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Over the years, my skincare routine has grown and changed. I’ve tested countless products, but these are the staples I keep coming back to. They’re my everyday must-haves, and I’ve figured out ways to travel with most of them even the tricky ones like watery essences.
My Beauty Routine
Table Of Contents
When it comes to beauty, I believe in finding products that are effective, multitasking, and dependable. Over time, I’ve narrowed down my collection to a curated set of essentials that I consistently reach for.
These favorites strike the right balance between skincare and makeup, hydration and protection, everyday use and travel readiness. Whether I’m looking for glowing skin, all-day hydration, or lightweight coverage, these products deliver.
Read more below for the items I’ve rounded up that have earned a permanent spot in my routine, along with tips on how I pack and use them on the go.
Cleanse
Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser: Amazon | Ulta | Target
Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser
This Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser is my everyday cleanser and one I’ve trusted for years. It’s simple, gentle, and never leaves my skin feeling dry or tight. I usually use it in the shower, and it always feels soothing and reliable no matter what the rest of my routine looks like.
It’s fuss-free, affordable, and perfect for sensitive or combination skin. Even when I test other cleansers, I always find myself coming back to this one. It’s a staple I’ll always keep in my routine.
How I pack it: I decant into a 20g reusable container for short trips, or a 1–2oz GoToob for longer stays.
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel Soap Free Cleanser: Amazon | Ulta | Avène
Avène Cleanance Cleansing Gel (Soap-Free)
A gentle gel cleanser that purifies without stripping, this is my pick when I want a deeper clean than Cetaphil but still something soothing. It lathers lightly and keeps my skin feeling fresh, especially in humid weather or after wearing makeup. The soap-free formula is kind to sensitive skin while targeting excess oil and impurities.
How I pack it: I pour some into a TSA-friendly travel bottle it’s easy to carry and a little goes a long way.
St. Ives Fresh Skin Face Scrub
Saint Ives Apricot Scrub
I’ve been using Saint Ives Apricot Scrub for over 20 years, maybe even over 25 years at this point. I absolutely love it! It’s my all-time favorite drugstore beauty find and a product that we all used to use every single day. About five years ago, I minimized my usage to once or twice a week.
Adding a gentle face scrub to your routine is particularly useful because it helps to scrub away dead skin cells, therefore allowing your beauty products to actually absorb into your skin. I highly recommend it.
I usually buy individual purchases at Target or on Amazon if I want to buy several at once to take back with me if I’m living out of the US.
How I pack it: depending on how long I’m traveling, I use one of these reusable travel containers. For a weekend I would use the 10 gram container and for 3-4 weeks I’d use the 20 gram.
Skin Preparation
There are two products from Korean skin care brands that seem to be the ultimate game changers – for me at least! One is a toner and the other is an essence.
Son & Park Beauty Cleansing Water
Son & Park Beauty Water and Skin Toner
Toners in Korean skin care are very different to what you might think about when you hear the word ‘toner’. These base products are incredibly gentle and act as a preparation for your skin, before you add the rest of your skin care layers. I love this one particularly as it leaves my skin so soft and supple. This is an absolute MUST in my skincare routine!!!
I cannot live without this product, and others must too, as it is always sold out! I buy it either on Amazon or wherever I can find it. I usually buy two at a time, as it is so hard to come by. This is my ultimate Holy Grail item for skin care and I highly recommend it to everybody!
How I pack it: unfortunately, this is really hard to travel with in one of my usual travel containers because of its watery texture as it can easily leak. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect leak-proof container. I’ll be testing this and this on my next trip.
Read more about Korean Skincare Secrets!
Missha Time Revolution The First Treatment Essence
Missha Time Revolution – The First Treatment Essence
The second must-have item in my beauty care arsenal, is Time Revolution Essence by Misha, It is also another core item in Korean skin care. I can’t explain it – but the combination of the toner and this essence make my skin feel so fresh!
I’ve run out of both the essence and toner in the past when I was traveling in different destinations, and have been able to see a clear difference in my skin between when I have been using them and when I haven’t.
This is also an item I stock up on, two at a time, because I can only buy it in Asia or the US easily. When I’m living in other parts of the world, I try to take some with me if I know I’m going to be there for an extended period of time.
It can be difficult to find available. I buy it on Soko Glam, Walmart online or Amazon.
How I pack it: similar to the Beauty Water texture, it’s also very watery. I’m still on the hunt for the perfect leak-proof container. I’ll also be testing this and this option on my next trip.
