What’s In My Bag: Travel Essentials & Lessons from a Retreat Photographer (30+ Retreats Worldwide)
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to travel for work, especially as a photographer or creative, this one’s for you.
I’ve been traveling internationally since I was six months old, and over the last 8+ years, I’ve had the honor of capturing nearly 30 retreats around the world. From sunrise ceremonies on the cliffs of Portugal to full-day brand shoots tucked into the Maine coast, my work has taken me far and wide. And I think it’s safe to say I’ve learned a lot about what it takes to travel well while staying energized and grounded enough to create work that matters.
These days, many of my sessions require travel. Last year alone, I was on a plane at least every six weeks (often more). And while I love being on the move, travel isn’t always glamorous. It’s taken time (and a lot of trial and error) to create a rhythm that allows me to feel grounded, energized, and inspired no matter where I’m headed.
Whether you're a fellow creative, a retreat leader, or someone who just wants to travel with more intention, I hope this peek into my process offers something useful.
And if you want to save all my travel tips + essentials for creatives in one place, I’ve bundled everything into a free downloadable guide you can grab at the end of this post.
1. The Mindset: Travel Isn’t Glamorous (But It Can Be Sacred)
Let’s be real: travel these days can be rough. Delays, crowded airports, middle seats, dry skin, and inconsistent food options are par for the course. You have to actually enjoy the experience of travel (even the hard parts) if you want to sustainably build it into your business.
One of the biggest things I’ve learned? You can’t control how travel will go, but you can control how you show up for it.
Before any trip, I make sure to move my body as much as possible. On the day of travel, if I have time, I’ll squeeze in a quick walk, dance, or somatic flow to help move the energy and ground my nervous system. I always download a few ASMR tracks and meditations to my phone ahead of time, and I keep a small crystal in my pocket that I can easily hold while meditating mid-flight.
I also give myself more time than I need at the airport. I hate rushing. There’s nothing worse than starting a trip in a panic, so I always opt for early arrivals, slower meals, and as many moments of presence as possible.
Be kind. Stay hydrated. Take a breath before you board.
And remember: the energy you bring with you matters as much as what’s in your suitcase.
2. My Retreat Photography Gear List: What’s In My Camera + Tech Bag
Whether I’m shooting a four-day yoga retreat or a high-impact brand session in the city, I keep my gear streamlined. My goal is to travel as light as possible, without ever compromising the creative process.
Here’s what always comes with me:
Canon EOS R6
50mm lens (my forever favorite)
24-70mm lens (super versatile for group shots + dynamic moments)
Multiple batteries + a battery charger
External hard drive + memory cards
Lens cloths
Laptop + chargers
The lighter I can travel while still being prepared, the more energy I have for what really matters: creating meaningful, high-quality work for my clients.
3. My Personal Travel Essentials
This is where things get fun. After years of refining my system, here are some of the non-negotiables that make travel feel doable, even when the journey’s long:
Noise-canceling headphones (lifesavers on long flights)
Sleep eye mask
Essential oils – peppermint for clarity, plus my own grounding blend
Protein bars + snacks – nuts, hydration packets, and easy energy boosts
Compression socks for long flights
Rose spray (refreshes me instantly)
Small crystal for grounding
Compression cubes for packing (game changers)
Layered outfits so I’m never caught off guard by a climate shift
Clean pair of underwear + bra in my carry-on, always
Toothbrush + toothpaste in my carry-on
Hydration + magnesium packets for post-flight recovery
As soon as I arrive and get settled, I carve out time for movement, even just 10 minutes. And no matter how late it is, I always do legs up the wall for at least 10 minutes before sleep. My body (and nervous system) thank me every time.
4. Lessons from 30 Retreats Around the World
Here are a few hard-won (and sometimes funny) lessons I’ve picked up along the way:
Don’t assume there will be laundry. Pack a few extra underthings—always.
Keep your gear clean and organized. It saves so much time and stress.
You will get dirty at least once. Bring a backup outfit you actually like.
Don’t overschedule yourself. You need time to rest and recharge, especially when holding space creatively.
Build in solo time. Even if you’re deeply extroverted, solo time throughout your travels helps your energy stay clear.
Be flexible. The best moments often come when plans change.
5. Want the Full List of Essentials?
If you’re someone who travels often (or wants to), I created a free downloadable PDF with all my go-to essentials and top travel tips, plus a few extras I didn’t include here.
🧳✨ Download: My Travel Essentials & Top Travel Tips PDF
Whether you're a fellow creative on the move or a retreat leader planning your next gathering, I hope this helps you travel a little lighter, stay grounded, and create your best work, no matter where you land.
P.S. If you're hosting a retreat and dreaming of visuals that truly capture the magick of the experience, I'm always happy to travel. You can learn more about Retreat Magick here.
