For local creator Here Goes Gabbi, travel style starts with a simple goal: coordinated comfort.
Whether she’s heading out for a long weekend in San Luis Obispo, a staycation in Lake Tahoe, or an international trip abroad, Gabbi approaches packing with a balance of practicality and a whole lot of style. Matching sets, versatile pieces, and functional accessories all make the cut, especially when they can transition seamlessly from airport travel to content creation and late-night dinners.
“I think about color schemes for what I pack, and I try to pack neutral shoes that go with all of them,” she says.
But her approach extends beyond fashion alone. As a content creator, Gabbi travels with a DJI gimbal, microphone, portable charger, and enough organization to keep everything accessible, without checking a bag whenever possible.
Still, her travel mindset isn’t necessarily about perfection. More so, it’s about staying open to the unexpected.
Gabbi describes her approach as a “here goes nothing” attitude, and it’s led her everywhere from spontaneous temple tours in Bali to trying foods and experiences she never expected to love.
“Sometimes, you just have to dive in and say, ‘Let’s just do it.’ You’ve got one life!”
For this issue, Gabbi shared a few of the essentials that always make it into her carry-on.
Poppy & Peonies Commuter Backpack
Gabbi’s go-to travel bag is equal parts functional and polished. The backpack doubles as both her everyday work bag and carry-on, with enough space for content gear, chargers, beauty essentials, and even a denim jacket (or two). “I use my matching fanny pack and wallet like Russian nesting dolls,” she says. “It gives me an easy purse once I’m at the destination.”
The “Brick” Battery Pack
While some travelers prioritize compact tech, Gabbi prefers power over portability. Her oversized external battery keeps her phone and laptop alive through long days of navigating maps, researching restaurants, and searching for last-minute recommendations. “It’s a brick,” she says, “but it gets me through a multi-day trip.”
Beauty on the Go
Traveling as a content creator means balancing comfort with staying camera-ready. Gabbi keeps heatless curlers in her bag to preserve hairstyles without packing bulky hot tools or plug converters abroad. She also travels with lip gloss, tinted sunscreen, and backup press-on nails for quick touch-ups between flights and outings.
The Underestimated Essentials
Not every travel staple is glamorous. Gabbi swears by keeping a mini first-aid lineup on hand, especially for long walking days and unpredictable travel schedules. Her must-haves include Band-Aids, Advil, Liquid I.V., and Megababe Thigh Rescue for comfortable sightseeing in dresses and warm-weather destinations.
Fashion That Actually Travels Well
After years of travel, Gabbi says she’s shifted away from packing trendy pieces solely for photos. Instead, she prioritizes timeless staples that can transition easily from daytime exploring to evening plans. One favorite is her Wayre wrap dress, a wrinkle-resistant style with hidden pockets she’s worn throughout Europe for years. “The more I travel, the less I worry about packing what’s trendy for photos and more about what’s classic, functional, and comfortable,” she says.
“Sometimes, you just have to dive in and say, ‘Let’s just do it.’ You’ve got one life!” - Gabbi Hall