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I just got back from Maldives—where, I learned, many call it Maldives, not the Maldives—but I didn’t think it made sense to do a packing list recap of the trip. After all, I basically followed the same formula as my beach vacation packing list, and I brought all my essentials for a long-haul flight. My next trip is an expedition to the Galápagos, so expect that packing list later this month.
For this post, I figured it made more sense to answer some of the most common questions I get when people find out I’m a travel writer (although here are a few photos from the Maldives trip, too).
What’s the best carry-on suitcase?
I’ve been using the Away Bigger Carry-on for a little over five years now, as loyal readers of this newsletter are well aware. Most recently, mine accompanied me to Joali Being and Joali Maldives, comfortably carrying seven days of outfits and a plethora of bathing suits. (I’m currently obsessed with this Left on Fridays one-piece.)
Should you roll or fold your clothes?
For the most part, I fold my clothes into packing cubes. Denim—as I explained in this Travel + Leisure article—is the exception to the rule (I fold my jeans and place them on top of everything else). I’ll occasionally roll clothes, especially if it’s linen or another material that tends to wrinkle easily. A travel-sized steamer is also a nice investment.
Are packing cubes actually worth it?
Honestly, yes—although I don’t use them as often in the summer. I have a couple of sets of compression packing cubes, which I mostly use when I’m packing bulkier clothes in the winter, but I also frequently use these non-compression packing cubes as organizers. Gym clothes in one; pajamas, socks, and underwear in another. Etc.
Do I need compression socks for air travel?
Yes. 2026 has been a year of long (16-plus-hour) flights for me. India. Africa. Maldives. And, soon, Africa again. I used to think compression socks would be uncomfortable to wear for an extended period of time, but I couldn’t have been more wrong. They keep my legs feeling fresh (as they possibly could be) and not swollen.
What do you wear on a long flight?
My long-flight uniform typically changes slightly depending on where I’m flying. For my most recent trip to the other side of the world, I went with linen pants and an oversized button-down. On other trips, like red-eyes to Europe, I’ll wear some sort of matching knit set. Vuori, Aritzia, and Cozy Earth are all brands I’ll browse when I’m in the market for a new one.
Do you have a favorite backpack?
I’ll only travel with a backpack when I’m headed somewhere particularly adventurous—like Alaska. This Calpak duffel-backpack combo is great if you need something spacious. Carl Friedrik has some elevated options for business travelers. I still have this Lo & Sons style from 2021, too.
