Travel Gear & Resources

New Favorites + Top Picks

All of these items below are newer purchases that have helped me travel better and more efficiently in the last year! I’m always on the quest for the perfect photography backpack, and the Brevite Jumper is my current favorite for destinations were security isn’t an issue (it has an access zipper on the back for the gear section). I’ve begun traveling with an Apple AirTag in each of my bags (checked and carry-on) so I always know where my stuff is. I also pack charging hubs with USB ports for electronics like my new DJI Mini 3 Pro drone to reduce the number of plugs and adapters I need. For beach destinations and boat trips, I’m in love with my MIER waterproof backpack.

Travel Electronics

I always travel with at least two iPhone cords: a short one for flights and cars, and a longer cord for hotels in case the outlet closest to the bed is in a different zip code. I make sure I have outlet adapters with a USB port and/or a charging station for all my electronics. A rechargeable power bank is a must-have since you never know if your plane seat will have an outlet. And a portable speaker or noise-cancelling headphones are a great items to put on your holiday wish list.

Photography Gear

I currently shoot with a Fujifilm X-T4 and my iPhone when I travel, as well as a Canon DSLR at home. I use an Olympus waterproof camera for underwater photos and a GoPro for underwater video. I started out with a DJI Mini 2 drone but now also have a Mini 3 Pro. Here are some photo gear items that I recommend or have in my travel arsenal including a crossbody sling camera bag and the Brevite Jumper backpack with dedicated laptop and gear compartments. The backpack can carry my drone, controller, and extra batteries plus my mirrorless camera and laptop.

Luggage & Packing Aids

How in the world did we ever travel before digital luggage scales and packing cubes? (I try to only use small and medium cubes, though, so I don’t overpack.) My current favorite travel bag is the wheeled Osprey Sojourn below – great for adventure travel but sleek enough for business trips too! I always have an extra shopping bag or expandable duffel in my suitcase for use during my trip or on the return travel home. And I keep finding uses for zippered mesh pouches to stay organized during flights and day trips – especially all of my electronics cords!

In-Flight Necessities

Below are some of my favorite items for in-flight comfort. These mesh zip pouches are my #1 way to stay organized during flights – I can tuck one into my seat pocket with chapstick, anti-bacterial wipes, lotion and cords and be ready for takeoff. I always use a passport cover; the empty cover reminds me not to leave the hotel desk or airline check in without my passport. (Great for when you’re really tired!) Hobo Darcy Crossbody is my favorite small purse (if you attend conferences, it will hold a large access badge lanyard, a phone, and necessities). When I travel to big cities, though, I prefer to carry a Travelon purse. And check out my tips on airport lounge access options without airline status here including Priority Pass.

Travel Health & Safety

If you’ve ever gotten sick during your travels, you know how important it is to have some basics in your suitcase like a travel first aid kit. The folding water bottle below is one of my favorite travel items for reducing single-use plastics. If you’re concerned about traveling solo or to areas where pickpockets are a concern, also check out the bags below and the travel door alarm. In cities and around water, I’ve begun using a phone lanyard (note that I haven’t found one yet with a cut-proof strap). For more carry-on compliant toiletries with quick shipping, check out my curated Amazon list.

Beach & Snorkeling Gear

My life changed when I got a snorkel mask with prescription lenses! I have an option below for an Rx mask as well as regular snorkel kits. Don’t forget to pack reef-safe sunscreen, a travel towel, and a dry bag to keep your phone and other necessities dry on boats and around water. I’ve also started using a phone lanyard around water – either waterproof or just to keep my phone secure. For eco-friendly and solo travel (I can’t put sunscreen on my back!), I prefer to wear a rashguard top with UPF. The bag below also comes with a phone pouch. For more beach and snorkeling travel necessities, check out my curated Amazon gear list.

Travel Books

Looking for travel inspiration? These are some of my favorite travel and photography books to recommend. They make perfect gifts and conversation pieces for your coffee table! If you’re looking for more travel tales, check out my list of books by old-school adventurers on Bookshop.org.