What I Travel With

For me, travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s also about getting there. I vividly remember receiving my suitcase as a Christmas gift almost four years ago and feeling like it was such an upgrade from the dingy suitcase I’d been carting around for years (you know the one — fabric, some odd color, zippers that don’t work, and you have to drag it behind you.) It’s amazing how much a suitcase or duffle can elevate your travel experience; being equipped with the proper tools makes the getting there just a little easier.

My luggage:

• Delsey 21 inch Hardside Spinner

• Target faux leather weekender (similar here and here)

• On my wishlist is the Calpak Hue Duffle and Delsey 28 inch Hardside Spinner

Most major airlines allow one piece of luggage and one personal item. I’m a big proponent of carrying on whenever possible — domestic and international. The rules start to get a little murky when you wade into the world of budget airlines, but I’ve gotten away with the above combination on Scoot Airline. (I’m too worried to try and carry on my roller suitcase with Ryanair so I usually check it and carry the weekender.)

The Delsey hardshell suitcase is similar to Away luggage in a lot of ways (hardside, spinner wheels) and I’m a sucker for the brown leather details. I honestly can’t think of anything I’d change about it, I’ve logged a lot of miles with this baby and packed it to the seams (including 10 days in Asia with only the luggage combo above). I use a magic eraser to keep it (mostly) clean, but let’s face it you don’t buy white luggage for its stain and dirt resistance. You buy it so some day an impeccably dressed gentleman in an airport lounge will compliment you on it and even take a photo so he doesn’t forget.

My luggage accessories

• J pillow — I swear by this pillow for getting shuteye during an overnight flight in a window seat. It fits perfectly around your head and neck allowing you to snuggle up against the window while keeping your chin cradled.

• Luggage hat clip — It’s not a completely perfect solution (once or twice my hat will fall out of the magnetic clip), but it certainly does make traveling with a hat easier and hands free. Especially if you bring one hat…then end up buying a second one.

• Passport case — I’m obsessed with Estella Bartlett’s travel accessories, I can’t seem to find my specific case but this one is too cute. I love her fun phrases and the dedicated space to hold documents.