Traveling for Thanksgiving can feel like a whole production. The traffic, the airport chaos, the unpredictable weather… and then there’s the packing. Somehow, it always feels harder than it should.
That’s why I put together my best thanksgiving travel packing tips for you today. A little planning goes a long way, and I promise you don’t need to overpack to look cute, stay comfortable, and actually enjoy your trip.
Here’s what you’ll learn today:
✅ How to fit a 6-day Thanksgiving trip into one carry-on
✅ The toiletries and shoe strategies that save space every time
✅ The exact packing tricks I use as a full-time carry-on traveler
Because Thanksgiving should be about good food, good company, and stretchy pants. Not suitcase regrets!
Let’s get started with my best Thanksgiving travel packing tips!
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Estimated reading time: 13 minutes
So now that you know what to expect, let’s get into the good stuff. My 5 best Thanksgiving travel packing tips.
These are the exact strategies I use every time I pack for a trip, and they’ll help you keep things light, simple, and stress-free.
1️⃣ Keep It Carry-On Only! (hear me out)
If you take only one piece of advice from these thanksgiving travel packing tips, let it be this: stick to a carry-on. Nothing slows you down more than waiting at baggage claim (or worse—losing your suitcase during the busiest travel week of the year).
So, how do you actually make it work?
Here are a few tricks I swear by: (trust me, I live out of this 20″ carry-on bag)
- Plan outfits, not clothes. Instead of throwing in random favorites, think about what you’ll actually wear each day. Build a mini capsule so everything mixes and matches. (keep reading for a sample packing list for 6 days)
- Packing cubes are your best friend. They keep everything organized so you’re not digging through your suitcase to find one top. I also love that they create natural boundaries—if my designated “tops cube” is full, I know I’m done packing tops. No stress, no overstuffing. (just make sure they’re compressible – these are the ones I’ve had for over 5 years)
- Stick to two pairs of shoes. Shoes take up the most space, so pick one comfy pair for travel days and casual time, and one slightly dressier pair for dinners or family photos.
- Limit bulky items. Wear your heaviest sweater, coat, or boots on the plane so they don’t take up precious suitcase real estate. When it comes to sweaters, fabrics like cashmere are better because they keep you warm and take very little suitcase space.
- Downsize toiletries. Pack only the essentials in reusable travel containers (or use solid versions like bar shampoo, soap, or stick deodorant). Remember: most bathrooms are stocked with basics, and it’s only a few days.
Keeping it carry-on only doesn’t mean sacrificing style—it just means being strategic. And trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you breeze past the luggage carousel and head straight for the pumpkin pie.
🧳 Your 6-Day Thanksgiving Packing List:
Because I love you and I want you to thrive, here’s exactly what I would pack for two different Thanksgiving trips—one cold, one warm.
The trick is keeping a tight color palette where all your tops match all your bottoms. That way, a small stack of clothes turns into a versatile Thanksgiving packing list.
Add a dress (that you can also layer with sweaters) and suddenly you’ve got plenty of Thanksgiving travel outfits without overstuffing your carry-on.
🍂 Cold Weather Thanksgiving Packing List (6 days)
- 3 sweaters (mix of cashmere and cotton blends)
- 2 layering pieces (like merino long sleeves – make sure they’re in good shape so you can wear them on their own too)
- 1 pair of jeans (dark wash or black = easy to dress up or down). Make sure they’re comfy jeans!
- 1 pair of wide leg pants (for dressier occasions)
- 1 dress (make sure you can layer it with your sweaters and wear on its own with tights + booties)
- 1 cardigan or leather jacket for extra warmth and versatility
- Outerwear: packable puffer or wool coat (wear it on the plane)
- 2 pairs of shoes: ankle boots + leather sneakers
- Accessories: scarf, gloves, hat, tights (play with textures, prints or a pop of color)
- Classic jewelry: to elevate any of your outfits!
💡 Outfit math: 5 tops × 2 bottoms = 10 outfits, plus 1 dress = 11 total. With layering options (like wearing the dress under a sweater), you’ve got closer to 12–15 looks. More than enough for 6 days. Enough for up 9 days without doing laundry.
☀️ Warm Weather Thanksgiving Packing List (6 days)
- 3 tops (tank tops and T-shirts – stick to neutrals or a tight color palette so everything pairs easily)
- 1 linen shirt – Works as a stand-alone top, open over tank tops, or tied over a dress for extra looks.
- Linen pants – Breezy but polished, perfect for dinners or long travel days.
- Midi skirt – Adds variety to your outfits and can be styled with sandals or sneakers. I like to have fun with my skirts and style them with tank tops and t-shirts.
