Though there are plenty of trendy luggage brands popping up, I still stay true-and-blue to the first company I ever flew with: Samsonite. It's a trusted household name for a reason: My carry-on has withstood the test of time and travel, and with very little wear-and-tear. I like this expandable upright version the best since it can become more compact for shorter trips, or provide more space for when I'm squeezing in far more than what I actually need for a longer trek.
Since I'm a Virgo, I'm super-super picky about organization. Everything has to have its place, regardless if I'm at home or traveling — and this makeup organizer from Oliver Thomas works wonders. I like the top compartment that stores makeup brushes and smaller items, while the larger area has plenty of space for every last mascara, moisturizer, eyeshadow and lip balm.
At 5'4", I can wear pretty much any heel height and still not be able to reach the counters in Scandavian. And while being short has its perks for long-haul flights, walking in heels never seems to get easier... that is, until I discovered this heeled sandal that is ideal for walking around, dressing up, dressing down (or anything, really). I've had the same pair for more than two years — and they have never disappointed.
Even when I'm jet-lagged, hungover or otherwise not functioning, there's something about having your brows groomed that makes you feel, well, kickass. That's why I never leave home without this tiny — but mighty! — brow product from Benefit. It adds color and shape to my bushy brows, making me feel instantly put together and ready for whatever the day's schedule has in store for me.
Here's a little truth about spending time in many parts of Asia: Deodorants... aren't really deodorants. Or more to the point, they're scented but they don't have any actual anti-perspirant abilities, which can be tough (especially if you're traveling during the humid summer months).
To ensure I'm always fresh — regardless of where the assignment takes me — I pack a deodorant I know I can trust... like this one I've been using since I was 16. If I know I'll be traveling for a long stretch of time, I sometimes even take two for the road — one for my backpack before a big interview, and one to keep back at my hotel or Airbnb.
