Travel writer, Samantha Leal, who writes for Travel + Leisure, has racked up more than 100,000 flying miles this year and has perfected the art of comfortable travel with a handful of essentials.
“As a travel writer, I’m often asked how I manage to get everything into a single bag, and after 51 flights and 238 hours in the air this year alone, I’ve got my packing system down to a science,” she writes. “Whether I’m boarding an overnight international flight or jetting off for a quick weekend assignment, there are a handful of tried-and-true items that always make it into my carry-on. Some are small comforts that keep me sane at 35,000 feet; others are practical tools that streamline security lines, hotel check-ins, and everything in between.”
Hard-Shell Carry-On Suitcase
Samantha Leal has relied on her favourite hard-shell carry-on suitcase for nearly 10 years, and it remains in top nick. Lightweight yet surprisingly roomy, it copes with weekend getaways or week-long holidays with smart packing. The 360-degree spinner wheels glide smoothly over airport floors and city streets, and it looks sleek and professional.
Duffel Bag
Samantha’s go-to duffel bag is the perfect under-seat mate. It fits neatly but holds a full outfit change, laptop, snacks, toiletries, and mid-flight extras. The padded laptop sleeve is a game-changer, with pockets making finds easy. The trolley sleeve slips over the carry-on handle, and the fabric is light, tough, and spill-proof—liquids wipe right off. It doubles as an overnight or gym bag.
Belt Bag
She always packs a simple belt bag in her personal item—it’s a real lifesaver for layovers or city jaunts. It holds passport, lip balm, cards, and phone comfy-like, and so light she forgets it’s on. Easy to clean and sturdy, it works cross body or waist. Great for security, just tip contents into a tray. Minimal, practical, compact.
Portable Charger
A magnetic portable charger is key in Samantha’s kit. It keeps her phone juiced for multiple top-ups, with a handy keychain and no bulky weight. Beyond scrolling, it’s vital for docs, maps, and emergencies—a reliable charger is non-negotiable.
Compression Socks
She swears by compression socks for comfort and circulation. Soft, breathable, and stylish—not too clinical—they cut swelling and fatigue on long hauls. Less puffiness after 10+ hours in economy, with bamboo or cotton blends keeping them fresh and odour-free.
Matching Travel Set
Samantha chooses a coordinated travel set for flights—soft, light, and layerable for climate shifts. It looks smart with a hoodie on board or jacket on arrival, and great for home lounging too, a wardrobe staple.
Water Bottle
For flights, Samantha insists on a slim reusable water bottle. Tall and slender, it fits pockets without bulk, keeps drinks cold sans leaks, and opens easy mid-air. Refill pre-boarding to ditch tiny cups.
Electric Toothbrush
A compact electric toothbrush is a must for her—hygienic, efficient, and toiletry-bag friendly with a two-minute timer. Cover doubles as a stand, battery-powered no charger needed, heads cheap and easy to get.
Sandals
Samantha loves waterproof sandals that last for years looking new. Worn on beaches, dinners, or cobbles, they’re supportive and stylish with memory-foam soles for long walks and quick-dry for pools or tropics.
Passport Holder
A sleek passport holder keeps Samantha Leal organised, with slots for cards, docs, and tickets. Leather or vegan, it ages well and easy to feel in a packed bag—no customs panic.
Disinfectant Wipes
Disinfectant wipes are staples in Samantha Leal’s bags for tray tables, armrests, remotes—any dodgy spots. Travel packs stay moist and leak-free, for peace before eats or flights, handy for phones or wheels too.
Sunglasses
Samantha Leal packs affordable chic sunglasses in carry-on—no designers. Sturdy with UV protection, they survive travel and are replaceable if lost—practical for any spot.
Compiled by Warren Hawkins
SOURCE: TRAVEL + LEISURE
