There’s something so invigorating about setting off on a day of adventure in a new city—whether you’re wandering through a historic district, hopping on and off public transit, or sipping coffee while people-watching in a charming café. And while we know not everyone loves carrying a bag around all day (we hear you—shoulder fatigue is real!), we’ve found that having the perfect day bag filled with a well-thought-out organizer and essentials is the key to stress-free exploring. The number one question we’re asked when we travel is… “Who makes your bag and what’s in it?” So here it is… This stunning bag is by Malene Birger. It’s organized with an insert we adore and filled with essentials we don’t want to leave home without!!! Much like a well-stocked kitchen cabinet or a beautifully organized craft station, a thoughtfully packed day bag ensures you’re prepared for whatever the day throws your way—from a spontaneous photo op to a sudden rain shower or a moment of much-needed rest and refreshment. At ShookHill Secret, we strive to be ‘stylishly prepared’ – yes, it’s a thing. Our go-to travel day bag isn’t trendy for trend’s sake—it’s practical, versatile, and filled with all the little things that help a travel day run smoothly. Whether you’re heading out for museum-hopping, shopping or exploring, here’s what we recommend keeping in your day bag: Our Essential Day Bag Packing List: Pen and pencil in a case – You never know when you’ll want to jot something down, make a quick note, or fill out a postcard for a loved one back home. We love a chic little case to keep them tidy. Travel cards in a cute beaded pouch – Whether it’s your metro pass, room key, city attraction card or even a deck of playing cards, it helps to keep everything together in one sweet, stylish pouch without taking out your wallet. Antibacterial wipes & hand sanitizer – A quick clean-up is always a good idea, especially before grabbing a snack or after navigating public spaces. Glasses, reading glasses, and sunglasses – Don’t leave home without them! We recommend a slim case that keeps everything safe and scratch-free. Wallet with cash (or euros), credit card & ID – Even if you’re relying on digital payments, it’s wise to have some local currency and an official ID on hand. Mini emergency kit – Bandaids, ibuprofen, cough drops, and other little remedies can be a lifesaver when you’re out and about. Portable charging block – Essential for keeping your phone charged when you’re snapping photos, navigating maps, or posting updates. Tissues – Whether it’s a stuffy museum or a breezy boat ride, tissues always come in handy. Ole Henriksen lip gloss – A touch of self-care on the go. We adore the hydration and hint of shine it provides. Simply mints – Perfect for after lunch or a quick refresh between stops. Phone & AirPods – Obviously! For music, navigation, and snapping those dreamy travel shots. Laptop & cords in protective case (optional) – If you’re working while traveling or just love writing down thoughts in the moment, a compact laptop and charger are great to have. We love this protective case and matching cord bag. Compact umbrella – Check the forecast before heading out and if there is a chance of rain, pop this in your bag in addition to a waterproof jacket to avoid the day being a washout. A few pro tips: We love using a structured tote (our favorite is a Malene Birger bag with an organizer insert) or crossbody with interior organization, lightweight materials, and always a zippered closure for safety. Keep heavier items (like chargers and laptops) toward the center or bottom for better balance. And don’t forget—empty your bag out at the end of the day, wipe it down, and restock it for the next adventure. It’s a little ritual we’ve come to love. Whether you’re heading out for a day trip or embarking on a full itinerary, having your go-to bag packed and ready makes travel smoother, stylish, and a lot more enjoyable. Looking for more travel inspiration and style insights? We share our tried-and-true picks in the Travel section of our site. Whether you’re looking for new destinations, planning tips, or packing essentials, we have compiled our favorite experiences and advice. Stay tuned for our next adventure! Happy exploring, –The Shookhill Secret Team
Adventures/Travel
A Pacific Northwest Excursion…
If you’re craving a mix of city adventures, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of outdoor exhilaration, look no further than the Pacific Northwest. Our recent trip through Seattle, Vancouver, and Whistler was the perfect blend of urban charm, culinary delights, and mountain magic. Whether you love exploring vibrant city streets, indulging in top-notch cuisine, or hitting the slopes, this itinerary has something for everyone. This is one of those trips where packing your suitcase for the entire trip and a day’s excursions, makes all the difference. We show you all of our tricks in our ‘What’s In My Bag Guide’ blog post. These guides are super helpful so you can make the most of your getaways. Exploring Seattle: Markets, Monorails & Museums Seattle is a city that knows how to do cozy, creative, and