According to American tradition, with Memorial Day just around the corner, summer is finally here!

Living in So Cal and experiencing 80-degree weather is enough for us to welcome this season a little earlier. Many of us celebrate summer by traveling, and better yet by exploring the world. Myself, I am planning a trip back home, and even though I have done this many times, I always get paranoid about leaving something important behind! As if there are no stores out there…go figure!

A trip to the Old Continent is quite exciting—that’s for sure! However, arriving 15-20 hours later at your final destination, and finding out your luggage did not make it can be quite devastating! I have experienced this episode a few times as well. I wanted to save you the headache; that is why I decided to suggest a few items you should include in your carry-on.

Passport Holder It speaks for itself! This one will store not only your passport, but also your boarding passes, cash and perhaps your ticket. You can wear it around the neck; that way you don’t need to check your purse every five minutes to make sure you didn’t leave it on the check-in counter.

Passport and Boarding Pass Holder

Folding Cosmetic Case I personally don’t have a brand preference, as long as it’s practical. I got this one from TJ Maxx for under $20. It is true that many airlines won’t allow you to take your perfumes, lotions and other cosmetics, but think efficiently! Pack your jewelry instead. This way, even if someone decides to break the lock on your suitcase and check on your “valuables,” you have nothing to worry about.

Cul-de-sac Folding Cosmetic Case

Crossbody Bag While we are on the “personal belongings” topic, let me tell you, European hot spots are CROWDED! It is always safest to have your items right in front of you and best to keep them handy. Tip: If you like to mesh with the euro crowd, please forget about Coach! Think bright colors!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Cross Body Bag

Shorts Speaking of bright colors, summer and vacation, don’t forget to throw in some shorts.

Zara Short

Harem Pants Still in this year. The great part about them is that, worn with a pair of cute flats, they can be the perfect outfit for the day; while, at the same time, combined with heals, they can create a really feminine look on a night out.

Rich & Skinny Harem Pant

Denim Dress For those of you who like wearing dresses, this one is chic, yet not so pretentious. Desigual has many other original and European-looking clothes at affordable prices that I am sure you will love, since you are reading my blog :).

Desigual Denim Banded Bottom Tank Dress

Swimwear Last, but not least, this is probably the most important item on the list! If you haven’t visited a European beach or pool, you have probably heard or read that tops are not mandatory! Yes, you can lose it any time. If you are brave enough that means one item less in your carry-on. Have fun!

Feel free to share your favorite on-the-go items or other euro designers!

Bon voyage!