As a travel writer, I spend the majority of my days scrolling through pages and pages of sales across the internet in order to uncover the best deals on packing essentials, apparel, and more for our Travel + Leisure readers. However, I have to admit that nothing excites me quite as much as when Nordstrom puts on a sale. As though the retailer read my mind, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is now in full swing, delivering some truly unparalleled discounts on some of my favorite brands, and I can’t resist making the most of the event to fill out my packing list before I travel to Norway in the fall.

From Birkenstock and Béis, to Free People and Supergoop!, the deals being served up during this yearly sale are among the best I’ve spotted in months — especially when it comes to travel must-haves. So, before the sale comes to an end on August 4, keep reading to find the top 12 best deals from Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale that are undoubtedly making it into my cart, with prices starting as low as $16.

Birkenstock Arizona Big Buckle Slide Sandal

I’ve been a long-time Birkenstock fan since high school, and each pair I’ve owned has typically lasted me several years before it came time to trade them in for a newer model. Unfortunately, that time has come for my current pair, but luckily for me, these rust-colored slides are now on sale for $120 thanks to Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale. They feature the same large buckles and adjustable straps that I’ve come to love with the Arizona style, and the contoured cork footbeds offer significant arch support which is essential during long days of walking while traveling. In short? They’re the perfect sandals.

Béis Belt Bag

My closet is nearly overflowing with belt bags, and yet for some reason I keep coming back for more. The highly functional style is practically designed for use while traveling, and this baby pink pouch from Béis is my next pick due to its generous size and practical construction. The adjustable straps allow this bag to be styled as either a crossbody or worn around the waist, and it comes complete with a detachable card pouch and several handy interior pockets. At $36, this is one of my favorite deals from Nordstrom’s Anniversary Sale.

Dagne Dover Large Landon Carryall Duffel Bag

I’ve yet to land on an ideal weekender duffel bag for shorter getaways, but as soon as I saw this durable tote from Dagne Dover on sale for $144, I knew it had to land in my cart. The lightweight design will make it easy to carry (even when packed to the brim), and it’s built to expand to accommodate overpackers like myself. The roomy interior contains a laptop sleeve, an additional shoe bag, and a dust bag, and the sleek and stylish exterior will look great with my favorite airport outfits.

Free People Movement All Clear Rib Crop Camisole

Simple layering pieces will never go out of style, and with the known quality of Free People apparel, I trust that this ribbed camisole will be a worthwhile addition to my shopping cart during this major sale. The racerback design provides modest support for busy days of running errands or rushing through the airport, while a scoop neck cut is universally flattering. There’s no question that this top is about to become part of my traveling uniform, complete with cozy sweatpants and a good pair of close-toed shoes.

Beyond Yoga At Your Leisure Space Dye High Waist Midi Leggings

I’m of the opinion that if there’s one article of clothing you can never have too many of, it’s leggings. This simple pair is designed with a flattering criss-cross waistband that won’t dig into my skin while still offering impressive compression, and the high-rise fit is ideal for staying relaxed during long hours sitting on a flight. Even the seams are sewn with comfort in mind, as the flatlock design won’t rub or chafe whether I’m wearing them to the gym or during a miles-long hike in Norway later this year.

Nordstrom Initial Rectangular Jewelry Box

As a regular jewelry wearer, I refuse to embark on my travels without my full stack of rings along with plenty of earring options to choose from. However, I’m tired of throwing my investment pieces into a plastic bag and hoping for the best, which is where this travel jewelry box comes into play. The sizable primary compartment is the perfect place to store my hoops and other larger earrings, while three rows of ring cushions have the space to protect all of my favorite pieces during transit. Most impressive of all, this box also comes with a multitude of holes to store my studs in, so I don’t run this risk of losing earrings on the go.

Spanx Get Moving 14-inch Skort

I’m all aboard the skort train this summer, and my next choice to add to my closet is this flouncy number from Spanx that will keep me covered and comfortable during sightseeing days, all while amping up my seasonal wardrobe. The built-in spandex shorts make this skort supremely functional (and flattering), and it’s even made with sweat-wicking material that will surely come in handy with the ever-rising temperatures. Best of all? It has hidden pockets.

New Balance 550 Basketball Sneakers

There’s something undeniably cool about a good pair of sports sneakers, and once I saw that this chunky pair of New Balance basketball shoes was on sale for just $88, they earned an instant addition to my cart. Don’t be fooled by the flat outsole — the EVA insoles provide ample cushioning and support which is a must if I’m going to pack these shoes to take on vacation. I’m especially impressed with the sturdy leather exterior that I feel confident will remain in pristine condition, even with extended wear.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Set

Sun protection is one of the most important steps in my skincare routine, and for this, there’s only one brand I trust: Supergoop. You can imagine my joy when I found the value set including Unseen Sunscreen and the Unseen Sunscreen Stick on sale for $52, and seeing as they’re jumbo and full-sized, respectively, I know I’m getting an unbeatable deal. This invisible formula provides SPF 40 protection from harsh rays without ever leaving a white cast on my face, and it even works as a grippy base for my face makeup during the summer — win win!

BP. Parachute Cotton Cargo Pants

There are few things I love more than pants with an elastic waistband, which is how I knew I needed to score this oversized cotton cargo pair from BP while it’s on sale for just $43 right now. Cinching at the ankles provides a flattering fit that won’t drag on the ground (which is a common occurrence with my height), and the waistband drawstring will allow me to let out some space after a particularly delicious meal. And need I brag about the multitude of pockets?

Zella Studio Luxe Zip Hoodie

It never hurts to have an extra top layer ready to pull on during chilly flights, and this zippered hoodie from Zella promises to be the perfect selection for my upcoming travels thanks to its packable design and cozy, incredibly soft interior. This sweatshirt is made with zippered split kangaroo pockets which will keep my hands nice and warm during longhaul flights, while the stretchy nylon and spandex construction will feel as gentle as a blanket against my skin. Plus, it comes in the perfect neutral black that won’t be difficult to style with everything in my suitcase or even to wear to the gym with my favorite athleisure.

Longchamp Le Pliage Expandable Recycled Nylon Tote

I always like having an extra bag packed into my suitcase for if I do any shopping during my travels, and I may have just found the perfect choice for the job in the form of this expandable tote from Longchamp. It features top-carry handles that are long enough to be comfortably worn over the shoulder, and a waterproof nylon exterior will keep my belongings safe if I get caught in a rainstorm. Best of all, I love that this bag is made with a secure zipper and button-top design that provides an additional layer of protection against theft. 

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