Go here. Fly there. Pack this. Ride that. Whether it’s a photo shoot in the backcountry or a party in New York City – most of our time is spent on the road. Traveling can take a toll on the mind and body, and while packing for each trip is unique to the final destination, there are some old faithfuls I never leave home without.

1. Foam Roller/Tennis Balls



My favorite foam roller is made by Trigger Point Therapy, called The Grid. I love it because it has different density foam all around it; this roller is like giving your muscles a massage. So when you have really over-worked legs or knots you can roll them out after a long day of riding so that in the morning they feel brand new. You can literally roll out anything on your body; back, hips, calves etc.



Tennis balls are crucial after a long travel day and your back and neck are all cramped up. Your back is your core and need to feel solid; after sitting in a fixed position for who knows how many hours you can massage every vertebrae of your spine with these and it’s an instant relief. Tennis balls also work great on the bottom of your feet after a long day of riding to get the cramps out. They are super easy to make too – just stuff two in a sock and tie a knot and you have a perfect back, foot and neck massager.

2. A Journal



I think journaling is one of the neatest tasks I have picked up over the years of traveling. There is so much that I write down and later look back at that I wouldn’t have remembered otherwise. It really shows me how much I grow from year to year and my perspective on things from then to now. I like to journal but also throw in some cool things I find along the way like post cards, airline stubs, anything small really.These days everything you capture when you are traveling is through technology, so it’s nice to actually write, draw or scrapbook and have arts and crafts time!

3. A Good Book



There are numerous times while traveling that you are sitting around, waiting, or just bored in a hotel room, and what better time then to catch up on some good reading! Don Miguel Ruiz and Shakti Gawain are both really good authors and an inspirational read.

4. Water Bottle



A reusable water bottle, like this Burton x Mizu one, will save you so much money while saving the environment. Think of all the water you drink while your away from home, and all the cups and bottles that add up. Keeping a water bottle in your carry-on is easy to fill up and carry with you all the time.

5. Snacks



Snacks are my savior while not in my own kitchen. Airport food isn’t the best; some better than others but honestly I can never find exactly what I want and it never seems fresh. Bringing snacks along is another great way to save money and eat healthier. I love Larabars, fruit, dried fruit, nuts, rice chips, and green bars by Macrogreens.

What are the things you can’t live without when traveling?