March 6,

When you’re sitting on the tarmac, strapped into your cramped airplane seat with a stranger chewing loudly beside you and another kicking behind you, waiting for an announcement from the pilot on how much longer it’s going to be until takeoff, travel can feel decidedly less than chic. Long gone are the glory days, when flying not only felt like an adventure, but was an event unto itself. Fortunately, Indré Rockefeller, together with her co-founder Andy Krantz, is here to bring a bit of glamour back to travel with Paravel, their luxe-yet-affordable luggage line that stands up to all of the stresses of traveling—while still looking stylish.

When we met with Indré to talk about the brand, we couldn’t help but notice how passionate she was about the subject. Many of us describe our jobs in a rote, this-is-what-I-do-all-day summary, but a particular zeal flowed from Indré. “Paravel was inspired by a desire to create luggage that isn’t an afterthought,” she explained. “We set out to build a brand rooted in the understanding that travel gear isn’t only about the pieces we keep in storage units or attics or interact with on luggage carousels at airports, but “rather” beautifully designed pieces that serve as an extension of our everyday lives.” Does that not make you want to grab a gorgeous carry-on and hop on the next flight out?

In addition to her intimate knowledge of luggage and all of its possibilities, Indré’s own style is enviably put-together. No surprise, since her résumé boasts stints at Vogue, Moda Operandi and fashion brand Delpozo before developing Paravel. With this in mind, we thought she’d be the perfect person to share her travel and packing tips, helping us make the most of this last long weekend of summer.

What is your #1 travel tip?
The first thing you should do when you arrive in a new place is take a walk. People-watch, reset your internal clock, and get a sense of place. Then you can go take that nap.

How about when it comes to packing?
I can’t say enough about packing cubes. They keep clothes organized, accessible and compressed inside luggage. I’m addicted to our Paravel cubes because of the ultra-lightweight nylon and quick-view window

What beauty products do you always pack for a weekend getaway?
A tinted moisturizer with SPF, dry shampoo and a silk eye mask.

I try to avoid checking bags at all costs. I prefer a simple beauty routine that is easy to maintain.

How do you maximize all of the products in your carry-on so you can still clear security?
This is something I deal with often, as I try to avoid checking bags at all costs. I prefer a simple beauty routine that is easy to maintain and doesn't overexert my sensitive skin. I stick to a cleanser, toner and moisturizer that I keep in travel sizes, so I can grab and go at a moment’s notice. I also keep my makeup minimal, bringing a concealer, tinted moisturizer with SPF, mascara, and a cream blush that doubles as a lip tint. In order to minimize packing liquids, I skip carrying shampoos and conditioners and opt for dry shampoo powder to extend a blowout or use hotel shampoo for longer trips.

I also always carry a multi-purpose salve in my bag. I use it as a lip balm, cuticle oil, eye makeup remover, luminizer (think cheekbones and eyelids), eyebrow gel and skin protectant for cuts and cracked skin. I will even mix it with lipstick to turn into a creamy blush in a pinch.

What is your in-flight beauty routine?
Drink water, water and more water. Aside from that, I always pack an eye mask, ear plugs and cozy socks into my Paravel zip top pouches so I can catch up on sleep during the flight.

What is your go-to travel outfit?
Loafers, jeans, a vintage blazer, and an oversized wrap (the larger, the better) that doubles as a blanket.

Where was your most recent trip?
I was just in Florence, Italy, visiting our family-owned factory where we manufacture our Paravel product.

What was your most memorable trip of all time?
Cage diving with great white sharks off the coast of Cape Town, South Africa. That checked a big item off my bucket list.

What else is still out there on your travel bucket list?
Jaipur, India.

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