Skincare, makeup, jewelry, cozy PJ’s… what do these all have in common? They’re going on vacation too. If you’re anything like us, the most important thing about traveling comes down to one single question: what do I bring? Our Editor-in Chief, Erika De La Cruz, is all about the luxe lifestyle when she’s on vacation (or on a “staycay” at home) and she’s giving us the 4-1-1 on every item she’s brings on vacation to get in a blissful and relaxing state of mind. She also packs them up in the most fashionable and functional travel bag. Going on vacay? Keep reading for the 11 Travel Essentials -handpicked and EIC approved – that you can’t vacation without.
1. FEED Weekender Duffle
This duffle bag will be your next best friend. The FEED Travel Collection is a total upgrade to the classic overnight or weekend duffle. It’s perfect for a quick 3 day trip and has enough pockets to fit clothes, accessories, and Erika says it can fit 2 pairs of sandals and 1 pair of sneakers. Don’t forget to pack your headphones and speakers to be the vacay DJ (there’s a pocket for these too). The bag is made from sustainable materials, has a wipeable interior, organic cotton exterior and has a stylish, minimal branding look to go with any travel outfit. It also has a sleeve to attach to rolling luggage for easy carry on action. Plus, if you didn’t know, this bag gives back. Founder Lauren Bush Lauren has made it the brands missions to end childhood hunger with proceeds going toward providing school meals to kids all around the world. Cherry on top if you ask us.
Soaking up the sun deserves a little sparkle from gorjana jewelry. This California based company crafts pieces to live in and also layer on for the every day. Their collection is a mix of both understated and elevated jewelry that can bring together any travel or vacation outfit. They’ve got a new summer line out that is full of colorful cuffs, playful pendants and shimmering charms that are perfect for that effortless summer look. Their simple rings and bracelets are a few of Erika’s favorites to wear everyday no matter the destination.
3. Printfresh Loungewear
There is nothing that puts a bigger smile on Erika’s face than finding a comfy and cozy loungewear set. Printfresh is a brand that is just that. They are a mostly women owned company who design sleepwear and lifestyle items that are inspired by plants, animals, and home décor. Their quality fabrics are hand screen printed or embroidered by artisans in India on 100% organic cotton. You can also find them in Anthropologie. From experience, we can officially say its tough changing out of these sets in the morning.
4. Benefit Summer Makeup
Makeup on vacation should be easy breezy just like a coastal summer breeze. Benefit – one of Erika’s fave makeup brands – just released a blush and bronzer on-the-go. They put together their best selling Hoola bronzer and their WANDERful World blush in one adorable summery palette ( available in five shades) that is lightweight, slim and makes a great glam travel companion. The duo will instantly warm up your complexion with a matte finish and sweatproof look. Don’t forget about the lips. Benefit’s Sun’s Up Butter Balms add a hint of of color and give you 12 hours of moisture. The brands new lippy formula has become an instant hit.
5. SunLife Organics
Before going on an hours long flight to paradise, Erika loves to treat herself to a healthy smoothie before she hits the terminal. SunLife Organics is a nationwide juice bar founded in Malibu to serve its community with the highest quality organic ingredients Mother Nature has to offer. Their menu includes signature fruit and protein shakes, smoothies, bowls, coffee, tea, fresh juice and toasts. Honestly, you can’t go wrong with what you order here. SunLife is literally best at anytime of the day. We loved having them at our Gratitude in the Park.
6. Sanitas Skincare
Healthy, glowing, dewy and moisturized skin is what we all want for summer. Sanitas Skincare has a collection of products that are proven to help all types of skin. Their ingredients are packed with antioxidants, minerals and hydrators to really give your skin a major boost. Some of their best sellers include the Lemon Cream Scrub (great exfoliant to buff away dead skin), the Moisture Mist, Vita C Serum (Erika’s travel favorite for brighter and smoother skin), and Vitamin C Body Serum. With this set, you’re pretty much set to restore skin after a day at the beach.
7. Zoya Daydreaming Collection Bundle
One of the best things about traveling is getting a fresh mani and pedi to show off. Yes boo – those nails should be cute and summer ready for the gram. Zoya is one of Erika’s go-to polishes because they have so many colors to choose from, they are one of the only nail brands to be free of 10 toxic ingredients, vegan friendly, and this polish stays on a long time. Their Daydreaming collection also transitions beautifully into summer too.
8. slip Silk Pillowcase & Scrunchies
We love taking our favorite pillow on vacation, but for Erika, she’s all about taking a high end luxe silk pillowcase along for the ride. The brand, slip, has become an instant favorite here at The LA Girl. They are the preferred brand of silk pillowcases from dermatologists and a fan favorite of celebrity hairstylists and beauty experts. These soft and silky cases are designed to protect your face from wrinkles and your hair from breakage. Oh and say goodbye to annoying bedhead too. The La Dolce Vita collection, which also has an adorable line of scrunchies, will make you feel like you’re vacationing on the Italian Riviera.
9. 60 Days of Mindfulness Card Deck
Makeup and skincare is fun and all but don’t forget to take care of your mind. This mindfulness card deck – is something Erika uses daily and will be traveling with it during the summer. Trust us, it will inspire you with words of wisdom AND wit to channel your inner badass and win the day. Each card contains either a question, reminder, or affirmation that you need to hear.
10. Nana Hats
Are you sick and tired of your bananas getting brown so quickly? She hates to admit it, but this is Erika’s biggest pet peeve. She loves to travel with a healthy snack in tow, and a banana is a no-brainer. But with the altitude bananas get brown so fast in the cabin. The solution? These Nana Hats. They solve that problem and are absolutely-freaking adorable with cute characters as the toppers.
11. Rhodin Bracelet
Simple and sophisticated bracelets (with a dash of spirituality charm) is one of Erika’s jewelry go-to’s. This piece from Rhodin is vacation ready with a brilliant white woven cotton band and gold & turquoise mati (evil eye charm). A perfect little accessory to wear with your all white bikini.
Ready, set, and travel to this elevated hotspot in Mexico.
