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A Trip to France and My Favorite Travel Gear

Norte Dame and a love lock bridge (circa 2012). Photo by Studio Hinman.

With the last few years of life, family, work, and a pandemic, it’s been a while since I’ve traveled, but it’s one of the things I get most excited about. It invigorates and inspires me and, even more importantly, gives me sheer joy! I’ve been blessed enough to travel to quite a few beautiful places and France is one of my favorite places. I have a lot of French heritage on both sides of my family so I’ve always found it fascinating (plus the food and architecture are amazing!).

This October I’ll be traveling to Paris and Lyon to do some vintage/antique sourcing, take some time for family, and celebrate my birthday. I know I’ve needed some time off for a while, but when you own your own business it can be hard to take time away. However, I don’t want to be burnt out or get decision-fatigue. With this time off, I am hoping to spend time with my family and come back rejuvenated so I can better serve my clients.

You can follow along on Instagram and Facebook with stories of my travel finds and inspiration.


When preparing for a big trip, the right gear is important, especially with little kids en tow. Here’s a list of some of my favorite travel gear:

LUGGAGE

  • Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry On Luggage — I have an older model of this luggage and it has been great for the last 10+ years. It fits everything I need for a couple weeks. I also have the larger version for when I’m planning on brining back treasures or when I’m traveling with the little ones.

  • Peak Design Everyday Tote V2 — I am looking at this awesome tote bag from Peak Designs. I have a backpack of theirs, but I’m wanting something a little smaller for more compact travel. I also have a Bric’s Leather Duffle Weekender Bag, which is so beautiful and spacious, perfect for a couple nights or when I need extra space when only going with a carry on. The sides upsnap if I need more space too!

  • Travelon Anti-Theft Metro Crossbody — After reading a million reviews (this is an accurate number, haha!), I finally settled on this handbag for when I’m out and about. It’s big enough to fit a travel water bottle. I also have the classic Longchamp Le Pliage Shoulder Tote Bag, which folds up so small and perfect for around town.

  • eBags Classic 4-Piece Packing Cubes— I’ve had these for 10+ years and everyone in my family has a set of their own (with each a different color for easy distinction). They make packing so much easier, especially with little people.

ACCESSORIES

  • Davek Solo Umbrella — Hands down this is the best umbrella! I used to live in Amsterdam where torrential rain and winds are common in the winter and this has survived harsh weather throughout the years. Davek also offers loss protection, offering 50% off your next umbrella if you lose it.

  • Cashmere and Merino Wool Mid-Calf Socks — When I get tired of wearing these compression socks, I want something soft and cozy for the chilly plane ride. Cashmere socks are definitely an affordable luxury!

  • Airpop Light Reusable Face Masks — This will be my first flight in quite a while so I bought these face masks. They’re supposed to be great for people who glasses so I’m hoping they work well. I also bought the kid version too.

  • BCozzy Travel Neck Pillow — While I love my Travelrest Inflatable Travel Pillow, I bought two of these neck pillows for my kids and they’re obsessed! I like that they have one small enough for my littlest traveler.

Photo by Studio Hinman

ELECTRONICS

A rough draft work-in-progress for simple pleasures.

ART SUPPLIES


Photo by Studio Hinman

Once I am back I will write a follow up post of all the things we did, saw, and ate! I’m not a huge souvenir person, unless it’s chocolate, but I do like finding treasures along the way the bring back memories of my travels. My favorite things are scarves (like the pink silk one below because it always fits no matter my clothing size), artwork (especially if it’s a flat print or map), and jewelry (because it’s small and I wear it often).

Have you ever been to France? How many croissants do you think I will eat? If I were sourcing some pieces for your project, what do you wish I would bring you? Leave a comment below!

You can also follow along on Instagram and Facebook.

When I was younger and well rested!


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