Practicality in packing for your getaway is just as important as comfort and fashion in my opinion.  When heading off to the wine country of your choice, it’s always great to remember these few things…

1.  Sun Protection – Even though it’s not the beach, the vineyards can get pretty sunny and wine intensifies the sunburn, so a good hat and sunglasses are a must and don’t forget a scarf for once the sun goes down.  I choose the Solumbra by SunPrecautions Outback Straw Hat with SPF 100, Tortoise Shell Sunglasses by Warby Parker and a MAATI Silk Scarf.

2. Comfortable, Stable and Easy On / Easy Off Shoes – Yup, you’ll be doing a lot of walking on varied terrains of the vineyards + don’t forget the possibility of grape stomping…Ok, ok…this isn’t exactly that infamous “I Love Lucy” episode, but in certain parts of the world they still allow you to participate for fun.  Recent favorites of mine for the ladies, Vionic Sydney Driver Loafers and for the gents, a Barcelona favorite, MAIANS Sisto Combi 2 shoes.

3.  Safe Transportation of Wine Bottles – Although you can find wine shipping companies quite easily in many wine countries around the US, making the shipment of your treasured finds effortless at the end of your stay, in other corners of the world, it’s not as organized.  If you’re wanting to bring home these goods in your checked bags, make sure to protect your precious bottles as well as your clothing and other goods packed along with them.  Try WineSkin for a space saving option for  “anti breakage / anti leaking” of the vino and Bottle Bully for an ultra secure, impact resistant case to enclose your wine.

4. Enjoying The Goods While There – Being surrounded by the great outdoors and having an amazing selection of food and wines at your disposal makes for the perfect setting for a picnic.  Don’t forget to pack the Picnic Time Metro Insulated Basket, which is collapsible for easy packing and for the true wine connoiseur, the Coravin 1000 “Flight Ready” Needle, so you can enjoy a glass of wine without uncorking the entire bottle.