I posted recently about our traveling essentials for baby here, but I didn’t mention our favorites (adults only). Tom and I dated long distance across the pond (Boston > London) and country (Boston > San Francisco) for three years, so I like to think we have this travel thing down to a science.
We have a packed travel schedule this month, with 4 (!) cross-country trips upcoming to celebrate best friends’ impending nuptials. As we prepare for our journeys, I thought I’d share our tried and true travel essentials. I would love to hear from you all what products you swear by (comments section below)!
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Carry-On Suitcase: About a year ago I finally decided to ditch my well-worn 2-wheel Tumi carry-on and see this multi-wheel suitcase craze was all about (yes, a little late to this party). The adjustment is truly life-changing – no more dragging a heavy bag and risking a shoulder dislocation! I truly can’t believe I waited so long. If you are still using a 2-wheel suitcase, please learn from my mistake and go upgrade immediately!
I trialed three well-known suitcase brands before deciding on this BRIC’s Bellagio 21″ Spinner Suitcase, and I’ve been very happy with my purchase. In addition to being extremely cute (I love the striped trunk detailing and the rose gold handle), it is very durable with a polycarbonate shell and sturdy extendable handle. I also find the the size is just perfect for a long weekend away (this is on the larger side for a carry-on). I also tested the AWAY Bigger Carry-On and the Rimowa Cabin Multi-Wheel. The size and functionality of the AWAY was excellent, but I found its handle was flimsy and difficult to keep upright if you had the suitcase packed full. I loved the quality of the Rimowa and was very excited about their excellent warranty, however I was deterred by the price point ($550) when I compared it side by side with the BRICs. I found mine at Saks OFF 5th for $279 (still available, on sale!) earlier this year – so keep an eye out here!
Carry-on handbag: The Lo & Sons O.G. Overnight Bag (pictured above with suitcase) is my staple for work travel and oftentimes for weekend trips too. It easily fits a laptop, an extra pair of shoes, cosmetics, and generally any overflow from my suitcase. I love the back pocket which can be adjusted to slide right over your suitcase handle, easing any shoulder strain. The side pocket is perfect for stowing the extra set of shoes that didn’t fit in your suitcase.
Weekender: For local trips not requiring an airport haul, I often use this well-designed duffel, the Catalina Deluxe Large Canvas Weekender by Lo & Sons. I love the lower pocket to separate out shoes and other durable items from the rest of the bag. It comes in a lovely dusty violet (Thistle) which is always my color of choice! For anything Lo & Sons, keep an eye out for promotions before purchasing, as they often run 15-20% discounts.
Men’s Weekender: If you’re looking for the perfect gift for your guy, look no further than the Hook & Albert Waxed Canvas Garment Weekender. I purchased this for Tom a few years ago on a recommendation from a guy friend, and he continues to rave about it. The smart design allows you to pack suiting and hanging garments on the outside and then anything extra in the center when it zips together.
Travel cubes: Travel cubes have been around for ages, but it also took me quite a bit of time to become an adopter. I purchased this Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cubes set during the most recent Prime Day sale. I am now a complete evangelist as I love the benefit of not having to repack my entire bag every time I take a single item out. These are also fantastic for packing for baby and organizing tiny clothes into different groupings.
Jewelry Case: I find this hard-case jewelry cube, the Pottery Barn McKenna Leather Small Jewelry Travel Case is perfect for protecting fragile accessories. It has small side pockets to hold necklaces or other items that might get tangled, and can be monogrammed (like everything PB!) if you so choose.
Flight accessories: Traveling cross-country often requires red eyes, as much as I would like to avoid them. There are 3 products I swear by to sleep on airplanes (okay, 4 if you count melatonin):
- Noise-cancelling headphones: I’ve had these Bose QuietComfort 25 Acoustic Noise Cancelling Headphones for at least 5 years, and they still work perfectly. I’ve also heard their customer service is fantastic and happy to replace lost or worn parts when required.
- Neck pillow: This Brookstone Inflatable Travel U-Pillow is a serious upgrade relative to the average donut pillow you find in most airports. In the spirit of traveling lightly, I love the ability to quickly inflate or deflate before or after the flight. This folds up easily and can be tucked inside the carrying case for the headphones above so I never forget it!
- Eye mask: I have a luxury version, the Illuminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask with some anti-aging claims that make me feel young and carefree again, as well as a cheapy version similar to this that completely blocks out light. Either will do the trick – I find a mask is so critical when you have just a few hours to get some shut eye and overhead lights are constantly coming on and off.
We are in the market for a large checked bag to share for longer trips – if you have any suggestions please share (comments below)! I’ll keep you updated what I find!
I hope this list helps you prepare as you plan your next getaway. Bon voyage!
