Suitcase Series: Natalie Butler, Founder of biobod

This week we caught up with Natalie Butler the woman behind the Australian intuitive skincare brand – biobod, to find out what she never travels without, her packing tips, and what her most memorable trip has been so far…

After years spent in the beauty industry, biobod Founder Natalie Butler had developed highly reactive skin. Struggling to find products that soothed her inflammation she eventually decided to create her own. She wanted to create intentional products that didn’t compromise the health of people who use or make them or the planet where they are used. The result? An intuitive skincare range that works with the body rather than against it.

In this week’s Suitcase Series, equipped with biopod Replenishing Hydra-Soothe Serum ($65) we take a sneak peek into Natalie’s travel psyche…

What’s been your most memorable trip, and why?

A few years ago we embarked on a breathtaking 6-week journey to Puglia in Southern Italy and the Ionian Islands off Greece’s West Coast, bringing our kids along for the ride. Nestled in charming villas within quaint villages, we experienced the slow pace of Mediterranean living and indulged in complete relaxation. The people, the food and the turquoise water are unmatched by any place I have ever experienced.

The PuLi Shanghai is Natalie’s favourite hotel

What’s your favourite ever hotel?

As a parent, I often opt for spacious apartments or villas during our travels with the kids, but for solo trips or business, I have a preference for hotels. My all-time favourite among them is undoubtedly The PuLi in Shanghai.

Where or what is your escape?

A solo walk along the beach is my go-to escape. There is something cleansing and calming about walking along the ocean’s edge.

biobod — Natalie’s children in Puglia and Ionian

If you could go anywhere tomorrow, it would be…

Sicily. Everything about it makes me happy. The perfect mix of culture, food, warmth and water.

What’s your idea of a luxury wellness holiday?

Amazing, clean, and delicious food (cooked by someone else!), rejuvenating yoga sessions, pampering massages and solitude.

My top bucket-list destination is…

Either Marrakesh or Kashmir.

If you could sit next to anyone – dead or alive – on a long-haul flight, who would it be?

This is a tough one as one of the things that I love about travelling alone for work is that sometimes you randomly meet an extraordinary human and share this intimate setting with them for 12 hours and then you part ways forever. The unpredictability and serendipity of these moments make them truly special.

What is your jet lag recovery tip?

A dose of melatonin and early morning sunlight and exercise. Plus, extra hydration to my body and skin for a few days.

biopod Replenishing Hydra-Soothe Serum

An ultra-hydrating serum, which quenches skin dehydration and calms irritations. Formulated without oil, this weightless multi-tasking essence is the ultimate base coat for every daily ritual.

RRP:$65.00

What is your suitcase stalwart?

Many years ago, I was gifted an Antler suitcase that has become a trusted companion on all my travels. It’s huge, expandable and still in near-perfect condition. Nothing functional in my life gets replaced unless it can be rehomed, so we are destined to stay travel partners for a while yet. My Antler and I have shared countless memorable experiences and will continue to do so for years to come.

What is your number one packing tip?

Set yourself free from home and pack light, particularly for warm weather holidays. Remember, if an item isn’t a staple in your everyday wardrobe, it’s unlikely you’ll need it during your travels.