What I Pack: Jacinda Ardern

Labour List MP Jacinda Ardern. Photo / Natalie Slade

Do you travel light or heavy?

Light, after one too many experiences of over-packing and broken lifts.

Cattle or first class?

Cattle - with my fingers crossed.

I can't travel without ...

A book and headphones. Amazing what you can escape with both.

What type of suitcase do you carry?

Antler - British and sturdy.

What's always in your hand luggage?

Mini medicine cabinet. I am my mother's daughter.

Are you a planner or last-minute packer?

Planner, but that is yet to make any difference to my "lost luggage" jinx.

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

Photos. My old-school Canon camera used to travel with me everywhere, despite it being a bit chunky. I feel like I have sold out with my digital now.

Favourite or most exciting airport to land in?

A tiny regional airport which I can't remember the name of in the south of Nepal. I was flying Buddha Air and cotton wool (for the ears) was distributed to passengers on take off. I appreciated both the landing and the take off, mostly because they were successful.

Most memorable trip?

Palestine and Israel via Jordan. The food, the history, and a bit of checkpoint madness. Not easily forgotten.

What do you do while on a plane?

Watch films. Lots of them.

Jacinda Ardern is a Labour List MP based in Auckland Central