It has been far too long since my passport has gotten a workout (my jaunt to Italy with Franciacorta a couple years back was the last time I did international travel), so I’m thrilled to report that in five short days I’ll be departing for a week’s stay in Sweden! It’s a bit of an impromptu trip and get this – kid free – so I’m dashing around trying to figure out how to prepare to travel internationally just as woman – rather than a mom – for the first time in years.

My primary destination is Gothenburg, Sweden’s second largest city, and from what I can gather it’s a bit like Melbourne is to Sydney – the smaller, artsier, hipster, cool little sibling. I cannot wait to explore.

Right now I’m spinning between how to pack, how to plan the itinerary, where to eat dinner (and breakfast and lunch and snack and cocktails), what other cities I might visit (hello Copenhagen). It’s all very exciting but a touch overwhelming. I’m out of practice at this!

Biggest thing on my to do list at the moment is to wardrobe plan. Does anyone else try on a certain persona when they travel? Since I spend many a day in yoga pants, holed up in my home office, I’m really excited to put some extra effort into my style on this trip. When I head to a tropical destinations, I often find myself craving color, off the shoulder tops and all things fringe – aka a far cry from my usual monochromatic uniform. But traveling when it’s still cold is always a challenge. And it’s definitely going to be quite chilly in Gothenburg.

For this trip I’m feeling a more urban vibe. Think chunky knits under teddy bear duster coats, a belt bag worn cross body, even dad sneakers! All the trends, I’m doing it people. Because it’s time I have a little fun with fashion – but I still have to cram all these cold weather pieces into one suitcase. That’s always a challenge. I’ll be sharing my outfit plan on Insta-Stories this week – I’m going to want your input.

While the biggest part of my exploration is going to focus on design shopping (think all the best Scandi design has to offer like Rum21, Artilleriet Interiors and Alvhem), I may be equally excited to eat my way through Gothenburg. I’m so excited to partake in the Swedish tradition of fika, the afternoon break for coffee and something sweet. There’s also supposed to be amazing seafood, being on the North Sea and all. But then I’ve heard there is really good international cuisine. Is six meals a day too many? Anyone with recs, please please please send them my way!

It’s going to be quite the fun little adventure – and I can’t wait to share it all with you. Be sure to follow along on Instagram.

For now, here are some of my international travel essentials. If you have pieces you love to travel with (especially for long flights!) please add to my list in comments below.