Most of us love to travel and what we choose bring with us matters more than ever. Not just because of the ever changing luggage restrictions and carry on fees (ugh), but for me, I also want to make sure every item has a purpose and suits my lifestyle. With an eye on design and function, I’m constantly amazed at how the two are merging in many ways. Whether you’re heading out on a business trip or for a much needed vacay, here are a few of my favourite travel essentials with meaning and purpose!Â
DESIGN AND FUNCTIONALITY:
LOJEL: is a Japanese brand known for their durable, and user-focused carry on totes and bags. They are also known for being intentional and ethical in their design and in their business practice. The line is popular amongst world travellers who value utility and sustainability without sacrificing timeless and modern style. This Niru 48-hour Weekender bag is a personal favourite for its capacity to carry many items for a weekend getaway. Features durable fabric that can squish into most carry-on measurements – we’ve taken it already on two North American flights and have used it also for a weekend getaway. The material is made of recycled crinkle nylon fabric and is stain-repellent. The long cross body strap in addition to the handles offer flexibility to carry the way I want. The added strap on one side makes it easy to slide onto regular luggage handle for ease and added security. Personalization makes it even more fun. Add on the Niru City Sling bag to streamline your design and look. This lightweight crossbody everyday bag carries more than I first thought. with its expandable base. LOJEL recently opened their first North American flagship store in Vancouver and like their shops in other countries, the location design reflects the community they are in.
Maverick & Co: when details matter! Forbes named the Manhattan Leather Briefcase the most stylish in 2024 and we’re not surprised! The soft briefcase has many fine details for the most discerning. The beautiful exterior Saffiano leather is water and scratch resistant. The bold interior lining offers a stylish contrast (4 colour options). There are functional and well thought out interior pockets for a laptop, phone, pens and cards. The main compartment has a two-way zip. A detachable strap offers options for carrying preferences. Stylish for both women and men.
Monos: Our team crushed hard over the brand’s recent collaboration with Julie Sariñana of Sincerely Jules. Not only are the designs sleek and stylish but they’re built in the name of effortless travel. The Hybrid Carry-on is crafted from a resilient mix of aluminum and lightweight polycarbonate. It also navigate with ease with a telescopic handle, and ultra-quiet wheels.
MUJI Packing Cubes: have been my go-to to keep everything neatly organized. I’ll pack my underthings, swimwear, yoga wear and other items into each individual soft cube into my luggage and then transfer the cube right into drawers at hotels. Their line of lightweight and versatile luggage and carry ons are also swoon worthy.
Tapper AirPods Straps: learning the hard way…I wore my brand new AirPod Pros on the plane and fell asleep. One got lost into the abyss somehow slipping in between metal pieces and could not be retrieved. Even the flight attendant felt bad for the loss and called in mechanics to try and retrieve it. Apparently this happens all the time. While most people can retrieve theirs, I had the rare case that it fell where it couldn’t be reached. I found these Tapper brand straps that help to keep AirPods from accidentally falling out and disappearing. Comes in a variety of materials, colours and price points.
TRAVEL WELL:
Vessi Shoes: are made for us to get outside no matter what the terrain. I’ve also adapted the mentality of “it’s just water” when it rains and if you’ve planned to bring the right gear, there’s no reason to press pause. Vessi has proven to be a reliable shoe that’s lightweight and comfortable for my travel journeys from exploring the city to the vast awe-inspiring Grand Canyon.
Philips Sonicare Cordless Power Flosser 3000 Series: This new versatile and portable flosser makes flossing effortless and we have no more excuses to take care of our oral health on the go. My hygienist highly recommended Sonicare and now I have no more excuses to flossing! This compact power flosser removes up to 99% of plaque and comes with a standard nozzle for power cleaning. It also includes a Quad Stream nozzle for throughout and gentle cleaning for those with more sensitive gums and teeth. There are three intensity settings and like my countertop version, it offers clean and deep clean modes. The reservoir conveniently offers enough space to hold water for one full clean. This model has a 14-day battery life and a power adapter and USB power cord. No excuses!
Stimmie: the world’s first reusable toothpick is not only functional but has design in mind. Toronto-based hygienist Steph Nightingale recognized the need for easy health and wellness products that would fit their daily, busy lives. Stimmie has a unique rubber tip to safely and effectively get rid of food from between teeth, remove plaque from under the gums, and stimulate gum tissue, helping to reduce the risk of gum disease and make for happier, healthier, hotter smiles. Each Stimmie also has a sleek ventilated cap that allows for breathability, while keeping the tip clean in your pocket or bag on the go.
Blume SuperBelly: Travelling whether it’s a few days away or more can mess with our gut health. It’s important to not only stay hydrated but to keep our gut health in check. I love Blume’s SuperBelly packed with a blend of probiotics, prebiotics and apple cider vinegar. It’s helped with bloating too. The individually portioned pockets making it easy to mix into water everyday and on the go. And the flavours taste so good! Learn more about the importance of keeping a healthy gut here.
Sephora Supplement Case: We’ve entered our multi-vitamin daily supplement era and this compact case is both useful with three built-in compartments. Ideal size to take our dailies (hello, Vitamin D, Magnesium, and B12!) on the go. And, well, I think it’s pretty.
