The Ultimate Beauty Travel Kit

by BR Tabatha

The oddest thing happened to me the other day: I travelled.

That's right, I pulled out my suitcase that had been hidden away in a cupboard for over two years, put some clothes in it, then went to pack my beauty kit. Tabby Truth: When I used to travel I would take THREE toiletry bags full of skincare and cosmetics. This time? Two. And one was not opened at all.

So what have I discovered is the ultimate beauty kit for travelling? Quite simply, one that's basic. That ticks all the beauty boxes but doesn't take up half your suitcase. So what do you absolutely need? Read on...

Skincare

Leave the twelve-step skincare routine at home. Stick to a cleanser, face mist/toner and moisturiser. Take a serum and eye cream if you REALLY feel the need to. Also, sunscreen is a must.

Want to pack even lighter? Many skincare companies have mini-sized trial packs that you can buy to try their products, which are also ideal for travel!  

Tools/Accessories

You don't need to take your whole bathroom with you on holiday, but I do recommend a couple of bobby pins and/or hair ties. A disposable razor's good if you're going to be baring your limbs. Nail clippers are a must, because there's nothing worse than breaking a nail and having to deal with a ragged edge. And, of course, a brush/comb.

As for straighteners, tongs and hairdryers? Unless you've an extra special event to go to, leave them at home. The amount of times I've brought them on holiday with every intention of using them and then not... well, let's just say I could've used the space they took up in my bag for better things... like more shopping, and gifts for my loved ones.

Makeup

Remember that toiletry bag that I didn't open once while on holiday? It contained nothing but makeup. I did the most un-Tabby thing ever and went bare faced the whole time I was away. It seems I no longer care what people I'll never likely see again think of me not wearing mascara. Shock horror.

That being said, if you are going away a few items can go a long way if you're planning to head out and want to add a little extra to your appearance. A concealer that matches your skin tone can be used to cover any dark circles/spots, and you can mix it with your moisturiser to create a lighter coverage foundation. A small eyeshadow palette - four or six pan - in neutral colours can also be used as eyeliner and brow powder. A lipstick can double as a blush. And mascara is always good for a quick and easy way to make your eyes pop.

And that's it. The best basics for the ultimate beauty travel kit. It's a little, but it goes a long way.

So... has the way you packed for holidays changed over the last two years? How do you pack now? And will you be taking less or more beauty products with you on your next trip? Get chatting below!