In just two days, I’ll be headed out of town, taking the redeye to New York City. In between sitting down to write this article and penning the last of my emails, I’ve been frantically running around trying to pack and figure how I’m going to fit my entire bathroom cupboard into my carry-on. I’ve never been a good packer (Don’t believe me? Just ask my husband!). As a planner, I always want to have options and be prepared for any situation. I always bring far more clothes than days I will be gone, and more beauty products than I could possibly use in a week’s period. With the unpredictability travelling brings, I have a hard time limiting my options. Whether I’m facing potential disaster or a surprise fancy date out, I want to be prepared! So for this makeup artist and product junkie, travelling can be hard, especially when checking baggage is not an option and I’m forced to pack light.
When I land in New York, I’ll be accompanied only by my handsome husband and my carry-on bag, arriving at 5:30 a.m. with no stopping before we hit the town. Having to pare my beauty essentials into a small bag suitable for a carry-on, but one extensive enough for a quick airport-bathroom touch-up before a day out on the town, is not an easy task! But I feel like I’ve finally done it, and am excited to share with you my must-have travelling essentials. With spring-break travelling just around the corner, I’m sure many of you are also feeling the real struggle of packing for your trip. This list is packed full of do-it-all wonders that come in travel-friendly sizes, and I hope it helps you on your next adventure.
CLEANSING CLOTHS
$8, Sephora
When travelling into different environments, making sure we’re cleansing to rid our skin of germs and toxins is important. I love the idea of cleansing cloths because they’re quick and efficient, but I have always struggled to find one that I really like—one that removes makeup, cleans my face well, and isn’t harsh or drying. Ole Henriksen’s The Clean Truth Cleansing Cloths are what I’ve been seeking for my whole life. They do a great job cleansing your skin and don’t have that chemical-like smell of many other cleansing cloths. Plus, the ingredient list is more natural than other comparable cleaning cloths, so you know you’re treating your skin well.
MOISTURIZER
$6.50, Sephora
As someone with dry, sensitive skin, I have always balked at anything that claims to be “for all skin types” or “multi-purpose.” I’d think: “It might work for some people, but surely it can’t do enough for this fickle skin.” I just never found something I was satisfied with, until now. The Ultra Repair Cream Intense by First Aid Beauty is a miracle worker. It adds instant hydration and is creamy without being greasy. Plus, it can double as a hand cream and is even hydrating enough to calm eczema. I have eczema on my hands and it always flares up when I travel in different environments and wash my hands frequently. This cream has become my life saver. And the price can’t be beat—you can snag a travel size of this cream for under $7!
HYDRATING FIX SPRAY
$18, Sephora
Earlier this year, I discovered the power of a hydrating/fixing spray and I can’t believe what I’ve been missing all this time! These little powerhouses serve multiple purposes, making them ideal for travel. They can be used between toning and moisturizing to bring an extra shot of hydration. Then they can be used to set your makeup once applied. Lastly, you can give yourself a mist to add hydration and a fresh glow midday, perfect after a day on the plane or out sightseeing. My favorite spray for traveling is this Beauty Elixer by Caudalie. It can do it all, is the perfect size for your carry-on, and is friendly to all skin types.
BB CREAM
.66oz $18, Sephora
If you haven’t had the pleasure of meeting a BB (beauty balm or blemish balm) Cream before, let me introduce you. If I could only take one beauty item on my travels, this would be it. It’s a moisturizer, primer, foundation, and sunscreen all in one. And while it can do all those incredible things, it still is light and sheer enough so it doesn’t look cakey or heavy. In fact, it looks a lot like second skin! I’ve tried a lot of BB Creams over the years and the one I keep coming back to is Dr. Jart’s Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm. It has a beautiful finish, good coverage, and it doesn’t feel sticky. It’s one of the pricier items on this list, but considering it can replace three or four products in one, it’s well worth it!
BRONZER
$15, Sephora
As I mentioned before, it’s always hard to narrow down the makeup products in my travel kit. But a staple for me is bronzer. Especially with spring break coming up, I love getting into the spirit of the sunny weather with some added warmth to my cheeks. Benefit’s Hoola Bronzer is perfect to fill this need. The color is universal and lasts all day. They also offer it in the perfect travel size that comes with a brush, again helping pare down the things you need to bring with you. Who could ask for more?
