My job requires a lot of travel. I’m on the road at least once a month and sometimes away from home for months on end. During these travels, my partner (my husband, Jason) and I wear many hats — literally and figuratively.
In one trip we will do a 5-day adventure race, teach a 3-day slacklining and acro retreat, and then have a day or two to recover and take in the sights with friends.
Packing for these trips, big or small, requires items that serve multiple purposes. With spring here, and summer vacationing on the way, this list of 10 items I can’t travel without will help you slim your own pack and travel light. —Chelsey Magness
Disclosure: I am sponsored by PrAna, ToeSox and Ibex. I sought them out because I love and believe in the brands’ products (and used them for many years before sponsorship). What I say about them here is my most honest appraisal.
Icebreaker Underwear
Horny Toad Sea Change Pants
PrAna Eliza Rain Jacket
Dakine Apollo Backpack
Sunday Afternoons Solstice visor
Ibex Woolies150 Raceback tank
Hydro Flask
Toesox Sandals and Socks
My Favorite Travel Accessory Ever!
Patagonia Turn Top ($55) and Sunamee bottoms ($45) swimsuit — No matter the trip length or destination, a swimsuit is always one of the first things to go into my bag. I like to be prepared for a hot tub or the spontaneous swim/surf opportunities. These Patagonia pieces make a bikini that has the dual functionality of being a surfing suit, a spa suit, or even a sports bra as a last resort.
The top is not too revealing, but it is both sexy and sporty. While there are many awesome bottoms to choose from, the Sunamees are my favorite as they cover well, are very comfortable and flattering — especially to the backside. Both the bottoms and the top have stayed put while getting hammered in surf, jumping off 40-foot cliffs, slack-lining over water, and practicing acro-yoga on the beach.
Uses: swimming, surfing, hot-tubbing
