It doesn’t matter how many times you’ve packed the same things over and over again — there’s always something to forget. I’ve compiled a list of essential items I always pack in my toiletry bag that makes my trip a lot more complete.
Take a look and keep the list handy for your future travels.
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Face wash
This is an absolute must for me as I don’t go anywhere without a proper face wash. Waking up oily and grimy isn’t a good start to the day. I’m a huge fan of Kiehl’s face wash that comes in 75 mL bottles. They’re travel-sized and fit easily into my Monos make up bag.
Face Moisturizer
I find a gel moisturizer works really well for my skin type. It hydrates it without making my skin feel tight and keeps me glowing all day long. Again, Kiehl’s gel moisturizer is perfect for my acne-prone skin. It also comes in a travel size (100 ml or less) making it easy to stow in my makeup case.
Face Toner
The Body Shop has great 60ml travel size toners that keeps my face moist. I put it on after I use face wash and it refreshes my face nicely. I’m a huge fan of the acne-clearing skin toner. It works wonders on my face and really does keep it clear of acne.
Hydrating Facial Masks
Garnier has super hydrating facial masks that rehydrates my skin after a long day outside. I especially need it when I’m in a hot and dry place or even after a long plane ride. Hydrating facial masks are an absolute must for me if I don’t want my skin looking like a lizard pelt!
Face cloth
Hotels will have face towels, but depending on your situation, bringing your own might be a better option. A small rectangular face cloth, that’s quick drying, and easy to store is perfect for travelling.
Sunscreen
So far, Biotherm’s sunscreen with SPF 30 protects my skin pretty well. It isn’t too sticky or oily and absorbs nicely into my skin. I personally like the smell of it too (it definitely reminds me of a tropical beach) and seems to keep my skin clear as well. I’m prone to acne, so an oily sunscreen doesn’t work well on my skin, but Biotherm’s SPF 30 sunscreen seems to give me protection I need without giving me pimples too.
Toothbrush and travel toothpaste
Okaaay, I know it’s a no-brainer to bring our toothbrush and toothpaste, but sometimes we forget, and this is why we have a checklist. I generally buy and keep some toothpastes under 100 ml (buy a few when they’re on sale) and stash it away just for travelling. A small travel sized toothbrush also helps save real estate in your toiletry bag.
Contact lenses
I wear contact lenses generally but I like to wear them especially when I travel. This lets me wear different types of sunglasses if I like. I generally bring a few more than I need for the days of travel just in case they break. I also bring my regular glasses too, but contact lenses are what I prefer because they’re super convenient. I like to buy from Contacts for Less because I can get 6 months to 1 year worth of supply at decent prices. Plus, they also donate a part of the proceeds to a charity of your choice. Win-win!
Detangler comb
I have a flat detangler comb that smooths out strands nicely and fits well into my case flat. It can comb through dry and wet hair without breaking or snagging on the strands. I find that a single detangler comb is perfect for short trips if you simply need a decent comb that doesn’t take up too much space.
Mascara and eyelash curler
I generally can’t wear makeup as it seems to cause breakouts for me, so using mascara and an eyelash curler is my go-to for a bit of elegance. I find curling lashes can work wonders to brighten up your visage and is a quick way to add some elegance without much effort.
Hair ties
Ah, I always bring a few of these as hair ties are notoriously easy to lose. I find Goody brands work really well for me and they seem to last quite long. They’re durable, tight, and keep their hold really well.
Hair clips
I use a large claw hair clip to hold my hair, since my hair is long, thick, and pretty hard to handle. My version doesn’t quite fit into the makeup case, but adding it here if a hair clip helps you style your hair. It’s an essential for me as I use it to hold my hair in the shower.
Earrings
I like to bring a couple pairs of nice, but not too eye-catching, earrings for the day and one pair for an elegant evening dinner. As a general rule of travel, you don’t want to be flashing anything that screams too expensive, but I think understated elegance is still possible if you know you have some nice dinners planned.
A watch
Also make sure your watch doesn’t scream expensive! for fear of being targeted. But I find a fashion watch or a simple, but elegant, watch is great for travel. You want something that could go from museum visit to fine-dining if you need. And beware of what kind of clasp or strap you buy. You’d like something you can take off easily when you’re going through security checks at the airport.
