Mastering the Art of the Carry-On: Lessons from Tracee Ellis Ross
When it comes to travel, most of us struggle to fit everything into a single suitcase. However, Tracee Ellis Ross has turned packing into a high art form. As a self-proclaimed “travel maximalist,” the actor and founder of Pattern hair-care knows that the secret to a seamless journey isn’t just about what you bring, but how you prepare for every possible scenario.
Currently sharing her adventures in the second season of Solo Traveling with Tracee Ellis Ross on The Roku Channel, Ross reveals a packing philosophy she calls “beauty and disaster.” This means maintaining impeccable style while being fully equipped for a germ apocalypse or lost luggage.
The In-Flight Uniform: Chic Meets Comfort
For Tracee, the journey is just as important as the destination. Her go-to airport ensemble strikes a perfect balance between cozy and sophisticated:
- The Base: A comfortable sweatsuit.
- The Elevating Piece: A structured blazer or a nice jacket to add a touch of professionalism and polish.
- The Footwear: Asics sneakers. Specifically, she swears by the Gel-Kayano and the Andersson Bell Gel-1090 for their ability to be both supportive for walking and aesthetically “chic.”
The “Lost Luggage” Wardrobe
Having lost her luggage at age 12, Ross never takes chances. Her carry-on contains a versatile mini-wardrobe that ensures she stays fabulous even if her checked bags vanish. Her essentials include:
- Lightweight Layers: Oversized T-shirts (for sleeping or lounging), camisoles, and blouses.
- The No-Jeans Rule: She avoids denim in her carry-on because it’s too heavy and bulky. Instead, she opts for stretchy dresses from brands like Zara or Reformation.
- Packable Shoes: High-fashion leather ballet flats (from Alaïa or The Row) that can be compressed without losing their shape.
Wellness and Organization Hacks
Preparation is key to Ross’s travel serenity. She utilizes several strategic tools to keep her health and belongings in check:
Beauty & Health
To keep her skincare and hair routine intact, she uses Muji travel containers to carry TSA-compliant portions of her favorite products. For long-haul flights, she prioritizes circulation with Jobst medical compression stockings to prevent swelling and restless-leg syndrome.
Tech & Gadgets
In an era of wireless everything, Tracee has gone retro with wired earbuds to avoid the stress of charging or losing expensive AirPods. She also uses a colorful phone necklace by Ina Seifart to ensure her device is always within reach, and simple leather-like cord organizers from Amazon to keep her bag clutter-free.
Packing for “Disaster”: The Hygiene Kit
The most unique part of Ross’s strategy is her rigorous approach to sanitation. She treats public spaces with extreme caution, packing a dedicated medical kit that includes:
- KN95 Masks: A non-negotiable for entering public restrooms.
- Toilet Seat Covers: In multiple sizes, ensuring no part of the seat is exposed.
- Sono Disinfecting Wipes: Used to sanitize plane trays and hotel surfaces without damaging the furniture varnish.
- Personal Air Purifier: A wearable device to manage unpleasant odors during flights.
Final Travel Tip: The “Privacy Bag”
As a final piece of advice, Tracee suggests packing sensitive items in a separate, beautiful small bag. This way, if TSA agents need to inspect your carry-on, you are mentally prepared for the invasion of privacy, knowing exactly where your personal items are tucked away.
Whether you are a minimalist or a maximalist, Tracee Ellis Ross proves that with a bit of planning and the right essentials, you can navigate the world with confidence, comfort, and effortless style.
