Tumi suitcase

If I had a nickel for every time I was asked how I keep my cool traveling, I'd be sitting in first class by now. My tried-and-true rules are simple.
  • First, no schlumpy sweats. Instead, I go with an easy-fitting sweater and pants. If I can't have legroom, at least I can have cashmere! (When I have a meeting straight off the plane, I upgrade to no-wrinkle stretch fabrics.)
  • Slip-on shoes save time at the security checkpoint.
  • I dodge the scary airline blankets by wearing a scarf.
  • My snack: protein-rich raw almonds (less dehydrating than the salty peanuts they dole out).
The trick is to create your own system—and stick to it. Here's, the best gear to get you off the ground, starting with my favorite travel bag. This suitcase is light and easy to spot, with external pockets for easy access. $495; Tumi.com .

13 more trip essentials you shouldn't leave home without
J Crew striped long-sleeved tee

LONG-SLEEVED TEES
They're excellent for layering; navy-and-white is always modern. $30; JCrew.com .
Tse grey sweater

COMFY SWEATER
Zip one up when the A/C blasts. Tse, $695; 800-487-3692. I like cargo pants, too; they're loose enough for hours of sitting, and the pockets come in handy. Try this pair from JCrew.com .
Tretorn slip ons

COOL SLIP-ONS
Not having to unlace and retie saves time and hassle. $85; Tretorn.com .
Herbal relaxer

HERBAL RELAXER
A fast-acting tension reliever—like nature's Xanax—will calm your nerves. $30 for 250 tablets; Formula303.com .
Urban Zen blue scarf

CHIC SCARF
A huge, thin cashmere wrap works as a blanket. Urban Zen, $1,295; 212-206-3999.
Vie Luxe Travel candles

TRAVEL CANDLES
These erase the smell of a hotel room. Vie Luxe, $40; Saks.com .
StressRoller mini massager

MINI MASSAGER
Everything aches during a long flight; this gadget gets the knots out and provides lumbar support. $20; StressRoller.com .
Bose headphones

GOOD HEADPHONES
Advanced noise-reduction technology lets me control my in-flight soundtrack—music, movie, or silence. $300; Bose.com .
LL Bean foldable tote bag

FOLDABLE TOTE
This one is indestructible. Stash it in your suitcase, then use it as an extra carry-on. $35 with monogram; LLBean.com .
Kindle and case

PAGE-TURNER
No more lugging multiple books and newspapers. The latest Kindle downloads wirelessly, works internationally. $259; Amazon.com . Cover and light, M-Edge, $55 and $25; MEdgeStore.com .
Essential Oils

ESSENTIAL OILS
These put me right out. Dr. Sharon Am I Dreaming Kit, $48; DrSharonInc.com .
Dopp kit

DOPP KIT
This sturdy one doesn't leak like a regular plastic bag. $12; Flight001.com .

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