Welcome to Antler Asks, a series where we delve into the travel styles, inspirations, and tips from those who travel often. We want to hear from those who, like us, embrace travel as a means of connection – to ourselves, to each other, and to the places we encounter.
In this instalment of Antler Asks, we catch up with Jessie Bush, a New Zealand–born creative and mother of two based in London. With a relaxed, intuitive approach to travel and style, she brings a distinctly Kiwi sense of adventure to every journey, from long-haul trips home to family travels across Europe.
Antler: What’s your packing strategy?
Jessie: I’m a naturally chaotic person, but becoming a mother has forced me to become more organised. Once upon a time I’d pack 10 minutes before I need to leave for the airport, but now that I need to pack for myself and my daughters, I pack 90% of what I need the day before, then I create a list on my phone of things that I’d like to pack as they pop into my head. That way I have a full day to ‘sleep on’ my packing choices and throw any last minute bits I realise I’ve forgotten. No outfit moodboards or outfit planning, my organisation hasn't reached that point yet unfortunately.
You’ve made the journey from New Zealand to London. How do you carry a sense of ‘Home’ with you when you travel?
It’s not a tangible object or habit per se, but I would say my attitude towards travel is inherently Kiwi, so I’m always bringing a sense of NZ with me wherever I go. Kiwi’s are always up for an adventure, take long haul flights in their stride and pride themselves on not letting the small things ruffle them - and I’d say that’s pretty much my travel MO.
How has motherhood changed the way you approach travel?
Oh definitely - I now share my suitcase with little girls, who while they may be small, require a bit of suitcase real estate. And I’ve found travelling with kids is generally easier when you have all the stuff - snacks, toys, etc. So I tend to overpack for them, which has forced me to curb my own over-packing tendencies.
So far travelling as a family has been relatively easy - I’m a pretty relaxed traveller, and thankfully we’ve not had many travel dramas (touch wood) so I actually haven’t changed the way we travel much. However I’m prepared to eat my words as they get older and that dynamic changes.
How do you approach packing for a short UK getaway versus a longer European trip, or the long-haul journey back to NZ?
I’m obsessed with the weather, so I’m always prepared on that front. But when it comes to issues like delayed flights etc, you can’t predict, so my motto is, hope for the best, and only stress out when you actually have to.
But flying home to NZ will always be hard - two full days of travel is tough on anyone! You just have to accept the second half of the journey won’t be all that fun, everyone will be tired and the jet-lag will be hectic. But it’s worth it in the end.
Your Icon Stripe set in Taupe seems like a staple for your trips – how do you think about luggage as part of your travel style?
Of all the outfits I pack, picking my travel outfit is often my favourite. And my suitcase is definitely part of that - yes it’s functional (and heavy) but a chic suitcase helps me feel more put together and organised, even when I’m dressed for comfort.
Is there one item you always try to bring back from a trip/destination?
It’s a ridiculous habit as it’s wholly inconvenient when travelling - but generally I try to find a local ceramicist to buy something to remember my trip by. Mugs, vases, plates, ceramic art; I’ve smuggled it all home in my hand luggage.
Do you find that travel fuels your creativity?
Travel is my primary source of inspiration and drives my creativity. When I’m travelling I tend to want to try every spot on my list, explore every spot, hunt down the most far flung beach/view. When I’m home I’m a complete homebody - I can happily stay at home for days on end to recharge my battery. But when I’m travelling, I’ve always got an appetite to do more.
Finally, what’s your best advice for making travel feel both effortless and meaningful – especially when juggling family, long distances, and life’s busy moments?
I’m not sure I have a secret answer here. But travelling is just like any other day, some days are great, some days are not. Letting go of expectations and accepting that for every special, meaningful moment, there will be a tired/stressed/chaotic moments. So cut yourself some slack! And remember the worst travel moments will turn into a great story one day.
