We all want to look our best, especially when travelling because that’s usually when we are taking the most memories… and photos! However, it is also the time when our skin, body and hair usually end up taking a toll due to changes in weather, water and diet. Travelling means we tend to be outdoors more, exposing ourselves to direct sunlight and marinating in pollution. That combined with travel stress, late nights and early mornings is a recipe for disaster on your face, body and hair. But, feeling and looking good while you travel shouldn’t come with additional stress or breaking the bank. Here are some must-haves that’ll help you pack smart and look your best while travelling.
1. REFILLABLE TRAVEL BOTTLES
Stick to the same products you use at home. Unless your skin and hair aren’t sensitive and do well with just about any product applied to them- do not rely on the hotel products when it comes to shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll always take the hotel products home with me at the end of the trip. But this is not a time to experiment with beauty products. Stick to what you know works for your skin and hair type. Unless my products are about to run out, I never travel with full-sized beauty products. For these, I always keep miniature versions of the same product or simply transfer them into refillable travel containers, these high quality and durable Kitsch Refillable Travel Bottle Set are perfect for those of us who want to bring all the toiletries along with us (and they're TSA friendly!)
2. DRY SHAMPOO
If your hair dries quickly or you have no issue waking up early and using the hairdryer, you can skip this one. But for those of us who have a hair schedule that we follow, we know it's even more difficult to maintain that during travels. My hair takes forever to dry but also suffers at the hands of a hairdryer, so I simply cannot wash it every day. On those no wash days dry shampoo is our best friend giving our hair a refreshing boost without damaging hair or sacrificing time. The Moroccanoil Dry Shampoo is the best one I've come across as it doesn't leave any white residue, doesn't irritate scalp and also leaves your hair smelling amazing. I have used it in freezing cold weather as well as humid climates, and it has not disappointed in either. Moreover, it can also double as a volumizer so you can also leave your styling spray at home.
3. SUNSCREEN
When you're packing for a trip, don't forget to bring sunscreen! Whether you're headed to the beach or the mountains, sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a sunscreen for travel. First, choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for maximum protection. Second, choose a sunscreen that is made for your skin type. You don't want to be dry or greasy when you're out exploring, so look for a sunscreen that will absorb quickly in your skin but also keep it moisturized. Rivela DermaScience Gel Sunscreen has been a game changer for me as it leaves no white cast, has a matte finish and works great under makeup. Although it's made for all skin types, gel based sunscreens (and moisturizers) are usually best for oily and acne prone skin.
4. MOISTURIZER
Have you ever felt your skin becomes more tight after a flight? That's because cabin air is arid air. Skin is most comfortable when humidity levels are between 40% and 70%. The humidity level in most airline cabins is around 20% and can even go as low as 10%. This makes it even more important to take care of our skin while traveling. My absolute favourite at home and away has to be the Neutrogena Hydroboost 3D Sleeping Mask as it keeps the skin hydrated and free from environmental damage, although it's meant to be used as a sleeping mask, it makes the perfect moisturizer for flights and other dry environments . I also like to keep these Garnier Skin Naturals Face Serum Sheet Mask for a little added self-care that boosts recovery. Both are easy to pack and use, and they can make a big difference in the way your skin looks and feels. I like to store the masks in the hotel fridge for that extra cooling and refreshing factor after a long day out.
5. EYE GEL
Long haul flights and sleepless nights tend to show on our eyes. If you're looking for a way to keep your eyes hydrated and healthy while travelling, consider using eye gels. Eye gels can help to reduce puffiness and dark circles, and they can also help to hydrate and protect the delicate skin around your eyes. I recently used the Garnier HydraBomb Eye Serum Mask and they really helped in brightening up my under eyes so I don't look visibly jet-lagged!
6. ACNE PATCHES
If you've ever dealt with acne, you know how frustrating it can be. Constantly trying to keep your skin clean and clear, only to have breakouts pop up at the worst times. So if you're someone who struggles with this, acne patches are definitely worth a try. My current favourites are the Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patch which contain hydrocolloid dressing. Hydrocolloids are a type of gel that can be used to treat active acne. They work by creating a protective seal over the skin, while absorbing excess fluid such as oil and pus. This can help to flatten spots faster and reduce inflammation and skin redness. These are a game-changer when it comes to dealing with acne on the go and actually do a better job covering up than concealer!
7. NAIL FILE
You can ditch the nail clippers and opt for these instead. In fact, I have not used a nail clipper in almost 5 years! Filing them causes less trauma to the nail and nail bed, and also provides you with more control in getting the desired shape. Have you ever broken a nail and tried to clip them only to be left with scratchy rough tips that keep getting caught in everything? Exactly. Just remember to file them at least once a week to avoid excess growth and to keep them healthy. Tip: I find the Vega Crystal Glass Nail File to provide a smoother finish and also last longer than other types of nail files.
8. VASELINE
It's been around for over 140 years, known by our grandmothers and now resurfacing all over TikTok. It's capable of removing dry skin, healing injured skin, nourishing dry cuticles, keeping under eyes moisturized, softening dry lips, preventing chaffing and so much more! Nothing beats Vaseline, it's basically a jar of endless opportunities. It's incredibly multipurpose and I always have this Miniature Vaseline version of it on me.. even when I’m not travelling!
9. WET WIPES
These are also incredibly multipurpose as well. From cleaning your hands, mobiles, glasses, the table, flight tv, spilt food- there is an endless list of reasons to keep these while travelling. The beauty industry has also come up with some innovative wipes that double down as insect repellents, sunblock, perfume, and more. Although my favourites will always be Dettol Disinfectant Skin and Surface Wipes, which come in very handy, especially in the current covid reality.
10. MULTI-USE OIL
If you want to keep your face, body, hair and nails looking their best, then a multi-use oil is the product you need. These help making us feel softer, smoother and more nourished head to toe. If you're looking for one that has a divine aroma, then try Kama Ayurveda Rose and Jasmine Bath and Body Oil- it really feels like an on-demand spa treatment. Whichever one you choose to take, make sure to get one that absorbs quickly into your skin and doesn't leave you feeling greasy. And of course, pack it really well so it doesn't leak everywhere!
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