Serums
La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum
I first picked this La Roche-Posay Hyalu B5 Serum in Paris, and it quickly became a forever favorite. The texture is lightweight yet super hydrating, and it always leaves my skin feeling plump and soothed. It layers well under other products, which makes it an easy go-to in any routine. Best of all, it’s widely available now on Amazon in the US, so I can always restock when I run out.
How I pack it: I bring the original dropper bottle if it’s under 1oz, or decant into a dark mini pump bottle.
Tony Moly Wonder Hyaluronic Acid Serum: Amazon | Ulta | Soko Glam
Tony Moly Wonder Hyaluronic Acid Serum
This is my trusty backup whenever I can’t get my hands on the La Roche-Posay. It’s affordable, effective, and gives me that same boost of hydration my skin craves. I love that I can easily grab it at Sephora, making it a reliable option to keep on hand.
How I pack it: I decant into a 10g travel container it’s light enough for short trips.
Moisturizer + Eye Cream
Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Eye Cream
Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler + Elasticity Eye Cream SPF 20
I discovered this gem in a Paris pharmacy, and it’s been part of my routine ever since. It’s moisturizing, lightweight, and I love that it includes SPF for daily protection. It feels gentle under the eyes yet still gives that extra bit of hydration and smoothness I need. A reliable everyday eye product I always reach for.
How I pack it: The small tube is already travel-friendly, so I just toss it into my toiletry bag.
Shiseido Vital Perfection Day Cream SPF 30: Amazon | Ulta | Shiseido | Sephora
Shiseido Vital Perfection Uplifting and Firming Day Cream SPF 30
This little jar is my ultimate travel companion. It hydrates, firms, and protects with SPF all in one step. I’ve been carrying the mini size for months, and somehow it just keeps lasting. Perfect for mornings on the go, especially when I want skincare and sun protection without layering multiple products.
How I pack it: I use the mini jar itself, it’s compact and TSA-friendly. For longer trips, I decant from a full-size jar.
MISSHA Time Revolution Night Repair Ampoule Cream 5x: Amazon | Soko Glam
MISSHA Time Revolution Night Repair Ampoule Cream 5x
This is my dedicated night cream when I want my skin to recover while I sleep. It has a rich yet silky texture that absorbs well without feeling heavy, and it’s packed with fermented ingredients and peptides that leave my skin looking plump and refreshed the next morning. I especially like it for long travel days or after flights, since it helps restore glow and smoothness overnight.
How I pack it: I scoop a small amount into a 10ml travel jar, it lasts surprisingly long since I only use it at night.
Sunscreen + Base
Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen SPF 50: Supergoop | Amazon | Nordstrom | Sephora
Supergoop Sunscreen
This Supergoop is my daily must-have for sun protection. The formula feels weightless on my skin and layers easily under makeup without leaving a white cast. I love that it keeps me protected while still feeling comfortable, whether I’m at home or traveling.
How I pack it: I use the travel-size tubes, they’re TSA-friendly and tuck easily into my day bag for reapplication on the go.
IT Cosmetics CC Cream SPF50+: IT Cosmetics | Amazon | Nordstrom | Ulta | Sephora
IT Cosmetics CC+ Cream
My go-to base product when I want coverage and skincare in one. It evens out my skin tone, adds hydration, and gives a natural finish that lasts all day. I love how easy it is to apply just one step for foundation, moisturizer, and SPF combined.
How I pack it: I decant into a small pump bottle or bring the mini tube to save space. It doubles as foundation and sunscreen, so I don’t need to pack both.
MISSHA M Perfect Cover Serum BB Cream: Amazon | Target | Walmart | Soko Glam
MISSHA M Perfect Cover BB Cream
This MISSHA BB cream is my lighter option for days when I want just a hint of coverage. It blends seamlessly, evens things out, and leaves my skin looking fresh and natural. I often use it on travel days when I want something quick and easy but still polished.
How I pack it: I carry the slim tube it fits easily in my makeup bag and doesn’t take up much space. Perfect for quick touch-ups during the day.
Body
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion: Amazon | Ulta
Cetaphil Moisturizing Body Lotion
The reason why I decided to start using Cetaphil face products is because I’ve been using their body lotion moisturizer for over a decade. They’re absolutely fantastic, especially for me because I suffer from a condition that makes my skin extra dry and flaky.
