My Travel Must-Haves + Hawaii Recap 🏝️

What I packed, what I loved, and how I actually unplugged in Hawaii.

As most of you know, I recently got back from the most rejuvenating week in Kauai and I feel like my nervous system finally got the reset it’s been craving. No schedules, no inbox, no pressure to “do it all.” Just early morning beach walks, good food, and spectacular views from the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay. I actually unplugged… like phone-down-for-hours kind of unplugged and it reminded me how good it feels to live in the moment instead of always documenting my every move on social media.

My latest obsession is a game called Rummikub, which my sister introduced me to last month. It’s easy to learn but requires concentration, so it has really forced me to use my brain in a different way than I am used to doing. It is truly so fun. And now I am thinking about taking Mahjong lessons :).

I digress. In this post I wanted to share some of my favorite things that made my travel experience to Hawaii much more enjoyable, in case you are needing some inspo for your own summer trips!

My luggage

Let’s start with my carry-on, you guys know I pack light. Over the years, I’ve figured out exactly what I need and what I can leave behind. I recently invested in a Rimowa carry-on and it’s been a total game-changer: it’s lightweight, durable, moves with ease. It also somehow fits more than you’d think. That said, I know they’re a splurge, so I also recommend Away (I used one for years!) and have heard amazing things about the Coolife luggage from Amazon— sleek, affordable, and super functional.

Here’s what I always pack inside:

• Noise-canceling headphones – for plane meditations, calming playlists, and (let’s be honest) tuning out crying baby chaos.

• A pre-packed toiletry pouch – I keep travel-sized versions of all my favorites ready to go, which saves both time and brain space. To take it a step further, I HIGHLY recommend a cord organizer as well to keep all the cords, chargers, and headphones neat!

• Neck pillow + eye mask – I may not always sleep on the plane, but I always try, so that I arrive to my destination more rejuvenated and ready to tackle the day. I love my silk sleep mask from Lunya and the under eye masks from Grace & Stella!

• Reusable water bottle – always empty at security, always filled before boarding. I love my Stanley tumbler! If you’re worried about spilling, don’t be! You can get a screw-on lid that prevents any accidental spillage haha.

• Snacks, snacks, snacks (in a snack box of course)– I’m a firm believer in never relying on airport food - one, it’s usually not healthy and even if you do find healthy snacks, everything is so expensive. Think protein bars, beef sticks, and fruit! You guys know I love my snackle box! If you haven’t bought one yet, WYD?

My Go-To Packing System

Packing doesn’t need to feel chaotic. Here’s the system that’s changed the game for me:

• Packing cubes – I organize by category: workout clothes, swimwear, everyday outfits, pajamas. Bonus: they keep your suitcase from exploding mid-trip.

• Portable steamer – When traveling, your clothes will get wrinkled. This little guy takes up barely any space and keeps everything looking fresh without relying on hotel irons (which I avoid at all costs). Of course some hotels have them (mine did), BUT a lot of times I have traveled and the ones at the hotel are ancient and don’t work well. Do yourself a favor and just bring your own.

• Jewelry organizer – this is a new travel hack I’ve recently picked up and I am obsessed! You can organize each piece of jewelry in its own pouch so nothing gets tangled!!

• Versatile pieces – Think matching sets you can wear as a cover-up or to dinner, a sarong, and swimsuits that actually stay put. I’ve linked a few items I wore during my trip on my Shopmy + all of the swimsuits I wore on my Amazon!

• One pair of “everything shoes” – This time it was my go-to sandals that worked for beach, brunch, and beyond. When I saw that Amazon had the exact lookalikes of The Row flip flops, I RAN!!! They are so comfy and cost a fraction of the price! I shared these on Instagram and many of you were SHOCKED that the retail price of the ones at the Row are $690 - and I get it. Get the dupes and I promise, that red bottom will elevate any summer outfit!

Beach Bag Essentials

My beach bag has two jobs: keep things chill and keep me sane. Here’s what came with me every day in Hawaii and honestly, what lives in my beach bag all summer long:

• Portable fan – Trust me, this is a game-changer. Whether you're at the beach, on a walk, or just waiting in line for shaved ice, this keeps you from melting.

• Portable charger – Because between snapping pics and playing music, your phone will be on 2% before lunch if you’re not careful. Bonus: get one that comes with a built-in cord!

• SPF mist – A mid-day reapplication must! It’s lightweight and gives you that dewy vacation glow.

• LMNT electrolyte packets – These are my go-to. No sugar, super hydrating, and the flavors are so good! Plus they’re super easy to throw a couple in your bag!

• Portable speaker – Perfect for beach days or morning walks. I love this one because it clips onto your bag!

• Phone umbrella – The tiniest beach-day hack that makes a huge difference. Keeps your screen cool and shaded so you’re not squinting or overheating your phone in the sun.

• A good book – This trip’s pick: Part of Your World—I finished it in three days! Click here to see all of my favorite summer reads.

• Sand remover – Pro tip: this sand remover pouch brushes off the sand so easily.

I hope you found this post fun. While it’s not a personal post talking about my divorce aftermath or morning routine or wellness hacks, traveling over the summer is fun and it’s also important to be prepared.

I love you guys and thank you for being here, taking the time to read, and engaging with my content.

Xo,

Nicole