My Beauty Must-Haves For Traveling | Best travel beauty products

Whether I'm traveling overseas or domestically, beauty items are always on the forefront of my mind. My skin needs to look fresh and pretty—not jet-lagged and sluggish. You can pack the cutest outfits for a trip, but if your skin and makeup aren't on point, then what is really the point? I've spilled my personal beauty essentials for when I travel—whether by plane, bus, car, or train.

For the sake of packing 'light' (and I truly mean lighter), I try to balance practicality and beauty. Sure, I pack everything I absolutely need, but I throw in a few extras for those 'just in case' scenarios.

Skin Care

For my morning skin care regimen, I usually apply a 'morning eye cream' but to cohere with my 'packing lighter' promise, I skip the eye cream and simply apply my serum and facial moisturizer all over my face.

I use a Vitamin C serum to brighten my complexion. I follow it with a lightweight moisturizer and an SPF 30 sunscreen. Do not rely on makeup that contains SPF because that usually does not suffice for proper sun protection.

I transfer my daily cleanser into a travel-size bottle. I recommend that if you can transfer product from your regular size packaging to a travel-size bottle or jar, do so.

It is also important to note that exfoliation should not be neglected while traveling. I pack my 'spa on the go' with me while traveling. It is my hand-held microdermabrasion system that is portable, small, and so easy to use.

It easily can fit into even a carry-on bag, and I'm getting the same microdermabrasion results without having to pack a full-fledged, cumbersome microdermabrasion machine. I use it once or twice a week.

For my nighttime facial skin care routine, I use the same cleanser I use in the morning. The only difference is I use a different serum (which contains stem cells and peptides) and a night cream that is super hydrating that contains Hyaluronic Acid (a humectant that binds and attracts moisture into the skin).

That is especially necessary when traveling by plane because the recycled air in the aircraft sucks up as much moisture as it can from our skin, leaving our complexion dehydrated and dull. If you have lots of downtime on your trip, throw in a travel-size jar of a face mask to do a mini facial on yourself. Applying the mask after using the mini microdermabrasion device will be a spa-grade treatment in your very own hotel room (or wherever you're staying).

Or, you can get those sheet masks that are so travel-friendly. You can choose what type of mask to use, depending on what your skin needs.

I don't bother packing body wash or body lotion because the hotels I stay in usually provide luxurious soaps, body cleansers, and moisturizers. If the hotel you're staying in is missing any one of those items, simply ask the concierge, and they will gladly provide you with the toiletries you need.

Makeup

When it comes to packing makeup, I only pack the items I know for sure I will use, and maybe throw in an extra shade of lipstick and eye shadow just in case. I only pack one foundation, a primer, a bronzer (which double duties as both a loose powder and bronzer to warm up my complexion) to set the foundation, eyeliner, eyeliner sharpener (don't forget that!), an individual eye shadow shade (comes in a compact), lip gloss, mascara, and blush.

I put my makeup in a cosmetic bag that is travel-friendly.

From exotic getaways to modest 3-day trips, be sure to pack beauty must-haves for tip-top skin and a pulled-together makeup look.

Smoother and more radiant skin. Anywhere. Anytime. Salon-quality microdermabrasion for soft, clear, glowing skin on the go!

Additional Travel Beauty Tips You Might Not Know

While the basics of a travel beauty routine are widely discussed, there are several lesser-known tips and tricks that can make all the difference in maintaining glowing skin and a flawless look while on-the-go. These small adjustments can ensure that your skin and appearance stay fresh, even on long travel days. Let’s dive into some overlooked essentials and common pitfalls to avoid when packing your travel beauty products.

1. Be Wary of Overpacking Travel-Size Beauty Products

It’s tempting to bring a full lineup of your favorite travel beauty essentials, but packing too many travel-sized beauty products can be counterproductive. Despite their small size, these items can quickly fill up your toiletry bag and make your luggage heavier than necessary. Instead, streamline your beauty routine by selecting multipurpose products. A tinted moisturizer with SPF, for example, can replace foundation, sunscreen, and concealer. Similarly, a lip balm with a hint of color can act as both a lip gloss and blush in a pinch. This minimal approach lightens your load while still ensuring you have all the beauty staples you need.

