A young woman with long blond hair is packing her suitcase for a holiday trip or beach vacation
After nearly two decades of traveling the world for work and pleasure, I’ve developed a certain routine, especially when it comes to packing. And while a lot has changed—like the rise of trackable smart luggage and the advent of apps that can instantly translate menus (no more culinary surprises, finally!)—there are a few items that have stood the test of time and I still bring them with me on my summer travels. Here are my essentials.
Courtesy of Nomatic
Nomatic Packing Cubes
I used to be a big fan of the military method of rolling, but after being introduced to these packing cubes, I changed my mind. Now, I use a combination of the roller and the sleek black cubes, which come in different sizes to fit your luggage. The zippered compression system can save up to 50% of space, allowing you to pack more than you think possible, or to save room for items picked up along the way.
Courtesy of Forah
Forah Sunscreen and Face Oil
Sun protection is essential all year round, and it’s extremely important to make sure you’re using a reef-friendly sunscreen that protects the ocean from harmful chemicals. British Columbia-based Forah makes a great daily mineral SPF, as well as a cleansing oil and serum that rehydrate skin after a day of traveling or swimming in the water.
Courtesy of Wyeth
Wyeth Hat
As the proud owner of a full-fledged hat wall that I’ve adorned with finds from around the world, it’s safe to say that I’m a bit of a connoisseur, and this SoCal milliner makes some of my favorite affordable options.
Courtesy of Cayla Grey
Cayla Grey Roll-On Perfume
I used to put my perfume in travel sprays, but that was before I discovered this Western-made Cayla Grey perfume. Using clean ingredients, this roll-on somehow manages to smell like a real dessert without being too sweet. With notes of whipped cream, tonka bean, and coconut, it’s romantic and can easily transition from day to night.
Tide stick
This essential hardly needs an introduction. As the person who always manages to get red sauce on her crisp white tee, this is a must-have. Pack it in your carry-on and don’t forget to pack it in your purse for evenings.
Courtesy of July
July luggage
I recently started using the July Carry-On Pro luggage duo paired with the Weekender Handle, and I’m obsessed. Their rolling suitcase has a hard polycarbonate front pocket for a laptop, and there’s an ejectable power bank so you can stay on top of your stuff while you’re on the go. There’s also a compression strap that works wonders; I packed my snow-trip gear, including ski pants and a jacket, and still had plenty of room for après-ski gear. The best part is that it comes with a lifetime warranty, so if your luggage ever gets damaged beyond use, you’ll get a free replacement.
Courtesy of Hoka
Hoka Bondi 8
The first thing I pack in my carry-on is always, always, a pair of sneakers. I recently ran my first half marathon, and these shoes have helped me and my wonky knees through training and on race day. I brought them on my recent trips to Lanai and Punta Mita, and their vibrant colorway always gets compliments.
Courtesy of Target
Downey Light Fresh Anti-Wrinkle Treatment
As a member of the carry-on club, I sometimes find it really hard to pack bulky jackets, boots, and sweaters for a trip to the snow. This wrinkle-removing spray helps keep things fresh and smelling if they get a little squashed in the suitcase.
Earplanes earplugs
Earplugs are one of my travel essentials, no matter the season. While there are certainly fancier noise-canceling earplugs out there, I like the fact that if I inevitably lose one, it won’t break the bank.
Courtesy of Kitsch
Kitsch Eye Mask
I’m such a light sleeper that even the slightest disturbance in my environment throws off my nighttime mojo, and blocking out light really helps get my circadian rhythm back on track, especially when time zone changes happen. I like this one because it’s silk and comes with a matching scrunchie to tie your hair back to reduce breakage while you sleep.
Courtesy of Beam Organics
Melatonin beam
While recent scientific studies show that taking melatonin for a long time isn’t the best thing for your brain, it can be a huge help when acclimating to a new time zone. I always stick to a dose under 5 mg to adjust, and I personally like Trader Joe’s option that has 3 mg. If you’re looking to treat yourself, Beam makes an appropriately named Dream powder that has the most delicious and cozy blend of CBD and melatonin in a holiday salted caramel flavor that has me dozing off in no time.
DripDrop Electrolyte Powder
DripDrop contains vitamins B3, B5, B6, and B12 to support healthy energy, metabolism, and cell function, as well as magnesium, potassium, vitamin C, and zinc to support and recover the immune system. Personally, I find it tastes better than other hydration options like Gatorade or Pedialyte, and it’s also easy to slip into a pocket or backpack. Use it after a night of too many cocktails, or simply add it to your water while flying to prevent dehydration or altitude sickness.
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