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
