Prioritise your packing
15 Mar 2011 17:58 PM | Posted by Editor
Struggle to decide which beauty products to pack when you go away? Forced to pay excess baggage fees on every trip because you just had to pack your hairdryer, curling tongs and straightener? Then it looks like you need to cut back on your cosmetics (only when it comes to travelling, don’t worry!)
One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made when packing for a trip is using up precious kilos on full-sized skin care products. Not only does it mean having to lug around the extra weight (not that fun when you don’t have a strong man handy), but they’re also more likely to get squashed in your suitcase and spill all over everything. And take it from me, there’s nothing worse than coming home to find that your hot new wardrobe is covered in cleanser – or worse, stain-inducing cleansing oil.
So if you ask me, travel-sized skin care basics are always the best option. They give you extra room for the more important things in your suitcase (think hot new overseas purchases), and can even be transferred to your hand luggage – without being confiscated by security!
Here are some of my fave travel-friendly Simple skin care staples that will see you through any holiday – with beautiful skin to boot!
Simple Refreshing Facial Wash Gel – eliminating make-up, dirt and impurities, this little cleanser is the perfect way to rid your skin of any nasties that may have found their way to your face during a heavy-duty day of sightseeing (or shopping!)
Simple Hydrating Light Moisturiser – a good moisturiser is essential, no matter where you go. This one is light enough to ensure that your skin won’t feel sweaty or greasy (even in the most humid of destinations), but hydrating enough to keep your skin free from post-flight dehydration.
Simple Conditioning Eye Make-Up Remover – a handy suitcase staple, this eye make-up remover is strong enough to dissolve waterproof mascara and eyeliner, but gentle enough to not irritate your eyes.
Simple Nourishing Facial Mask – who says you have to forfeit the pampering parts of your beauty routine just because you’ve gone on holiday? Slip a few of these compact face mask packets into your bag and you can have nourished, revitalised skin where ever you are!
Do you tend to overpack when you go on holiday? What are your beauty travel essentials?
Member Comments (44)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
Very timely article...I'm about to go to Cairns and we are hiring a small car. Last time i went i packed nearly every baby item i owned...just incase I'd need it...half of it i didnt use. This time around i am only alloqed to take a small suit case for the bub and one for us...gonna be tough!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 7:46am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I don't over pack when it comes to products, I always buy travel sizes or I pour products into little bottles and containers. I do tend to over pack in clothes though and never end up wearing half of it.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 8:12am)
Posted by: (Australia)
i tend to over pack my beauty stuffs even on holiday! but i have most of shampoos, cleanser etc in travel size, so am good with those. plus i put them all in a separate smaller bag, so if they ever burst, they wont stain my clothes. :P
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 8:41am)
Posted by: (Member since 2008, Australia)
Yes I always tend to overpack, even if it's just for a weekend! I have two beauty bags - one for my toilettries, deo and perfume, and the other for ALL my makeup (yes, I bring nearly everything with me!)
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 8:47am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I learned to pack efficiently when I used to travel interstate on business for 3 days a week for 9 months. Essential beauty items included: shampoo/conditioner, makeup removal for eyes and face, moisturiser with SPF, toner and makeup items such as foundation, blush, eyeliner, mascara and 2 lipsticks (chosen to go with business outfits). That experience has enabled me to pack minimally for holidays.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 9:14am)
Posted by: (Australia)
it's getting easier these days when most hotels already have hair dryers and body wash, shampoos n conditioner. i dont tend to trust the shampoos n conditioner but the body wash doesnt fuss me and when travelling i normally take samples of my loved products or decant them into small bottles. i used to be a big over packer but now i only pack essentials cos its leaves plenty of room to SHOP!!!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 9:24am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I always over pack and this handy little article has come at a fantastic time. I am finally going on my dream holiday with my partner to Hawaii then Las Vegas. Any tips are most graciously taken. I normally end up buying anything I have forgotten anyway, so I really have to try and minimalise this time.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 9:26am)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
Always overpacking. I'm lucky if I use a third of the stuff I pack. I tend to pack all this pampering stuff for holidays and don't get around to using them. What i do use is sunscreen, cleanser, moisturiser, gloss, maybe mascara and a dusting of powder so really these are all the essentials i should pack.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 10:25am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I tend to overpack a lot... I always have a massive bag for all my toiletries, one make up bag and husband has his own bag for toiletries because there's no more room in mine :).
