Travel Must-Haves: My Favorites That Keep Me Organized, Stylish And Comfortable!
Whether I'm headed to Vegas for the JCK show or catching a flight to India for my annual design trip, I pack with intention. My goal is simple: to feel confident, comfortable, and stylish from the moment I leave my house until I return with a suitcase full of treasures for you.
Over years of traveling for my corporate job, jewelry shows and sourcing trips, I've refined my packing to five essential categories. These are carefully curated pieces that make traveling easier and care free.
Travel Essentials at a Glance
| Category | What it holds | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Jewelry cases (gold + silver) | Two dedicated cases, each piece in its own baggie | Show travel and sourcing trips where you need both metals |
| Tote and backpack combo | Structured tote for the seat, backpack for tech and jewelry | Long-haul flights and hands-free movement |
| Cord organizer and portable charger | Every cable, plug, adapter, and a backup battery | Working from airports and hotel rooms |
| Compact makeup case | Travel lotion, face spray, lip gloss | Staying polished between flights and meetings |
| Travel scarves (2 minimum) | One elegant wrap, one cozy travel scarf | In-flight warmth and quick outfit changes |
What Ten Years of Gem Shows Taught Me to Never Leave Home Without
From TSA-friendly travel cases to the one tool that's saved me at every show, here's the carry-on edit that actually works.
I never travel without two dedicated cases, one for gold pieces, one for silver. Inside each case, I organize every piece in individual plastic baggies to prevent tangling and keep delicate chains pristine. Both cases fit perfectly into my backpack, so I can bring a thoughtful selection of jewelry without worry.
This system means I can stay true to my style whether I'm meeting vendors in Jaipur or attending a dinner in Tucson. The right jewelry transforms how you feel.
Shop my gold jewelry pouch | Shop my silver jewelry pouch | Shop the jewelry baggies I use
👜 My Signature Travel Bags: Tote + Backpack Combo
This combination has become my signature travel setup. My structured tote slides perfectly under the airplane seat and doubles as my show bag, it's roomy enough for notebooks, tech equipment, business cards, and your purchases.
The backpack carries my makeup, tech essentials, and jewelry cases. Together, they keep me hands-free and organized, ready for whatever discoveries await. There's something deeply satisfying about being prepared.
Shop my carry-on laptop roller bag | Shop my travel backpack
🔌 Cord + Charger Organizer & Portable Phone Charger
Every cord, plug, and charger lives in one dedicated case. No digging through bags, no untangling messes, no forgotten adapters. Just clean, organized access to everything I need to stay connected while I'm sourcing your next favorite piece.
This level of organization might seem small, but it's these details that let me focus on what matters most, finding those exceptional pieces that make your collection truly distinctive.
Shop my tech organizer | Shop my Phone Charger
✨ My Essential Makeup Case
This compact case slips into my backpack and contains everything I need to feel polished: travel-size lotion, refreshing face spray, and my go-to lip gloss. These small touches keep me feeling fresh and moisturized.
Shop my makeup case | Travel-size lotion | Face spray | Lip gloss
🌟 My Travel Scarves: The Secret Weapon
I always pack at least two scarves, they're my ultimate travel secret. One elegant wrap transforms any outfit for dinner or evening events, while a softer travel scarf becomes the perfect cozy layer for long flights. They take up virtually no luggage space but instantly elevate my look and comfort level.
There's something about wrapping yourself in beautiful fabric that makes even airport delays feel more manageable. Plus, they photograph beautifully when I'm sharing behind-the-scenes moments from my trips.
Shop my neutral wrap scarf | Shop my purple travel scarf
The Ulka Approach to Travel
Traveling well comes down to one principle: consistently pack things that help you feel comfortable and luxe.
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