Cetaphil has been a lifesaver – the sizes are generous and lasts for a long time. Fortunately, I’ve also been able to find this product all around the world, when traveling. But I do try to stock up on it when I am in the US, because it tends to be cheaper – especially when it’s on sale!
How I pack it: For two-four weeks, I use a 3oz Gotoob bottle. Anything longer than a month, I take enough for the first couple of weeks then buy something local in my destination.
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream: First Aid Beauty | Amazon | Nordstrom | Ulta | Sephora
First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream Intense Hydration
For moments when my skin needs something stronger, this cream is my go-to. Rich yet non-greasy, it soothes irritation, calms flare-ups, and deeply hydrates dry patches whether on my face, elbows, or legs. I think of it as my “rescue cream,” perfect for travel when my skin tends to get stressed.
How I pack it: I bring the travel-size tube and use sparingly on dry spots so it lasts the whole trip.
Dr Teal’s Shea Sugar Body Scrub: Amazon | Ulta
Dr Teal’s Shea Sugar Body Scrub
This Dr Teal’s Shea Sugar Body Scrub my go-to for soft, polished skin. The sugar crystals give a satisfying scrub without being too harsh, while the shea butter leaves my skin feeling moisturized and smooth. I like using it once or twice a week, especially before applying lotion or sunscreen, since it helps everything absorb better.
How I pack it: I transfer a few scoops into a small, leak-proof container enough for two to three uses on a trip.
Nivea Clinical Whitening Deodorant Natural Tone 96 Hour Protection
Nivea Deodorant
One product that’s available everywhere, except the US, is my deodorant. I first started using the Nivea glass roll-on in Southeast Asia and fell in love with how good it was.
Previous to this, I would use Secrets ‘ultra strong’ products. When I discovered the Nivea, not only was it a fraction of the price, but it works way better. I was able to go on 9-10 hour long journeys in Indonesia and not smell like a skunk by the end of it, thanks to this deodorant! It made me a firm believer.
I could find it in most drug stores in Asia, Europe or Latin America; unfortunately, it’s not available in the US, so I usually order it on Amazon or Walmart.
It sounds a little bit crazy, but I am super serious about this deodorant. I’ve even gotten my friends and family hooked on it as well. While there are a lot of different options, my favorite type is the Natural Tone 96 Hour Protection .
How I pack it: this is the only full size product I always travel with.
Hair
Acure Curiously Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner: Amazon | Acure
Shampoo and Conditioner
I’m not particularly picky when it comes to shampoo and conditioner when I’m traveling; however, when I’m at home, my preferred shampoo and conditioner is the Curiously Clarifying Collection by Acure. I particularly like the lemon grass and argan oil scents because they make me feel like I’m in a spa!
How I pack it: for trips under two weeks, I use a 3oz Gotoob bottle. Anything longer than a month, I take enough for the first couple of weeks then buy something local in my destination.
Shop: Nordstrom | Laifen | Amazon
Laifen SE Lite High-Speed Hair Dryer
During my own test and in a salon session with a stylist, the Laifen SE Lite impressed us both. Despite its compact size, it dried hair evenly and smoothly with little frizz. It’s also quiet enough for a child’s hair day and gentle enough for color-treated strands. The sleek grip makes it easy to handle.
You can watch the full salon experience and my Laifen SE Lite review now on YouTube!
Just note: it’s not dual voltage, so it’s best suited for use in North, Central, and South America. Read my full review here.
Specs: 1400 watts, 12.17 ounces (w/o cord), non‑folding, 120 V only, 2 speed/heat settings, clip-on concentrator
Here are more best hair dryer for travel!
T3 Lucea 1.5″ Styling Iron: Nordstrom | Amazon | T3 | QVC | Sephora
T3 Lucea Styling Flat Iron
Several readers have asked me how I style my hair. I actually just use my T3 Lucea 1 inch flat iron to create loose waves or straighten it. Because it’s 1 inch and not overly heavy, it’s always been my go-to flat iron for traveling. While the 1″ is currently sold out, the 1.5″ is another good option.
Half of my hair styled with the T3 Lucea 1″ Styling Iron. I use it to turn my frizzy curls into soft waves when traveling!
I very rarely travel without it. It’s dual voltage so all I have to do is use my regular travel adapter and it’ll automatically work. In all of my years of traveling, I have never had an issue with it.
