How to Pack for Thanksgiving Travel

As we all travel to our family and friends homes this Thanksgiving, most of us will be doing over-nighters which means packing.  Generally this is a 3 or 4 night trip so nothing epic, but still you don't want to use your giant tote bag either.

Today we will talk about fabulous suitcases fit for flying, busing, driving, or however else you may be getting to your destination.  Tomorrow I will feature what to wear to Thanksgiving dinner....think elastic!

Vera Bradley, Large Duffel in Hope Garden, $60

Some people have a severe aversion to Vera but love her or hate her this duffel is the BEST carry on in the world because you can shove it under your seat on the plane if the overhead storage runs out.  And let me tell you from experience, it's ultra-durable!

Rockland, Giraffe Pink, $29

Feeling sassy? Try this rolling duffle bag!

Lesportsac, Medium Weekender in Twinkle, $73

SO many pattern options to choose from, this bag will never be mistaken for someone else's!

Overstock, International Traveler Shiny Dot, $79.99 

If you REALLY need a roller bag I just love this one.  The handle is curved too so its easier to maneuver. 

From Food Trucks to Wolfgang Pucks

If there is one thing DC lacks in terms of food it's good barbecue. Most recently, New York magazine listed DC as one of the new foodie cities; which I agree with because from food trucks to Wolfgang Puck's we've got 'em covered. But, sometimes when a studio-apartment bound girl (no grill) wants to get BBQ sauce all over her face, she is left with not a lot of options. However, there are a couple...

My go to for good barbecue is Old Glory's in Georgetown.
There are few things better in this world than cornbread with butter, fried green tomatoes, and some good ol bbq. Old Glory has something on the menu for everyone. So whether you're willing to get down and dirty with a rack of ribs or stay a little safer with chicken and waffles; Old Glory's will not disappoint.

Also- whatever you do, get the Graceland Nachos they will change your life. Crispy Tortillas with Rib & Brisket Chili, Onions, Jalapenos, Guacamole, Sour Cream & Pico de Gallo. Substitute Pulled Pork or Chicken for the Chili! Enough said.


Ok, I should also mention at this point that I do not consider chicken wings BBQ food which is why I am ignoring them in this post. Just because it's got barbecue sauce on it, doesn't make it BBQ. Granted, DC has tons of good chicken wing joints Duffy's and Stoney's included, it's not true barbecue food.

That being said, let's talk about what's on tonight's menu. Tonight the bf and I are going out with some of my high school friends who have moved to the DC area. We are going to Rockland's Barbecue and Grilling Company for dinner. I have never been but when it comes to hearty, messy, and filling foods, I will always trust the bf.

Rockland's is unique because they use only red oak and hickory to cook their food. No electricity or gas in the process. This allows the meat to really absorb the smokey and woody flavors that only cooking it in a pit can offer. Tonight I plan on having the Chicken and Ribs platter which is a quarter chicken and two pork ribs with two sides. Now I will be honest, after reading the reviews online things aren't lookin' so great for Rockland's sides; so I'm going to stick to a side I consider foolproof: mac and cheese. Oh, I know it says two sides...double the mac.


So, DC let's work on the good ol' barbecue dinner because sometimes you just want to eat with your hands.