Welcome to the Velvet Runway “Travel Picks” page, where I share my favorite travel picks.
If you’ve already explored my Travel Resources, you’ll know that page focuses on how I plan my trips — from flight and hotel search tools to itinerary apps and booking platforms.
This page, however, is all about what I pack. These are my tried-and-tested travel accessories — the little luxuries and practical essentials that make travelling smoother, more stylish, and infinitely more comfortable.
I’ve curated them after years of flights, train rides, and weekend escapes between France, Spain, and beyond — and every product listed here is one I genuinely use and love.
TRAVEL PICKS : MY CARRY-ON ESSENTIALS
Whether I’m heading off for a short city break or a long-haul flight, my carry-on bag always includes a few non-negotiables:
1. The Perfect Travel Bag
A structured yet lightweight carry-on that fits under the seat and keeps everything accessible. Look for one with multiple compartments for effortless organisation.
Pro Tip: Choose a neutral shade like beige, tan, black, or navy — it goes with every outfit and hides travel scuffs well.
2. A Compact Toiletry Kit
Airport security limits don’t mean you have to compromise. I keep my skincare essentials in reusable silicone bottles and a clear pouch
Pro Tip: Decant a small bottle of your favourite serum or face mist — dry cabin air can be harsh on skin, especially during long flights.
3. Noise-Cancelling Headphones or Earbuds
A good pair of headphones is worth their weight in gold. They block cabin noise, help you relax, and can double as a sleep aid.
Pro Tip: Opt for a lightweight, foldable design that fits easily into your seat pocket.
4. A Cashmere Travel Wrap or Scarf
This is my secret weapon for chic comfort. It’s a blanket, shawl, and pillow in one — perfect for unpredictable cabin temperatures.
Pro Tip: Choose a neutral colour so it doubles as a layering piece during your trip.
5. Hydration Essentials
A collapsible water bottle and a hydrating lip balm are non-negotiables. Staying hydrated is the simplest way to feel refreshed when you land.
Pro Tip: Bring an empty bottle through security and refill before boarding — sustainable and smart.
6. Tech Must-Haves
A universal travel adaptor, power bank, and charging cables are essential carry-on items. You might also want to carry a small luggage scale — it’s saved me from excess baggage fees more than once!
Pro Tip: Store your cables in a zip pouch or tech organiser to avoid a tangled mess.
You can browse my curated affiliate links below — each product has been chosen for its balance of quality, design, and practicality. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links (at no extra cost to you), which helps support The Velvet Runway and keep my content reader-focused.
Planning Your Next Trip?
If you’re preparing for your next adventure, don’t miss my Travel Resources page — it’s where I share all the tools and websites I use to plan my travels, from flight deals to itinerary templates.
You can also have a look at our “Shop my Style and Lifestyle Picks” where I share my top style and lifestyle picks for each month, and also the best of the sales and discount codes.
Happy Traveling!
Some (but not all) links on this page are affiliate links—that means that at no extra cost to you, I earn a small commission if you book through these links, and that helps me keep this blog running. Enjoy!
