'Bon Voyage' is a phrase used to wish good luck on a journey, but I use the phrase differently: 'Bon Voyage' celebrates the individual who is willing to go on the journey.

In 2018, I decided to go on my first solo backpacking trip to Panama and Iceland. Since then, I have traveled through many countries solo without direction, despite objections from loved ones ("too dangerous") and criticism from mentors ("you can't excel in your career while traveling"). Instead, I did what felt right, and had confidence I would figure it out. My greatest fear in life is being too comfortable, so I decided to escape a vacuum of recycled experiences to explore the unknown.

This journey taught me vital lessons, such as the importance of vulnerability and truly being in the moment. I became more empathetic as I met people from different crevices of the world who politely challenged my beliefs. Most of all, it taught me the importance of following my north star despite the chance of failure.

This journey inspired me to create a brand that offers products not only for your travels, but also for your everyday journey! It could be traveling solo, applying to a new job, or trying standup comedy for the first time, this brand celebrates the individual who is true to their purpose, gets out of their comfort zone, and who continues forward despite the obstacles ahead.

- Michael Trotter, CEO & Founder of Bon Voyage