Traveling and feeling pretty don’t always go hand in hand. Between harrowing flight schedules, long days in the car and that extremely inconvenient quart-sized liquid limit, sometimes a girl’s beauty regimen gets left behind with the cat. Most of the time we just want to relax and take a break from what might be a rigorous cleansing, exfoliating, full face of make up routine at home, which is understandable–it’s vacation! Low maintenance is the name of the game.
These five adorable/travel-friendly bits will not weigh down your carry-on, but they will make a huge difference if the occasion for a nice meal out or an impromptu photo-shoot arises. Or if you just want to feel pretty!
Bare Escentuals Mini Refillable Buffing Brush
This little gem is so totally revolutionary because it not only saves on packaging, but it makes a toothbrush look bulky. It comes filled with Bare Minerals mineral veil (a lovely, good for your skin loose powder), but when that runs out you can refill it with whichever loose powder you fancy! The brush is soft and blends well (it pops off completely for ease of cleaning) and you can carry it with you to combat unflattering t-zone shine.
Origins VitaZing
This is the only moisturizer, foundation and sunblock you need to pack! It boasts SPF 15, it boosts radiance with a sheer tint that develops as you blend it, and it is packed with vitamins, antioxidants and minerals your face will delight in. It gives you just the slightest hint of color and coverage, making it perfect for carefree vacation days. You won’t have to concern yourself with trifles like matching the right shade, foundation melting off in the heat or anything at all going astray with your face!
Laura Mercier Bonne Mine Palette
This palette is about the size of an index card with the width of a CD. You could keep it in your back pocket if you wanted. And trust me, you will want to! These gorgeous, creamy colors are meant to illuminate your whole face with a healthful, subtle glow. The bronzer, blush and highlighter can even be used on eyelids and to add a touch of glow to your lips. There are tips and helpful instructions that are stored secretly in the lid and you can apply everything with your fingers in under a minute.
Sephora Fragrance Atomizer
Nothing evokes the sexiness and glamour of being decked out like your favorite fragrance. The trouble is, perfume bottles are cumbersome and delicate all at once—not at all practical for travel. This refillable spray bottle is slim, metal and foolproof! You can forget the smoky eyes and painstakingly contoured cheekbones by simply spritzing your favorite scent on to complete the look for a big night out. It even comes with an adorable mini funnel so you don’t spill your precious perfume!
Sephora Pop-up Hair Brush
This brush is not only charming in its pink crystal encrusted glory, but it also brushes your hair quite nicely and supports breast cancer awareness! To boot, it boasts a handy, on-the-go mirror and collapses down to the size of a compact. Your locks will thank you for remembering them, and your luggage will be thankful for the break from cumbersome standard size hair tools!
Noella Schink is a travel and beauty writer from Portland, Maine. She recommends hoarding tiny sample jars from beauty stores before any trip! For your car hire UK and car hire Ireland needs, she recommends Auto Europe.