SHOP
Travel essentials
Shop my favorite travel gear.
Everything listed here has been personally tried & tested. If I don’t love it and use it, it’s not on this list.
The listings below offer affiliate links to the products I love.
At no cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase. Thanks for your support!
You’ll quickly be able to tell with these recommendations that I lean towards function. For clothing I favor quick dry materials that can be washed in a sink and will dry quickly. Materials that pack small and regulate temperature–hello merino wool–and functional pockets, especially the zippered and hidden kind. Shoes will be comfortable above all else; then I look to style and weight. Gear should hold up to abuse from cobblestones and other “natural disasters” encountered while traveling. Comfort and safety are also key when traveling, so you’ll find my favorite pillow (yes, I’m one of those people who knows my limitations when it comes to sleep requirements and travels with a pillow), as well as gear to keep you safe from intruders to your room or pickpockets on the street. Happy shopping!
Clothing
Lightweight Merino Top
100% merino wool v-neck top from ethical farms in Australia and New Zealand. Soft, no-itch, temperature-regulating, breathable, lightweight, and odor-resistant (for less washing needed on the road!), And did I mention stylish?
Ankle Socks
Breathable and odor-blocking, these merino ankle socks can be worn day-after-day without washing and won’t stink.
Ultra-soft, excellent insulation, unparalleled breathability, moisture-wicking &
quick-drying.
Fleece-lined Leggings
My winter go-to when at home or traveling. High waisted, fleece lined for warmth, water resistant to keep you dry in a snowstorm, and two side pockets & a rear zippered pocket for easy access to phones, keys, etc.
Base Layer Turtleneck
This base layer top regulates your core body heat, is silky smooth, moisture-wicking and lightweight. 100% silk. Machine wash.
Hidden Pocket Dress
This Scottevest LBD is a traveler’s dream—with two hand pockets and a few more hidden zippered pockets along the seams. Short-sleeved, above-knee with a bit of flare, this dress will take you everywhere. Oh, and it comes in colors other than black, too!
Long-sleeve Top
100% natural washable mulberry knit silk top is super soft, lightweight, absorbent and breathable, keeping you comfortable at all times. It packs down small and dries quickly after washing.
Slip Shorts
Wearing a dress in the summer? These lightweight wicking slip shorts give a bit of protection from wind while also keeping chafing at bay. And they’ve got pockets to hide your phone, keys, or wallet under your skirt! In 3 colors.
Merino Top
This long-sleeve 100% extra-fine Australian merino wool top is great in any season, helping to regulate temperature to keep you cool when warm and warm when cold. Packs light. Hand wash and quick drying. I love the versatile v-neck! Multiple colors.
The Perfect Pants
I like stretch and flexibility (and pockets!) but don’t want to give up style. These PGA TOUR pull-on pants with tummy control are a slim fitting straight leg that allows for movement, but looks tailored for a nice dinner out. They wash and dry in a flash too. Multiple colors. Sizes XS-5x
Trench Jacket
Stand out in a sea of black in this stylish waterproof trench, whenever London is calling–or any other rain-prone destination. Wear it belted or loose; the hood is also removable. Also available in black and other fun colors.
Hidden Pockets Vest
This ScotteVest piece is a fantastic way to keep hands free and pack a bit more without crowding your bag. With 24 hidden pockets, you can carry everything, including your tablet (just take it off to go through TSA). lightweight and breathable for all-day comfort. Water-repellant too!
Merino Layering Tank
100% Superfine 17.5 micron merino wool tank top provides all-day comfort with no itch or odor! Wear alone or layered. Hand wash and quick dry. Multiple colors.
Versatile Shorts
These water-repellant, breathable, and quick-drying shorts have a 7“ inseam and lots of zippered pockets (cargo pocket, 2 front and 1 back pocket). Available in sizes S-3x in multiple colors. Functionality and style. You can even swim in them!
Hiking Rain Jacket
100% Waterproof, lightweight and packable, these running jackets have a breathable fabric and a ventilation system in the back help keep you cool and dry, and they have 5 pockets: one back pocket, two hand pockets with zippers, and two inner pockets. Multiple colors.
Matched Set
Matched sets are all the rage on flights these days. This set is a cozy 50% rayon, 45% polyester, and 5% spandex blend with a half-zip top and drawstring pants. Multiple colors are available.
