What I’m Bringing to Edinburgh (Besides Running Shoes)

First things first: I’m an over-packer. It runs in my blood. I am not — and I repeat, not — a “carry-on only” kind of girl. I’m not fully European, and I have absolutely no shame about checking a full 50-pound suitcase. My Dyson Airwrap? Coming with me. So are all my chic, carefully curated outfits that may or may not be worn, but will definitely be photographed.

And yes, somewhere in there are my running shoes because I’m also running a half marathon while I’m in Edinburgh. Just casual things.

This post isn’t about my race-day gear. It’s about everything else I’m bringing to make this trip feel fun, stylish, and slightly main character even if I’m limping through the cobblestones by Sunday afternoon.

The Stylish Essentials

• My airport outfit: A full look. Because airport style matters. Cute, comfortable, and chic enough that I’ll probably wear it straight to dinner on Friday night.

• Dinner looks: One for Friday at Guildford Arms, one for Saturday at Cannonball. Each outfit is comfy but elevated, because I will be rewarding myself with bread and wine.

• My favorite trench coat: Because it pulls everything together, and Edinburgh in May calls for a dramatic outer layer.

The Self-Care Musts

• Dyson Airwrap — she’s a diva, and she’s coming with me.

• My skincare routine: Face serum, SPF, and everything needed to look alive, even after a flight and a long run.

• Under-eye patches for race day morning because… obviously.

• Electrolyte packets + snacks to stay fueled, focused, and not hangry

The Personal Touches

• My half marathon playlist — downloaded and ready to power me through the miles.

• Cute post-race outfit: something comfy and flattering for walking around Edinburgh post-run and taking my "I did it" pics.

Yes, I’m an over-packer. But I’m also running 13.1 miles, traveling to a new city, and doing something really freaking hard. So I’m bringing whatever I want style, comfort, snacks, and a lot of excitement. I’ll be slightly overdressed, slightly nervous, and fully proud.

Edinburgh, I hope you're ready for me.