Phosis Favorites for Your Packing List
1. The Hot Flash Friendly Scarf
Thankfully a combo of upping my fiber intake, limiting sugar and alcohol, and the right supplementation has kicked my hot flashes for the time being, but those in perimenopause and menopause will understand the need for the perfect plane scarf. It has to be warm enough to guard against the chill of the blasting air conditioner, but lightweight enough that it won’t turn you into a sweaty mess while you’re walking to your gate or out to catch an Uber. This one is truly featherweight and can get crammed into my tote bag without wrinkling.
2. The Skin Refresher
Fluctuating estrogen levels in perimenopause tend to make skin drier and tighter, which can make fine lines appear more prominent. Dry plane air sure doesn’t help. A great glycerin and rose face mist restores a little bit of moisture and refreshes skin without disturbing your makeup. This one is inexpensive, smells subtly of Damask roses, contains no drying alcohols, and doesn't irritate my skin.
3. The UV Blocker
I’m a skincare and makeup minimalist, preferring a few hero products that really work to a medicine cabinet and makeup bag filled with what’s trending – especially when I have limited space. This daily sunscreen from Clark's Botanicals is particularly good because it multitasks as a makeup primer and protects skin from unfriendly window glare with UV filters and antioxidants. Bonus: It comes in a TSA-friendly tube.
4. The Go Anywhere Earring
My favorite jewelry is classic enough to go with everything, but interesting enough to catch your eye. These Jane Diaz earrings are on heavy rotation; I like that they're a little more substantial than a typical gold hoop and easily go from day to night.
5. The Perfect Plane Read
My Gen-X may be showing, but I still love print — especially in airports. Yolanda Edwards, former editor-in-chief of Conde Nast Traveler, now produces the most beautiful magazine with thoughtful travel articles. (Subscription to YOLO available.) It is fun to read and dream about places to visit with my family one day or solo once my son heads to college in a couple of years. On my bucket list: Australia and Iceland.
6. The Packable Robe
Fellow travel minimalists and lovers of practicality stay with me here. I know any hotel room worth staying features a perfectly fine robe, so it’s tough to justify suitcase space for one. When I can spare it, I like to pack my very favorite robe from home — it's pretty, floral, has the belt sewn in so you can't lose it, and is surprisingly cool despite the longer length. It feels like I'm wearing a hug from home, which makes enjoying room-service coffee that much nicer.
7. The Souvenir
Though not something I recommend lugging around on a trip, I was tempted to bring this rose-scented hand soap home with me the last time I flew back from Los Angeles. Discovered while staying at The Sunset Tower in West Hollywood, l loved the rose and sandalwood scent so much, I immediately ordered a full-sized bottle for my guest bathroom when I returned home.