Down Coat
This Eddie Bauer down parka provides ultra lightweight comfort and easy packability in a length to keep your bum warm. The unmatched warmth of 650-fill premium down insulation with a water-repellant poly shell will keep you warm and dry. Two zip pockets for security. Multiple colors.
Footwear
Hiking Boots
LuftCore technology embeds a light, air-injected core into high-density foam for comfort that lasts all day; a notch in the back of the ankle collar gives Achilles’ comfort. Waterproof. Breathable. Excellent traction and ankle support. Perfect.
Hiking Sneaker
More than a sneaker, but less than a hiking boot. When hiking, you never know what you’ll encounter, so I like to have solid, waterproof hiking shoes that will grip the earth (and rocks) and keep my feet well-supported, comfortable, and dry all day.
Hiking Sandals
These closed-toe sneaker-sandals are my go to for so many reasons! Quick dry mesh lining, machine washable, open vent sides, shock absorbing heel, arch support, great traction, stability, and a highly adjustable fit.
Go-to Sandals
Durable and versatile, Havaianas go from the pool to the beach to the shower with ease. And they make good slippers for hotels or airplanes too. Lightweight and waterproof with slip-resistant soles; available in a wide range of colors.
VIVAIA Flats
Vivaia lightweight Pointed-toe ballet flats. Woven for breathability, washable, and quite comfortable for all-day wear with heel rebound, arch, and forefoot support and heel cushion for added comfort. Multiple colors.
Sorel Snow Boot
Sorel waterproof Tivoli boots are perfect when trekking through snow, or strolling the holiday markets in December. The molded rubber outsole is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and provide stability, keeping your feet warm and dry.
MBT Walking Sneakers
Rocker-bottom MBT sneakers will have you walking on clouds all day. The unique and functional part is the pivot axis underneath the midsole, which promotes active rolling movement with every step. The EVA foam material provides great shock absorption. Multiple colors.
VIVAIA Ankle Boots
Waterproof stretch woven material, enhanced arch support, and a stable 2.5-inch block heel make this boot the most versatile for work or play, whether worn with pants, dresses, or skirts. An extra roomy toe and pressure-reducing honeycomb cushioning insole with activated carbon make them super-comfy all day.
Accessories
Cashmere Scarf/Wrap
This featherlight cashmere wrap is perfect for chilly flights and breezy days. High-quality pure cashmere is soft, comfortable, light, and breathable. It packs small and is warmer than it looks! Multiple colors. 35.5x78in.
Sun Hat
Solid sun protection is important. This cute hat has a wide brim, neck flap (that can be worn up or down), and a ponytail hole. It’s also rollable for easy packing and has UPF 50+ protection. Multiple colors.
Zippered Scrunchie
This unassuming scrunchie has a secret–a hidden zipper–so you can put some spare money, key, or other small valuables (even an airtag/tile for kids), and then just wear your hair up in a ponytail and no one will know about your hidden stash.
Floating Sunglasses
Enjoy days on the water with floatable frames and polarized, saltwater-resistant lenses. Perfect for fishing, boating, surfing, paddle-boarding and life under the sun while never fearing that your sunglasses will sink to the bottom of the ocean.
Luggage & Packing Gear
Soft Side Carry-On
I know the hard-side clamshell bags are all the rage, but my Travelpro bag with spinner wheels is lightweight and has all the pockets I love. This one is the compact 20″ version to fit international regulations. Multiple colors are available.
Grocery/Shopping Tote
I’m including this tote as I absolutely LOVE it. Incredibly lightweight yet super-strong fabric bag compresses into a mini carrying pouch that’s half the size of a standard credit card. Carry the bag by handles, toss it over your shoulder, or go full crossbody.
Bagsmart 4-in-1 Bag
This carry-on can convert from a duffle to backpack to crossbody. When you’re not using the backpack straps, they can be neatly hidden away for a streamlined appearance. Water-resistant fabric. 30L inner section and good outer organizing pockets.
Hard Shell Spinner
Amazon Best Seller.
I ended up with this bag as a gift and it’s much better than I expected! Smooth wheels, durable zipper, and good interior organization have earned it a spot on some recent trips. Multiple colors, solid performance, and a nice low price earned it my recommendation here.