caffeinated. Our first stop? The iconic Pike Place Market. There’s something truly special about wandering past fresh flower stands, watching the famous fishmongers toss their latest catch, and picking up some delicious produce and a few artisan-made goodies along the way. If you’re up for unique displays of “art” walk through the gum walled walkway around the corner from the market or visit the famous Fremont Troll. If you’re a coffee lover (and let’s be honest, you’re in Seattle—so you are now!), make sure to grab a cup at Monorail Espresso or Olympia Coffee Roasting before heading out for the day. The Seattle Center Monorail is a fun and efficient way to travel from downtown to Westlake Center, home to the Space Needle and Chihuly Garden and Glass. The Space Needle’s 605-foot-high observation deck offers some of the best views in the city—on a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Rainier. Right next door, the Chihuly Garden and Glass Museum is an absolute must-see. The intricate glass sculptures are nothing short of mesmerizing. Afterward, we loved unwinding at The Bar inside the museum, sipping cocktails while admiring its quirky collection of antiques—accordions hanging from the ceiling, treasures tucked into tables—it’s a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the day. For a dose of marine magic, the Seattle Aquarium on Pier 59 is well worth a visit. The Window on Washington Waters exhibit, with its 120,000-gallon tank teeming with Northwest sea life, is a highlight. Throughout our stay, we found downtown Seattle incredibly easy to navigate on foot and even tried out the city’s scooter system. And, of course, the food scene did not disappoint. We enjoyed a mix of flavors, from the Asian-fusion dishes at Wild Ginger to the romantic ambiance of The Pink Door and the classic Italian comfort of Tulio’s. Each meal was a delight, and we left Seattle happily full and ready for our next destination. If you are looking for a fantastic day trip outside the city of Seattle, consider taking a ferry from downtown over to Bainbridge Island. A day trip to Bainbridge Island is one of the best ways to escape the city while still enjoying breathtaking views, charming small-town vibes, and delicious food. Just a 35-minute ferry ride from downtown Seattle, Bainbridge offers a mix of outdoor adventures, boutique shopping, and fantastic dining—all within walking distance of the ferry terminal. Getting to Bainbridge Island from Seattle Head to the Seattle Ferry Terminal (Colman Dock) – Located at Pier 52 in downtown Seattle, the ferry terminal is easy to reach by foot, car, or public transportation. Walk-on passenger tickets are around $10 round-trip (cheaper for seniors and free for children under 18) and run every hour. We recommend grabbing a seat on the top deck for the best views of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains and watch for seals or even orcas in the water. Walk off the ferry on Bainbridge and within 5 minutes, you’ll be in Winslow, the island’s main town, filled with shops, galleries, cozy cafés, restaurants, a free museum and other attractions. Take a scenic stroll along the Bainbridge Waterfront Trail, which offers peaceful views of Eagle Harbor and leads to hidden beaches and marinas. Bainbridge is also home to several wineries and cideries that are worth checking out. If you’re up for more adventure, rent a bike and explore farther! When you’re ready to return, simply walk back to the ferry terminal and board the next boat. Ferries depart approximately every hour, so there’s no need to buy another ticket for the return trip if you’re a walk-on passenger. As the sun sets, you’ll get a another gorgeous view of the Seattle skyline. Vancouver: Food, Fun & Festivities Crossing the border into Canada meant one thing—our traditional first stop at Tim Hortons for a nostalgic sweet treat (if your not familiar with the brand, think Canada’s version of Dunkin’ Donuts). Vancouver, like Seattle, is a wonderfully walkable city, and we loved exploring its diverse neighborhoods. One of our favorite dinners was a comforting bowl of Pho, followed by an evening of lively music and drinks at Donnellan’s Irish Pub. There is a lot to do and see in Vancouver. It’s the perfect mix of urban sophistication and easy access to mountains, ocean, and lush forests. Whistler: Skiing, Waffles & Après-Ski Bliss No trip to the Pacific Northwest is complete without a few days in Whistler-Blackcomb, one of the most spectacular ski resorts in North America. Staying right on the mountain at the Hilton Whistler Resort & Spa made all the difference—it’s just a short walk to the gondola, making it easy to fuel up with a hearty breakfast before hitting the slopes. Skiing here is truly next-level. The terrain, the snow, the views—it’s no wonder Whistler has such a stellar reputation. Take a well-deserved midday break at the Crystal Hut, where you can warm up with delicious waffles and rich hot chocolate. And after a full day on the slopes, the après-ski scene did not disappoint. Options range from a lively pint at Dubh Linn Gate Irish Pub to the cozy charm of Crêpe Montagne…