Gone.

Let me ask you a question: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?

Forget about money for a second. Where is your “bucket list” travel destination?

Ok, now, take that bucket list and act on it.

Do it. Make no excuses. Put a little bit of money away each week and GO!

I have been blessed to be able to travel around the globe to so many different places!  From Mexico to Italy, Texas to Indiana, Aruba, and Puerto Rico, just to name a few!

There is something to be said about how much we can learn from each of the different cultures out there. Think about it; there are so many different ways of life out there, and we should be trying to gain something positive from every, single culture.

Sometimes when we travel, we don’t get to really dive in and see the actual culture derived from a place because we are so wrapped up in ourselves and our agenda.

To puts things in perspective, I would recommend trying to plan at least one native activity to do on your vacation, wherever you go, to truly immerse yourself (while staying safe, of course)!

Over the years, I've been known to  over  pack (go figure); but now that I have children of my own to pack for, I've learned less is best!

Here’s the secret: pack in outfits that you can interchange, in case you change your mind!

Ask yourself: “how many days am I traveling?” and THAT’S how many outfits (maybe an extra one or two) you should pack.

I love layering pieces; my favorites are tank tops, t shirts, long sleeved shirts, a light sweater, or a heavier sweater to the airport (that can save me some room in the suitcase) and most of the time, I'll wear a big scarf, which doubles as a blanket.

Most times, I'm traveling somewhere warmer than Boston, and I don’t have to carry a heavy jacket, but even if you do: roll your clothes — it will save a ton of space!

My most recent trip was to California and I went with just a backpack. Sure, I was only there for a day, but that was a big deal for me! Trust me when I say it, less is more!

Now, you’re probably thinking “G, what about HAIR PRODUCTS?” As a hair dresser, you’re probably going to assume I want to bring every product under my sink. Nope!

The truth is, I only bring the essentials.

How? Well, here’s the trick: 90% of the time I make sure my hair is clean before I leave for my trip, I plan (in advance) how I’m going to style my hair — straight or curly, and that helps me choose which minimal products I need bring along.

Let’s discuss what the ESSENTIALS are.

Shampoo and conditioner is a must (Currently in my travel bag is Aloxxi essential 7 shampoo and conditioner). I also make sure to save my small bottles (3.0 ounces or less)and refill them for EMERGENCIES ONLY. You know, in case I HAVE to wash my hair.

The next must-have is a leave-in conditioner, ESPECIALLY if I'm going on a beach vacation!

Here’s My fave: Aloxxi leave-in detangler! This is my go to because it has UV protection, it is great to use before you go swimming because it will protect your hair from the chlorine, salt and the sun, of course!

Finally, the last must pack item is a hairspray. I prefer the travel sized aloxxi working spray for my fly-aways and frizzy spots (usually from the humidity).

Now that we’ve covered the products, let’s accessorize. I always make sure to pack at least one hat, plenty of Bobby pins, headbands/bandanas and elastics. This makes it easier for me to do cute “easy ups” or braids, which keep my hair up and out of the way, during whatever adventures are in store for the day! Honestly,  even if I’m just hanging on the beach, I like to keep my hair contained to prevent it from getting sweaty or sandy!

I’ve picked up each of these tips and tricks over the years and although small, they can make a huge difference for you over-packers out there.

I promise it feels so good to minimize the amount of crap you “need to pack”.

Now, get on a Plane and GO!!

MY next stop... The Bahamas!