What Molly from Table Fries Can't Live Without - Travel Edition

New York Magazine didn't ask, but she answered

Jun 13, 2025

I’m a huge fan of the Strategist’s What I Can’t Live Without series. Since they’ve never asked me to provide my must-haves I decided to write my own, travel edition, of what I can’t live without.

July luggage

My Aussie boyfriend turned me onto July luggage and I purchased the Classic Family Set at the end of last year. I added a red monogram to my navy set on the top side and now love that quick way to identify my bags at baggage claim. They are so easy to maneuver. I’ve never had a proper set of luggage and was always of mindset that they just get beat up anyway, but I’m a convert now.

Antler packing cubes

I was also sleeping on packing cubes until somewhat recently, but now feel so unorganized without them. The ones from Antler are really good - expandable and sturdy. I’ve had a cheaper version of these in the past and they did not last. I took the plunge with Antler this year and I’m so pleased with the quality.

Mason Pearson pocket brush

I’ve had this hairbrush for over 7 years and I’m truly obsessed with it. I bought it on my first trip to London and my first time in Liberty - I was coveting that purple bag! I’m a boar bristles brush girl now. It makes my hair, that is prone to frizz, so much smoother and shinier. This is my everyday brush but the pocket size makes it perfect for travel.

Sunscreen

I am passionate about sunscreen and I can’t possibly choose a favorite. I try to stick with mineral sunscreens (instead of chemical) that are reef-friendly and oxybenzone-free. I love Skinbetter and EltaMD in place of foundation and Ultrasun is my go-to for body sunscreen on a sunny holiday. I’ve also recently been turned onto to Eighth Day and Marie Veronique.

Baseball caps

For more sun protection, bad hair days and well, fashun - I always travel with a cap and am partial to a dad cap. Alex Eagle makes some of my favourites but I also like ones from With Nothing Underneath and Atlantic Coast Supplies (a new discovery in Cornwall last year).

Nice pajamas

I love to bring my best PJ’s when I’m traveling. Handover is a very cool Spanish brand that does amazing boxers, meant to be like you stole them from an ex-boyfriend. I love everything that If Only If, a UK family-owned business does - especially this nightdress. I also wear both the boxers and dress as swim cover-ups, gotta maximize that packing space!