I usually take too many clothes "just in case", don't wear half of them.. Last holiday I went to, I actually took a small make up bag (a really big pencil case I bought just for that) and didn't even use everything in there so next time I could go even smaller (gasp!).
Haven't been overseas in 5 years but I remember overpacking then as well..
I never pack full size shampoo/conditioner, I can use the ones in the hotels, for some reason they always work no matter what the brand. If I really want to, I put all this stuff in travel containers and then in a zip lock bag. So I never worry about spilling. The biggest thing I take with me is the Tousle me Softly Mousse, obviously because I can't put it in a travel container.. so it takes up heaps of space! Moisturisers, make up removers etc are all in travel containers/pots.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 10:49am)
Posted by: (Australia)
It's been soooo long since i have been on holiday that it's something that i don't really need to think about lol.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 11:02am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I tend to slightly overpack but have def improved in recent years. The usual toiletries travel-sized shampoo/cond products, toothpast, bodylotion and 30+sunscreen.
Dove tinted moisturiser with SPF, Blooms Sheer Colour Creme(for lips and cheeks)Mascara, eyeliner, perfume, deoderant, wipes and small packs of tissues.
I also find a sarong or even a pashmina-like wrap are really handy as they double up as a wrap or a scarf, or to lounge in, in your hotel room.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 11:12am)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
I'm a pretty shrewd packer - always travelling as lightly as possible. I actually really enjoy the challenge of getting it super light but having everything I need! Once I went to Bali with just the clothes I had on and a handbag - only containing my bikini and some undies!! (Oh, okay maybe some mascara and other beauty bits like a cleanser and SPF30+moisturiser!!) It felt great not having to wait for my luggage at the other end - I could just walk straight out of the airport! I have to admit it's pretty easy to buy any extras while over there so it's a pretty easy destination to pack for - or not pack for!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 11:35am)
Posted by: (Australia)
Usually, I'm pretty good at packing only what I need, and thanks to years of practice, I rarely forget vital things. I can't remember where I first heard it, but I tend to leave my makeup bag unpacked until the day I leave home, then put things in the bag as I use them to do a basic, everyday look. Once the basics are in, I add some extra shadows and maybe another liner for a variety of night looks, and I always have at least 3 lip colours in my handbag anyway. I have a shower bag packed ready to go with everything I need for body care - we go away frequently on short trips, so for me, it's more economical to have doubles of some things and extra travel size packs of products I use frequently and leave them in the bag, rather than having to buy emergency moisturiser or shampoo at my destination. We have a big overseas holiday coming up. We're staying in hotels, so I won't need to take any shower gel or soap, and I plan to buy a lot of new products in the UK once we get there. Sorted!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 11:37am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I'm not too bad when it comes to packing! I have to go through it a couple of times though and decide to get rid of things as I go through it all but I end up with not much in there! Mainly the essentials when it comes to beauty though i.e makeup remover, moisturiser and maybe a cleanser if I can find one small enough to fit in! also a shower cap! It's a staple for travel!!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 11:59am)
Posted by: (Australia)
I always pack way too much, however you just never know when you may need that extra pair of shoes or in my case extra 4 pairs!!! My essentials are definitely my beauty products and an extra few outfits in case something comes up and you get invited somewhere, where you need to really impress. :)
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 12:07pm)
Posted by: (Australia)
ahhh this reminds me ....we r moving i have to get my butt into gear and start to pack alot more bcos it isnt long now
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 1:24pm)
Posted by: (Australia)
I always overpack, without fail lol. Everything but the kitchen sink!
Essentials are sunscreen, makeup and a few outfits for the ocassion/weather.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 1:52pm)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
I overpack everything when I travel. The problem is: not enough practice! I'll just have to take more holidays to learn how to do it properly. My travel essential is hand sanitiser. I also need some sorbolene. Anything else I could strictly do without. I have learned to hang on to samples (e.g. skin care, perfume) so I have some good sized products to take with me. I've also learned to recycle the trial size containers where possible for travelling. I just fill it with my favourite products and off I go. (But I still end up taking too much. Ho hum ....)
