By: Bryan Herb – Zoomvacations
Photo by: © Damedeeso | Dreamstime.com
Travel is a production, darling—and your carry-on is your co-star. Whether you’re heading to a music festival in Barcelona, a last-minute Palm Springs weekend, or a destination wedding where you’ll 100% outshine the groom, packing smart is essential. A gay man’s carry-on isn’t just a bag—it’s an emergency toolkit, a mobile glam station, and a declaration of character.
Here are the 10 things every fabulous gay man should never fly without:
1. The Power Look
Yes, you’re flying coach—but your outfit says first class energy. Always pack one versatile, wrinkle-resistant power ensemble: something that can turn heads in a lounge, slay at a dinner, or serve executive realness at a surprise networking opportunity (aka brunch).
Pro tip: Black skinny jeans, a fitted blazer, and an “I vacation in Paris” scarf work in 93% of situations.
2. Statement Sunglasses
Not just for blocking UV rays—these are for blocking exes at the gate, hangovers in the customs line, and eye contact with babies on red-eyes. The bigger the better. If someone can still see your emotions, they’re too small.
3. Hydration Arsenal
Hydration is your holy grail. Think facial mist, a chic reusable water bottle, undereye patches, and a travel-sized moisturizer that smells like you know a guy in Florence. Dry skin is homophobic.
4. Emergency Moisturizer and Lip Balm
One to hide the evidence of tequila, the other to keep your pout paparazzi-ready. TSA may question your full-size toner, but they’ll never take your right to flawless skin and supple lips.
5. The Travel Scent
Your fragrance should say “I’m not like the other passengers.” Bring a small atomizer of your signature scent. Extra points if it makes strangers ask, “What are you wearing?” in a tone that implies they want to wear your skin (in a nice way).
6. A Book You’ll Pretend to Read
Ideally something intellectual and slightly pretentious: Joan Didion, James Baldwin, or a vintage Vogue. You won’t actually finish it, but it looks amazing peeking out of your tote while you scroll Instagram at the gate.
7. Portable Charger (aka the Gay Lifeline)
When your phone dies, so does your ability to function. No Spotify. No Grindr. No Google Maps. No photos of your airport espresso. You’ll spiral. Be prepared. Juice up.
8. One Outfit That’s Too Extra for the Itinerary
Feathers? Maybe. Sequins? Perhaps. Something sheer and scandalous? Likely. You never know when you’ll be invited to a rooftop party, a poolside drag show, or just feel the urge to be “that bitch” in the hotel lobby.
9. Jewelry That Makes Security Take a Beat
Earrings, rings, and neckwear that require their own TSA tray. We love a moment of drama at the metal detector. It’s not a delay—it’s a runway.
10. Travel-Sized Lube & Condoms
Don’t make that face. Even if you’re just visiting Grandma, it’s better to be prepared than explaining to CVS in rural Kansas why you need “something slippery that’s TSA-approved.”
Honorable Mentions:
• Silk eye mask (because we nap glamorously)
• Mini lint roller (because pet hair isn’t an accessory)
• A backup charger for your backup charger
• Altoids (fresh breath is non-negotiable)
Remember, pack like you’re the main character, because you are. Your carry-on should reflect your essence: bold, prepared, and one eyebrow raise away from chaos. Safe travels, queen—and may your gate always be near your lounge.
Bryan Herb
is co-owner of Zoom Vacations®,
a US company that creates stylish international private events and gay group vacations to the world’s hottest destinations. Learn more about them at www.zoomvacations.com or call 773.772.9666.
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