What Travel Gear Are Editors Loving this Summer?

A JFK Air France agent recently made me feel bad for my carry-on weighing more than 12 kilograms. Much of it was my grooming and skincare essentials, so now I do this thing where I keep travel-sized nicer-than-usual products that I use specifically for trips and only trips—as a little treat for using a ludicrously not-capacious bag. Some examples: a hair styling cream This is a pocket-sized summery body mist (I have a bottle that smells the same as an Eau de Toilette When I want to pretend that I am at home, I keep a desk at work. the Splendido Portofino); various items from French pharmacies It’s cheaper to fly there if you want the Caudalie VInosun sunscreen that makes me look like a stylish teenager in Biarritz. —Matt Ortile, associate editor

Korean skincare is my favorite when it comes to self care. sunscreen. I’ve always dealt with the common woes of wearing it—vainly searching for a formula that isn’t greasy, heavy, or eye-burning—but this balm stick from Kahi is the answer to all those problems and then some. —Kat Chen, editorial assistant, destinations

My skin is increasingly sensitive in the summer—sometimes it feels like it nearly swells in the heat—and these cooling eye pads are my go-to cure to quickly feel fresh and fabulous. These are great for early mornings or flights. sleep When I feel like cooling down, they are the first thing that I reach for. I’ve found that they work in any situation, providing an instant chill and no weird residue. They also provide a hydrating finish. I use them every summer. —Jessica ChapelCommerce Writer

These wipes are packaged in packs of 30 and are small enough to be thrown into your daily bag. These wipes are better than antibacterial gel because they contain goat milk, antioxidants, cucumber and aloe. Use them to clean your hands before you grab a grabbing something. hot dog You can use it to refresh your face, neck, and pants on a hot summer day (#citylife). The brand has recently introduced a pistachio and cherry scent that I will definitely purchase. —Alex Sanidad, research director

Color Wow Dream Coat Spray is another beauty product I love this summer. This spray works wonders for frizzy hair. hot and humid weather. —H.C.

My closet is filled with very small bags and very big bags—I love a tote A fanny packThis affordable Clare V. bag is my perfect in-between: big enough to hold a laptop and a few other items, but small enough to fit a wallet. Clare V.’s affordable bag is the perfect middle ground: large enough to carry a laptop and small enough to fit a wallet. hardcover book You can also find out more about me umbrellaI also include all of my daily essentials such as my phone, wallet and keys, hand sanitizers, portable fans, lipbalm, etc. Add one of these colorful and fun items to your bag. bag charms You can also find out more about decorative shorter straps. —Madison Flager, associate commerce director

The right equipment is the key to having a perfect day in the sun. Athleta’s versatile crossbody bag The bag is large enough to hold everything I need on a city trip or for a walk in my neighborhood. The bag has a few pockets on the interior and an outside zippered compartment where I keep my phone and AirPods. Even my bulky sunglasses, a Kindle or a Kindle Fire are easily fit. portable chargerSome SPF. —Meaghan Kenny, commerce editor

You’ll probably find me wearing two-piece sets when I’m at home. Lululemon Align’s collection features some of the softest bikers shorts and sports bras in the industry. The material is so soft that it feels like a second-skin, and can be worn for lounging or moving. —H.C.

The Eileen Fisher Puckered linen shirtdress is my summer uniform. It is breathable, light and moisture-wicking. The linen is a great choice for hot days. The shirtdress is a loose fit with the perfect amount of texture. It’s great for brunches with friends and weekend getaways. I love to pair them up with the wide-leg pantsThey offer comfort and versatility for outdoor events, beachside dining, or any other occasion. I love the way linen is not only cool, but adds a timeless and effortless vibe to an outfit. It also gets softer with every wear, so it feels even better. These pieces are perfect for errands, or a casual day. —P.W.

It has been warmer than usual. NYC The lightweight linen skort has been my go-to wardrobe item this summer. I purchased a variety of colors and patterns in this Gap style. They are very comfortable, have a great length and keep me cool while traveling. —M.F.

