Elizabeth Kiester, Founder of Wanderlust
14
Part of the effervescent magic of ELIZABETH KIESTER is that her feet never seem to touch the ground. The self-described "visual trekker/creative dumpster" can be found traveling by camel to Petra, documenting toiletries in a Tokyo pharmacy, photographing eggplant at a veggie stand in mainland China, or hobnobbing with the US fashion editor pack, waiting for the start of the Dior runway show (just one of the reasons we're obsessed with her on Instagram). The former magazine editor—who is now the VP of design at Li & Fung, the world's largest manufacturer and licensing company knows exactly how to maximize her time on the road. As she explains, "I do not want to waste a single second rummaging through my suitcase or desk drawer 'searching' for something. Life is best when you're exploring a new place, not trying to find your passport or a hair elastic!"
Herewith, the 14 essentials that keep Elizabeth Keister ready for the unexpected as she navigates the globe.
- 1
DKNY Long Cardigan
This is a genius wrap cardigan I wear a zillion ways.
- 2
Book By An Author From The Destination…
This gets you in the mood and the rhythm of the place: I recently read Agatha Christie’s Appointment With Death en route to Jordan.
- 3
Diptique Roll-On Fragrance
I can't go anywhere without my Diptyque roll-on fragrance in L'Ombre Dans L'Eau. It’s a beautiful travel size bottle and delicious scent...
- 4
White & Warren Cashmere Travel Blanket
I use this on the plane as a blanket; I wear it as a scarf; I wear it as a shawl.
- 5
Apple iPhone
Another must have for me is my iPhone 4S: Siri really comes in handy on trips! Plus I document my entire trip on Instagram. I always get an international phone plan, which I promptly cancel upon my return home.
- 6
Marni Necklace
I rely on tons of costume jewelry to dress up/dress down my all-black wardrobe (Ed. Note: Another useful travel tip!), and you can never have enough Marni.
- 7
Rachel Zoe "Morrison" Bag
My favorite, most beloved bag I am carrying right now is from Rachel Zoe—it's called "Morrison." It's an absolutely perfect satchel. Perfect!!! Big but not "too-too," sleek, goes with everything and functions as my carry-on carryall!
- 8
Travel-Size Febreze
As you can imagine, a travel size bottle of Febreze can save the day, particularly when traveling to humid places.
- 9
Donormyl Sleeping Pills
I love Parisian pharmacies—-they carry the best natural sleeping pills called Donormyl that have saved me millions of times on flights or when I have jetlag…plus all the beauty products in them seem better simply because they're French! Ha!
- 10
Dr. Scholl's "Rub Relief" Stick
This keeps blisters at bay.
- 11
Benadryl Spray
This is always in my bag for bug bites and any other itchy happening. It's a true miracle worker!
- 12
Trader Joe's "Handful of Nuts"
To stave off hunger pangs, I keep mini pre-packs of almonds from Trader Joe's in my carry-on and then in my purse once I'm on the ground.
- 13
LeSportsac Duffle
I always pack an extra one so I can carry home purchases.
- 14
Muji Packing Pouches
These mini zip-lock clear cases come in a zillion sizes at Muji and are the greatest invention for things like hair clips.