- Linen shorts – Great for daytime activities; pair with your linen shirt for a pulled-together look.
- 2 dresses (one casual, one you can dress up for family photos or dinner). Bonus points if they pair well with your linen shirt—you can tie it at the waist for an easy layered outfit.
- 1 denim jacket or cardigan for travel days (only if you get cold easily)
- 1 bathing suit (only if needed)
- 2 pairs of shoes: flat leather sandals (for going out) + everyday sandals like the Eva Birkenstocks
- Accessories: straw hat, sunglasses, linen pashmina (great for layering on cooler evenings)
- Jewelry: small but impactful pieces to dress up simple looks
💡 Outfit math: 4 tops × 3 bottoms = 12 outfits, plus 2 dresses = 14 total. With layering tricks (like knotting the linen shirt over a dress or styling the blouse open over the tank), you’ll have closer to 16–18 Thanksgiving travel outfits. More than enough for 6 days. Enough for up 10 days without doing laundry.
I provide more options for hot weather destinations because things get sweaty, so you’ll need a couple extra pieces.
🙋🏻♀️ I can pack for you… for FREE!
If you liked the Thanksgiving packing lists above, you’ll love this: I created a tool that builds a customized packing list for your next spring or summer trip.
All you have to do is answer these two quick questions, and you’ll get a complete list sent straight to your inbox.
It’s fast, easy, and takes all the guesswork out of packing (no more wondering how many tops or pairs of shoes to bring). Answer these 2 questions ⬇️
2️⃣ For the Travel Day: Focus on Versatile Layers
Travel days are long, unpredictable, and usually not the time to wear stiff jeans or high heels. The secret? Layers you can actually move in.
Here’s my go-to formula:
- Comfy base: leggings or dressy joggers with a tank or tee.
- Middle layer: a cardigan, linen shirt, or lightweight crewneck for when the AC kicks in.
- Outer layer: your bulkiest piece (like a denim jacket or coat)—this saves suitcase space and keeps you warm if needed.
- Shoes: go with what makes sense for your trip—sneakers or boots if it’s cold, comfy sandals if it’s warm. The key is to wear your bulkiest pair on the plane so they don’t eat up space in your carry-on.
Keep in mind, that if you do follow the above packing list, you’ll have plenty of space. If that’s the case, just wear whatever you feel the most comfortable in.
⭐️ The beauty of this setup? It pulls double duty. Once you arrive, this outfit easily becomes a loungewear option for cozy family time, so you don’t need to pack extra “just hanging out” clothes.
One look, multiple uses = carry-on success.
3️⃣ Pack Cozy and Presentable Pieces:
Here’s the thing about Thanksgiving: you’re not changing outfits twice a day, but you also don’t want to feel frumpy when the family camera comes out. One of the best Thanksgiving travel packing tips I can share is to pack pieces that can swing both ways—comfortable enough for lounging, polished enough for dinner.
This is where the pieces from your packing list really earn their spot:
- Sweaters and cardigans — soft enough for hanging out, nice enough for the dinner table.
- Stretchy bottoms — jeans with give or wide-leg pants that feel a little more elevated than leggings.
- Cute & versatile dresses — easy one-and-done outfits that can be layered under sweaters or with your linen shirt for extra looks.
- Accessories — jewelry, pashminas, or even a belt can make the same outfit feel totally different.
The goal isn’t to pack more—it’s to make what you do pack work harder. That’s how you end up with Thanksgiving travel outfits that feel good, look good, and don’t take up half your suitcase.
💡 Examples in action:
For Cold Weather: Cashmere sweater + leather jacket + skirt + booties + tights
Why it works: A head-to-toe black look is timeless and chic, but it really comes to life when you play with textures—soft cashmere, sleek leather, and opaque tights.
The leopard print booties add just the right pop of pattern, keeping the outfit fun and eye-catching without losing that polished monochromatic feel.
🎯 Also read: How To Create Monochromatic Outfits by Color!
For Warm Weather: Linen midi dress + flat sandals + gold accessories
Why it works: The dress keeps you cool and comfy and ready for anything. The gold accessories elevate it. This dress can also be styled with sneakers or sandals. Throw a linen shirt over it and that’s how you create extra looks without overpacking.
🛍️ Links of interest: dress – sandals – gold accessories
🎯 Also read: Cute Thanksgiving Day Outfit Ideas To Steal!
4️⃣ Streamline Your Toiletry Bag:
Packing toiletries is one of the hardest parts of any trip. It’s so easy to spiral into “what if” mode and suddenly feel like your whole bathroom has to come along for the ride.
