The Traveler’s Guide to Feeling Right at Home
Photo courtesy of Pacaso
Even seriously luxurious hotels can feel soulless; so, of course, can business chains, Airbnbs, and anywhere else you might find yourself sleeping for business or vacation. The antidote, in many cases, is a little thoughtful planning. “The right details can make a huge difference in how you feel,” says designer Lynne Tocchet, design director at Pacaso, a real estate co-ownership marketplace (you buy shares in a particular luxury second home and schedule stays at it via a smart app). Tocchet has been buying, renovating, furnishing, and flipping homes for over 25 years, and she’s designed over 100 homes for Pacaso—from rustic mountain houses to beachfront cottages—this year alone. The thread between them, she says, is coziness. “We’re balancing different owners with different tastes, and whether they’re skiing, surfing, or hiking, we want them all to be able to really unwind and enjoy,” she says. Here’s how she brings the cozy to any interior. (And note: These tricks work for hotel rooms but are just as effective in your home.)
1
Blankets Make a Bigger Difference Than You’d Think.
“Obviously, they make a space feel warm and inviting,” says Tocchet. Beyond feeling cozy, they add visual texture. If you have limited suitcase space, carry a blanket on the plane with you to stay warm. Or do as Tocchet sometimes does and use your favorite oversize sweater as décor when you’re not wearing it (drape it over a chair, sofa, or bed). Think of texture in other contexts, too: A chic statement pillowcase makes any room look and feel particular, for example.
2
Bring Soothing Sounds.
Staying somewhere new all but ensures you’re going to experience different sounds—especially at night. A sound machine blocks it all out so you can sleep.
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Calming soft noise with a dimmable night-light
Snooz
White Noise Sound Machine
goop, $99.99SHOP NOW -
Night-light, alarm clock, and sound machine in one
Loftie
Loftie Alarm Clock
goop, $149SHOP NOW
3
Change Up the Scent.
A gorgeous scent brings any space to life. “A candle sets a great mood and masks unwanted smells, and there’s something so comforting about lighting one at the end of your day,” says Tocchet. If you (understandably) don’t have space in your bag for a full-size candle, a mini votive or incense is a great alternative. Tip: Since many luxury hotels have a signature scent, call ahead to see if they can skip spraying your room—so you have full control of what your room smells like.
4
Build in Rituals and Routines.
Traveling challenges even our most closely held daily routines. Whether it’s journaling, meditating, or exercising, stick with your favorites as best you can. Block out time on your calendar to help keep yourself accountable. Tip: Pack your favorite morning drink so you don’t have to make compromises at the lobby coffee shop.
5
Bring the Natural World In.
When you’re traveling, make some time to enjoy a bit of the surrounding nature—open the windows, take a walk outside, visit the buzzy downtown district, or discover a local farmers’ market. “Nature has a universally calming and grounding effect,” says Tocchet. “When you highlight those natural elements, it really feels warm and welcoming.” In a pinch, use your travel mug as a vase.
6
Pack More Beauty Than You Think Is Prudent.
There is something especially glorious about bringing your favorite skin, hair, and body care along with you. Below, our favorites from our minis shop.
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Moisturizer and exfoliant
goop Beauty
GOOPGLOW Glowing Skin Duo
goop, $48SHOP NOW -
Super soothing treatment balm
Furtuna Skin
Travel Size Rinascita Delle Olive Replenishing Balm
goop, $105SHOP NOW -
Creamy cleanser
Tata Harper
Regenerating Cleanser, 50 mL
goop, $46SHOP NOW -
Silky lotion
Sangre de Fruta
Garden of Earthly Delights Travel Hand & Body Lotion
goop, $12SHOP NOW -
Shampoo and conditioner
Rahua
Hydration Travel Duo
goop, $19SHOP NOW -
Hair treatment
goop Beauty
GOOPGLOW Restore + Shine Hair Serum, 15 mL
goop, $20SHOP NOW
