3 minute read
In the Know
— IN THE KNOW — The New Travel Essentials
The latest stylish must-haves—what to wear, what to pack, and what to pack it in by David Graver
THE PAST year has given us time to dream of, yearn for, and plot out where we’d like to vacation around the world. It has also changed our thoughts on what to bring along for the journey. Savvy travelers have long benefited from function-first travel accessories. In the past, these might have included passport holders, document organizers, international outlet adapters, and multiplug USB wall chargers. Today the latest must-haves commanding space in carry-on and checked luggage are rooted in cleanliness and comfort.
FACE FIRST
While pandemic rules related to face coverings may have relaxed, it’s still smart to carry a supply of clean masks and mask holders with you, given that restrictions vary and that some studies suggest that wearing masks can help protect you from seasonal flus and colds.
Wheeled suitcases should balance well when standing—and not topple over.
Thanks to the endless patterns and colors available, style needn’t fall by the wayside. Art curator, adviser, and frequent flier Afrodet Zuri says she’s “obsessed with” the masks by Private Stock Labs. “The wide availability of design choices allows me to style all of my fabulous looks, and the quality makes me feel safe on every flight and in every crowd,” says Zuri, who takes care to coordinate her outfits with her masks.
Mask chains make for a useful attachment that drapes over your neck and clips your mask’s straps, much like an eyeglass chain. Not only do chains keep masks handy, they can also accent an outfit, as versions range from tortoiseshell beads to 14-karat-gold-plated links.
KEEP IT CLEAN
Like masks, the array of hand sanitizers and antibacterial wipes available has expanded dramatically. You’ll find myriad scents, from ruby grapefruit to lavender and chamomile. For travelers with sensitive skin, there are hypoallergenic options, and for those concerned about sustainability, there are organic choices in biodegradable containers.
Sanitizer dispensers come in traditional squeeze bottles, sprays, and roll-ons. (Remember, you’ll need a bottle small enough to meet TSA standards for your carry-on if you’re flying. Put larger containers in zippered plastic bags in checked luggage to guard against leaks.) Wipes are convenient for more than just cleaning your hands: You can use them to avoid touching surfaces like door and faucet handles in public places.
KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON
Brand consultant, writer, and world traveler Zachary Weiss’s travel essentials have always “ranged from the super practical to the slightly absurd.” But lately his list has changed. Comfort now takes priority. Atop his list is “a really dark pair of sunglasses if I take a red eye, to minimize any harsh morning light.” He dons his shades whenever he’s not wearing his cashmere eye mask, which is “like a soft, warm hug for your face.”
Weiss isn’t alone in craving increased comfort on the road. Many consumers are opting for cashmere travel
sets and luxe wellness-oriented grooming kits.
Navigating transportation hubs as quickly as possible has become a top priority for some travelers. If you count yourself among them, stylish yet lightweight and maneuverable carry-on bags are essential.
By contrast, frequent fliers like Zuri care more about bringing the right case than a light case. Her go-to is a Samsonite Stryde Hardside Glider. Although she has to check it when she flies, it still provides speed and convenience because it’s “wide versus tall, allowing me to stack my carry-on and move through airports without pushing/pulling two separate bags,” she explains.
Finally, when it comes to comfort, sometimes there’s nothing more important than ear plugs and a quality travel pillow to provide a good night’s sleep en route to a long-awaited excursion.
Editor’s Note: Vaccinated travelers should also make a point to bring proof of vaccination.
Sleep masks can help to reduce the effects of jet lag.
