For the last 15 years (with a brief exception for the COVID-19 pandemic), my family and I have celebrated Christmas and New Year’s abroad in Africa or Asia. From Madagascar, Indonesia, and Tanzania to Vietnam, Thailand, and Singapore, I’ve gotten used to spending two weeks during the holidays in warm, muggy climates, swapping coats and boots for sandals and flowy dresses.
This year, my family and I spent two weeks bouncing around India’s southwestern state of Kerala, nicknamed “God’s own country” for the richness of its natural beauty. From misty mountain towns and river-framed cities to urban metropolises and the roaring sandy coast of the Arabian Sea, the a trip filled with constant movement and changing climates, requiring gear, accessories, and clothing that could accommodate everything (think: versatile travel bags, one-and-done outfits, and more).
And, as someone who is prone to overpacking, I wanted to challenge myself to only bring a carry-on suitcase…
