Hidden Gems: Meet Melissa McClellan of Travel Well Box

Today we’d like to introduce you to Melissa McClellan.

Hi Melissa, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My love for travel runs deep—it all began with a life-changing trip to France during a high school exchange program. Since then, I’ve been hooked.

But as life unfolded and kids entered the picture, those grand adventures became less frequent. Sure, we’d still squeeze in a beach trip or a weekend road trip here and there, but it wasn’t quite the immersive experience I longed for.

Shortly after our youngest had left for college, my husband, Todd, and I were having a quiet dinner at home and he said, “Why don’t we rent out the house for a year, and teach English in Europe?” As I grabbed the suitcases, I said a quick yes, and things took off from there.

Eight short weeks later, we were boarding a plane for Prague with four suitcases, and a two week Airbnb rental. We had no visas, jobs, or long-term plan, but we were beyond excited.

And I almost forgot.. we had never been to Prague. Were we a little crazy? Definitely. Was it the best decision ever? Absolutely!

Our time in Prague turned out to be more than we could have ever imagined—five incredible years filled with new experiences, unexpected twists (Covid), and unforgettable memories. But as all good things do, our European chapter came to an end, and we found ourselves back home.

Returning home was both exciting and daunting. I knew I wanted my next chapter to involve travel in some way. And then, fate intervened in the form of a subscription box from a friend. As I unpacked it, inspiration struck.

What if I could share my passion for travel by curating experiences for others? And just like that, Travel Well Box was born.

In every box, I pour my heart and soul into selecting the perfect items to enhance your adventures. It’s a deeply personal journey for me, and I’m thrilled to share it with all of you.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nooo, definitely not! It’s been a winding road with plenty of bumps. I’ve struggled to master Facebook ads (still figuring those out!), and there have been moments of serious doubt—like wondering if I’m talking to the right audience or second-guessing every little decision. Starting a business sounds glamorous, but behind the scenes it’s a lot of trial and error, YouTube tutorials at midnight, and learning things the hard way. But even with all the messy parts, I’ve grown so much. Every challenge has pushed me to get clearer on my mission and who I’m trying to serve with Travel Well Box. So no, not smooth—but definitely worth it.

We’ve been impressed with Travel Well Box, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Travel Well Box is a subscription box created for women over 40 who love travel, culture, and discovering new things. The heart behind the brand is to inspire curiosity and connection—whether someone is actively traveling or just dreaming of their next adventure.

We currently offer two different boxes:

The Seasonal Travel Box
This quarterly box is designed for women on the go. It’s filled with stylish, functional travel accessories, self-care items, and little luxuries that make any trip more comfortable and fun. Think cozy travel wraps, TSA-approved skincare, packing essentials, and items that add a touch of joy to the journey. It’s all curated with both practicality and beauty in mind, specifically for women who want to travel well—and look good doing it.

The Destination Box
This is our newest launch and something I’m really proud of. Every other month, subscribers receive a box themed around a specific destination. Each one includes artisan goods, local treats, cultural keepsakes, and a recipe or two so you can cook something traditional at home. It’s like taking a mini trip without leaving your house. Our first destination box is Croatia, and future boxes will feature places like Portugal and Thailand. It’s a way to bring the world to your doorstep—no passport required.

What sets Travel Well Box apart is how intentionally we speak to this audience. So many brands overlook women 40+, and we’re here to say: you’re vibrant, adventurous, and just getting started. I’m most proud that our community sees this box as more than a product—it’s an experience and a reminder that it’s never too late to explore.

What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
I think we’re going to see three major shifts: the rise of AI-driven personalization, a deeper commitment to sustainability, and a growing love for slow travel.

AI is already changing the game in how we discover products and plan trips, and I think it will continue to reshape the subscription box world. Imagine boxes curated not just by a general theme, but by your exact tastes, travel style, or even your dream destination list—based on your interactions and preferences. That kind of smart customization will take things to the next level and help brands build even stronger connections with their audiences.

Sustainability is also becoming non-negotiable. Consumers are more mindful than ever about where their products come from and the impact they have. I see the industry moving toward more locally sourced, small-batch, and eco-friendly items—things with a story and a soul. That’s something we’re already working into Travel Well Box by partnering with artisans and highlighting cultural craftsmanship.

And finally, I think we’re in the middle of a shift toward slow travel. People are craving more meaningful experiences—not just sightseeing, but really soaking in a culture. That same mindset is influencing how people want to engage with travel-inspired products at home. They want to taste, feel, and connect—not just consume. That’s where I see real opportunity for brands like ours.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://travelwellbox.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelwellbox/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/travelwellbox/