By Mary Keey

As someone who’s constantly moving between studio sessions, live shows, and spontaneous road trips, I’ve learned the art of traveling smart. Over the years—especially while touring across the US and Europe—I’ve created a go-to list of essentials that help me stay grounded, creative, and comfortable on the move.

Whether you’re a fellow artist, a music lover, or just someone who lives out of a suitcase every now and then, I hope this list gives you a few helpful ideas!

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🎧 1. My Portable Studio Kit

No matter where I am, I like to be ready when inspiration strikes. That’s why I always travel with a basic mobile studio setup:

• Laptop with my DAW (I use Logic Pro)
• Mini MIDI keyboard (like the AKAI MPK Mini)
• Good headphones – currently loving my Focal Listen
• A compact mic – either the Shure MV7 or my DJI Pocket mic (which I also use for content)

It’s not about perfection—it’s about capturing the vibe when it’s fresh.

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🧳 2. A Small but Mighty Travel Bag

I’ve mastered packing light. My favorite carry-on is a hard shell spinner that fits even on tiny European planes. Inside:

• A small organizer pouch for cables, SD cards, USBs, and chargers
• Compression cubes for outfits (yes, I color-code them!)
• One “performance” outfit always ready for a last-minute show or shoot

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☕ 3. My Travel Ritual Kit

I need moments of calm to keep my energy balanced—especially between cities and soundchecks. I always bring:

• A lavender oil roller for quick grounding
• Herbal tea bags I love (chamomile + mint = magic)
• A small travel journal + pen
• Noise-canceling earbuds for flights and backstage moments

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📸 4. Content Creator Must-Haves

Since I share so much on @marykeeymusic, I always travel with a few content tools:

• My DJI Pocket 3 camera
• A foldable tripod
• Ring light (if I know I’ll be filming indoors)
• Extra memory cards & a power bank

Sometimes it’s just a vibe I want to capture—or a whole TikTok idea on the fly!

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👟 5. Shoes That Can Keep Up

No joke: comfy shoes are a game changer when you’re traveling as much as I do. My go-tos?

• Chunky white sneakers (stage AND street!)
• Lightweight boots (for rougher terrain or moody outfits)
• Flip-flops—because hotel room floors exist 😂

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🧴 6. Skin & Hair Saviors

Hotel air and plane cabins aren’t great for skin or curls, so I keep a travel kit of:

• Solid shampoo + conditioner bars
• My handmade face balm (yes, I make it!)
• A mini face spray
• Coconut oil – because it fixes everything

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🎤 7. A Few “Just in Case” Things

• USB stick with my latest set
• Copies of my ID + insurance (boring but essential)
• Business cards or QR codes to my music
• A small gratitude item – a crystal or charm that keeps me grounded

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✨ Final Thoughts

Traveling as an artist is amazing—but it’s also demanding. These essentials help me stay present, perform at my best, and still find space to create even when the schedule’s wild.

Got any must-haves I should try out? Drop me a message on Instagram or share your travel tips—I’m always curious what other creatives carry!

See you on the road 🌍
xo,
Mary