There are so many things not to love about social media, but occasionally it can lead to something great: in my case, meeting a new travel loving friend who I never would have met otherwise.
I connected with Martha Stockhausen on Instagram, founder of a company called The Next Chapter Travel, a “like-minded community of intelligent, adventuresome women with a desire to see the world and a taste for the finer things in life” as she was researching an upcoming trip to Mallorca. Based in Virginia, Martha started her company following a career as a travel consultant when her children left for college so that she could travel too – hence the name, The Next Chapter Travel…brilliant! We stayed in touch over Instagram and have traded advice back and forth not only about Mallorca but also Lake Como, Milan, and my favorite heart pajamas.
Martha told me that in planning her trips, the number one question she receives from her clients is, “What should I pack on a trip to Europe?” She asked if I would put together a list of packing ideas and I immediately said yes. Packing for a trip is my love language – I think about it more often that I care to admit.
First up on her 2025 trips is “Quintessential Portugal” starting this Saturday, June 14. You can find the complete itinerary here and my packing suggestions are below. I hope to join her on one of these upcoming journeys – they all sound amazing.
If you want to learn more about upcoming trips for 2025 and 2026, go to the The Next Chapter Travel homepage and add your email address to sign up for her newsletter.
Bon Voyage, Martha and friends!
Here are Martha’s Incredible Upcoming Trips/Itineraries:
- Quintessential Portugal: Sintra, Porto, Lisbon – 6/14-6/23
- Italy in Vogue: Lake Como, Portofino/Cinque Terre, & Milan – 10/3-10/13
- Courts and Culture in Chianti: 10/25-11/1. This is Tennis instruction and matchplay in the morning with sightseeing in the afternoon. This trip is full, but she will be offering it again next year.
- Christmas Magic in the Rhine Valley: 12/11-12/18
June 2025, to Vibrant Portugal.Â
We will:
Explore palaces and port houses
Visit must-see cultural sites
Indulge in tapas and other local cuisine
Sail under the six bridges of Porto on a yacht
Wander through historic vineyards in the Douro Valley.
There will also be plenty of time for long walks, exploring local villages, shopping, and relaxing.
Quintessential Portugal
Join The Next Chapter Travel for an unforgettable 10-day journey through Portugal. From the enchanting palaces of Sintra to the urban energy of Lisbon, this all-women small-group trip offers an unparalleled experience of Portugal’s most captivating destinations. Known for its rich history, world-class wines, and vibrant cultural scene, Portugal is the perfect destination for a luxurious, immersive getaway.Â
When you travel with the Next Chapter Travel, every detail of the trip is carefully curated to ensure a truly indulgent blend of luxury, culture, and adventure. Whether it’s indulging in world-class cuisine, relaxing at exquisite accommodations, or enjoying spontaneous discoveries during free time, throughout the journey, you can expect delightful surprises and exclusive experiences that immerse you in Portugal’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes.Â
Packing Essentials for a Trip to Europe:
The best suitcase, Longchamp expandable carry-on bag, a quality adapter, lightweight backpack (to hold souvenirs, water bottle, money, charger, hat and other things you need for a day of sightseeing), crossbody bag (for your passport, money, lip gloss), a clutch for dinner, cotton dresses for day and night, shorts, t-shirts and tops, good sneakers (I take two pair: one more stylish pair and another functional pair for sightseeing), sunglasses, sandals (no heels for me!), swimsuit and sarong in the summer, a good hat (this one has SPF protection), airplane sweater (always), good books (I wish I was a Kindle person but sadly I drag books with me), really good sunscreen, very simple makeup: lip gloss, Merit Foundation Stick, brush, eyelash curler, mascara, hairbands and a makeup bag to store them in. For dressier nights out, this silk Alix of Bohemia dress, a no-wrinkle + packable Off-the-shoulder ruched gathered stretch jersey dress (both on sale now), cute raffia sandals, or these Aquazzura crystal sandals.
Click here to shop everything on the packing list: LINK TO SHOP
Pro tips:
- Europe is HOT in the summer. You need loose lightweight clothes for sightseeing and even at night. A small portable fan can be useful too.
- Make sure to bring currency (Euros) with you for tipping, transportation, etc. Better not to wait until you get there but to have some on hand when you arrive.
- On trips that involve a lot of walking, you need really comfortable shoes. I have learned this the hard way. Invest in the best and most comfortable sneakers you can find and try them out before your trip.
- To avoid having to check, be prepared to send your laundry out at the hotel. It will save you so many headaches of having to check your bags and carry heavy luggage around.
one pretty piece of jewelry that goes with everything – leave most of your good stuff at home.
