If there’s one thing my husband and I absolutely love, it’s travelling.
Planning our next adventure, discovering new places, admiring how beautifully diverse the world is, and appreciating God’s incredible creation in every corner of the globe is something we genuinely enjoy. Every destination has its own charm, culture, architecture, and art, and it’s amazing how beauty can look so different yet feel so familiar.
And of course… we never miss the opportunity to try the local food!
Most of our trips are budget-friendly, which means you’ll often find us flying with Ryanair or hunting for the best flight deals. Living on an island means every holiday starts with a flight, and with budget airlines comes one unavoidable challenge!! (luggage restrictions).
That’s where packing smart becomes essential.
Over the years, I’ve learned that I don’t need to carry my entire makeup collection. Instead, I’ve created a simple travel makeup routine that works for almost every trip, whether it’s a weekend getaway, a city break, or a long holiday.
These are the beauty essentials that have earned a permanent place in my travel makeup bag.
1. Skincare Comes First
No matter where I’m travelling, skincare is the pillar of my makeup routine.
Moisturiser
My moisturiser changes depending on the destination. For colder countries, I pack a richer moisturiser like Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentré, which keeps my skin nourished and protected from the cold. For warmer climates, I switch to a lightweight moisturiser that hydrates without feeling heavy.
SPF
One product I never travel without is sunscreen. My current favourite is the Beauty of Joseon Relief Sun SPF, which feels lightweight, blends beautifully under makeup, and doesn’t leave a white cast. Whether I’m exploring cities or spending time outdoors, protecting my skin is non-negotiable.
Lip Balm
Flights can leave my lips feeling dry, so I always keep my Laneige Berry Lip Sleeping Mask with me. I use it overnight and as a nourishing lip balm during the day whenever my lips need extra hydration.
2. Primer
A good primer is something I never skip. When we’re travelling, we’re usually out exploring from morning until late evening, so I need my makeup to last. My favourite is the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer (Mini). It’s compact, travel-friendly, and helps my makeup stay fresh all day.
3. Foundation
I choose my foundation based on the weather. For cooler climates, I reach for longer-wearing foundations like Estée Lauder Double Wear or NARS. For warmer destinations, I prefer lighter formulas such as Charlotte Tilbury or MAC, which feel more comfortable in the heat.
Since I only own these in full size, I simply choose one depending on where I’m travelling instead of packing multiple bottles.
4. Concealer
A good concealer is essential for brightening the under-eyes and covering any blemishes. My favourite is the Natasha Denona Concealer, which blends effortlessly and lasts throughout the day.
5. Setting Powder
To keep shine under control and lock everything in place, I carry the Laura Mercier Loose Setting Powder. A little goes a long way, making it perfect for travel.
6. Cream Contour
One of my recent travel favourites is the e.l.f. Halo Glow Contour Beauty Wand. I love how lightweight and blendable it is. It gives my face natural definition without looking harsh, and because it’s a cream formula, it leaves the skin looking fresh and healthy rather than dry or powdery. It’s also quick to apply, which is perfect.
7. Blush & Highlighter
Instead of carrying separate products, I pack my Natasha Denona Mini Face Palette, which includes both blush and highlighter. I love multi-purpose products because they save space and make packing so much easier.
8. Eyes
For eye makeup, I keep things simple:
- One small eyeshadow palette
- Mascara — waterproof so it stays all day
- Eyeliner
- Brow pencil
A neutral palette is enough to create both soft daytime looks and something a little more glamorous for dinner.
9. Lips
I usually pack one or two lipsticks in shades that work with almost everything. Neutral pinks and MAC ruby woo are my go-to because they’re versatile enough for both day and evening.
10. Setting Spray
A good setting spray is another must-have when I’m travelling. Depending on the trip, I’ll carry either the Benefit Porefessional Super Setter or the Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray. Both help my makeup stay fresh for hours, even after a full day of sightseeing.
11. Makeup Remover
After a long day exploring, taking my makeup off properly is just as important. I love carrying Olay Makeup Remover Wipes because they’re convenient, effective, and don’t take up much room in my luggage.
My Travel Makeup Brushes
I keep my brushes to a minimum and only carry the ones I know I’ll use:
- One powder brush (for loose powder and blush)
- One eyeshadow brush
- One concealer brush
Three brushes are more than enough to create a full makeup look while keeping my makeup bag nice and compact.
My Best Travel Beauty Tip
Whenever possible, I choose travel-size products — but here’s my little secret… I rarely buy minis.
Personally, I don’t think they’re worth the price because you’re paying almost the same amount for much less product. Instead, I save the travel-sized products I receive as free gifts when I place larger beauty orders. Over time, I’ve built a collection of minis that are perfect for travelling, and they’ve saved me both money and valuable luggage space.
Final Thoughts
Travelling has taught me that less really is more.
I don’t need a huge makeup collection to feel confident. I just need products that work well, last all day, and fit easily into my makeup bag. By choosing versatile products, packing according to the climate, and making the most of travel-sized freebies, I can spend less time worrying about what I’ve packed and more time making memories.
For me, that’s what travel is really about. Exploring new places, trying incredible food, appreciating different cultures, and witnessing the beauty of God’s creation with my husband. The makeup simply helps me feel my best while doing it.