Convertible Backpack
My favorite bag, traveling or not, has become this 3-in-1 Convertible Backpack. At 15×12 it holds a laptop, but is lightweight and goes from cute handbag, to cross-body to backpack in a flash. It even comes with an RFID wristlet. Multiple colors.
Sling Bag
I’ve gotten into the sling craze lately–and this one is organized nicely for all my needs, including an easy-access front pocket for a phone or a water bottle.
Anti-theft Backpack
This Travelon anti-theft classic backpack, at 12 x 18.5 x 6.5 makes for an under seat personal item. Locking compartments, slash-resistant body, and straps keep things safe. Air mesh back panel and backpack straps for comfort.
Narrow Packing Cubes
Eagle Creek Pack-It Slim are made of durable, ultra-light and water-resistant ripstop fabric, and are designed to fit in tight spaces–like that area between the bars in a roller bag–so no space is wasted.
Compression Cubes
Amazon Best Seller.
Pack more in less space and stay organized with compression cubes. These are made of ultralight yet durable nylon with see-through mesh so you can easily peek at what is inside each one. Set of 6.
Luggage Strap
This set of 4 adjustable nylon luggage straps is enough to keep all your luggage safe and sound during long-distance travel, because now and then zippers break on even the best bags. The bright orange is easy to find on a baggage carousel too. Multiple colors available.
Personal Care Items
Sunscreen Powder
This mineral powder sunscreen brush offers SPF 30 protection in an easy-to-apply powder you can carry easily. Fantastic for face and scalp protection.
Non-gritty, translucent formula. Can be used under makeup as a face primer, over makeup as a finishing step, or on its own.
Mini Curling Iron
At just over 5″ long this Conair mini curling iron is a fantastic find. 1″ ceramic barrel heats up in 30 seconds. Dual voltage works worldwide.
Refillable Toiletry Pouches
Transparent and leakproof. This kit contains 16 pieces that can be easily filled with your favorite toiletries. Great pouch design avoids leaks but you can squeeze out every last drop for less waste. Everything packs into a clear TSA-approved case.
Quick Dry Towels
This set of 3 quick-drying microfiber towels (50″x30″, 30″x15″, and 15″x15″) are great for the beach, a stay at a hostel, or as an extra towel whenever needed. Multiple colors available.
On-Board Essentials
Here are all the things to make a long-haul flight more enjoyable. Don’t forget to bring the wrap from the accessories section above and a book from the travel reading section below on-board too.
Bluetooth Audio Transmitter
The AirFly Bluetooth wireless audio transmitter plugs in to the audio port to allow you to listen to the on-board media with your own AirPods or wireless earbuds or headphones. Use with any 3.5 mm audio jack.
Phone Holder
Not every plane (or other transport) comes with a way to mount a phone for easy viewing. This universal handsfree phone mount has 360-degree rotation and can be positioned standing, hanging, bracketed–you name it–for optimal viewing.
Travel Pillow & Case
This travel-size pillow is made of shredded foam that sleeps cool, doesn’t bunch up and can be adjusted from firm to soft just by removing some foam. Keep it clean on the road with an organic cotton case in multiple colors.
Earbuds
JLab Go Air Tones+ earbuds offer 32+ hours of Bluetooth playtime with small earbuds that blend in with your skin color. Available in multiple skin tones. USB plug on case for charging.
Eye Mask
Why is this eye mask so great? It’s soft, gives complete light blocking, and doesn’t put any pressure on your eyelids (so no disturbing your REM sleep).
Mini Fan
We’ve all been stuck on a flight, train, or taxi with no circulating air, or out in the heat of day. In those cases, this mini USB chargeable fan is a lifesaver. Runs for over 12 hours on a charge so you can use it bedside for a bit of breeze when sleeping too.
Headphones
Beats Studio 3 over the ear headphones play the sound you want and block the rest. Wireless/Bluetooth compatible with Apple & Android. Up to 22 hours of listening time. And they fold up nicely for packing.
Inflatable Pillow Wedge
this may look odd, but inflate it, put it on the tray table, rest your head on top and put your arms through the holes and you’re in a natural forward sleeping position. For those who don’t sleep well sitting up, this is a dream. When not sleeping, use it as a foot rest on the flight.
