Do you have someone on your shopping list who loves to travel or is always on the go? Or maybe you're just at a loss of what to buy that person who seems to have everything. Over the years I've acquired a list of go-to items which make traveling SO much easier and I'm excited to share them with you. Many of the items on this list I personally own and have used on my own trips - except for a few that ended up on my wish list this year!

From travel gear, to accessories, and even some go to travel OOTD I hope you find something on this list that will make the adventurer in your life very happy this holiday season. I'd also love to hear your suggestions for travel items you can't live without in the comments below.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.

I am a warm weather girl through and through but there is just something about the holiday season that I can't get enough of. The lights, the decorations, the carols, the traditions, and of course the cute cold weather accessories!

Each year, as the holiday season rolls around I become giddy as I wait for all the magic to unfold. One of my favorite traditions is traveling up to Grand Rapids to visit my sister as we pack in as many festive adventures as we can in one day. Below are some of my favorite ways to celebrate the holiday season in the city. 

In the words of Taylor Swift, I'm just gonna shake, shake, shake, shake, shake (and stir..). Okay, I may have revised that a bit after attending Round Barn's new Shake and Stir Workshop, but c'mon can you blame me? Round Barn has long been one of my favorite stops along the Lake Michigan Wine Trail offering lively entertainment and delicious wine, beer and spirits on the Estate grounds which is also home to the iconic 1912 Amish Round Barn. In addition to traditional wine tasting, Round Barn has recently added a new hands on experience for visitors. During their Shake and Stir Workshop you'll have the opportunity to shake and stir three different craft cocktails made with Round Barn Spirits and take home some delicious recipes so you can make your own cocktails at home.

​Try something new for date night or belly up to the bar with a group of up to 16 people for this 60-minute masterclass. The class is held on Saturdays and Sundays and can be booked online. 

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Round Barn. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

When it comes to packing for a trip - you either love it or hate it. Some people thrive on trying to cram as many perfectly folded outfits into their suitcase, all of which have been planned out for the corresponding days of their trip. While others find themselves throwing whatever is clean into a bag last minute. Whichever side of the spectrum you fall on, I am so excited to share one of my new favorite travel products that will help you pack smarter and make the most of any size space. 

Tripped Travel Gear compression packing cubes are especially useful for organizing outfits in a suitcase and minimizing your clothes to fit inside a backpack. You can separate the cubes by different outfits or easily pack away bulky clothing like raincoats/heavier jackets that are not used as often. Take advantage of empty cubes to pack dirty laundry in and keep your suitcase or backpack organized.

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Tripped Travel Gear. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

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Nashville is quickly taking over as the bachelorette capital of the US with multiple groups of girls in matching tees flocking to Music City every weekend. I recently had the chance to attend a Nash Bash and I can completely understand why the city has gained so much popularity so quickly. Aside from its central location and major airport nearby, the city offers the perfect scene for both laid back girl's time and wild nights on Broadway.

Read on to find out how exactly how we spent an amazing long weekend in Nashville celebrating our bride to be!

“Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall.” -F. Scott Fitzgerald

​One of my favorite parts of living in Southwest Michigan is getting to experience all four seasons and the changes that come along with each. While summers along the lakeshore are hard to beat, there is really something so special about harvest time in the fall. As the air begins to get cooler, the days grow shorter and the leaves change to a kaleidoscope of reds, yellows, and oranges, it's time to plan your fall weekend getaway to Michigan's Great Southwest. Sip on a glass of cider and pick apples at a local orchard, hit the Makers trail as the smell of grapes begins to waft through the air, or hike over towering sand dunes surrounded by colorful trees on either side. Discover my favorite fall activities and start creating your own bucket list!

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Southwest Michigan Tourist Council. The itinerary was created by me based on personal research and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Mackinac Island is often called Michigan's crown jewel and for good reason. The island has been named the friendliest island, hottest U.S. travel destination, and the most romantic getaway. When you step foot on the island's shores, you'll get the sense that you're stepping back in time. You'll quickly notice some of the unique differences from other island getaways including the fact that cars are replaced by bikes and horse and carriages. Charming and historic hotels and bed and breakfasts take the place of towering resorts and life seems to move just a bit slower. 

While Mackinac Island is a quick ferry ride from the mainland and a great day trip destination, the best way to truly see all that the island has to offer is by planning an overnight getaway. There is plenty of relaxation and adventure to be had and a long weekend is the perfect amount of time to experience it all. Find out how we spent four beautiful days on Mackinac Island as I break down our full itinerary below. 

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Mission Point Resort. The itinerary was created by me based on personal research and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Being less than four square miles, you might be wondering if Mackinac Island has enough food options to satisfy your taste palate during a long weekend. Fear not, you'll be surprised to learn that the island is actually a foodie’s paradise offering something for all tastes and budgets. And since the island's prime season is April to October, most restaurants take advantage of outdoor seating offering stunning views while you dine.

We had the pleasure of staying at Mission Point Resort and Hotel - a lakeside retreat on 18 acres of the island's sunrise coast. The resort itself is home to four unique restaurants so you don't have to walk far to indulge in a delicious and memorable meal. Read on to discover seven of my top recommendations for dining while visiting Mackinac Island.

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Mission Point Resort. The itinerary was created by me based on personal research and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

When you step foot on the shores of Mackinac Island, you'll feel like you're stepping back in time. Located in Lake Huron between Michigan's upper and lower peninsula, Mackinac Island is know for it historic charm, gorgeous views, and pristine gardens. But perhaps the most unique part of the island is the fact that no cars are allowed. Instead you'll hear the clip-clop of horse hooves along the pavement and pass people riding bikes and strolling along the streets on foot. Life seems to move slower when everyone isn't in such a rush.

I had only ever visited for the day, but now I can truly say the best way to get the full island experience is by spending the night - or the weekend. We had the pleasure of staying at Mission Point Resort and Hotel - a lakeside retreat on 18 acres of the island's sunrise coast. The resort is home to five unique restaurants, the island's only full-service health and wellness retreat, a marketplace, and two distinct lodging areas, all within walking distance to downtown. Mission Point has a commitment to Great Lakes healthy living and offers a number of ways to stay active during your trip. Find out more about my seven must-have experiences while on the island. 

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Mission Point Resort. The itinerary was created by me based on personal research and all thoughts and opinions are my own.