5 editor-approved spring travel essentials

A swimsuit like this Bahia One Piece Swimsuit style from Reformation is an absolute travel essential. Here's why! Photo by Handout /Reformation

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Key travel pieces can make the world of difference when you’re on holiday.

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After flying some 109,000-plus kilometres in 2025, I’d like to think that I’m qualified to sound off on the subject. Last year alone, my travels took me to Japan (twice), France, Mexico, Denmark, Switzerland. Safe to say, I’ve spent a lot of time with my trip essentials, so I know what works (and what doesn’t).

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As spring — and then summer — travels prepare to really take off (summer travel peaks in July and August), I’ve rounded up a few travel essentials that I have tried, tested and can highly recommend. From the perfect pant to a sweet suitcase, these easy pieces are guaranteed to streamline your itinerary.

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Monos Check In Medium. Photo by Handout /Monos

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A reliable suitcase

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I can pack for two weeks in a carry-on, so I typically stick to that size of suitcase when I can. The Monos Carry-On Pro is a great option for work trips, as the front pocket securely stores your laptop while still allowing it to be easily accessible through security checkpoints. For longer trips that require more space, I like the Monos Check In Medium. The easy-rolling style is big enough to fit all the extras, but is still a manageable size for when you’re schlepping it on public transit, to cruise ports, etc. New for the spring season, the Vancouver-based suitcase company has launched a chic Mulberry hue, that sees the durable polycarbonate shell given a deep, somewhat glossy purple update.

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Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater. Photo by Handout /Quince

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A cashmere sweater

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Trust me when I say that a simple, crewneck cashmere sweater will be your most valuable packing item. Wear it on the plane for added warmth, worn over the shoulders for accessible layering (and added style points) while touring around, and then pair it with a simple skirt for dinners out. Plus, you can easily refresh it with a wash in the sink or hotel dry cleaning service mid-trip, if needed. The Quince Mongolian Cashmere Oversized Crewneck Sweater boasts a relaxed fit for an effortless take on the timeless sweater. It’s a luxe layering piece that will be well worth the cost-per-wear investment.

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The Lodge Pant from Artizia. Photo by Handout /Aritzia

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A chic-yet-comfortable pair of pants

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Sweatpants are an easy go-to for flights, but I prefer a travel pant that can work double-time in my trip wardrobe. The Lodge Pant from Artizia has become my go-to thanks to the style’s comfort and versatility. Made from the Vancouver-headquartered brand’s Crepette material, the relaxed-fit, tie-waist trouser won’t wrinkle, is lightweight for packing, and comes in a wide range of colours to suit your personal style and trip wardrobe needs. Pair these pants with a cropped jacket, a T-shirt, an oversized cotton blouse … the list really goes on and on.

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Bahia One Piece Swimsuit Photo by Handout /Reformation

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If you only pack a swimsuit when you’re headed somewhere warm, let me tell you, you’re doing it wrong! A swim in a hotel pool, visit to the hot tub, or even just a five-minute break in a steam sauna are absolute luxuries of travel. That’s why I always pack a swimsuit in my suitcase, sometimes even storing said ‘case with a clean bathing suit inside just so that I don’t forget it on my next trip. This Bahia One Piece Swimsuit from the brand Reformation offers a sustainable spin on swimwear, featuring a synthetic-free, bio-based fibre fabric called EVO by Fulgar. The swimsuit is also recyclable through the brand’s RefRecycling initiative.