Zooey Deschanel shares her genius packing tip, a fond memory from filming “Elf” and more

Zooey Deschanel really loves packing for a trip—and for frequent travelers, she has the best—and easiest—trick for never stressing out about it.

“I usually always have a bag that is 90 percent packed,” she said Travel + leisure in a recent interview. “I have all the things I need in one bag so I don’t have to think about them. I know I’ll always need glasses, my contacts, sunglasses, a small first aid kit, my makeup, my toiletries, so I might as well just have those there already so I don’t ask: ‘What have I forgotten?'”

The fact that she always packs eliminates any last-minute debacles, especially if she’s also packing for her two children, she said.

“After remembering everything for everyone, it’s a lot. So it really pays to be organized and think ahead,” she said.

And the drive to be organized and well-packaged led to the perfect partnership with legendary handbag and bag company Vera Bradley. Known for its signature paisley pattern and prints, Deschanel’s campaign marks a new era with some elevated and neutral styles.

The revamped collection includes handbags, luggage, scarves and other packable accessories, including leather pieces. And for a traveler like Deschanel, she appreciates the brand’s details that make life easier — including the luggage cover on a backpack.

“They’ve cut their teeth, so to speak, by making these practical bags with lots of pockets that are just great for traveling,” she said, noting that the updated versions still have all the great features of the original designs.

In addition to finding the perfect Vera Bradley travel bag, Deschanel’s packing tips include sticking to a capsule wardrobe and not bringing anything out of the ordinary.

“I think we all go on trips and come back and say, ‘Why did I bring that?’ “I never wore it once.” You have an imaginary version of yourself on vacation wearing something special that just isn’t practical, right? I always say: If it’s not comfortable, you won’t wear it.”

She also leaves items that take up valuable space – like super long dresses or multiple pairs of shoes – at home. She suggests bringing a pair of Vans or Superga sneakers that you can wear in style but also do a simple workout at the gym so you don’t get weighed down. Deschanel also loves ballet flats as highly packable shoes.

Although she doesn’t have any travel plans for the holidays, Deschanel is excited to spend this season at home. Engaged to property brothers Host Jonathan Scott shared her excitement for this time of year.

“I love the holidays. I love decorating, love baking and singing Christmas carols. I love the whole thing,” she told T+L.

No wonder, as many people equate Deschanel with the popular 2003 Christmas film “Elf.” (She also has a Christmas album with her band You and him (released in 2011.) Deschanel looks back fondly on his role in one of the most beloved Christmas films of all time, particularly working with Will Ferrell in his iconic role as Buddy the Elf.

“I remember we were on set doing this skating scene and Will was putting on his skates and just talking to everyone. And I thought, ‘This guy doesn’t know he’s famous!’ He’s so nice. He’s such a nice person.”

And where would Jovie, Buddy and Deschanel’s character, be today? “They live up north and oversee Santa’s workshop with their huge children,” she said.