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 3:38pm)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
such great timing, i'm about to pack for my honeymoon soon. I know in the past i've over packed with clothes, this time i'm taking the bare minimum and going shopping in Thailand!!! because it's so cheap. Also I always bring soap and moisturiser but you know what, i always end up using the ones in the hotel anyhow, so this time i'm not taking them!!!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 3:48pm)
Posted by: (Australia)
I have the Simple eye make-up remover and love it! Along with that my staples would be: Moisturiser, sun screen, mascara, foundation and lip balm:)
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 4:23pm)
Posted by: (Australia)
I always overpack! My method is ... first pack everything I need.... Then see how much room I have left to jam everything else in haha!! My essentials are my beauty (skin and haircare) products. I can definately cull clothing etc but not my precious beauty goodies!! I don't bring too much makeup apart from what I actually use, no extra colours or that kind of thing. I hate packing, always find it stressful as I like being prepared for anything 'just in case'
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 4:50pm)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
I always over pack, lol and am racing around last minute trying to lessen my load (it is almost all skin care, makeup and beauty booty, lol) If it isn't that then I am left at check-in paying for excess luggage, haha, it gets me every time, no matter how much I try not to take, I always seem to need everything, haha.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 8:35pm)
Posted by: (Member since 2007, Australia)
Skincare essentials and makeup staples are my beauty items I can't leave home without even if only overnight. Anything as a mini, travel size or GWP size (sample) are handy for travelling. I overpack too Shopaholicshell and then intentionally take out what I really don't nedd to make it work. I always have more trouble deciding what beauty items to bring than I do what clothes, lol.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 8:57pm)
Posted by: (Australia)
I always try to minimise the items I pack as I know i will be bringing back lots and lots of goodies. So travel sized products are the way to go!
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 9:54pm)
Comment on this articleInside beautyheaven
Your exclusive special offer from the brand you believe is worthy of an overall five-star rating! read on
Lancôme Rouge in Love Trial Team
If you’re looking to fall in love with lipstick, then we may just have found your perfect match... read on
Clearasil Ultra Rapid Action Seal-to-Clear Gel Trial Team
Got a breakout? It won't be there for much longer... read on
How to: achieve a salon colour at home
Don’t have the time (or cash) to get to the hairdressers? No problem... read on
Bridal beauty: head-to-toe guide
White wedding essentials you need to arm yourself with in the lead up to your big day… read on
How-to: ditch dull skin forever
All you need to know about getting glowy, healthy-looking skin... read on
Estée Lauder Invisible Fluid Makeup Trial Team
Did this new foundation deliver radiant, flawless-looking skin? read on
Beauty 911: simple fixes for annoying problems
Suffering from a beauty crisis? We've got your troubles sorted... read on
Everything you need to know about: the pill
The lowdown on side effects, skipping pills, and the latest oral contraceptive on the market... read on
We’ve gathered together some of the best guilt-free buys under $25! read on
Find out what our road-testers thought of this affordable new skin brightener.. read on
Time to say buh-bye to your blemishes.
This bacteria-fighting wonder provides an invisible seal over your pimple... read on
The non-invasive alternative to Botox
If you’re sick of seeing lines and wrinkles every time you look in the mirror you need this! read on
Is this the perfect cleanser for you?
Find our what they say, we say and you say about this product.. read on
Some genius beauty products that give instant results.
You’re bound to find a speedy beauty solution here that’ll save your toosh sooner or later… read on
Want to be the master of your own hair colour?
Hitting the shelves in May - this may be your answer! read on
Perfect your skin - without make-up!
This serum works to instantly illuminate and brighten, plus minimise redness and imperfections!! read on
Downsize your skin care regime from 10 products to one anti-ageing all rounder read on
How harsh is your everyday soap?
Did our Trial Teamers decided to ditch their soaps in favour of Dove? read on
Do you love to rock a sexy, defined eye?
We search for the perfect product. Discover which eyeliner came out on top… read on
Want glowy, clear, younger-looking skin? Use a toner.
