I Travel 100+ Days A Year. Here's What I Pack.
As a travel journalist, long flights and lack of personal space in economy is just part of the job. At 33, I've traveled to all seven continents from visiting penguin colonies in Antarctica to scuba diving in Fiji.
Once I land, I need to hit the ground running, so I do everything I can to make the journey as smooth as possible. That means prepping for the chaos, controlling what I can, and packing smart. Here are the flight essentials I never travel without.
Bose QuietComfort Headphones
These Bose QuietComfort headphones might just be your lifesaver for your next 10 hour flight. The noise cancellation is top-tier (seriously, it's like flipping a switch on the outside world), and the plush earcups make them wearable from gate to gate without any pressure or pinching. Bonus: they last a full 24 hours on a charge and come with an old-school cord for when Bluetooth isn't an option.Get them from Amazon for $249 (available in eight colors).
MZOO sleep eye mask
This isn't your average flimsy airline freebie — it's an eye mask that actually works. Made with breathable memory foam and a contoured design, it gives your eyes space to blink and blocks out all the light without squishing your face. It stays put, doesn't pull your hair, and somehow feels like a tiny pillow for your face. Whether I'm trying to nap on a plane or reset after a weird hotel check-in time, this mask is a game-changer.Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in eight styles).
The Brevitē backpack
Meet a lightweight, carry-on approved travel backpack that fits perfectly under the seat or over your suitcase handle. This isn't your average laptop bag — it holds up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, has a passport pocket, and is extra spacious for my most precious cargo: camera gear. An added perk: It comes with a lifetime warranty!Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in eight colors).
Crocs
Once you fly in Crocs, there's no going back. These are my go-to shoes for long travel days: they're lightweight, breathable, ridiculously comfy, and slip off in a second at security. Bonus: they rinse off easily if you spill your coffee mid-flight. When I'm running late I convert them to 'sport mode,' utilizing the strap on the back to keep the shoes in place. Get them from Amazon for $37.94+ (available in women's sizes 4–19, men's sizes 2–17, and tons of colors).
Hypervolt Go 2 massage device
After long flights or cramped car rides, I use this compact massage gun on every trip. The Hypervolt Go 2 may be travel-sized (it weighs only 1.5 pounds), but it packs a serious punch when it comes to loosening tight shoulders, calves, or that weird spot in your back from sleeping uncomfortably on a plane. It's lightweight, portable and easy to pack into a backpack. Get it from Amazon for $139 (available in two colors).
An 8-pack of Purell hand sanitizer
Some bulk hand sanitizer might seem like an obvious choice for this list, but it absolutely cannot be skipped. I fly with a few — tucked into my pocket, backpack, and fanny pack. Purell's formula kills 99.99% of germs without wrecking your hands (it's free of harsh, drying ingredients like parabens and triclosan), and the adorably named 'jelly wrap' holder makes it easy to clip onto a bag for quick cleanups. Get an 8-pack from Amazon for $14.99.
Cotopaxi's Bataan fanny pack
This fanny pack is definitely an original – each one is handmade in the Philippines from repurposed materials, so no two are alike. I don't trust my loose pockets on a plane, so all of my valuables (wallet, passport) will be kept safely in my fanny pack. I wear mine crossbody for easy access in the airport and always get compliments. Get it from Amazon for $27.
A YETI Rambler water bottle
This is the water bottle that's survived every trip, tumble, and TSA bin I've put it through. The YETI bottle keeps water ice-cold for hours, and it's totally leakproof — so I never have to worry about it soaking the rest of my bag. It's hefty but easy to carry, and the wide mouth works great for easy refills. Hydration station, secured.Get it from YETI for $32+ (available in three sizes and 148 colors).
Ostrichpillow Go travel neck pillow
I've tested more travel pillows than I care to admit, and the Ostrichpillow Go is the one I actually use. The high-density memory foam molds to your neck like it was custom-made, and the 360-degree ergonomic design means no more awkwa6rd head bobs or waking up with a crick in your neck. I used it on a 14-hour flight to South Africa and I slept eight hours. It compresses down small enough to stash in your bag, but still offers full support.Get it from Amazon for $63.64 (available in three colors).
