WHEN THE holidays roll around, the fashion-conscious among us have plenty to think about. Not just what to wear to the inevitable cavalcade of Christmas drinks, festive parties, and family gatherings that happen at this time of year, but also how to style the perfect outfit for any seasonal getaways and Christmas vacations.

Traveling comfortably and stylishly is a delicate balancing act. Swing too far towards comfort and you’ll look (and feel) a little schlubby, but overdo it on the style stakes and you’ll spend your journey in constant discomfort.

The key is to find a few select pieces that both look and feel great, and that ensure you arrive at your destination looking as fresh as you did when you set off at the beginning of the day.

So whether you are cruising the Pacific coast over the holidays or jetting off to a paradise island on Christmas Day, here are some things you can throw in a bag to ensure you travel in comfort and style.

Comfortable shoes

Comfortable shoes are a must for travel, and absolutely essential for long journeys. Your feet will be doing a lot of work carrying you around airports and busy streets, so don’t be tempted to sacrifice function for form, and avoid high heels at all costs! Look for shoes that are understatedly stylish yet comfortable, like ballerina flats, flat mules, or soft loafers.

A versatile jacket

A light, stylish jacket is an essential piece of clothing for any trip, as it can help keep you warm on a chilly plane or in a drafty hotel room, as well as letting you change up any outfit at a moment’s notice. A light jacket or blazer that folds up small means you can keep it in your carry-on and bring it out when needed, allowing you to dress up or dress down any outfit, and avoid the chills that can sometimes come from extended travel times.

Comfortable pants or leggings

Leggings or comfortable pants are the unsung heroes of travel fashion. On their own, they can look over-casual, but paired with something a little smarter (like the light jacket above) they can look elegant and stylish. And most importantly, they are wonderfully comfortable and won’t restrict your movement. Cashmere tracksuit pants or understated leggings are a wonderful way to ensure complete comfort all the way through your journey.

A cozy scarf or shawl

A cozy scarf or shawl is one of the most versatile items you can take on vacation over the holidays and is a must-have for any travel outfit. A scarf or shawl offers an extra layer of warmth for a chilly bus ride or a frosty destination, it can be used as a makeshift pillow for long-haul flights, and it is a great way to dress up an outfit and add a touch of class and sophistication to an otherwise overly casual or comfortable look.

Finding the perfect balance of comfort and style when you are traveling is an art, but with a few key pieces you can ensure that you reach your destination looking as smooth and sophisticated as when you set out!