A few months ago, I wrote a story for this column where I shared the “must items” that I always pack for my winter trips. Fortunately, given my job as a travel writer, I have the privilege of learning about the latest and greatest products that promise to make my global escapades that much easier, convenient or stylish.
The list is ever evolving and changes depending on the time of year. My last essentials column was a peek into my suitcase for cold weather forays. Now, with the weather- thankfully- becoming warmer, it’s time to turn to spring.
My go-tos for my spring trips follow.
18K Gold Plated Bobby Pins by Dauphines of New York
18k gold plated bobby pins.
Who needs jewelry for those trips when you can use these gorgeous gold plated bobby pins from the New York-based hair accessory brand Dauphines? They’re functional and fashionable in one: they keep annoying strands out of my face and instantly zhuzh up my look whether I’m on the beach, going to dinner or sightseeing. They make me feel put together and glam. Anyone who sees them notices them and loves them as much as me. Oh, and as a PS, Dauphines has a full collection of beautiful hair clips, headbands and combs for your getaways and everyday escapades.
Ninja’s Ninja Blast Portable Blender
Early last year, I went through a health crisis due to my extreme irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) and stress, both of which had me drop close to 20 pounds. Given that I was already on the leaner side, the weight loss was less than ideal and caused anemia, along with a host of other symptoms. I wanted to turn my health around but wasn’t willing to give my life on the road.
Thanks to my incredible dietician, I discovered a lifesaving protein powder, TumLove, that’s specifically designed for people with sensitive guts like me. Ninja’s Portable Blender transforms my daily sustenance into the most delicious drink wherever in the world I am. I throw in ice, cold brew coffee, a scoop of the powder and a splash of nondairy creamer. I simply push a button, and in 30 seconds, I have a cool, creamy dose of tastiness that rivals any smoothie bar drink.
You can use whatever ingredients you want to create your own dream beverage, whether it’s healthy or not. The Ninja Blast is rechargeable device that’s easy to clean, pack and light. It helps keep you well fueled on any trip.
Initio’s addictive 50Ml Musk Therapy.
As a fragrance lover, I’m a big believer that a generous dose of a high-quality killer perfume is the perfect and sophisticated finish to any look- day or night, casual or dressed up. Enter Initio Parfums Prives, a Paris-based fragrance house behind the most pleasure evoking, captivating scents crafted with pure and superior ingredients.
The brand recently introduced 50 ml TSA-friendly sizes of four of it most popular fragrances: Atomic Rose, Musk Therapy, Oud for Greatness and Side Effect.
Each is unique, and I’m addicted all. I liberally them on myself once or twice a day. They get me instant attention from friends, acquaintances and strangers and are a mainstay in my toiletry kit and handbag. I tend to go for the refreshing Atomic Rose for sightseeing and excursions during the day and the heavier, more alluring Oud for Greatness come night.
Arbonne’s Elevate mascara.
With Arbonne’s new Elevate mascara, I don’t need to weigh down my travel bag with any other makeup. It gives me that va va voom look in just one coat. The wand curls my lashes without plumping or smudging plus the formula nourishes and hydrates them with the B vitamins and biotin it contains. I have multiple tubes for my purse and carry-on so I have it handy wherever I am.
Double Face Cashmere Coat Reversible by Catherine Gee
The Reversible Cashmere Coat
I’ve been a fan of the Santa Barbara-based designer Catherine Gee for years. Her silk blouses in catchy prints are divine- whenever I wear one of the many I own, I’m bombarded with compliments. It’s no surprise then that her new cashmere coat is next-level. I honestly can’t live without it irrespective of if I’m traveling or not.
Reaching to my mid-thigh, this coat is cozy and incredibly versatile-one side is solid mocha tipped with an ivory border while the other features a gorgeous leopard print. Style with jeans, a tee and sneakers, wear over a sexy slip dress in Paris or use it to keep you warm on chilly airplanes. I’ve done all of the above.
Avalon Collection from Ricardo Beverly Hills
The new Avalon collection.
It’s hard not to like a luggage collection that speaks to my fashion sensibility and is sustainable too, but that’s why the new Avalon line of bags from Ricardo Beverly Hills is a winner.
The soft-sided pieces include a carry on and medium and large check in suitcases, all of which have storage pockets that keep you organized. They’re made from recycled plastic waste plus the lining and body fabric are fully recycled. In addition, this luggage is eye-catching, affordable compared to other luggage brands and durable. I took them on my recent trip to Bhutan, a journey that gave them a real beating, and they returned back to my home base of New York looking almost as good as new.
The Eaton Bunny from Moose Knuckles
The Eaton Bunny
Stylish and comfortable at the same time, the Eaton Bunny from the cult brand Moose Knuckles is the only jacket you need to pack for any spring escape.
As a bonus, it’s reversible: one side features silky-soft faux fur, perfect for staying cozy on chilly flights or breezy evenings. Flip it over, and you’re equipped with eco-conscious nylon micro ripstop, ideal for shielding yourself from unexpected rain. This piece also has a hood and plenty of pockets to hold small items and is lightweight yet durable.
