What to Pack for a Wine Country Weekend

One of my favorite types of travel is a wine country destination. They make excellent couples escapes in addition to girlfriend getaways. Whether you’re headed to Napa, the Willamette Valley in Oregon, or Walla Walla, Washington, you’ll want to pack efficiently, while staying stylish and comfortable. Here are my top picks for what to pack for your wine country escape.

Napa Wine Country credit Jean Chen Smith

Napa Wine Country credit Jean Chen Smith

To start any journey, reliable luggage is of the utmost importance. I always try to avoid checking bags, so I’m a huge fan of the Greogry’s Quadro Pro Hardcase 22″ ($249), a smartly-designed carry-on. The hard shell makes it durable and ready for all types of adventuring. The removable ActiveShield compartment is great for separating dirty clothes and shoes from the rest of the luggage. Its proprietary anti-microbial technology minimizes odors and bacteria growth. The brand’s spherical 4-wheel system provides smooth rolling and makes it easy to navigate through the airport and busy streets. 

Costa makes my favorite sunglasses because they fit great and are long-lasting. Their newest arrival, the Kailano ($242) gets my pick because of its classic and sturdy frame. All of the company’s sunglasses are polarized, with a scratch-resistant coating to protect from oil and water damage. 

The Scarlet Waterproof Boot ($299) by Ariat is not only beautifully crafted, it’s comfortable and elegant. It’s great for walking and being on your feet all day, which is a top pick for a day of wine tasting. The sophisticated equestrian details pair back well with jeans, leggings, and even skirts and dresses. Best of all, the elasticized panel allows for extra room for various leg sizes.

Ariat Scarlet Waterproof boot credit Ariat

I live in Liverpool Los Angeles Chloe Ankle Skinny Jeans ($98), which are soft and comfortable. The cotton and spandex blend allows for stretch and give, without cutting off circulation. The subtle abrasion at the knee gives it an authentic worn-in look. With functional back pockets, these pair back great with a blazer or flowy top for instant chic-appeal.

Aquasonic Perfect Purple Teeth Whitening Serum ($19.95) instantly brightens your teeth, using a deep purple pigment that effectively corrects yellow and red tones from a day of wine tasting. By eliminating surface stains, your teeth instantly appear whiter and brighter. I never leave home without this!

AquaSonic teeth whitener credit AquaSonic

SUPESU’s line of slip dresses (prices start at $38) are feminine and flattering. They come in a range of colors that can be worn on their own or over leggings and a cute fitted tee. Their versatility lends them to be a great piece for all seasons. In colder weather, I slip a comfortable cashmere sweater over the dress and wear them with boots. The brand’s Cubby Collection features the softest sweatsuits, which are great for lounging and morning hikes. 

SUPESU CUBBY Collection 2-piece set credit SUPESU

A vest is a great piece for any type of travel, especially if it’s fitted and has pockets. Orvis’ Women’s Recycled Drift Vest (prices start at $111) come in three colors and a novelty print. Made from recycled materials and lightweight for packing, the princess seams give wearers a shapely and well-proportioned fit. The zip side pockets make it a winner as you can keep your essentials secure and close by. 

Orvis Recycled Drift Vest credit Orvis

I appreciate sparkly jewelry, but when traveling, I tend to err on the side of reasonably priced items because I’m afraid to misplace them. That’s why I absolutely adore NOÄ Jewelry, which is beautifully crafted and affordable. I’m a fan of the Kate earrings in white gold ($165), which are lightweight and gorgeous. For special occasions, the tennis necklace ($289) is a stunner.  

Duluth Trading Co. carries some of my favorite go-to sweater items, including this versatile cardigan ($74.50), which is made of a soft cotton blend. It’s warm and cozy, with side pockets. I love the long length for those extra chilly days. 

Duluth Trading Co. Shiftless Duster Sweater credit Duluth Trading

Filson’s Rugged Twill Tote ($275) is the ultimate carry-all. Not only do I use it for my wine country excursions, I use it for my everyday ventures into the office as well. It’s water and abrasion-resistant, with a reinforced bottom in case you’re carrying heavy items. Also, it has exterior pockets on all sides, which makes it super convenient for stowing essentials on the go. 

Armitron’s Minnie Rose Gold Set ($95) exudes style and elegance at an affordable price. The stainless steel case is lightweight, making this feminine timepiece a great travel item. 

Armitron Minnie Crystal Gift Set Rose Gold credit Armitron

Wondery Outdoors has the perfect travel jacket. The Andi Convertible Puffer Jacket ($119) is slightly oversized for comfort, transitioning from jacket to vest with easy on-and-off zipper sleeves. The cinchable waist offers a flattering and versatile silhouette for all shapes and sizes. 

Andi Convertible Puffer Jacket credit Wondery