But here’s the truth: for a 4–6 day Thanksgiving trip, you don’t need nearly as much as you think.
Here’s how to keep your toiletry bag light but effective:
- Go travel-size (and don’t overthink it). A 2 oz bottle of shampoo or conditioner is more than enough for a week. Same goes for body lotion and cleanser—2 oz will last you easily. For moisturizer, serums, or eye cream, 1 oz is plenty.
- Choose multitaskers. A face balm that also works around the under-eye area. A hemp serum you can use both morning and night. You get the point.
- Skip the “what ifs.” You don’t need five lipsticks or three eyeshadow palettes. Pick your everyday go-to’s and maybe one “special” product for nicer dinners.
The goal isn’t to cut out your favorites—it’s to pack just enough to feel like yourself without carrying extra weight. Trust me, a few well-chosen essentials will take you further than an overstuffed bag ever could.
Antioxidant Balm – Serum – Moisturizer – Deodorant – Hair Serum
5️⃣ Make Smart Shoe Choices:
Shoes are the number one way women overpack. I get it—we all want options. But here’s the truth: for a short Thanksgiving trip, two pairs is more than enough.
Here’s how to make them work: (choose depending on weather)
- Pick a comfy pair for travel + daytime. Think sneakers, loafers, or sandals you can walk in without thinking twice.
- Add one dressier pair for nicer dinners or special occasions. Ankle boots, ballet flats, or sleek sandals do the trick.
- Wear the bulkiest pair on the plane. That way, they don’t eat up suitcase space.
The beauty of sticking to two pairs is that it keeps your bag light and your outfits cohesive. Because if your shoes match everything in your bag, you’ll never stress about what to wear—and that’s what these Thanksgiving travel packing tips are really about.
✅ Quick Recap: My Best Thanksgiving Travel Packing Tips
Because I know how easy it is to scroll, here’s a quick rundown of everything we covered—plus why each tip matters.
1️⃣ Keep It Carry-On Only: Less stress, no baggage claim, and no risk of lost luggage. With a tight color palette and the right pieces, it’s easier than you think.
2️⃣ Focus on Versatile Layers for your Travel Day: Planes and cars are unpredictable. Layers you can add or peel off mean comfort the whole way there—and your travel day outfit can double as cozy loungewear once you arrive.
3️⃣ Pack Cozy and Presentable Pieces: Thanksgiving is for lounging and family photos. Choosing clothes that do both (stretchy pants, soft sweaters, dresses that are easy to layer) means you’ll look put together without sacrificing comfort.
4️⃣ Streamline Your Beauty Bag: Toiletries are where overpacking happens. Sticking to travel-size products or decant into travel containers like these (2 oz is plenty for most things!).
5️⃣ Make Smart Shoe Choices: Shoes take up the most space—so two pairs is enough. One comfy, one a little dressier, and wear the bulkiest on the plane. Easy, light, and stylish.
Packing for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be another stress on your plate (you’ve got enough going on already).
With a little planning, you can show up feeling comfortable, stylish, and free from the “ugh, I overpacked” regrets.
Remember—this isn’t about having endless options. It’s about packing smarter so you can spend your energy where it matters: on good food, cozy family time, and making memories.
So, take these tips, make them your own, and trust that you have exactly what you need for your trip.
You’ve got this 💪🏼
XO,
Aimara
>>> P.S. If you’ve got spring or summer trips coming up too, don’t miss my free tool that creates a customized packing list for you. Just answer two quick questions and you’ll get a complete list in your inbox. Makes packing so much easier!
About The Author:
Hi, I’m Aimara 👋 I’ve been traveling full-time since 2021 with nothing but a carry-on suitcase (yes, really!). Along the way, I’ve learned every trick in the book for packing light, creating stylish outfits from just a few pieces, and skipping the stress that usually comes with travel.
Through my blog Ways of Style, I share practical tips, outfit ideas, and packing guides to help women travel light and in style—without sacrificing comfort or confidence.
Whether you’re heading out for a Thanksgiving weekend with family or planning your next big adventure, I’m here to make packing feel a whole lot easier (and even fun).
If you want to keep reading about travel packing, check out these articles next ⬇️
- How to mix and match outfits (these principles will help you do it!)
- What to pack for cold weather travel (in a carry-on)
- 6 striped sweater outfits (these could be great Thanksgiving looks)
- If traveling by plane this Thanksgiving, check out my comfy airport outfit ideas!
- Wide leg jeans outfits you’ll love to wear!
Did you learn some thanksgiving travel packing tips today? Share it on Pinterest!
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