As a travel journalist, I’m always thinking of ways to make packing less stressful. Whether it be choosing the best outfits for the weather or making sure to reset and refresh my mind after a 12-hour flight, there’s always something to prep for — so why not make it a little fun and support a Black business too? Here are a few of my favorite Black-owned companies that will help you upgrade your travel.
Whether you’re trying to flex on Instagram with a gorgeous outfit, support a Black business, or just feel beautiful in bright colors, Grass Fields has got you covered. Cameroonian sisters Christelle and Michelle Nganhou created the clothing company inspire wearing the bold colors and patterns of African design in everyday fashion. Every time you wear a piece from Grass Fields, heads will turn. It’s just one of those companies that create pieces that will instantly brighten your day.
This Baltimore based candle and room spray company can help turn your hotel room into an instant spa. Their 100% soy candle include scents like honeysuckle jasmine and blood orange.
You know how it goes: you invest in a sunscreen only to find that it casts that ghastly white hue over your melanated skin. That’s why Black Girl Sunscreen is perfect for your next beach getaway. The sunscreen is paraben free and does not leave a residue. They’ve even recently launched a sunscreen line for kids here.
Artist and creative director Rosco Spears has an incredible skill for creating beautiful patterns. I’m reminded of that every time I travel because I own (and love) her passport holder. It’s a beautiful way to liven up the drab passport color and travel in style.
If you love to make a statement like I do, then check out Philadelphia Printworks. The “Thank Black Women” t-shirt is one of my favorite t-shirts to wear while I travel. They also have amazing tote bags, including some listing famous Black women authors.
Sometimes to liven up your face after exhausting travel, all you need is a good lip color. When Melissa Butler was turned down on Shark Tank, that disappointment quickly turned into a blessing. The former Wall Street exec began putting together lipstick recipes in her kitchen with the hopes to inspire Black women to feel comfortable in any shade of color. The Lip Bar is now available in over 450 Target stores and continues to grow. Take that, Shark Tank.
There’s nothing quite like traveling while Black and being ashy is there? That’s why it’s important to stay hydrated and moisturized atlla times. Hanahana Beauty can help you do just that with shea butter based products. Founder Abena Boamah (whose skin is insanely beautiful) created this skincare line for those who want transparency about what’s in their products in mind. Check out the mini shea butter travel moisturizer here.
Because you can’t travel without a bag, and Treason Toting Company is a Black owned company that can help upgrade your luggage game. Baltimore born Aaron Jones and Jasbon Bass created the company in 2013, and even NBA star Stephen Curry has been seen carrying their popular totes.
The harsh elements of flying and pollution during travel can wreak havoc on the skin. Actor Dorian Renaud created Buttah Skin to solve his own skin insecurities caused by acne and hyperpigmentation. The former BET “College Hill” actor came up with a skincare line that would help people of color unveil their best skin. Best of all, the products are all-natural. The Buttah Complete Skin Set includes a debris busting Skin Cleanser, skin transforming Vitamin C Serum and rich, moisture-infused, Facial Shea Butter.
