A quick look through the calendar of Classic Journeys president and founder, Edward Piegza, reveals that he took 52 flights on 23 itineraries to nine countries plus seven cross country trips… in the last 12 months alone. As you might imagine, owning a travel company means traveling quite a bit, and after more than two decades he’s got it down to a science. With the holidays in full-swing, gift givers among us want to know what to get the travel lover on their list. So, we unpacked Edward’s suitcase and found his 12 must-have travel accessories that make life in the air a little less tourist class and a little more of a, dare we say, classic journey.
TravelPro MaxliteRoallaboard Suitcase
The Maxlite® 5 22” Expandable Rollaboard® gives you domestic carry-on convenience in a roomy all-in-one suitcase. Edward says, “The key to success with this bag is the four independent wheels make it so you can roll it standing up anywhere rather than pulling it. That’s a major upgrade over traditional rollerboards.”
Buy here: Travelpro | 129.99
Apple Airpods
“Wires drive me crazy—especially when you’re on the go! They catch on the arms of airplane seats, get stepped on, and wrap themselves into knots, says Edward.” Not only are these wireless headphones compact, but their charging case also holds multiple additional charges for more than 24 hours of listening time.
Buy here: Apple | $159
Patagonia Stormfront Roll Top Pack
“I can take this bag everywhere… from longtail boats in the Mekong Delta to South Kensington in London. This pack has just enough space to haul your gear in any environment.”
Buy here: Patagonia | $149
Flight 001 Contoured Eye Mask
“I don’t like the confining feeling of a mask on my face. This one is slightly raised, so it doesn’t actually touch your eyes, making it more comfortable. It also features wide elastic straps with a Velcro closure for an adjustable fit.”
Buy here: Flight 001 | $18
iPhone X (specifically for Camera)
“Your best camera is the one you have with on you—which in my case is my iPhone X. The portrait mode has transformed my enjoyment in picture taking and the quality of my shots.”
Buy here: Apple | $999
Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket
“I enjoy this jacket for many reasons. It folds up super small into my bag—which is a great space saver. Also, it’s very comfortable in a wide range of temperatures.”
Buy here: Patagonia | $199
[Side note from Edward: “I also recommended all you gentlemen out there to pack a blazer… It makes organizing a breeze and you get extra style points! I like Thomas Pink of London.”]
Johnston & Murphy Toliver Lace-To-Toe sneaker
“When you want something more dressy than a regular sneaker but less fussy than a dress shoe. These sneakers are great while traveling—easy to slip on and off, plus stylish and extremely comfortable. “
Buy here: Johnston & Murphy | $150
Nike Free Running Shoes
“For days filled with walking and exploring, you can’t go wrong with a pair of Nike Frees.”
Buy here: Nike | ~$100
Lululemon Basic Long Sleeve
“This shirt is lightweight, soft, and durable—perfect for those temperature changes while on board an aircraft.”
Buy here: Lululemon | $68
Anker Astro E1 Portable Charger
“This portable charger is the size of a candy bar, making it ultra-compact. It also has optimized charging for any device.”
Buy here: Anker | $15.99
Blueberry Oxygen Facial Scrub
“When you travel your skin feels dry and tired. This blueberry scrub smells great and has a gentle graininess that feels like a mini spa treatment.”
Buy here: Pure Body Naturals | $19
Baiji Collapsible Silicone Water Bottle
“You have to stay hydrated while traveling, right? Well, the baiji water bottle is easy to store and easy to clean, making it the perfect H2O container while on the go.”
Buy here: Amazon | $14.97
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