The cosmetic heiress, and founder of lifestyle brand Aerin, chats with us about her travel favorites—including her favorite in-flight drink, her favorite items to order from room service, and the hotel pool she adores.
Favorite hotel?
Claridges in London, Parrot Cay in Turks & Caicos and The Carlyle in New York.
Favorite restaurant?
Moby’s in Amagansett. It’s got such a relaxed vibe—great for dining outside with friends in the summer.
Favorite city?
I love to travel but New York City has always been my home.
Favorite airline?
I always prefer to travel on British Airways. I find it to be the most comfortable.
Favorite seat on the plane?
Definitely the window. It’s so much fun to gaze out when you’re up in the air. I especially love the views of New York City right before landing.
Favorite in-flight beverage?
Bloody Mary.
Favorite way to entertain yourself at 35,000 feet?
I always buy the latest magazines to kill time on my flights and download shows to catch up on. Right now I’m loving Scandal!
Favorite brand of luggage?
Monogrammed T. Anthony
Favorite carry-on bag?
Favorite outfit for the plane?
A Stella McCartney Blazer, jeans, flats, and a big cashmere scarf. Comfortable, yet still appropriate if I have to go straight to a meeting upon landing.
Favorite in-flight essentials?
Re-Nutriv and AERIN Rose Hand & Body Cream to keep my skin moisturized, Kind Bars for snacking, and a small pillow from home.
Favorite travel gadgets?
iPad, iPhone, and noise canceling headphones—these all make my life so much easier.
Favorite shopping destinations?
I love to visit the local flower markets to see their different varieties. I also try to visit the local antique shops and flea markets in the cities I visit—especially those in London and Paris. Some of my favorite furniture pieces have been collected from there.
Favorite spa?
I love the spa at the Four Seasons Hong Kong—it has beautiful views that overlook Victoria Harbour. Parrot Cay spa on Turks & Caicos is a tranquil place to relax and unwind—it’s the perfect getaway spot.
Favorite ski resort?
Aspen is one of my favorite places to spend time. Besides being a fantastic ski destination, it’s also incredibly beautiful in the summer.
Favorite beach?
Georgica Beach in the Hamptons. It’s so quiet and serene.
Favorite hotel pool?
Parrot Cay.
Favorite item from the hotel mini-bar?
Potato chips.
Favorite items to order from room service?
Burger and fries!
Favorite items to pilfer from the housekeeping cart?
Small shampoos.
Favorite vacation destination?
I love everything about Parrot Cay, but especially the white sand beaches. The water is always warm and perfectly clear. It’s my idea of heaven!
Favorite souvenir from your travels?
Shells from the beach.
Favorite childhood memory of traveling?
Disney World with my family. My sister Jane and I had so much fun meeting Mickey and the other characters.
Favorite items in your suitcase?
A Stella McCartney blazer goes with everything. A great fitting pair of jeans are essential because they can be dressed up or down—my favorite ones are from DL1961. My AERIN ballet flats are so comfortable and roll up into a small bag—perfect for traveling. I always bring white silk blouses, like those from Michael Kors, because they go with everything. A couple of statement jewelry pieces make any outfit more interesting. I prefer to travel with costume jewelry—especially the Essentials in my AERIN collection. A large cashmere scarf is multifunctional and great for keeping warm on a chilly plane.
Favorite beauty products you travel with?
Re-Nutriv products are my go-to for skincare. I also swear by Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair. If I’m heading to the beach, I will always pack my Clinique sunscreen and AERIN Beach Cream. I always bring the Rose Balm from AERIN Beauty, regardless of my destination—it’s so hydrating—great for lips that are chapped from the sun or from skiing. The AERIN seasonal palettes are perfect and easy for travel and my batik travel bags are great for keeping all of my products and brushes organized. The AERIN fragrance coffret has mini versions of my favorite scents. Travel-size Bumble & Bumble Crème de Coco Shampoo is also a must.
Aerin Lauder photographed on Georgica Beach in East Hampton, New York