When it comes to celebrity travel, there is something irresistible about wanting to know where they go, how they pack and what their travel rituals are. We profiled a few jet-setting stars and had them share their must-have travel essentials and tips. Read on to find out what these entertainers have learned throughout the years to become the savviest of travelers.
Eva Longoria, actress and producer
“I must have my trusty soft faux pillow when I travel,” Longoria says. “It was made by Brookstone, but was discontinued years ago. It’s the best travel pillow ever!” (Google “Eva Longoria travel pillow,” and you will see that it basically has its own fan base.)
Once she arrives at her destination, Longoria goes out for a run with her wireless Beats by Dr. Dre headphones. She’s discovered that running helps beat jet lag, and it’s the best way to see a city. “Every time I land in Paris, I go for a run along the Seine River and under the Eiffel Tower — magical every time,” she says.
Her other must-have? Airplane socks. “I get so cold on planes, so I bring some comfy, big socks that keep my feet warm and also act as a barrier to all the disgusting things on the floor,” she says.
Rachel Zoe, designer
This American fashion designer travels the globe in style. She never leaves the house without oversized sunglasses. They’re “the best accessory to any outfit,” Zoe says. “It is the ultimate jet-setter accessory as well as protects your eyes from harmful rays.”
She adds, “I can’t live without a yummy knit scarf, floor duster cardigan and wide-brimmed hat.” Plus, she always brings a giant tote filled with her beauty essentials: at least one shade of Tom Ford lipstick, Tatcha face blotters, travel-size perfume and Jessica Alba’s Honest Company hand sanitizer.
Lionel Richie, music legend
When it comes to globetrotting, Richie is a professional. The Grammy-winning artist loves to pack his favorite candle every time he travels to keep his hotel room filled with a cozy air of familiarity. His go-to scent at the moment is “All Night Long” from his new home line.
The musician’s creative juices are always flowing, so he packs a small keyboard and recorder — when inspiration strikes, he is ready.
To stay fit, he requests a treadmill and dumbbells for his room. Most people may not realize, but this can usually be arranged through the hotel concierge.
Richie’s hot tip: Tape up all the lids to lotions, shampoos, conditioners and other bottled items to avoid leakage in your suitcase or bag. Pack a roll of tape so you’ll have it handy.
Eric Dickerson, former NFL great
Even hall of fame running backs need comfort on long flights. On long hauls, Dickerson packs his own sleeping attire. The pajamas offered to first-class passengers are not soft enough for this gentle giant — not to mention the pieces are much too small.
Nicole Richie, actress and fashion designer
Much like her chart-topping father, Nicole is smart about her travel preparations, too. Richie never gets on a plane without her essentials, which include her own tea bags, Emergen-C, a face mask, Caudalie Beauty Elixir and an iPad fully loaded with her favorite shows.
She also packs an entire disinfecting kit with antibacterial wipes, nasal spray and seat covers for the plane and hotel, which keeps Richie sanitized and comfortable.
Courteney Cox, actress and producer
Cox loves to bring her favorite beauty products in travel sizes to save space. Sephora is a great place to find some of your favorite minis. In addition, the Cougar Town star always travels with her own pillow and pillowcase to make sleeping conditions on the plane more tolerable.
Donna Wong is the owner of allureplus travel, a premier travel provider and destination specialist. Her dedicated and trusted team offers travel services worldwide for individuals and groups.