This past summer I set off for a monthlong adventure to Europe. The destinations included Paris, Positano, and London. Naturally, the very idea of spending four glorious weeks abroad sounded delightful to me. However, while I'm certainly not complaining, the task of packing for that long was—shall we say—not the easiest feat. I challenged myself to fit everything into one piece of checked luggage with no flow-over totes. (I recently got this suitcase from Away, and it's amazing.) Turns out, I succeeded in my quest! Aside from a tutorial led by my sister on how to fold the Kondo way, one of the most efficient methods that allowed me to fit everything into one suitcase was choosing a bag that was so versatile I could carry it with every outfit I wore. The purse in question was the straw Augustin bag from Rouje. It had all the qualities I was searching for in a travel bag. It could fit underneath my shoulder, it was large enough to carry what I needed for the day but small enough to not be a burden, and most importantly, it's really, really cute.
Full disclosure: I did end up packing a couple of other small bags, but as my travel buddies can attest, this was the one I ended up carrying the entire month. For proof, continue ahead to see snaps from my travels, and shop the outfits that you can see yourself wearing on your next holiday away. If you're hoping to spend less than $150 on your next travel bag, I included a few extra budget-friendly options for you, just in case.
Sometimes, the easiest way to feel polished while traveling is by packing a pretty ankle-length dress you can wear with a simple pair of flat sandals and a straw bag.
The little white dress strikes again! This mini is balanced by long sleeves and is crafted from breathable cotton that is great for summer temperatures but can also be layered over pants for the fall.
When going for a denim-on-denim look, break up the bulk with a different texture, like a straw bag.
A leisurely day spent by the sea calls for lightweight layers and comfortable accessories.
For an afternoon stroll, museum visit, and picnic, try a tie-dye shirt styled with wide-leg khakis and an easy woven purse.
Up next: Shop the best tote bags for travel.
-
Just the 29 Best Bags of Summer 2025From Tory Burch to Prada.
-
Everything I Would Pack If an All-Expenses-Paid Trip to Greece or the Amalfi Coast Suddenly Landed on My DoorstepCan you tell I'm itching for a European vacation?
-
Everyone With Good Taste Is Already Wearing These 7 Chic Summer PiecesThese instantly elevate any look.
-
Move Over, Zara and Mango—This Affordable Yet Expensive-Looking Bag Collection at Bloomingdale's Has My AttentionGet ready for endless compliments.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
-
Since the Margaux Is Nowhere to Be Found, This Is the The Row Bag We're Buying InsteadIt's also a forever piece.
-
More Elegant Than a Shoulder Bag, More Casual Than a Clutch—the Bag Trend Only Chic People Know AboutNow, you do too.
-
J.Law and Ashley Olsen Agree: This $33,000 Bag Is Chicer Than a MargauxNo wonder it's so hard to find one for sale.