Away's 'bigger' carry-on
This is the suitcase I take when I want to pack a little extra without checking a bag. This popular suitcase from Away fits in most US airlines' overhead bins, but gives you more space thanks to its interior compression system. It's sleek, durable, and glides through airports smoothly. I've brought mine to more than 10 different countries and it still feels brand new. Get it from Away Travel for $295 (available in 10 colors).
An Apple iPad
Sadly, more and more new aircrafts are dropping their built-in televisions, so my iPad has become my in-flight entertainment center. Before the flight, I download all of my movies and shows so I have hours worth of mindless content to consume from 35,000 feet in the air. It's lightweight but powerful, with enough battery to last from wheels up to touchdown and then some. Get it from Amazon for $299+ (available in two three storage sizes and four colors).
TheraFace depuffing wand
This little wand has become my secret weapon for looking decent after a red-eye. The device chills in seconds to zap under-eye puffiness, then switches to heat to boost circulation. I use it mid-flight, post-flight, or even just when I'm feeling a little dull — it's like giving your face a reset button. I always have it in my fanny pack onboard and it instantly makes me feel fresh again after sitting in my seat for hours. Get it from Amazon for $169.99 (available in two colors).
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Amazon's Comfiest, Podiatrist-approved Shoe Brand Is Up to 70% Off—Shop the 8 Best Deals From $30
Whether you have a jam-packed travel agenda or are simply hanging around town this summer, a good pair of comfortable shoes will make a world of difference in the quality of your days. From walking tours to running errands, shoes that offer noticeable cushioning and support are valuable assets to your wardrobe, and no footwear does it quite like Dr. Scholl's. The podiatrist-approved brand, which has a celebrity fanbase featuring Sarah Jessica Parker, just secretly went on sale at Amazon to kick off the summer, and from stylish sandals to cushy sneakers, there's no shortage of options to choose from. So, if you're taking on the cobblestone streets of a foreign city in the coming months or are merely looking for the perfect pair of shoes to slip on for your daily walks, read on to discover the eight best Dr. Scholl's styles that are currently on sale at Amazon, with discounts extending up to 70 percent off. When building your travel wardrobe from the ground up, there's nothing quite as versatile as a well-made pair of plain white sneakers. Fortunately, this supportive and timeless pair from Dr. Scholl's will make a welcome addition to your suitcase for your next trip. Impressive cushioning within the insoles of these shoes allows every step to feel like you're walking on a cloud (which is why travelers said they're perfect for walking 22,000 steps a day), while the lightweight construction ensures that they'll be easy to tuck into your suitcase. Plus, with a water-resistant faux leather exterior, the shoes won't leave you struggling if your feet get drenched in a summer shower. Boasting a slight boxy fit akin to the Nike Air Force 1's signature look, these platform sneakers are guaranteed to add an undeniable cool factor to any outfit they're paired with—from a silky maxi skirt to a flowy pair of linen pants. True to Dr. Scholl's form, these sneakers are highly supportive for everyday wear, according to shoppers, thanks to molded insoles that cradle your feet from the moment you try them on, and padded heels that keep these shoes from creating blisters or other discomfort. But even with their impressive padding, these shoes are still lightweight enough to travel with—and are versatile to boot. Slip-on shoes are one of the most convenient styles for travel days when you're in a hurry, and these simple yet elevated flat kicks are a supreme choice for wearing through TSA and on sightseeing days (just ask this traveler, who clocked 15,000 to 20,000 steps every day in them during their Europe trip), especially while they're on sale for 31 percent off. We're eyeing the sleek snake print option, but these shoes also come in 14 bold and neutral colors and patterns to add a burst of personality to your wardrobe. The linings of the shoes are even sustainably made with recycled bottles for an eco-friendly touch. Earning a resurgence in popularity after being worn by Sarah Jessica Parker's Sex and the City character Carrie Bradshaw on HBO Max's And Just Like That , these timeless slip-on sandals are a breath of fresh air as they marry style and comfort into one packable shoe. Now on sale for 25 percent off, these surprisingly