Searches for domestic and international flights at some online travel sites turn up more than double to triple the number of flights there were last year. Folks are itching to resume their travels this holiday season. And while the need for pandemic protection methods still exists, many of us are feeling safe enough to go forward with plans to enjoy family fun, a girlfriend getaway or a romantic rendezvous. For the jet-setting sister planning her next adventure, these essential goods from Black-owned brands could amp up the experience.Lightweight carry-ons that are style heavyweights
For quality luggage at an affordable price point, head to Tote&Carry. Cofounded by designer Tony Dennis, this luxury brand offers standout pieces that are also eco-friendly. Consider the Apollo II Travel Set, which includes a duffel bag and backpack. Travel sets begin at $229. (ToteNCarry.com)
You may also like: Aviator “Weekender Bag” by Made Leather Co., $385. (MadeLeatherCompany.com)Luggage so well-designed it almost packs itself
Luxury brand Ebby Rane specializes in carry-on luggage that simplifies the packing process. Consider splurging on The Quartermaster, which includes dedicated bags for cosmetics, jewelry, liquids and more. Most items range between $195 and $995. (EbbyRane.com)Hands-free holders for your vacation valuables
Elevate your airport style with Ashya, a unisex travel accessory brand founded by Ashley Cimone and Moya Annece. Made primarily in New York City, this brand fuses luxury and functionality into their designs. Consider the Bolo Bag to hold your passport or the Anjuna Utility Belt Bag for easy access to other necessities. Prices start at $190. (Ashya.co)
You may also like: Saddle Bag by Mifland, $320. (Mifland.com)Versatile pieces that pack small and are big on style
Banish the habit of overpacking clothes with Karyn Pettigrew’s travel line, which offers simple, yet stylish garments meant to be mixed and matched, providing you with ease throughout your trip. Made with sustainable fabrics, ZoeGoes’ wardrobe capsules give you greater outfit options sans the bulk. Prices start at $129. (1BagTravelWarrior.com)
You may also like: Cardigan Wrap by Taylor Jay, $149. (TaylorJayCollection.com)A box of beauty gems for self-care anywhere
No need to downsize your hair and skin care products. Get your hands on BlackTravelBox’s “Carry On Starter Box,” a five-piece set that includes a shampoo bar, conditioner bar, lip balm, hair balm and body balm — all in TSA-friendly sizes and made with natural ingredients, such as shea butter and coconut oil. Prices range between $6 and $36. (TheBlackTravelBox.com)
You may also like: SKÔT Discovery Kit by SKÔT Beauté, $55. (SkotBeaute.com)Hand sanitizer that bids “bon voyage” to dry skin and germs
Touch Body Works makes “self-care in the air” easy with travel-size hand sanitizing sprays. Vegan and infused with aloe vera and vitamin E, this product claims to keep your hands germ-free and moisturized. The “To-Go Pens” are priced at $4. To refill, you might also consider the 4-ounce bottle priced at $9.50. (TouchBodyworks.com)
You may also like: Hand Sanitizer by Lizzie’s All-natural Products, $7.99. (ProductsByLizzie.com)A neck pillow to dream on the way
Stay comfy on those long-haul flights with the convertible neck pillow from Shades of Color, a brand that specializes in African American and faith-based products. And during your adventure, you may want to document your thoughts with an inspirational journal. Neck pillows are priced at $24. Most journals are priced at $12. (ShadesCalendars.com)
You may also like: Travel Blanket by E Marie, $88, (GetEMarie.com), and Intention Journal by Aya Paper Co., $20. (AyaPaper.co)A delicious and quick bite for mid-flight
Unwind with a good in-flight flick and a bag (or two) of Soul Popped, a line of soul-food- flavored, gourmet popcorn created by De J. Lozada. Serving unique flavors, such as Banana Pudding and Chicken ’N Waffles, these snacks are something to look forward to on a long flight. Prices run from $8.50 to $10.50. (SoulPopped.com)
You may also like: Truffle Popcorn by Pipcorn, $16. (PipSnacks.com)An eye mask for your beauty sleep
Doze off in style with Bifties’ velour, silk-lined sleep mask. Founded by Constance Panton, this online gift shop offers products solely from Black-owned businesses, such as weighted eye masks from The Raspberry Room that could help you fall asleep faster. These items range between $12 and $34. (Bifties.com)
You may also like: African Print Relaxation Eye Mask by Wax & Wonder, $24.99. (WaxandWonder.com)
Sisters Staff
