Travel should feel like a vibe, not a hassle. Whether you’re hopping on a plane for a dreamy beach escape or heading out for a weekend girls’ trip, the right travel essentials can make or break your experience.
I’m talking about items that don’t just work — they elevate. Things that calm your nerves, keep you feeling in control, and (of course) have you looking fabulous while breezing through TSA.
So grab your matcha, put your packing list on pause, and let’s dive into my favorite travel essentials that bring me peace, power, and style — every time I zip up that carry-on.
✨ 1. The Ultimate Power Tote That Means Business
You can look chic and be organized — don’t let anyone tell you different.
My go-to is the Béis Work Tote. It’s structured, sleek, and fits your laptop, passport, mini pouch, and an emergency snack without bulging awkwardly. The built-in laptop sleeve and zippered compartments scream I’m in control, even if your boarding gate changes three times.
“A smart travel bag is about more than storage — it’s about feeling prepared and empowered,” says Danielle Copperman, wellness expert and frequent flyer. “It reduces cognitive stress and helps you move with ease.”
👜 Runner-Up: TUMI Voyageur collection for serious boss energy.
🧘🏽♀️ 2. Aromatherapy On-the-Go: Calm in a Rollerball
There’s something about travel that tries to hijack your nervous system — long lines, dry cabin air, loud seat neighbors.
Enter: Vitruvi’s “Quiet” Roll-On Oil.
With lavender, frankincense, and geranium, it’s basically zen in your carry-on. I apply it behind my ears and on my wrists pre-boarding and post-baggage claim. It helps anchor my energy, especially during turbulence (both literal and emotional).
“Scents have a powerful way of signaling the brain to regulate itself,” says Dr. Marlynn Wei, holistic psychiatrist and yoga teacher. “Using a calming oil in stressful moments is a proven grounding strategy.”
🛫 Travel Tip: Keep it under 100ml so it passes TSA with zero drama.
💄 3. Multipurpose Beauty That Packs a Punch
When you’re bouncing between climates or hopping off red-eyes straight into photos, you need beauty products that work overtime.
I never travel without Ilia’s Multi-Stick in “At Last” — blush, lip color, and a quick eyelid wash in one. Clean, glowy, no brushes needed.
Also in my glam arsenal:
- Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask (because planes dry your face like a raisin)
- Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask (yes, even while awake)
- Mini perfume like Glossier You or Maison Margiela’s “Lazy Sunday Morning”
“Travel skincare isn’t about the full 12-step routine — it’s about keeping the essentials that help your skin recover and glow,” says skin coach Renée Rouleau.
💋 Packing Tip: Keep your beauty pouch lightweight with multi-taskers and minis.
☕ 4. A Ritual That Grounds You (Even in Gate A22 Chaos)
Travel disrupts routine — which can throw your mind and body off-balance. So I always bring one thing that feels ritualistic and grounding.
For me, it’s my Four Sigmatic Mushroom Coffee Packets. A quick pour into hot water and boom — I’ve got adaptogens in my bloodstream and sanity back in my soul.
Some friends pack:
- A travel-size journal
- Tarot or affirmation cards
- A mini candle or Palo Santo stick (just don’t light it on the plane, girl)
✨ The Vibe: Bring something that reminds you you’re still you, even 30,000 feet up.
💤 5. Noise-Canceling Headphones — for Peace AND Petty Reasons
Because you’re not listening to the seatmate talk about their ex’s crypto losses for 3 hours.
I swear by the Sony WH-1000XM5 — buttery sound, sleek design, and the ability to block out babies, engines, and bad decisions.
“Noise pollution is a real stressor,” notes Dr. Susan Ziegler, a psychologist specializing in sensory wellness. “Noise-canceling devices can prevent overwhelm and sensory fatigue.”
🎧 Alt Vibe: If you’re more minimalist, the Loop Quiet Earplugs are surprisingly stylish and effective.
👟 6. Stylish Slip-On Shoes That Don’t Fight TSA
Repeat after me: You don’t need to sacrifice style for comfort.
I travel in Allbirds Tree Loungers or Rothy’s sneakers — breathable, comfy, and still cute with joggers or jeans. Perfect for airport sprints and hotel lobby selfies.
Bonus: they’re machine-washable. Which, trust me, will matter after that cobblestone Eurotrip.
✈️ Final Thoughts: Your Travel Essentials = Your Travel Energy
Packing shouldn’t just be practical — it should be intentional. When you choose items that ground you, elevate you, and express your style, travel becomes a whole new experience.
You walk into new cities feeling like the main character, not the overwhelmed sidekick. You move with confidence. You exude peace, power, and style.
So next time you’re packing, ask yourself: Does this make me feel like my best self on-the-go?
If not, leave it behind.
✨ What’s in Your Carry-On?
Tell me in the comments: what’s one travel essential you can’t live without?
Let’s share the glow-up together 💼💅🏽
