Antler luggage managing director Kirsty Glenne reveals packing secret

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a day ago

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Antler luggage executive and frequent traveller Kirsty Glenne has her act sorted.
I travel to... I've been managing director at Antler for three years now, a role in which I'm lucky enough to be able to travel around the world. I'm based in the UK and travel regularly for work, most recently to Australia, Japan and New York.
Travel is central to what we do at Antler; it's so essential to immerse yourself in the brand and stay connected to our products. I travel to Australia for business at least twice a year to meet with our parent company, Strand, who are based in Sydney. It's been a privilege to get to know the city so well over the years.
When I am not in the sunshine you'll find me in Norway skiing with my family.
Kirsty Glenne skiing in Norway.
I pack my suitcase... With packing cubes, always! I believe once you use packing cubes you will never go back. It's the best way to stay organised while travelling.
I always travel with... Carry-on luggage. I commute to the office weekly so it feels like an extension of my outfit. I am currently travelling with the Antler Heritage Cabin and Tote, which is the perfect stack for on the go. If it is a five- to seven-day trip, I will use our biggest carry-on and aim to pack super-smart to avoid the hold. Travelling longer haul when I check in a medium, large or trunk, I always take a cabin case on board with my first few days' worth of outfits, just in case something goes missing.
Using packing cubes is Kirsty Glenne's top travel hack.
My advice for choosing the right suitcase is... Go for a brand you can trust. Luggage, previously a commodity, is now a very considered purchase that reflects your personal style, travel look, lifestyle and investment level. New and unproven brands can't really qualify a lifetime warranty, for example, as they have only been around a few years, so it's important to research before buying.
Inside my carry-on you'll always find... My valuables and tech. My jewellery, laptop, phone, cables, AirPods, Antler water bottle (for sustainable water refill). I also pack a few make-up bits for a light touch-up, and my skincare.
My favourite type of travel companion is... I travel often for work so when I'm going away, personally my ideal travel companion is someone who likes to take control of the planning so I can fully relax.
As soon as I check in... I normally get a coffee and try to catch up on any emails ahead of the flight. I also try to stretch my legs and go for a walk before having to sit down for a long period of time.
I like to get to the airport... Ahead of time. I love to study the way people travel and the airport is the perfect place to observe.
On the plane I dress... For comfort, but always pack a blazer and a change of shoes in my carry-on in case I have to head straight to a meeting once I land.
Kirsty Glenne is a frequent visitor to Sydney.
I always get travel insurance... Because it gives me peace of mind. Whether it's a flight delay, or a medical emergency, I'd rather be safe than sorry. It's a small cost for a big safety net.
At the luggage carousel... I stand back. I travel with a coral-coloured luggage strap and luggage tag which makes my luggage easily identifiable, so I don't need to stand right next to the carousel.
My best tip for beating jet lag is... I use the Timeshifter app; it provides tailored advice on when to expose yourself to light, when to sleep, and when to avoid caffeine, to help you quickly adjust to new time zones. It has been a game-changer.
A luggage strap can help make a suitcase stand out.
The place I always use public transport in is... Japan. I recently visited and was amazed by the ease of its public transport and how punctual it was.
The travel app I swear by is... Google Maps. Wherever I go, I pin locations I want to visit or have been recommended, making it easier when I arrive to see what's nearby and read reviews of restaurants or hotels.
The destination I think is best bang for buck is... Somewhere that offers authenticity rather than overcrowded commercialised spots. I crave genuine experiences when I travel, places where I feel immersed in the culture. Puglia is a great example. It is less developed than the north of Italy but with stunning landscapes, amazing food and a slower pace. You still get a sense of discovery when you're there.
Originally published as Antler luggage managing director Kirsty Glenne reveals packing secret