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Actress Genevieve Padalecki lays in bed with eye mask on

My 9 Things: What actress and TOWWN founder Genevieve Padalecki packs for a seamless stay in San Antonio

Discover the nine essential items Genevieve Padalecki packs to create the ultimate self-care getaway.

By Leanne Philip | September 29, 2023

Genevieve Padalecki, aka @GenPadalecki, knows plenty about multitasking. As an entrepreneur, actress, wife and mom, Padalecki spends her days balancing everyone’s needs and wish lists while also striving to make a positive impact on the world. Just consider her company TOWWN (Take Only What We Need). As a digital platform that works to build an uplifting community for the environmentally conscious, TOWWN provides resources around eco-friendly ways of living and educating members on products and companies who strive to, in Padalecki's own words, "do right by the planet." The TOWWN-founder's work to create a warm and welcoming environment also extends to where she chooses to stay while traveling.

Says Padalecki, “I don’t get a lot of downtime, so when I have the opportunity to stay in a hotel, I really want to stay in a place that’s dialed in. DoubleTree by Hilton San Antonio Northwest definitely lived up to my standards. I genuinely felt cared for, from the wonderful people who checked me in to the cleaning lady who always had a smile on.” She adds, “When I know a hotel is also working to do better and conserve resources, it helps me sleep a little better at night, too.”

And with the launch of the brand’s new allergy-friendly DoubleTree Cookie, that excellence extends to the hotel’s culinary program. Padalecki, who’s gluten-free, lauds the brand’s decision to widen its offerings noting, “most guests enjoy a little bit of extra comfort. Who doesn’t want a special treat after a long flight or travel day? ... Knowing that DoubleTree provides inclusive options is icing on the cake, er, cookie!”

We couldn’t agree more! And if you want to guarantee your next stay away is a sweet one, keep reading to see the nine items Padalecki always packs for a seamless, self-care-focused getaway.

Noise-canceling headphones

Whether it’s listening to music, doing a guided meditation or just wanting to tune out the world completely so I can focus, I take my headphones everywhere.

Eye mask

As a parent and business-owner with an ever-changing schedule, I think getting sleep is vital. I bring a comfy eye mask to help negotiate when the daylight and I are on different schedules.

Pajamas

Soft, breathable pajamas in a crisp, clean bed are better than dessert. I said what I said!

Sunglasses

I love getting a little relief from excessive bright light and artificial light with sunglasses. Plus, it’s nice to throw some shades on and add a little mystery to your look.

Journals

A little quiet can really open your mind. It can be a travelogue, a home for creative ideas or a fun way to record your dreams just after you wake.

Tea

Making a cup of tea is a great relaxation technique, and when I sip fresh teas from home, I feel cozier and at ease.

Self-care kit

I love to bring things that help me feel refreshed — eye patches, vitamins, serums and supplements that help me feel alive and well while away from home.

Slippers

Why wear shoes or socks when you can be comforted by the warm embrace of slippers? If you’ll be walking indoors on hard surfaces, these will provide a little support and prevent feet ache.

Dopp kit

Serums, cleansers, tinctures, hygiene products — you name it. Everyone should have a little bag of magic tricks to feel reinvigorated.

Leanne Philip is a content marketing manager at Hilton. She has written for numerous print and digital platforms, including Travel + Leisure, The Atlantan and Barneys New York.