Travel Light, Travel Right

8 Essential Packing Tips You Need

Cherice: As someone who practically lives out of a suitcase, I’ve learned the hard way that smart packing isn’t optional—it’s essential. Between frequent work trips and spontaneous getaways, I’m on a plane at least three times a month. From tropical beaches to snowy cities, I often face multiple climates in one week. That’s why I’ve created a foolproof system for staying travel-ready at all times. With the right travel essentials in my bag—from space-saving luggage to TSA-approved toiletries—I can just swap out outfits and hit the road.

Lehna: My travel schedule is anything but routine. From last-minute business trips to multi-city vacations, I’m constantly switching gears. That means packing for unpredictable weather, dressy events, and skincare on the go—all without overpacking. After years of trial and error, I’ve found the best travel gear, must-have organizers, and compact beauty products that actually work. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just prepping for your next getaway, my tried-and-true packing strategy will help you travel lighter and smarter—every single time.

---

Our Top 6 Travel Essentials

1. The Foundation: Luggage

   Cherice: Your luggage should say as much about you as your outfit does. I see luggage as an extension of personal style—part fashion statement, part functional must-have. That’s why I swear by sleek, minimalist suitcases that turn heads and hold up to frequent travel. Lately, I’ve been obsessed with Monos—it’s durable, stylish, and I get compliments at almost every airport. If you’re looking for a suitcase that balances aesthetics with performance, this one’s it.

   
   

   Lehna: I’m team carry-on all the way—no checked bags, no baggage claim drama. For years, I struggled to fit everything I needed in a single bag… until I discovered the Carry-On Closet,. It’s not just luggage—it’s a literal closet on wheels, with built-in shelving that keeps everything organized. Packing cubes? Optional. This carry-on keeps my clothes wrinkle-free and my essentials easy to reach. Whether you're heading on a weekend getaway or an international trip, this bag is a total game-changer.

2. Pack a Protein Bar

Cherice: Travel delays are inevitable, and airport food is rarely worth the price (or the bloat). That’s why I always pack a high-protein travel snack I actually enjoy. Lately, I’ve been loving Stars and Honey protein bars—they taste like dessert but are loaded with clean ingredients and the nutrients I need to stay fueled on the go. With fun flavors and real energy, it’s the one travel-friendly snack I never leave home without.

Lehna: I’ll be honest—I hate the typical chalky taste of most protein bars. But when you’re constantly on the move like I am, you need something quick, satisfying, and healthy. Enter Barebells Protein Bars. These taste more like candy than a protein supplement (no weird aftertaste!), and they’re packed with fuel that actually keeps me full. My go-to flavor? Cookies & Caramel. It lives in my carry-on, my purse, and my car—because it’s that good.

3. Ready for Whatever Make Up Bag

   Cherice: When you’re traveling, looking fresh on the fly isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether I’m heading to a meeting straight from the airport or running into someone unexpectedly, I rely on a spill-proof, travel makeup bag to stay photo-ready. My favorite is the Parallelle—it’s compact, chic, and comes in multiple sizes to fit just what you need. I keep a few versatile brushes, natural face makeup, and mini essentials inside so I can touch up anytime—whether it’s in an airport lounge or the backseat of an Uber.

   
   

   Lehna: I used to dread packing toiletries—leaky bottles, wasted space, and digging through a cluttered pouch was the norm. Then I found a toiletry bag that changed everything. It’s compact enough to fit in my carry-on but has so much room inside. The built-in compartments keep everything organized, and the hanging design is a lifesaver in small hotel bathrooms or tiny Airbnb sinks. No more digging, no more spills—just stress-free travel beauty.

   
   

4. Dual-Purpose Laptop Bag

   Cherice: A good travel laptop bag should be more than just functional—it should elevate your whole travel look. I need mine to double as a stylish duffel that fits everything from a spare pair of shoes to my go-to makeup essentials. It should work seamlessly with my carry-on or stand alone as a sleek personal item. That’s why I love Monos —it nails the aesthetic, matches my luggage perfectly, and doesn’t wreck my shoulders on long travel days.

   
   

   Lehna: I loved the look of a BÉIS work bag, but it wasn’t in the budget when I needed it most. So I did my homework and found this bag, an affordable BÉIS dupe, that’s just as sleek and even more functional. This bag fits my laptop, snacks, and a mini hygiene kit—because after being unexpectedly stranded mid-trip, I never travel unprepared again. It’s now my go-to for business trips, long flights, and everyday carry—all without sacrificing style.

   
   

5. Must Have, Travel Size

   Cherice: I don’t believe in compromising on my beauty routine—travel-size or not. That’s why I use refillable travel containers that let me bring my go-to products everywhere. My favorite? The Cadence magnetic capsules. They’re compact, leak-proof, and look so chic inside my luggage. Bonus: they snap together magnetically, so everything stays tidy and easy to find. These are a must for any organized traveler who refuses to sacrifice function for style.

   
   

   Lehna: I’ve learned the hard way—hotel shampoo and random drugstore minis never compare to my usual staples. Now, I always pack my own using TSA-approved, leak-proof travel bottles that are leak-proof and totally reliable. These squeezable containers are perfect for shampoo, conditioner, face wash, and anything else I can’t live without. No more mess, no more settling—just my full skincare routine, wherever I go.

   
   

6. Portable Charger

   Cherice: When you’re working with an all-Apple setup like I am, having the right travel charger for multiple devices is non-negotiable. I need one compact hub that powers my iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods—without taking up half my bag. That’s why I always pack a compact, stylish charger that’s lightweight, stylish, and fits easily into my carry-on or work tote. It keeps my devices charged and my travel tech streamlined.

   
   

   Lehna: My golden rule? Never leave home without a portable charger that has both USB-A and USB-C ports. It’s saved me more times than I can count—whether I’m powering up my phone mid-flight or helping a friend out at the gate. I also bring my MagSafe chargers for quick top-ups. Having multiple options means I’m always prepared, no matter the device or outlet situation.

Curated Extras

Cherice: Let’s be real—hotel mirrors almost never have the right lighting. That’s why I never travel without a portable travel makeup mirror. Good lighting is everything when it comes to flawless makeup, and bad blending just isn’t a risk I’m willing to take. I recently picked up the Fancii and it’s been a total game-changer: LED lighting, magnification, and compact enough to fit in my bag. If you care about a seamless beauty routine on the go, this is a must.

Lehna: I used to struggle with overpacking—until I discovered the magic of compression cubes and vacuum seal bags. Vacuum seal bags let me squeeze in more clothes without bulking up my suitcase, freeing up space for shoes, jackets, or extra outfits. Meanwhile, compression cubes keep my undergarments and smaller items organized and easy to grab. Whether you’re packing for a long-haul trip or just want to fit more in a carry-on, these tools are total lifesavers.

We hope this guide helped you find the perfect travel essentials! Got tips or product ideas? Share your feedback in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!