off. My favorite sweater brands are Lisa Yang and The Elder Statesman.
What are your vacation beauty product MVPs?
I love a stain—lip stain, cheek stain, you name it. They’re great for warmer, humid climates since they last longer and are smudge-proof and semi-waterproof. I also love the One/Size setting spray; it helps your makeup last longer and wear better.
Do you have a strategy for approaching accessories?
My favorite thing to pack in abundance is jewelry. It’s small, takes up little space, and can really transform a look. I plan my accessories ahead of time so I know what to bring. I love bold, unique jewelry, so my brand Stone Fruit is perfect for travel.
Travel steamer: Yes or No?
Yes, I travel with a portable steamer—it’s a game-changer. Mine works in both the U.S. and the EU.
What has been your most-worn vacation item?
The gold Disc cuffs from Stone Fruit. They add the perfect pop to any outfit and can take a simple look from day to night. I like to stack two together on one wrist.
What staple piece is always in your suitcase?
A pair of silk mustard trousers from La Ligne. They’re an interesting color, almost chartreuse. I love packing them and pairing them with all kinds of tops. They might not look versatile because of the color, but on my last trip, I got about four different outfits out of them. They work for day or night depending on how they’re styled. Adding bold, metal-forward jewelry dresses them up.
Overpacking or leaving room for souvenirs?
It depends on where I’m going and for how long. If I’ll have time to shop and explore, I leave room. If it’s a work trip, I prioritize having everything I need.
What’s the best packing lesson you ever learned?
Never just throw clothes into a suitcase without trying them on and planning outfits. Otherwise, you’ll get to your destination and feel like you have nothing to wear. Planning intentional outfits is key to packing strategically and avoiding overpacking things you don’t need or like.Skin Pharm Youth Serum – $115
Eucerin Hydration Lotion SPF 30 Sunscreen – $21, now $13 (38% off) on Amazon
Alo Merino Oversized Scarf – $188
Frequently Asked Questions
Of course Here is a list of FAQs about how model and founder Taylor Hill packs for a getaway designed to be helpful and practical
FAQs How Taylor Hill Packs for a Getaway
Beginner General Questions
Q What is Taylor Hills overall packing philosophy
A Pack light versatile and comfortable She focuses on a small curated capsule wardrobe where every piece can be mixed and matched for multiple outfits
Q Does she use a carryon or checked luggage
A Taylor is a big advocate for carryon only whenever possible She believes it saves time reduces stress and forces you to be more intentional with your choices
Q What type of bag does she prefer
A She often uses a durable stylish weekender bag or a compact carryon suitcase for clothes paired with a roomy tote for her inflight essentials
Q What are her absolute mustpack items
A Her nonnegotiables typically include a great pair of jeans a classic white tshirt a versatile blazer or jacket comfortable sneakers a swimsuit and her own skincare products
Advanced Strategy Questions
Q How does she plan her outfits to avoid overpacking
A She plans her outfits daybyday and by activity She lays everything out beforehand to ensure each item works for at least two different looks
Q What are her tips for packing shoes
A She limits herself to three pairs 1 Comfortable sneakers for walkingtravel 2 Stylish sandals or loafers for daytoevening and 3 One statement pair if needed for a special event She packs shoes in dust bags at the bottom of her bag
Q How does she handle beauty and skincare while traveling
A As a founder of a fragrance line and someone who models she decants her favorite products into small TSAapproved containers She prioritizes skincare and opts for multiuse makeup