What I Pack: Chrystelle Baran

Chrystelle Baran. Photo / NZ Herald

Do you travel light or heavy?

Heavy! I try to fly through the US, to take advantage of the higher luggage allowances. I'm almost embarrassed to admit that I usually have one bag just for shoes.

Cattle or first class?

Usually cattle, but I'll sometimes upgrade for the second leg between here and Europe.

I can't travel without...

A good book and a toothbrush.

What type of suitcase do you carry?

A Samsonite hard shell.

What's always in your hand luggage?

A change of clothes suitable for my destination, in case my bags get lost or delayed.

Are you a planner or last minute packer?

Last minute. I can never decide which outfit, so end up just taking everything.

What's the best thing you've brought back from a trip?

A beautiful antique Persian rug. I could only just fold it small enough to fit in a suitcase. Oh, and French cheese (very smelly by the time it arrived!).

Favourite or most exciting airport to land in?

That would have to be my hometown, Bordeaux.

Most memorable trip?

I was on my way back from Europe when my partner, Nick, received an urgent call to meet with Universal Records in New York. He met me at Auckland Airport and asked me if I wanted to come. I managed to get on his flight, and within a few hours of landing I was heading back to the US. I really didn't know where I was by the time we got to New York, but it was a great buzz.

Chrystelle Baran is the owner and buyer of antique store Baran de Bordeaux in Parnell.