2. Don’t Forget to Hydrate – From the Inside Out

Air travel in particular can wreak havoc on your skin, leading to dryness, puffiness, and a dull complexion. While packing a good moisturizer or nourishing cream is essential, hydrating your skin from within is just as important. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your trip to keep your skin balanced and glowing. Carrying a reusable water bottle is an excellent way to remind yourself to stay hydrated, especially during long travel days. Adding a hydrating facial mist to your travel bag can also help keep your skin looking and feeling fresh during flights or long car rides.

3. Choose Products That Go a Long Way

One way to make your travel routine more efficient is by opting for beauty products that are buildable or can be layered for different looks. A buildable foundation or concealer is a great example – you can apply a light layer for a natural look during the day and add more coverage in the evening for a more polished appearance. Similarly, a cream blush or bronzer that doubles as a lip tint or eyeshadow can cut down on the number of makeup products you need to pack without compromising on versatility.

4. Watch Out for Dry Shampoos – Not All Are Created Equal

Dry shampoo can be a lifesaver during trips when washing your hair isn't feasible. However, it’s essential to choose a formula that works well for your hair type. Some dry shampoos can leave a white residue or build-up that weighs down the hair, especially if you have darker hair tones. To avoid this, opt for tinted dry shampoos or ones specifically formulated for your hair type. Additionally, avoid overusing dry shampoo, as this can irritate the scalp and lead to long-term issues. Instead, use it sparingly as part of your travel beauty routine to refresh your hair without causing damage.

5. UV Protection Is Non-Negotiable

While many people remember to pack sunscreen for beach trips, it’s just as important to include UV protection in your everyday travel routine, no matter the destination. UV rays can cause significant skin damage, even on cloudy days or during city excursions. Make sure your skincare products, such as moisturizers or serums, contain broad-spectrum SPF. A travel-sized sunscreen stick is also a great companion to have on hand for quick touch-ups throughout the day, especially on your face, neck, and hands.

6. The Dangers of Glass Bottles in Luggage

Though many high-end beauty products come in luxurious glass packaging, bringing glass bottles in your travel bag can be risky. These containers are prone to breaking during transit, which can lead to wasted products and a messy disaster in your luggage. To avoid this, transfer products like serums, creams, or toners into sturdy travel-sized plastic containers before your trip. Not only will this prevent potential breakage, but it will also save valuable space in your luggage. Always make sure to pack liquid products in a sealed toiletry bag to prevent any spills.

7. Long Travel Days Require Special Care for Your Skin

Spending long hours in airports, cars, or trains can take a toll on your skin. For best results, always pack a mini skincare kit in your carry-on bag or handbag. Include items like makeup wipes, a hydrating mist, and a small jar of your favorite moisturizer or night cream. After cleansing your skin with wipes, apply the moisturizer or night cream to nourish and protect your skin from the dry air. Using an eye mask during flights or overnight travel can also help keep your eyes looking refreshed and reduce puffiness.

8. Nail Care – An Often Overlooked Essential

Maintaining well-groomed nails can be tricky when you’re on the go. A small nail polish kit is an easy way to ensure your nails look their best, even during travel. Consider packing a travel-sized nail file, a quick-drying nail polish, and a cuticle oil to keep your nails hydrated and healthy. For those who prefer a no-polish look, buffing tools can help keep nails shiny and smooth without the need for polish.

Conclusion: Pack Smart, Look Great

The key to a successful travel beauty routine lies in smart packing and prioritizing multipurpose, travel-friendly products. While it may be tempting to bring your entire beauty collection with you, sticking to the essentials and streamlining your routine will help you stay organized, save space, and keep your skin looking flawless. By following these lesser-known tips and tricks, you can avoid common travel beauty pitfalls and ensure you’re always ready to look and feel your best, no matter where your journey takes you.

Key Takeaways:

• Opt for multipurpose products to lighten your toiletry bag.
• Stay hydrated to keep your skin balanced and healthy.
• Choose travel-friendly packaging to avoid breakages.
• Invest in buildable makeup products for versatile looks.
• Don’t forget about nail care and hydration during long trips.