» Elina Furman: Co-Founder, A-List Mom + A-List Mom Travel

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Elina Furman: Co-Founder, A-List Mom + A-List Mom Travel

The Well Collected Mom's A-List of Travel Essentials

ELAINE SAYS: Check my carry on....go ahead. You'll find everything I could possibly need for any semblance of a kiddie travel emergency. Boogie wipes, wardrobe changes, plane toys, art projects, healthy, well-packed snacks, hand sanitizer, lip balm, plastic bags, placemats for dirty surfaces. Seriously....tiny, well-packed bits of everything. Yes, I'm good. But to be honest...and I'm not proud of it....one area that could stand to be a bit more organized is my own bag! I never seem to leave myself enough time to think it through and consequently, I never have the right stuff. Someone cue the guru! Elina Furman is an author, former luxury travel editor and founder of one of my favorite mom sites, A-LIST MOM, as well as the newly launched [already a great resource] A-LIST MOM TRAVEL. So, taking full advantage of her well-honed expertise [and in advance of many of our August travels], I asked Elina to weigh-in with her go-to list of travel essentials for the well-collected mom....which she most definitely is. Here are a few of the things that made it into her pro-grade, packing list and some guidelines that will ensure that you'll have [and by you, I mean me] simple style and plenty of time left to play.

Antidote For No Fuss Hair: Panama Hat SHOPNothing says exotic getaway like a Panama Hat. I love the classic styling and the exotic associations whether I'm on vacation, relaxing with friends or even just heading out to the grocery store. Protects year round and masks a bad hair day.
Easy - Breezy for Mini + Me: Bollywood Pants SHOPThe perfect mix of effortless cool and boho chic, I discovered these Bollywood harem pants for adults when featuring the styles for kids. The material is 100 organic cotton and makes you feel like you're walking on air even on the hottest summer days. With mini and me sizing, it's the perfect addition to both our vacation wardrobes.
A Creative Distraction: Kimmel Kids Marine Stencil Set SHOPWith all the traveling we're planning to do this summer, I always have the Kimmel Kids Stencil Set from the amazing Karen Kimmel in my bag to keep my son and I occupied. The Marine Set offers beautiful summer colors and instantly puts us in a carefree and creative set of mind.
SPF with Style: Parasol Sun-Striped Shirt SHOPI love a classic striped boat neck tee for summer travel. It's the easiest look to wear with white pants for a nautical summer look. When I saw this one from Parasol Sun I was even more excited. Now you get all the UPF 50+ protection in and out of water plus the minimalist design I love. Perfect for packing.
Simple Way to Glam Up A Simple Tee: Rose and Rose Sequin Scarf SHOPMy amazing friends got me this gorgeous scarf for my recent birthday and I have pretty much worn it every day. Just enough glitz and romantic glamor to make me feel instantly put together on vacation, even when wearing white T-shirt and jeans.
A Statement Necklace: Assad Mounser Necklace SHOPA great mix of edgy detailing and an earthy boho vibe, this is just the right blend of layered cool that dresses up any outfit. The colors are very summery but can also be transitioned into fall.
Day to Night Shoe: Calypso Gina Silver Sandal SHOPI love the slight nod to Gladiator styling without being overly fussy, on these sandals from Calyspo. Perfect for when I want to be casual and comfortable but still want to look a little dressy -- which is pretty much my fashion mood every day.
Add Structure To This Vacation Staple: Aranaz Mactoan Bamboo Tote SHOPStraw bags are usually on the slouchy side and casual, which is why I love this one from Aranaz. It's structured and has an animal print lining which makes it suitable for the city or the beach.