Holly Johnson is the force behind the popular blog My Mountain Therapy–which is guaranteed to give you major wanderlust. Perhaps best known for her breathtaking hiking photos, Holly is currently working on video tutorials for new hikers, to help others experience the growth and confidence she’s gained through her own backpacking trips.Beyond her incredible social media presence, with pictures you have to see to believe, Holly is a photographer, and executive assistant at an advertising agency. With such a massive following, you might be wondering why Holly insists on having another career. She tells us, “Being able to turn hiking into a means of income through social media has its pros and cons. It has provided many wonderful opportunities to travel and work with brands, but I’m always grateful for my regular 9-5 job, as it offers a stability that I need in life. Freelance work is incredible when I don’t feel reliant on it, but it also means I’m very busy trying to manage two different jobs.” Wondering what this travel guru packs on her adventures? She gives us the scoop below. 
How often do you travel? Are these trips mostly domestic or international?
I travel about 7-10 times a year, both internationally and domestically. Most of my travel occurs between November and May, as June through October is prime hiking season here in Washington, and I hate to miss it.
What type/brand of bag do you use as your carry-on? What do you like about the bag?
I use the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 45L as my carry-on for the overhead compartment. It’s simple, but super durable and is easily worn backpack style. I also bring my Eddie Bauer Zen Tote as the bag that fits under the seat in front of me. It’s spacious and has several zippered pockets, including one that’s designated for your reusable water bottle.
What goes in it?

  1. TRTL Travel Pillow. Different from any travel “pillow” I’ve ever used. Part neck wrap, part neck brace – it comfortably wraps around my neck and supports it, keeping my head from bobbing around. I love the wrap around feature too because it helps keep me warm!
  2. Sea to Summit Traveling Light Eye Shade. I use this lightweight eye shade both traveling and on backpacking trips. Weighs practically nothing, it’s comfortable and it has an added nose baffle to help keep light from coming in underneath.
  3. Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Lite Travel Shawl. I love this piece for helping me stay warm on the plane, while also still looking fashionable. If I’m concerned I’ll be extra cold, I’ll wear a puffy coat and use the shawl as a blanket. I’m rarely too warm on a plane…
  4. Bose SoundLink II Headphones. A mid-range model that suits my needs and budget. Great sound quality, comfort and noise-cancellation. If there are screaming children, I’ll put earplugs in, then wear the headphones and play music just loud enough for me to hear. Works like a charm!
  5. Teva Ember Moc Shoes/Slippers. The perfect upgrade from both socks or slippers. I usually wear flip flops in the airport (although these would work great too), but I always want something warm to change into on the plane. These are great because they keep your feet warm, and they still have a traditional sole, so you don’t feel gross walking into the bathroom in just socks or slippers.
  6. Cocokind Raspberry Jasmine All-Over-Oil. Travel used to ALWAYS wreak havoc on my skin, but now I focus on taking care of it while traveling and it’s helped tremendously. This product is rich in vitamins and helps to reduce inflammation, in addition to being incredibly hydrating, and it comes in a roll-on, so there’s no worry about it spillage. Use it on the plane or after you’ve landed. Great for your face or anywhere that’s dry!
  7. Ursa Major Essential Face Wipes. I love to freshen up once I land and sometimes mid-flight depending on how long the flight is. These face wipes are my favorite because they come individually wrapped and they are a 4-in-1 that cleanses, exfoliates, soothes and hydrates. I usually bring two with me.
  8.  Cocokind Rose Water (travel size). It’s refreshing and hydrating. Spritz mid-flight (try not to spray your neighbor) or when you land! Great to use after using a face wipe! Toning has become one of my most important skin-care steps as it not only balances PH levels, but helps my moisturizers work/absorb better!
  9. Cocokind Chagaglo Stick. The Chagaglo is a highlighting stick, but this one is a bit more of a bronzer. I don’t usually wear much makeup when I’m traveling, but this product is a lifesaver. It adds a little color to my lips and cheeks and helps me look a little more alive and glowy after a day of travel. And, it’s made with organic mushrooms and helps protect against free-radical damage.
  10. Goal Zero Flip 20 Portable Charger. It’s gotten a lot easier to keep electronics charged while traveling, but you can’t always count on it. I always bring a small charger + iphone cord with me, JUST IN CASE.