supportive shoes are made with a modest 1.5-inch heel alongside a handy slip-on design that will allow you to rush out the door for a city stroll without a second thought. The flexible outsoles are lightweight and will never weigh you down, and to top it all off, they even offer hidden arch support. In their review, one Amazon buyer said, "You can walk for miles in them, and your feet feel good." Another breezy slip-on style, these top-rated sneakers have earned more than 1,800 five-star ratings from enamored shoppers, and you can get them for just $50 ahead of your summer travels. The padded collars at the back of each shoe remain comfortable from the moment you put them on, and stretchy panels on either side of the shoes make it easier than ever to slip them onto your feet and hit the road. Thanks to these supportive features, one reviewer was able to wear them for eight to 10 hours a day on their recent cruise, where they walked 20,000 steps daily. Plus, they come in 26 bold colors and patterns (from camo print to plain white), so you'll have no trouble matching every outfit packed into your suitcase. From hiking excursions to extensive walking tours, these sporty and functional sandals are a top-notch footwear selection for the warmer months, which is exactly why you'll want to snag them while they're on sale for just $50. 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Take it from this review: "After two days of 20,000 steps per day over 12 hours of walking and standing, these did great." Sitting at their lowest price ever, these walking-ready Dr. Scholl's Northern sneakers are a valuable asset for travelers thanks to their highly durable leather exterior, water-repellent nature, and overall secure-feeling fit. Padded heels ensure that these shoes are "very comfortable" straight from the box, while the neutral color options are simple enough to match the entirety of your travel wardrobe without exception. At just $30, these simple sneakers are a pair you'd be remiss not to add to your shopping cart ahead of your next vacation. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
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Everyone Will Be Wearing This Timeless Summer Print—and We Found 12 Stylish Picks, Starting at $30
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With a fully smocked bodice and puff sleeves, it strikes that sweet spot between romantic and structured. The lightweight linen blend keeps it breezy in the heat, while on-seam pockets add just the right amount of function. Style it with leather slides and round sunglasses for a warm-weather stroll through a seaside town. Maxi skirts are the unsung heroes of summer travel wardrobes—and this plaid version leans straight into the gingham trend with its breezy, layered silhouette. Pair it with a cropped tank and sneakers for daytime exploring, then swap in a button-up blouse and wedges for dinner outdoors. It's easy to pack, wrinkle-friendly, and made for movement. The structured shape and crew neckline of this vest offer a sophisticated yet chic look that pairs nicely with a flowy white skirt or black linen trousers. The matching buttons add a minimalist touch, allowing the vest to blend into an outfit while still making a statement. Wear it alone or layered under a cardigan or blazer—it's as versatile in Paris as it is at a backyard barbecue. These gingham beach pants are both laid-back and polished, ideal for a coastal escape. The sheer, naturally crinkled fabric is perfect for tossing in a suitcase, while the drawstring waistband ensures an easy, customizable fit. Pair them with a black bikini top and oversized button-down for beach days, or throw on a sleek tank and sandals for market mornings. This gingham midi dress delivers timeless appeal with a flattering fit-and-flare cut and 100 percent European linen that breathes beautifully in the heat. Adjustable straps allow for a personalized fit, and the classic print suits both city and countryside escapes. Dress it down with white sneakers and a straw tote, or add block heels and gold hoops for a sunset dinner. This dress channels a similar preppy-meets-playful energy that complements the gingham trend. 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Red gingham adds a pop of color to your summer rotation—and this apron-style top does it with polish. The side ties and slightly structured cut offer a tailored touch, whether worn with white jeans or linen trousers. Layer it over a swimsuit en route to the beach, or style it with gold earrings and espadrilles for a night out. Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.
Buzz Feed
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I Travel 100+ Days A Year. Here's What I Pack.