Insulated Water Bottle
This bottle has gone with me around the world and back a few times, and while mine has a few dents it still keeps cold stuff cold and hot stuff hot for hours. And the lock keeps it from leaking. Multiple colors.
On-board Stuff Case
This may look like a toiletry case (as it is), but I use it to hold my in-flight stuff to avoid using the super-dirty seatback pockets. It holds earbuds, tech cords, moisturizer, lip balm, toothpaste/brush, comb, and even snacks–and hangs easily from the seat back. Easily wipe down to clean the poly fabric.
Hand & Face Moisture
La Roche-Posay Triple Repair Moisturizing Cream Face & Body is my go-to lotion for keeping my face, hands, and neck moisturized while on a long flight so I arrive looking and feeling fresh. Made with shea butter & niacinamide. Fragrance free.
Compression Socks
No long-haul flight outfit is complete without compression socks to prevent DVT while stuck in a chair for hours. These fun colored socks have15-20 mmHg compression, to help promote circulation and reduce discomfort.
Tech Gear
Whether you’re a digital nomad or not, there’s a certain amount of tech we all seem to take with us on the road. Here are some of the things that keep my work (and play) running smoothly.
Laptop Stand
Call me crazy, but I like to be at eye-level with folks during Zoom calls, and also like to work with a separate keyboard. This riser is sturdy and wide enough to hold laptops from 10″ up to 17.3″. Light and foldable to fit easily in my tech bag.
Power Bank
This back-up charger’s 1/2-inch body breaks the limit of 10,000mAh power banks.
Get more than 2 full charges for your phone or other devices.
I love the light-up paw print that tells me how much charge it has left. Multiple colors.
Apple Air Tag
Amazon Best Seller.
Keep track of and find your items in the Find My app. Put a tag in your checked bag, day pack, in your rental car, with your keys, etc.
Adaptor Plug
Amazon Best Seller.
All-in-one international power adapter for over 150 countries. Charge up to 6 devices simultaneously at high speed with 4 USB-A ports, 1 USB-C port, and 1 AC socket.
Tech Case
Two sides of pouches to keep your cords, chargers, mouse, back-up drives and power banks all contained. It’s like an office on the go. 7.5″ x 4.3″ x 2.2″ when fully loaded. Waterproof. Available in multiple colors.
Miscellaneous Great Stuff
Here’s some more great stuff I have found useful–but maybe not needed for every trip.
Travel Clothesline
I like to pack light and wash/dry my clothes for multiple wears. This line is looped so it does not need clothespins and hooks 6-12 feet across a bathtub, room, or balcony (or trees if camping).
Lifestraw Filter
Amazon Best Seller.
This straw can filter over 1000 gallons of water, removing microplastics, bacteria (including E. Coli & salmonella) and parasites (including giardia & cryptosporidium)
Luggage Scale
International travelers know the strictness of weight restrictions these days. Best to know the weight of your gear before you get to the airport! This easy-to-use lightweight digital scale gives measurements in pounds and kg.
Combo Cable Lock
While these are TSA approved, the more likely use is keeping your gear secure when on a train/bus (when you may fall asleep), or in a hostel or shared space. The three cables connect multiple pieces to one lock. Program your own 3-digit code.
Valet Trays
Keep your room key, glasses, loose change and lip balm in one place, and avoid them rolling off the dresser and into that dreaded “under the bed” space with these pack-flat, fold-up leather trays. A nice-to-have that makes travel feel like home.
Door Lock
For an extra dose of security, slide this into your door lock. This portable door lock provides security by preventing unauthorized entry–the door can’t be opened from the outside, not even with a key. Can be easily installed in seconds without any tools.
Walk All Day Insoles
Give every pair of your shoes the comfort of Vionic arch support and cushioning. With these insoles in place I can walk for hours without pain or fatigue.
Water-proof Case
Keep the sand and water off your phone and other gadgets with this extra-large case. .Three-layer lock-down technology ensures certified IPX8 waterproofing. Smooth touch screen operation so you can keep scrolling on.
Insulated Bottle with Straw
Double-insulated, leakproof bottle with straw for cold liquids. Designed for either upright sipping through the built-in straw or tilting back to swig from the spout opening. 24 oz. Multiple colors.
