🧳 What I Pack as a Plus-Size Traveler (and What I Leave Behind)

Let’s be honest: packing as a plus-size traveler isn’t just about rolling your clothes into neat little burritos and hoping for the best. It’s about comfort, confidence, and knowing that not all “travel essentials” were designed with us in mind.

I’ve packed for everything from Girl Scout troop trips to romantic getaways and chaotic family reunions. Over time, I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and what absolutely deserves a permanent spot in my suitcase.

Here’s what I actually pack—and what I’ve learned to leave behind.

👚What I Always Pack

1. Stretchy, breathable layers Because airplane seats don’t care how cute you look. I swear by comfortable jeans or soft leggings, cotton tops, and lightweight cardigans that double as blankets, shields, or emergency outfit extenders.

2. Anti-chafe balm & bike shorts If you know, you know. These are non-negotiable for walking-heavy destinations or humid climates. I keep a travel-sized balm in my day bag just in case. 👉 I swear by these bike shorts - for under dresses or just as a pair of shorts.

3. One “I feel amazing in this” outfit Whether it’s for a rooftop dinner or a photo op in front of a waterfall, I always pack one outfit that makes me feel confident and comfortable. Bonus points if it doesn’t wrinkle and fits after a long travel day. 👉 I've been leaning hard on this dress lately. It's incredibly comfortable and I feel so pretty in it! I have the purple one that I used for my engagement photos and the rainbow one for Pride.

   

   

   

4. A foldable tote and crossbody bag I need something that fits snacks, sunscreen, and a backup fan. Crossbody bags keep my hands free, and foldable totes are perfect for spontaneous souvenir hauls. 👉 My go-to travel purse is similar to this one. It sits flat against my body, with lots of zippers to reduce my anxiety about getting pickpocketed.

5. My own robe Hotel robes rarely fit plus-size bodies comfortably—and nothing ruins a spa moment like a robe that won’t close. I pack a lightweight one that makes me feel cozy and covered.

6. An extra day of clothing If my trip gets delayed or I stain my jeans that I was going to rewear: I want a backup that doesn't force me to rely on the souvenir shop having clothing that fits me and affords me comfort or style. You will always catch me with an extra day of undergarments and an entire extra outfit.

🚫What I Leave Behind

1. “Just in case” clothes I never wear If I didn’t wear it at home, I won’t wear it on vacation. I’ve stopped packing aspirational outfits and started packing realistic ones. (In fact, I've stopped buying aspirational outfits, too - only clothing that makes me confident!)

2. Shoes that aren’t walk-tested Cute sandals are great—until you’re limping through cobblestone streets. I only pack shoes I’ve worn for full days without regret. And I ALWAYS pack a pair of tennis that I can fall back on.

3. Anything that makes me feel self-conscious If I’m tugging, adjusting, or dreading wearing it, it doesn’t come with me. Travel is hard enough—my clothes should be the easy part.

✨Bonus Tips for Plus-Size Packing

• Try things on before you pack. I do a mini fashion show the night before to make sure everything fits and feels good.

• Pack for your body now—not your “goal” body. You deserve to feel amazing on every trip, exactly as you are.

• Don’t forget the snacks. Not technically a packing tip, but trust me: snacks solve a lot of travel problems.

Got a packing tip that changed your life? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for new travel hacks that actually work for real bodies.

Let’s pack smart and travel well 💃

—Kyleigh

Disclosure: I only recommend products I would use myself. All opinions expressed here are my own. This post contains Amazon Affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.