I can tell you from my own experience that clogs When it comes to menswear, clogs are much more versatile than sandals. After seeing one too many photos of guys sporting clogs on Pinterest, I decided to set aside my “sandals-in-the-city” hesitations. These Birkenstock Boston Clogs, which feature a closed toe design and can be worn with shorts or a t-shirt in a casual setting. The clogs will look even better after a few wears, so you can make them a part of your travel wardrobe. Wear them on cobblestones streets or boat docks. They go with any occasion. —Erik BuckinghamCommerce producer

I love a hiking sThe following are some examples of how to get started:al for summertime—the Merrell x Sweaty Betty style has been my most-worn of late, both around the city and on trips to Chicago and Panama. —M.F.

The Crocs 2-strap slides are great. It’s a revisit to a childhood classic that is still as good as ever—the sandal feels sturdy yet flexible, the straps don’t chafe, and it’s just plain fun to customize them with charms. —K.C.

My favorite Abby boot is the iconic and chic Abby by Tecovas go-anywhere boots. I’m always getting compliments about them in NYC. They feel subtle and versatile. I have them in midnight black and wear them everywhere—from meetings with a blazer to dive bars With fun makeup. For summer, I like to wear them with sundresses, denim shorts, or comfortable jeans. I’ve worn them to more concerts, parks, and group celebrations than I can count—easily the most breathable pair I own. —J.C.

Growing up in Florida, I wore flip-flops all the time—Havaianas, Reefs, Rainbows, and the very inexpensive Old Navy ones. Since college, these flip-flops have fallen out of favor. Hari Maris remind me of my old Rainbows, but they are lighter. They have brought me back to the fold. Although I wouldn’t wear them to stroll around NYC for the day, they are perfect to wear when going to a hotel pool You can also find out more about down to breakfast. The take up almost no space in your home. suitcaseThis is a great solution to the problem of choosing just one type of sandal that can be used for everything. —M.F.

A beach-day A good sun hat is essential for me to have this summer. It should protect my face and neck. Lack of Color Inca sun hats are stylish and do a fantastic job shielding me against the harsh sun. —M.K.

Anyone who knows my travel habits knows that I am rarely without my iPhone. sunnies—winter or summer, they’re either over my eyes or in my bag, ready to go whenever the sun peeks out. All to say, I need a reliable pair that can handle getting toted around all summer—from ocean spray to sweat to everything in between. My holy grail pair for years has been this pair of Crap Eyewear. hiking in CanadaI love the sun of the Mediterranean and the glare off the skyscrapers of New York City in the most humid months of the calendar year. I used to rotate through various pairs, but no longer—if I don’t have these, I’d rather not wear anything. These sunglasses are made entirely of bioacetate. They wipe clean easily (hello, ocean mist) and the nosepiece is not likely to catch in my hair as I flip them. These sunglasses have gotten me more compliments than I’ve ever received from any other pair. But that’s likely because I don’t leave home without them. —Taylor Eisenhauer. Editoral Operations Manager

Stanley’s All-Day Midi was just what I needed for this summer. I’ve used it on beach trips. NYC staycations. The coral color is stunning and matches every picnic blanket that I own. The side strap and snap-top handle make it easy for you to carry. And the hinge on the doctor’s bags opens wide so that you can pack and unpack more easily. I load it with reusable ice packs and zip it shut—it’s been the finishing touch on my summer outings so far. —J.C.

If you are like me and spend a lot of time on park grass, you will grow tired of the bumps underneath your feet. blanket When you lay down to enjoy the sunshine. This inflatable lounge is a great solution. It is easy to carry if you are walking to some green spaces. It is inflated by opening it and running backwards and forwards a few time, and then rolling the edge shut. The bag is fun to play with and can be a good conversation starter. You’ll have to replenish air in the bag if you intend to stay for long. It’s also a great way to relax while watching people. —A.S.

It’s one of those things I always wanted, but didn’t know existed. This is perfect for beach or park days. towel But want support and elevation underneath your head, that isn’t just a balled up cover-up or a second towel. It’s a cute, compact cover-up that makes reading a lot more comfortable. —M.F.

You know that I cannot handle heat. Perhaps it’s the heat I grew up with. CanadaI’m not sure if it’s because I live so hot in NYC, but I panic when summer arrives and I retreat into hibernation. I use portable fans to help me endure my commute when I must go outside. —H.C.

The following are some of the most popular ways to contact me ultra-soft Hydro Flask cooler It has been a great addition to my poolside this summer. It fits plenty of snacks and drinks for the whole day and really does the job at keeping them cool—even in 90+ degree weather. —M.K.