8 Chicago Stores to Hit Before Getting on a Plane

By Jenny Berg Nov 12, 2013, 1:00pm CST

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Photo: Courtesy of Flight 001

By Jenny Berg Nov 12, 2013, 1:00pm CST

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Leaving on a jet plane? Before you head to O'Hare, consider making a pit stop at one (or all!) of these local shops. From bathing suits to skis and from TSA-approved skincare products to page-turners that will make your flight, um, fly by, these stores stock vacation essentials. As always, our map is organized from north to south. Bon Voyage!

Book Cellar

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This independent bookstore in Lincoln Square has a staff of certified bookworms. They won't let you down on suggestions for airport-friendly page-turners; there's also a good selection of travel tomes. And (this is key) you can grab a glass of wine from the in-house cafe as you thumb through possible vacation reads. Photo: via Book Cellar/Facebook

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4736 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625

(773) 293-2665

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Merz Apothecary

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This old-world-style apothecary is jammed with travel-size bottles of healing potions. Our pick for holiday travel? The "Revive 5" bath collection, which comes with teeny bottles of bath oils in fragrances such as "Stress Free" and "Enjoy Life." Photo: via Merz Apothecary

4716 North Lincoln Avenue, Chicago, IL 60625

(773) 989-0900

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Aaron's Apothecary

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Yep, another apothecary. Because in addition to healing remedies, you'll need some salvation for your poor skin (airplanes. Dry. Haven't you heard?) Aaron's Apothecary stocks goods that'll do the hydration trick, including Glo Minerals Moist Hydration Mist, which is TSA-approved for carry-on. Photo: via Aaron's Apothecary/ Facebook

2338 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614

773-360-8595

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Galt Baby

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This new parents' paradise has a strong selection of travel gear. You'll find everything from reusable snack bags to travel cribs and activity books. Plus, beat this for cuteness: there are tiny travel neck pillows shaped like monkeys and ladybugs. Photo: via Galt Baby/Facebook

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1915 North Clybourn Avenue, Chicago, IL 60614

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REI

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Headed to the slopes? From downhill skis to snowboard boots and helmet cameras, this outdoor-enthusiasts' stalwart stocks it all. There's also a good selection of sturdy luggage and on-the-road godsends like the mophie Juice Air Pack Case. Photo: via REI

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1466 North Halsted Street, Chicago, IL 60642

(312) 951-6020

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Flight 001

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This Gold Coast shop is shaped like an airplane cabin—your first clue (well, besides its name) that it caters to travelers. What will you find? Everything from luggage to cute eye masks to travel guides and travel-size salt shakers. Photo: via Flight 001

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1133 North State Street, Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 944-1001

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Londo Mondo

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If you're lucky enough to be traveling to a beachside locale, pop into this Gold Coast boutique before you head out. It stocks one of Chicago's largest selections of swimwear—yep, all year round—and also carries comfy leggings and other airport-friendly gear from lines like Hardtail. Photo: via Londo Mondo

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1100 North Dearborn Street, Chicago, IL 60610

(312) 751-2794

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Raw

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It can be easy to fill up on greasy snacks while in transit, so carry your own healthy bites to avoid the lull of burger-joint pit stop. The newly opened location of Raw offers filling, transportable snacks made with nuts, seeds, maca, banana, and more wholesomeness. Photo: via Raw

51 West Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60654

(312) 664-2729

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