Ring Video Doorbell
Keep track of things at home while you are away with the Ring. See, hear, and speak to anyone at your door from your phone, tablet, or PC. Receive mobile notifications when anyone presses your doorbell or triggers your built-in motion sensors.
Mini Massage Gun
This deep-tissue travel-sized massage gun will be your best friend after a day of climbing stairs or mountains. This tool gives high-quality muscle treatment with unparalleled portability for quick relief and relaxation that fits conveniently in your carry-on or backpack.
Traveling with Dogs
Anyone who has read my Instagram posts or blogs knows that my solo travels are often accompanied by one or more of my dogs. Here is some of the gear that keeps them (and me) happy on the road.
Dog Backpack
Sometimes you need to go inside a shop or public bathroom when you’re on a road trip. No need to leave your pup behind when you can keep her on your body like a baby in this backpack. Leg openings, a padded bottom, vented sides, and a cinched neck keep her safe and comfortable.
Airplane Carrier
Dogs are permitted onboard in a TSA-approved carrier (like this expandable backpack). Check with your airline for other restrictions like the number of dogs per cabin allowed per flight. This expandable carrier holds pets up to 18 pounds.
Pup Passport
While my dogs don’t have actual passports, I do keep all their medical records, vaccination histories, and licenses in this case to have ready for when we take a trip.
Chew-proof Leash
This braided, 6-foot-long dog leash is made from a coated steel-braided cable, creating a chew-proof leash that even the most aggressive chewers and teething puppies can’t break through. It also doesn’t tangle. Soft grip handle.
Travel Reading
The following are great books that bring places to life–perfect for reading when you’re traveling, planning a trip, or just dreaming about far-away places. I’ll keep adding to this reading list, so check back again soon. 🙂
Joyful Journey
Guided Travel Journal
…
Let the evocative prompts enrich your storytelling as you capture the moments from your trip in this illustrated journal.
Women in Sunlight
by Frances Mayes
When three older women become friends when touring a retirement community, they decide instead to rent a house together in Tuscany. Though novices in a foreign culture, their renewed sense of adventure imbues each of them with a bright sense of bravery, a gusto for life, and a fierce determination to thrive.
Map of Knowledge
by Violet Moller
After the fall of Rome, as civilizations collapsed and libraries burned, ancient knowledge that would eventually fuel the Renaissance was at risk of being lost. This thrilling history tracks three crucial books as they were passed hand to hand through seven cities during a perilous thousand-year journey of survival.
Shantaram
by Gregory David Roberts
The reader is thrown into the vibrancy of Bombay, a polymorphous city of luxury quarters and adjacent slums; a city filled with constant motion, sounds, shapes, colors, mixtures of buildings; a multi-textured, multi-layered and multi-sensory delight.
Leopold’s is the meeting point; a multicultural hub, a melting pot of legal and illegal activities; of people eating, drinking, talking, laughing, as well as “wheeling and dealing”. Settle in for a long and winding adventure.
A Walk in the Woods
by Bill Bryson
The Appalachian Trail trail stretches from Georgia to Maine and covers some of the most breathtaking terrain in America–majestic mountains, silent forests, sparking lakes. If you’re going to take a hike, it’s probably the place to go. And Bill Bryson is surely the most entertaining guide you’ll find.
The Henna Artist
by Alka Joshi
Seventeen-year-old Lakshmi makes her way alone to the vibrant 1950s pink city of Jaipur. There she becomes the most highly requested henna artist—and confidante—to the wealthy women of the upper class. But trusted with the secrets of the wealthy, she can never reveal her own… (Part 1 of a trilogy)
The Alchemist
by Paulo Coelho
The mystical story of Santiago, an Andalusian shepherd boy who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure. His quest will lead him to riches far different—and far more satisfying—than he ever imagined.
The Travelling Ape: What Travelling (Nearly) Everywhere Taught Me about Humanity, Geopolitics, and Happiness
by Michael MacKay Richards
A journey infused with sharp insights and equally entertaining anecdotes of personal humiliation, from when travel goes wrong. From the streets of Pyongyang and street food in Bangkok, to silent meditation retreats in India, to a ride on an abandoned roller coaster in Iraq for some reason, no stone is left unturned on this epic (and sometimes weird) global odyssey.