The 36 luxury travel essentials that GQ won't jet set without (2024)

It’s become more essential than ever for timeless luxuries that leave you feeling on top of the world whenever you use them. That's especially true for any travel-hardened jetsetter whose finite luggage space is in a constant state of flux and evolution (much akin to Manchester City's starting formation under Pep Guardiola).

Much as we can't imagine Jack Grealish trekking away from the Etihad without a generously packed wash bag, it's important to embark on any trip with your best foot forwards. But what should you stow away in your suitcase as you rack up those air miles? Well, we've consulted with GQ's staff to see what they're carrying with them from business class lounge to beachside resort and beyond.

Whether you like to invest in standing out from the crowd or a heritage staple is more your persuasion, this curated list provides you with all the aspirational essentials to travel in style. Shop GQ's luxury travel essentials for a carefree trip wherever you're headed.

Flight Essentials

Even the most avid explorer needs accessories to dissociate from the begrudging nature of travel. Let us help you tick off those last few pieces that upgrade your journey to be as stylish as your destination. For ultimate flight-fashion points, getting your hands on Palace X Rimowa case exudes taste and will add a bit of creative flair to the conveyor belt. The limited-edition suitcases, now a collectable commodity, are equally as practical as they are pretty thanks to Rimowa’s German manufacturing. With airbrushed artworks on the case finishes, that you would expect to find under a skateboard or in a gallery as opposed to the airport escalator.

Grooming

Keeping up with your grooming routine is a luxury within itself. Still, aside from the Faustian bargain of squeaking your bathroom cabinet through those airport security checks, you're guaranteed to leave something or other at home – toothpaste, it's always the toothpaste – or be too busy rushing between co*cktail bars to spare the usual time to exfoliate. Our pro tip? Keep things simple with a high-functioning skincare kit, which can be a godsend for no 'faff' individuals who need to get from A to B with ease. 111Skin’s Celestial Black Diamond set's potent formula will help you adapt between changing climates (or deal accordingly with any skin mishaps), whilst being a luxury comfort away from home.

Tech

Let tech save the day for whatever course your travels may take. Considering dynamic multifunctional tech can be the way forward to packing that won't wreck your baggage allowance. Take the OLED Nintendo Switch, a console and Gameboy in-one, which can turn any journey into a fun-fuelled gaming sesh. Why wreak havoc in your sleeping pattern catching shut-eye, when you can have Zelda help you slay through time (or travelling economy)? We are talking leaps and bounds of flight fulfilment when compared to the typical bubble shooter game…or watching the flight GPS (we've all been there).

Fashion

Curating a capsule wardrobe for a vacation can be both satisfying and exhilarating if done correctly. You want to find interchangeable items that you'll still be reaching for long after your holiday. Being eco-minded doesn't mean compromising on style or construction. When it comes to the optimum airport armour, opt for a minimal comfy hoodie like the ERL's two-tone pullover. Going that step further to invest in a travel watch like Rolex's GMT-Master II is the top-tier finish to any outfit. Its rotating bezel and GMT hand help you tell the time anywhere in the world, should you feel the need to keep one eye on what's happening back home.

Footwear

Put your best foot forward by getting footwear that will elevate your style to look one step ahead. Have we over-hyped the Adidas Samba? Na. A classic staple shoe is as relevant in your case as it is on the football field. Often spotted on celebs like ASAP Rocky on foot fending papz. Of course, you could also opt for a more sophisticated collab trainer like Aimé Leon DoreX New Balance, worth the investment, especially when exhibiting them abroad.

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