Travel Shop
My favorite packing items
Traveling is so much easier (and usually cheaper!) when you have the right tools and products from someone you can trust. These are all items that I currently use, personally recommend, or are on my wish list.
Please note your own personal travel style before purchasing. I do not currently go on extended backpacking trips, and mostly stay in hotels and the occasional hostel. I travel part-time, and these products are perfect for long weekend trips to 2-week vacations.
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Electronics
I try and limit the amount of electronics I take, but there’s some I just can’t part with. Four things I always take: my kindle, airpods, portable charger, and a universal plug adapter (for international travel of course). Oh, and consider a mini power strip, as you never know just how many outlets you’ll have (at your hotel, the airport, etc).
Photography
I don’t call myself a professional photographer (I’m nowhere near that level), but I do enjoy going out and shooting, both above and below the water! I started with a DSLR, and now use a mirrorless, although I still use the former for night photography and when zooming in real close. The iPhone is surprisingly very powerful as well, and I use that for everyday, on-the-go photos!
Luggage / Packing
Packing’s my least favorite part of every trip, but with the right things, it doesn’t have to suck (as much). And yes, your gear really does matter. I’m semi-obsessed with my AWAY Bigger CarryOn Suitcase, and I haven’t used anything else since I got it. Oh, and packing cubes. An absolute lifesaver.
Airplane Essentials
Long haul flights suck. They really do. And unless you have a private plane or fancy jet, there’s no way around them if you wanna get to Bora Bora, Santorini, or Hawaii. Thankfully, if you come prepared to stay occupied and comfortable, your time in the air doesn’t have to be super horrible. My #1 saving grace - my mini ipad: I like to load ‘er up with movies, netflix, and even games to keep me busy on the plane for hours.
Health and Safety
Traveling’s great and all (we already know that), but you gotta keep up your typical routines (yes, that means skincare, teeth, and fitness). I’m always striving to up my game in these three areas - at home and on the road. If all else fails, at least promise me you’ll wear sunscreen! Also - it’s wise to take along some OTC meds should you find yourself in situations where you can’t get what you need!
Beach Essentials
Beach vacations are my jam. From snorkeling with sharks and tea turtles, sipping on mai tais while lounging at the pool, and searching for seashells and sand dollars (always), I’ll never say no to the beach. My top must haves: polarized sunglasses, SPF lip balm, lightweight sunscreen, and my kindle paperwhite!
Road trip Essentials
I love a good road trip. Besides driving cross country from NYC to SF, my favorite road trips to date have been in Utah, all over California, Banff/Jasper, Norway and most recently, Baja California Sur, Mexico. My top must haves whenever I have a long drive ahead: aux cable, reusable water bottle, and a pair of auto-focus binoculars!
Clothing + Accessories
Versatility is the name of the game, as is a pre-selected color palette, packing with your destination in mind (activities and weather), and comfort and confidence. Take out what you think you’ll need, and then promptly cut the number of items in half. You really don’t need tons of clothing - I promise! And please oh please, limit the number of shoes you take along!
Travel Fashion/Fun
Not sure when your next trip is? Decorate your home with some travel-inspired pieces! Curb your wanderlust by picking out a few of the items below. Great as gifts, but even better for yourself!
Travel Inspiration
I love having a few beautiful travel coffee table books with large imagery to flip through every once in a while for inspiration. Plus, friends love browsing them as well! There’s nothing better than stunning photography of faraway lands to fuel your wanderlust!