As a travel journalist, long flights and lack of personal space in economy is just part of the job. At 33, I've traveled to all seven continents from visiting penguin colonies in Antarctica to scuba diving in Fiji. Once I land, I need to hit the ground running, so I do everything I can to make the journey as smooth as possible. That means prepping for the chaos, controlling what I can, and packing smart. Here are the flight essentials I never travel without. Bose QuietComfort Headphones These Bose QuietComfort headphones might just be your lifesaver for your next 10 hour flight. The noise cancellation is top-tier (seriously, it's like flipping a switch on the outside world), and the plush earcups make them wearable from gate to gate without any pressure or pinching. Bonus: they last a full 24 hours on a charge and come with an old-school cord for when Bluetooth isn't an them from Amazon for $249 (available in eight colors). MZOO sleep eye mask This isn't your average flimsy airline freebie — it's an eye mask that actually works. Made with breathable memory foam and a contoured design, it gives your eyes space to blink and blocks out all the light without squishing your face. It stays put, doesn't pull your hair, and somehow feels like a tiny pillow for your face. Whether I'm trying to nap on a plane or reset after a weird hotel check-in time, this mask is a it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in eight styles). The Brevitē backpack Meet a lightweight, carry-on approved travel backpack that fits perfectly under the seat or over your suitcase handle. This isn't your average laptop bag — it holds up to a 16-inch MacBook Pro, has a passport pocket, and is extra spacious for my most precious cargo: camera gear. An added perk: It comes with a lifetime warranty!Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in eight colors). Crocs Once you fly in Crocs, there's no going back. These are my go-to shoes for long travel days: they're lightweight, breathable, ridiculously comfy, and slip off in a second at security. Bonus: they rinse off easily if you spill your coffee mid-flight. When I'm running late I convert them to 'sport mode,' utilizing the strap on the back to keep the shoes in place. Get them from Amazon for $37.94+ (available in women's sizes 4–19, men's sizes 2–17, and tons of colors). Hypervolt Go 2 massage device After long flights or cramped car rides, I use this compact massage gun on every trip. The Hypervolt Go 2 may be travel-sized (it weighs only 1.5 pounds), but it packs a serious punch when it comes to loosening tight shoulders, calves, or that weird spot in your back from sleeping uncomfortably on a plane. It's lightweight, portable and easy to pack into a backpack. Get it from Amazon for $139 (available in two colors). An 8-pack of Purell hand sanitizer Some bulk hand sanitizer might seem like an obvious choice for this list, but it absolutely cannot be skipped. I fly with a few — tucked into my pocket, backpack, and fanny pack. Purell's formula kills 99.99% of germs without wrecking your hands (it's free of harsh, drying ingredients like parabens and triclosan), and the adorably named 'jelly wrap' holder makes it easy to clip onto a bag for quick cleanups. Get an 8-pack from Amazon for $14.99. Cotopaxi's Bataan fanny pack This fanny pack is definitely an original – each one is handmade in the Philippines from repurposed materials, so no two are alike. I don't trust my loose pockets on a plane, so all of my valuables (wallet, passport) will be kept safely in my fanny pack. I wear mine crossbody for easy access in the airport and always get compliments. Get it from Amazon for $27. A YETI Rambler water bottle This is the water bottle that's survived every trip, tumble, and TSA bin I've put it through. The YETI bottle keeps water ice-cold for hours, and it's totally leakproof — so I never have to worry about it soaking the rest of my bag. It's hefty but easy to carry, and the wide mouth works great for easy refills. Hydration station, it from YETI for $32+ (available in three sizes and 148 colors). Ostrichpillow Go travel neck pillow I've tested more travel pillows than I care to admit, and the Ostrichpillow Go is the one I actually use. The high-density memory foam molds to your neck like it was custom-made, and the 360-degree ergonomic design means no more awkwa6rd head bobs or waking up with a crick in your neck. I used it on a 14-hour flight to South Africa and I slept eight hours. It compresses down small enough to stash in your bag, but still offers full it from Amazon for $63.64 (available in three colors). Away's 'bigger' carry-on This is the suitcase I take when I want to pack a little extra without checking a bag. This popular suitcase from Away fits in most US airlines' overhead bins, but gives you more space thanks to its interior compression system. It's sleek, durable, and glides through airports smoothly. I've brought mine to more than 10 different countries and it still feels brand new. Get it from Away Travel for $295 (available in 10 colors). An Apple iPad Sadly, more and more new aircrafts are dropping their built-in televisions, so my iPad has become my in-flight entertainment center. Before the flight, I download all of my movies and shows so I have hours worth of mindless content to consume from 35,000 feet in the air. It's lightweight but powerful, with enough battery to last from wheels up to touchdown and then some. Get it from Amazon for $299+ (available in two three storage sizes and four colors). TheraFace depuffing wand This little wand has become my secret weapon for looking decent after a red-eye. The device chills in seconds to zap under-eye puffiness, then switches to heat to boost circulation. I use it mid-flight, post-flight, or even just when I'm feeling a little dull — it's like giving your face a reset button. I always have it in my fanny pack onboard and it instantly makes me feel fresh again after sitting in my seat for hours. Get it from Amazon for $169.99 (available in two colors).