Specs: 63 W, 10.2 oz (cord not included), auto world voltage (100–240 V), 9 digital heat settings, 1-hour auto-off, 8 ft swivel cord
Find out why the best travel hair straightener is a dual voltage flat iron, and check out our top picks!
Redken Rough Paste 12 Working Material: Amazon | Redken | Ulta
Redken Long-Lasting Hair Texturizer
Generally speaking, I’m not really in the habit of using hair products. But with a short textured cut, that needs some body in a humid environment, I started using Redken Rough Paste 12. It’s very lightweight and it looks natural as well. I love it!
If I’m dressing up, I also use regular old Aqua Net hairspray to keep my hair in place in the humidity of Playa del Carmen where I live.
How I pack it: I use the 20 gram of these reusable travel containers. I may not fill the entirety of the 20 gram container but the wide opening of this larger size option makes it easier to access.
Hair Removal
Nad’s Facial Wax Strips: Amazon | Ulta
Nad’s Facial Hair Removal
While I try to add an eyebrow and upper lip wax whenever I get a gel mani and pedi, my preferred way to remove my facial hair is to use these self heating strips. I started using them for travel, because it wasn’t always easy to find somewhere to get a wax on the go. And now I’ve started using these at home too.
They’re really gentle, but the key is to warm them thoroughly with your hands. They don’t work unless they’re fully warmed and the wax is melted. (Never heat them in the microwave them unless it’s specified in the instructions.)
How I pack it: I find that they are effective enough to use at just once a week so I take one strip per week of travels.
Learn about the best travel-friendly hair removal strategies!
Ms. Jetsetter Hanging Toiletry Bag (2 Pieces) Travel Accessories: Kohl’s | Macy’s
How to Pack Beauty Products
The MS Jetsetter hanging toiletry bag has become my favorite toiletry bag to travel with! It’s a smart and stylish option for travelers who want convenience and organization in one. This set includes two bags, making it easy to keep your essentials neatly separated use one for toiletries and the other for cosmetics, skincare, or even accessories.
It features a spacious main compartment with multiple interior pockets, so you can keep everything from full-size bottles to small travel containers secure and easy to find. The built-in hook lets you hang it on a bathroom door or towel rack, saving counter space and keeping items within reach.
Lightweight yet roomy, this hanging toiletry bag set is perfect for everything from weekend getaways to longer trips. I especially love its sleek design and practicality at an affordable price point.
For more options, take a look at our more recommended travel toiletry kits!
Only pack what you think you really will need and use. Watch the video above for tips on how to downsize your beauty products.
However, if something does happen to your makeup or beauty supplies, if you forget something, or if you need something, you can buy products at your destination.
Download Our Free Toiletry Checklist
Start by downloading our Ultimate Packing Guide for Toiletries. It’s FREE! You can click here or click the image above to open the editable file.
The list features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently. It includes all the items listed in various categories and has spaces where you can fill in your own information.
With this guide, you can:
- Write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
- Note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
- You can organize where you’ll pack each item including suggested packing organizers like these
Read this post for a printable packing list that includes clothes, shoes, and more!
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An opthomologist recommended a smidgen of an eye safe baby shampoo to wash your eyelashes. Rinse well.
That’s really helpful to know, thank you for sharing Jill!
Thanks for the article, the spreadsheet links take me to 404 page not found.
Great tips. I save up the samples I get with my skin care brands like Estée Lauder and Clinique for travel. Plus lots of my makeup brands have smaller size products for the holidays so I stick up then. Mac makes wonderful small size lipsticks which are great for purse or travel.
This is another great tip Sophie! Thank you for sharing your travel packing hack with us!
Hi Alex
Reading your post i thought i could recommend a couple of my fave travel beauty items. (If you don’t mind that is lol)
Ive used the Simple range for yrs, and their Exfoliating Wipes are brilliant for carryon. They are available online as well. (I dont have enough space to rave about my other fave Simple products 🙂
Also Milkshake (uk haircare brand) do a spray called Incredible Milk that works as a leavein conditioner, hair styler, and treatment to name a few uses. It also comes in a travel friendly 50ml (1.7 US fluid oz) size.
Liz Earles skin tonic Spritzer can be decanted into a smaller spray for travel and helps refresh my face on the plane and i use a Perfume Pod to carry my perfume in. I can provide links to these products in another post if you would like to learn more.
Love your website btw, its why i always pack carryon only.
Thank you for sharing your own beauty hacks with me! So pleased I have been able to help, thank you! 🥰 Happy travels