The Carry On Edit

What actually earns a place in my carry-on (and why)

I’ve never been what you’d call an “efficient” packer (oh, I’ve tried, trust me). But after years of living on planes, I can confidently say I’ve nailed one thing: my carry on. I know exactly what I need to feel alive and look like an actual human … even after the most unforgiving red-eye or a mad dash between cities.

After a decade plus in hospitality and hundreds of flights, this routine is what keeps me looking and feeling fresh.

Beauty Routine

• Collagen face masks — I wear these on flights (yes, even the short ones and even for roadtrips). I land looking hydrated, not haggard. They’re affordable enough that I stock extras for the hotel mini fridge and wear them overnight too. Your skin will thank me.
  

• French Farmacie elixir exfoliant + serum radiant — My non-negotiable duo. The serum is daily, the elixir 2–3x a week. Together? Glowing skin, always.
  

• Setting spray + refreshing mist — To revive and lock in everything. Literally spritz mid flight and you’ll feel the effects immediately.
  

• Hydration gel — For in-flight layering with (or without) the collagen mask. Featherlight, deeply hydrating.
  

• Body oil — Hotel lotions, no matter how luxe, never cut it after a flight, use this solo or mix in with a lotion. Your dehydrated skin will thank you.
  

• Daily vitamins — Pre-portioned, no pill box drama, no forgetting.
  

• Cellular Hydration packets — Game changing hydration. Always in the bag.
  

• A quick lift + contour - Yes, even on the go. Quiet and discreet but so effective. Use code AshleyNZIIP for 10% off your order.

• Supercharged magnesium — An every day AND travel lifesaver.
  

• Cleansing cloths — A reset without water. Essential before a mask or when your face just needs a clean slate. And a must post flight.
  

• Red light mask (face + décolleté) — Packs flat, doubles as skincare + therapy. Yes, I bring it everywhere, yes I’ve used it on a plane.
  

• On-the-go makeup trio — My entire face, in four products (eye opening mascara, tinted moisturizer, face pencil concealer, lip + cheek stick) and done in less than 3 minutes. Dewy, glowy the second I walk off the plane.

Shopping note: Use code ASHLEYNI15 for 15% off at Detox Market.

Wardrobe Routine

• Short flights — Wide-leg cropped jeans (soft and forgiving), sneakers (these are so good) or ballet flats, a crisp white shirt, and a blazer or cropped trench with a sweater layered over the shoulders for when the AC is aggressively arctic. The base? This is the softest bra you will ever own and these 100% organic cotton underwear are a non negotiable for me.
  

• Long hauls — I wear the “short flight” uniform to the airport, then change in the lounge before boarding into this cozy set + a chunky scarf. Game changer.

For inspiration: my ShopMy wardrobe staples list is a cheat sheet for easy, elevated travel outfits.

Luggage Routine

• This Dagne Dover Carry On — My forever go-to. Perfectly sits on a suitcase, loaded with compartments, and somehow fits a weekend outfit and + all of my travel essentials. Use code AshleyNii20 for 20% off your purchase!

  

And don’t forget about the headphones, these drown out everything and then some.

That’s my carry-on edit: beauty, wardrobe, luggage. The things that make 30,000 feet feel like second nature. Shop the full edit here.