The $100 MBA Show
Episode: MBA2701 – Everything I Pack to Work While Traveling
Host: Omar Zenhom
Date: November 10, 2025
Overview
In this episode, Omar Zenhom dives into his personal packing list for working efficiently while traveling. Drawing from years of frequent travel as a multi-business founder and podcaster, he shares practical essentials and comfort items he relies on for staying productive and enjoying the journey. Omar breaks down specific gear (tech and non-tech), organizational strategies, insights into working internationally, and the mindset that transforms travel into a valuable part of entrepreneurial life.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. Why This Topic?
- Omar frames working while traveling as “one of the greatest perks of running your own business.” [00:01]
- He highlights the importance of having a system for packing, especially after 11 years running the show, often while on the road.
2. Bags & Organization
His Carry-On Setup
- Uses a Manal carry-on bag (2017 purchase, still like new). “The quality is incredible. I absolutely love it. It's one of the best purchases ever made in my life.” [01:44]
- Emphasizes: Everything mentioned fits in this carry-on for fast access and less worry on the move.
3. Tech & Productivity Essentials
-
Laptop:
- Now uses a lightweight MacBook Air over the heavier MacBook Pro.
- “The best thing about this thing is the battery life is incredible. Like it lasts literally all day.” [03:11]
-
Cable Organization:
- Uses small carrying boxes for organizing chargers and cables.
-
Insta360 Camera:
- “If you've never used this camera... it's a bit mind bogg[ling] how it works. It is great for vlogging… you don’t have to worry about framing because it literally shoots everything around you.” [05:08]
- Notable for content capture and versatility.
-
DJI Lapel Mics:
- Plug directly into the phone for instant, high-quality recording.
- Tip: “Just make sure you push it all the way into the phone. If it's halfway... it won't capture the audio. It's a big mistake a lot of people make.” [08:18]
-
Audio Technica 2100X Microphone:
- A USB travel mic for recording podcasts on the fly:
- “One of the best quality mics for your dollar. And it travels really well… I do not travel without this mic.” [10:01]
-
Battery Packs:
- Two types:
- Small MagSafe for iPhone (one charge).
- Larger power bank (“maybe three full charges of my phone. So it's, it's great.”) [13:39]
- Two types:
4. Photo & Video Support Gear
-
Small Tripod/Selfie Stick:
- “Quite compact, you can put this in your day bag… great for framed shots.” [16:21]
-
Large Tripod:
- Packs in checked luggage if too bulky.
- “This goes up to about six and a half feet, which is quite large.” [18:10]
5. Reading and Staying Inspired
- Kindle E-Reader:
- “Travel is my best reading time… I load up this Kindle with books... I actually finish lots of books.” [19:55]
6. Comfort & Personal Items
-
AirPods Max Headphones:
- “Super comfortable. I don't hear any of the airplane noise… just feels great.” [21:00]
- Note: Bulky, but worth it for noise-canceling and quality.
-
Light Jacket:
- “Sometimes a plane gets cold… it's just nice to have something to wear that's easy to pack, that goes with everything, that's good for the rain.” [22:25]
-
International Driver’s License:
- “I love renting a car because I love driving.” Recommends Sixt for hassle-free car rentals. [23:30]
-
Notebook & Pen:
- “I like to be able to jot my ideas quickly… journal about my journeys... There's something about that experience... that makes me feel human.” [25:25]
-
Travel-size Cologne:
- Stays fresh on long flights.
- “You start to feel better about yourself when you smell good.” [26:40]
-
CamelBak Water Bottle:
- “Easy to travel with... has this great magnetic kind of feature... I also like to carry... electrolyte packets.” [27:55]
- Drinks water purposely to stay hydrated and force movement on long flights.
-
Change of Clothes:
- “Fresh t shirt, socks, and underwear... If you can shower at a lounge or the airport... just makes a big difference.” [29:23]
7. Lessons & Mindset Tips for Working on the Go
-
Invest in Quality:
- “My manal backpack is almost eight years old... Good gear really lasts.” [32:01]
-
Choose Versatility:
- “Every item has multiple uses… try to look at how you can maximize as many uses.” [32:41]
-
Travel Light:
- “If it doesn't fit on carry on, it doesn't come… I've never seen anybody complain that they underpacked… Most people complain they overpack.” [33:57]
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Enjoy the Journey:
- “Even when you're working, try to enjoy the journey. Ah, it's a privilege, guys. It's a real privilege.” [34:46]
- Reflects on the dream of traveling while working, encourages listeners to savor the opportunity and embrace the unpredictable.
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
-
On his Manal Bag:
- “It's one of the best purchases ever made in my life.” [01:50]
-
On MacBook Air’s battery life:
- “Literally all day. And when you travel from Sydney to Europe, that trip is like 26, 27, 28 hours sometimes... it’s great to just feel like you can do that at any time.” [03:16]
-
On over-packing:
- “I've never seen anybody complain that they underpacked, right? Most people complain they overpack.” [33:58]
-
On the privilege of working while traveling:
- “We get to do what we love for a living. Work doesn't have to stop when you travel, but it also doesn't have to ruin the trip... Your past self would be jealous, right? So enjoy the journey.” [34:48]
-
On travel and learning:
- “You are constantly learning when you travel… it feels like you're a child again… So just embrace that challenge, enjoy it, and know that, hey, enjoy it while you can.” [37:11]
Timestamps for Key Segments
- Bag & Packing Philosophy: 00:00–02:10
- Tech Essentials: 02:11–13:39
- Camera & Audio Gear: 05:08–12:09
- Charging & Battery Packs: 13:40–15:51
- Tripods & Video Support: 16:21–18:25
- Kindle & Reading: 19:55–21:00
- Headphones, Jacket, Driver’s License: 21:00–24:25
- Notebook, Cologne, Water Bottle, Electrolytes: 24:26–29:00
- Change of Clothes & Routine: 29:23–30:50
- Lessons and Mindset: 32:01–37:50
- Final Reflections: 37:11–end
Conclusion
Omar Zenhom’s approach to working while traveling is equal parts practical and inspirational. He balances efficiency, comfort, and the joy of experiencing new places. From smart gear selection to a strong packing philosophy, each item and habit is chosen for maximum impact with minimum hassle. Above all, Omar encourages listeners to not only work smart while traveling, but to relish the freedom and opportunity that comes with building a business on their own terms.