Heres a breakdown to educate you on toners and the good they can do... read on
The number on your birthday cake might be increasing, but that doesn’t mean you have to look old! read on
Pimples getting you down? These celebrity skin crises will certainly bring you back up! read on
How-to: take your nails to the next dimension
Get up-to-date with the latest trend in the nail polish world! read on
The best all-in-ones for busy mums
Looking for a product that can deliver its promises and much, much more? read on
We’ve rounded up eight of the most popular eye shadow textures for you! read on
Clearasil Daily Clear Oil-Free Wash Trial Team
See what the Trial Team thought of the Clearasil Daily Clear Oil-Free Wash. read on
We donned our lab coats and got deep into the ingredients in L’Oreal Revitalift Total Repair 10! read on
You may always make sure your lippy is in check, but are you on top of your health and wellbeing? read on
Behind the scenes with Megan Gale
Check out what Megan Gale got up to while filming an ad campaign in Thailand! read on
We give you the lowdown on blemishes, and throw in a few key dos and don’ts for good measure! read on
Gallery: bh member make-up inspiration
Take a look through our gallery to see eyeliner looks created by our members. read on
Step into the new season with your best hair yet – we guarantee it’ll make you feel gorgeous! read on
We've rounded up four great hairsprays and put them to the ultimate test! read on
5 reasons why you need to prime
Not sure why you need to prime? Reason #1 – a flawless compelxion... read on
Lancôme's new Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation is put through its paces. See the results... read on
Prep, apply and enhance. With this carefully selected pick of face perfectors you'll be flawless ... read on
Romance essentials you need to know about
Make sure you're prepared this Valentine's Day with these bedroom essentials read on
5 ways to stay fresh and feel fabulous
Don't suffer the effects of heat in silence, clue up on 5 ways to feel fantastically fresh read on
Clue up on 5 popular date-night destroyers and find out how to avoid them read on
How to boost your skin fitness for a healthier, more energised complexion... read on
The bh Trial Team puts Pantene Clinicare Split End Fuser through its paces... read on
3 reasons why every girl should learn how to DIY dye their own lashes and brows read on
The brightest nail hues goes head to head
Find your perfect nail polish pick for party season read on
Your new must-have mascara tool
Get a variety of lash looks with four fabulous mascara brushes read on
Get care free with these party essentials
Stress less this festive season with these handbag essentials read on
Fillers, face lifts, a nip here, a tuck there. Clue up before you cash out read on
How to hang on to a salon style
You've invested money into a trip to the salon...now keep your hair in peak condition read on
What's happening to your child's face?
Have you considered the skin care woes your tween will face? read on
The smell of this product is totally divine!" "I loved what it did for my hair read on
No one likes greasy-looking skin but oily skin suffers are faced with a dilemma. Thankfully there... read on
Foundation that's fabulous for your skin
Want flawless-looking skin and a foundation that not only covers imperfections but helps minimise... read on
Intelligent skin care solutions that'll identify the cause of your concerns... read on
Gradual, DIY, instant, in-salon...find the tanning solution that's right for you... read on
Ricky and Nicki get ultra-perky for M∙A∙C VIVA GLAM
What do you think of M∙A∙C VIVA GLAM’s newest spokespeople? read on
Hands up if you love a freebie?
then it might be worth hot-fingering it to ORLY’s online store. read on
Why you'll want Ricky and Nicki on your lips!
MAC Senior Artist, Nicole Thompson showed us how to rock the new MAC Viva Glam lip look! read on
You say...
Product review:
Clear Skin Oil Balancing Moisturiser
In all my acne fighting years I never thought I'd find this! It does exa... read on
1 day ago by Marti1982
Forum post:
LOL, DD, that's hilarious! I can just imagine 'everyone, the coast is cl... read on
2 minutes ago by katshepsutt
Posted by: Beautalicious (Australia)
I am an essential packer when I travel. My sister and friends always ask me to help them when packing because I am realistic and give rational reasons what you need and don't need.
I take a 3 in 1 shampoo,conditioner & treatment and 2 in 1 Cleanser & Toner and many products come in a mini size which is great. I also like facewipes they are great for long flights, late nights and quick touch ups. I enjoy packing and making lists. For my make-up I take a tinted moisturiser, 1 mascara, 1 blush and 1 lip gloss. Its so simple.
Posted on: March 16, 2011 (Mar 16, 2011 7:29am)