The Packing Spiral
From Allison and Shala: what your packing spiral is really about
We always start with good intentions: one carry-on, a capsule of perfectly edited pieces, a sense of control. And then, somewhere between our first outfit pull and the final zip, we lose the plot entirely.
The packing spiral starts quietly, with a single thought that maybe we need another shoe, a backup top, something “just in case.” Within minutes, the bed looks like a sample sale gone wrong. Every outfit we’ve ever loved is in play, every insecurity too. Suddenly we’re not packing for a trip, we’re packing for every version of ourselves we might need to be.
What if it rains? What if we feel bloated? What if there’s a dinner on a yacht we didn’t plan for? What if we finally become the woman who re-wears an outfit without overthinking it?
It’s not packing anymore; it’s forecasting our identity.
The truth is, packing anxiety isn’t about forgetting something. It’s about control. It’s a pre-trip ritual of imagined futures, of preparing for discomfort, of trying to keep our self-image intact as we move through new spaces. Every extra outfit is a little insurance policy against uncertainty.
But here’s what we’ve learned after years of doing this for clients and for ourselves: clarity comes after the chaos. The spiral is part of the process. You overpack, then you edit. You make a mess, then you make a plan. You remember that style, the kind that travels, isn’t about quantity. It’s about confidence.
When you start packing from trust instead of fear, everything fits differently. The bag gets lighter. The trip feels freer. You realize you didn’t need a backup version of yourself after all.
That’s why we built Destination Unknown, and why we’re still building it: tools to help you plan, edit, and pack from calm, not panic, so you can look amazing and feel authentically you all the while. Because travel should start with excitement, not overwhelm.
So here’s your homework for your next trip: open your suitcase, get clear on what you need and who you are, try our new favorite box breathing exercise from therapist Cheryl Walpole Tiku, and pack like you love yourself.
If you missed it, listen to our podcast episode Travel Anxiety, Explained — with Therapist Cheryl Walpole Tiku here.
Hairy Alpaca Cardigan Gorgeous, chic, and can be styled in endless ways.
Black and White Cashmere Scarf Tiny but mighty. Perfect for versatile layering, whether wrapped, tied, or draped.
Pocket Farmacy® Physical Edition Allison’s top travel hack. Aromatherapy that can change your state. Roll-ons to ease daily discomforts, naturally.
Silk Sleep Mask Made for maximum eye comfort, this mask provides light-blocking power.
Travel Well Patches Formulated to help you stay balanced, energized, and resilient wherever your journey takes you.
Column Leg Jeans A perfect pair for your trip and soft enough for in-flight wear.
Serene State This wildberry-flavored gummy is our go-to for releasing pressure quickly, typically within two hours.
Italian Suede Sling Bag A budget-friendly chic travel sling.
Whipped Long Sleeve The best light layer
Comrad Knee-High Compression Socks Shala can’t travel without them. Use our code DestinationUnknown for 15% off at checkout.
Monos Carry-on Pro An award-winning carry-on featuring a built-in front compartment for easy access to your travel essentials.
Post-it support note, courtesy of Ava, age 13
Allison and Shala
Co-Founders, Destination Unknown