Zooey Deschanel loves packing for a trip — and for frequent travelers, she has the best — and easiest — hack for never having to worry about it.
“I usually have a bag 90 percent full at any given time,” she said. Travel + Leisure in a recent interview. “I have everything I need in a bag, everything ready so I don't have to think about it. I know I will always need a pair of glasses, my contact lenses, a pair of sunglasses, a small first aid kit, my makeup, my toiletries, so I might as well have them already in there so as not to say to myself: “What did I forget?”
By always being packed, it eliminates any last-minute debacles, especially when she's also getting her two kids ready, she mentioned.
“After remembering everything for everyone, it’s a lot. So it definitely pays to be organized and think ahead,” she said.
With Zooey Deschanel
Window seat or aisle seat?
Window.
Which “Elf” character would be best to travel with?
Jovie is probably quite nice to talk to.
Which “New Girl” character would be best to travel with?
I probably think of Schmidt because he's organized. He would wear his airplane loafers.
When do you arrive at the airport?
My preference is on time, but I'd rather be early than late. Last year I found myself in a situation where I was traveling alone. I was going to Europe. It was a new terminal that had just been redone at LAX, and I was sitting in the lounge, and I missed the announcement. Then it turned out that I had walked for 15 minutes and was literally running with my bag at full speed. I ran onto the plane and arrived just before closing. It's just not my personality at all. I've never missed a plane. So yes, I prefer to wait near the door.
Airplane activity?
I love watching movies on the plane.
And the desire to be organized and well-packaged created the perfect partnership with iconic handbag and bag company Vera Bradley. Known for its cashmere and iconic prints, Deschanel's campaign it's a new era with elevated and neutral styles.
The revamped collection includes handbags, luggage, scarves and other foldable accessories, including leather pieces. And for a traveler like Deschanel, she appreciates the brand's details that make life easier, including a backpack's luggage pocket.
Zoey Grossman
“What they did was make these practical bags, with lots of pockets, that are just perfect for traveling,” she said, noting that the updated versions still have all the features exceptional original models.
Besides having the perfect Vera Bradley travel bag, Deschanel's other packing tips include sticking to a capsule wardrobe and not bringing anything fancy.
“I think we all take trips and come back and ask ourselves, 'Why did I bring that?' Like, I haven't worn it once. You have an imaginary version of yourself on vacation wearing something special that just isn't practical, right? I always say if it's not comfortable, you won't wear it.
She also leaves items at home that take up valuable space, like very long dresses or several pairs of shoes. She suggests bringing a pair of Vans or Superga sneakers that you can wear for added style, but also do a simple workout at the gym so you're not weighed down. Deschanel also likes ballet flats because they are very compact shoes.
Zoey Grossman
Although she has no travel plans for the holidays, Deschanel is excited to spend this season at home. Committed to Property Brothers host Jonathan Scott, she shared her excitement for this time of year.
“I love vacations. I love decorating, I love baking, singing Christmas carols. I love it all,” she told T+L.
Which is perhaps not surprising since many people equate Deschanel with the beloved 2003 holiday film, “Elf.” (She also has a Christmas album with her band She and Him released in 2011.) Deschanel fondly remembers starring in one of the most beloved Christmas movies of all time, especially working with Will Ferrell in his iconic role as Buddy the Elf.
“I remember being on set and we were doing this ice skating scene, and Will was putting on his ice skates and he was talking to everyone. And I was like, “This guy doesn’t know he’s famous!” He's so nice. She is such a nice person.
As for where Buddy and Deschanel's character Jovie would be today? “They live up North and oversee Santa’s workshop with their giant children,” she said.
