These 9 items enhanced — and simplified! — my long-haul trip

I just returned from a two-week trip abroad with my husband and two kids, and after a 26-hour travel day on our way home, I feel as though I’m brimming with perspective and ready praise for the products that enhanced the journey with their usefulness and convenience. Check out some of my favorite things below.

Packer’s delight

On this year’s trip, we visited two countries with different climates and planned to do a lot of driving, so I anticipated that we would be very restricted in terms of packing space. When I suggested that everyone cram what they needed into a carry-on size piece of luggage, even I had doubts that we would be able to do it. But thanks to this nifty Amazon purchase — a collection of vaccuum-sealable, space-saving bags, we did! I was amazed. I had tried the packing cube method before, but this is my new favorite way to cram an incredible amount of stuff into a small space.

The best part? The USB pump is ultra-compact and easy to travel with. No need for a full-size vacuum!

I already sang the praises of this awesome Jones backpack in an article earlier this month. But its roominess and organized pockets were so appreciated throughout this trip that I feel it deserves another mention. It’s much easier to squeeze what you need into a suitcase when a secondary carry-on like this one can handle the numerous extras with no problem.

A2 Backpack – Le Creme/Olive

The A2 Backpack is the latest A-series for traveling professionals. With ample space and separation, this pack will keep you organized for life on the go. The padded shoulder straps and cushioned back support ensures a comfortable carry when loaded with your daily necessities. The A2 is the first Jones product to offer a hidden embroidery location under the front buckled flap, allowing for a sleek look while still carrying the meaning of your design.
The new series features a recycled, ripstop material, woven from 100% PET single-use plastic bottles. The most innovative, durable, and water-resistant fabric to date, the series supports Jones’ commitment towards a more sustainable future. Tested and proven in the ever-changing climate of the Pacific Northwest.

$155 from Fairway Jockey

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Comfy travel clothes

Airport outfits are definitely a thing — especially matching sets. I wanted to look put together while we traveled, but wasn’t sure about how I felt about spending all day in a leisure set.

Plus, you never know if the plane is going to be blazing hot or ice cold, so I attempted to meet in the middle, opting for an breathable top and losee-fitting cargo pants, with a sporty hooded jacket for layering. I didn’t need the jacket on the first leg, but boy did I ever on the second. Ultimately, I was super comfortable — and didn’t feel like I was traveling in my pajamas.

Z Supply Callie V Neck Airy Top

Finished in airy, textured cotton, the Callie sleeveless top by Z Supply is perfect for your summer rotation.

Splendid Kaia Cargo Pant

Featuring a drawstring waistband, a tapered leg with adjustable hems, side pockets, and cargo pockets.

Athleta Jetset Bomber

Recycled polyester fabrication is sleek with a soft hand-feel. Plus: stowable hood for changes in weather.

A shoe for all seasons

Last year, I tested a pair of Duca Del Cosma shoes that I absolutely loved. While planning for this year’s trip, I wanted a shoe that looked elevated but was still comfortable, and that was neutral enough to go with just about anything. Duca delivered yet again, with the Licata — a waterproof, stylish yet understated shoe that I wore absolutely everywhere, with and without socks, with nary a blister or soreness of any kind. My favorite part? The contrast laces keep the shoes looking clean. A sweet bonus when you’re on the road. Oh, and did I mention they’re golf shoes?! Yes!

Duca Del Cosma Licata

Waterproof, comfortable, and providing exceptional grip during your swing. These lightweight golf sneakers will have you ready for 18 holes and beyond.

Easy shades

I recently received a few samples of WMP sunglasses, and they’re become my new go-tos. Not only are they trendy, they’re lightweight and durable with crystal-clear lenses. Plus, they’re available at a price point that doesn’t make them feel too precious.

WMP Eyewear Stormi

Blends vintage nostalgia and modern aesthetics with its sleek, square shape and subtle cat eye corners.

Plane necessities

After accidentally running my AirPods through the washing machine (sigh), all I had left to use were my old-school plug-in headphones. But much to my dismay, they don’t fit into my iPhone 16 without an adapter. Doh! Thank goodness for this quick fix from Amazon.

USB C to 3.5mm Headphone Jack Adapter for iPhone

This headphone audio adapter compatible with most of the type c phones.

Finally, we all know that sleeping on planes is next to impossible as an adult — especially when you’re serving as the middle seat pillow for two stretched-out kids. But this neck pillow had numerous positive reviews online so I figured I’d give it a try. Spoiler alert: I didn’t sleep like a baby, but it does deserve a shout out for at least keeping my head from bobbing around aimlessly for hours. I’ll take every win I can!

trtl Pillow

A patented design ensures ultimate comfort and neck support, keeping your head upright while napping.