Many people love to travel because it’s a break from the routine of day-to-day life; no more grocery shopping, no work, housekeeping, or washing the car. For women, even putting on makeup every day can seem like a routine that we just get tired of. A vacation seems like a grand opportunity to go au natural!

When it comes to which beauty product I pack in my skincare and cosmetics kit for travel, I always try to keep it to a minimum. The easiest way to do this is by choosing products that do double time.

As a professional makeup artist and a passionate traveler I believe I have a different perspective.
Whether we like it or not, if we look attractive, we are seen as friendlier, smarter, and more approachable. A big part of my travel experience is meeting new people. That said, if I’m meeting new people every single day I make an effort to look my best. That doesn’t mean I spend an hour on hair and makeup.  I know a little goes a long way. I want to look awake, vibrant, and friendly – not tired and jet-lagged. Trust me, it matters.

When I travel I choose multi-use products that can double up, saving space, and time. For example, moisturizer and sun protection in one, like a BB cream.; Or moisturizing tanning lotion. A small can or non-aerosol hairspray can double down as root lift. I can still take care of my beauty and grooming needs, without carrying too many products. Here are some suggestions and products I like and have used over many years of travel.

1. A Creme Blush

Ilia Soft Focus Blurring Powder Blush

I love Ilia for so many reasons, cruelty free, clean beauty products that work. They feel good on my skin and the textures work on all ages. I’ve been using the blush sticks but his new cream powder blush is so easy to apply. Then, I just swipe the rest on my lips, and put a gloss on top. This gives you a healthy glow and you look more awake in minutes.

2. Tinted Moisturizer

Smashbox Halo All in one tinted moisturizer

The latest in multi-purpose products this cream does it all. It’s color-correcting, primes, perfects and protects with SPF30. Not only that, it also fades discoloration. Talk about multi-tasking! There’s a good color range and I’ve tried this one myself and like it a lot.

3. A Tanning Lotion/Moisturizer for the Body

Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer
Try Jergens Natural Glow in Medium to Tan. I am fair but use the medium, otherwise, it takes forever to get even a slight bit of color. Gets rid of dry flaky skin, and slowly develops an all-over glow. Once the color develops, it also helps camouflage minor skin blemishes.

4. Hairspray
Hair spray has so many uses I can’t imagine leaving home without it. You can use it to hold hair in place, smooth flyaways, or to create volume at the roots when your hair has gone flat. I like Alterna Caviar working spray and it comes in travel size.

5. Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream

This is a classic that has been around forever, and with good reason. It heals the driest skin and airplane chapped lips. If you have a minor burn or other skin irritation it will help speed up healing and you can even smooth unruly brow hairs.

Whether you try one or all of these products, your packing list just got smaller and your carry-on just got lighter.