Do you really need 6 shades of a nude lipstick for your week-long holiday to Marbs? How about every single makeup brush, JIC? Should you risk the baggage limit for the sake of the freestanding ring light for balcony pics? The answer to everything that might have crossed your mind is a big, fat – NO! Yes, we know it’s hard to predict exactly what parts of your precious makeup kit you’ll need on hols, but be ruthless and be honest. Here’s how to pack the ultimate travel-friendly kit.
Holiday must-haves
Waterproof eyes products
It’s going to be hot. You’re going to sweat. You’re going to need extra help making sure your makeup doesn’t slide down your face and into your all-inclusive buffet dinner. So help your future self out by going for waterproof mascara and eyeliner to avoid any panda eye situations.
Blinding highlighter
Reflect that extra sunlight with the power of highlighter! And no it’s not a one-hit wonder. Use it in the usual places (Cupid’s bow, cheekbones, under brow arch) but also use it as eyeshadow, dab it over a gloss and dust it along the collarbone for bad girl Riri vibes.
Wipes for the win
If you want to limit your risk of spillages in your suitcase and also save a bit of room too, then you need go for wipes all the way. From nail polish remover wipes to makeup wipes and also anti-bac wipes too, they will do the trick when you can’t indulge in your usual 10-step routines.
Lip balm queen
An oldie but a goodie. Lip balm on holiday is not only necessary for keeping your pout free from dehydration but if you go for one with added SPF it can protect them from burning too.
Coconut oil
Have we lost you with this one? Yes, that was kinda the plan. But, you’ll be surprised how much you can do with trusty coconut oil. You can use it in place of shaving cream, to condition your hair and control frizz, to calm down itchy bites, and to remove makeup. Remember to transfer it from that supersize container, only a small pot can do wonders!
City break makeup kit checklist
If you’re eye-rolling at our aspirational to-pack list because a budget airline luggage restriction is getting in the way of your picture-perfect glow goals, then you need to go back to basics. If your packing ultra-light and with a carry-on case (so can’t take a lot of liquids), then here is your must-have list:
Face
- BB/CC cream
- Bronzer
- Highlighter
Eyes
- 1 x eyeshadow palette (look at your outfits and pick a palette that’ll complement every look)
- Mascara
- Brow pencil
- Waterproof eyeliner
Lips
- Double-ended ombre lip crayon
- Lip balm
Other
- Small pack of makeup wipes
- Dual-ended blush/foundation brush