The key is to consider where you’re headed, edit your routine and pack accordingly.
Exploring all a city has to offer is a delightful way to spend a break, but in summer it can be hot work. It requires a small but versatile beauty kit, where you can style your hair and add a pop of colour, but not spend hours getting ready for a look that will last well through humidity and the blazing sun.
These are the best picks to select for a trip where you’ll likely be pounding the pavement, seeing the sights and trying all the local cuisine.
A transparent carry-all
A see-through case with a zip that will easily fit all your travel skincare and beauty needs makes life easy at airport security or in that mad dash to find something quickly when you open your suitcase. The best options have a boxy shape that will nestle among other items and a handle on one end also comes in useful. Thankfully, many retailers including the likes of MECCA and clothing retailers have cottoned on to this emerging phenomenon.
Flight-friendly minis
Moisture-sapping aircraft cabins combined with a lack of restful sleep while travelling means looking fresh on arrival is easier said than done. Add a selection of mini-sized skincare to your carry-on and apply in-flight to counter the drying and fatigue effects on skin.
A cleansing wipe and a touch of moisturiser will also pay dividends in the following days.
Use a sheet mask for a skin-plumping dose of hydration. Too shy for a full face? Under-eye masks are a great quick pick-me-up that banish the signs of fatigue. They can also be used after a long day in the sun, but before you head out for evening activities.
New US website 100ml has a curated selection of high-end, travel-friendly sizes of skin, body, oral and haircare products stored in clear pouches and under the 100ml limit for liquids set by aviation security.
Try these: Lady Jayne Salon Pro Rechargeable Straightening Brush; M.A.C Cosmetics Mini M.A.C lipstick in Ruby Woo; Libertine Refillable Pocket Atomiser; Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Makeup Setting Spray; 111SKIN Rose Gold Eye Mask
Portable hair tools
The necessity of taking heated hair-styling tools is a divisive topic that has launched a thousand pre-packing arguments.
If you’re one of those that can’t do without (and we can relate!), there are numerous travel-ready tools available. For weekends away, we like the new Lady Jayne Salon Pro Rechargeable Straightening Brush that plugs into a USB charger, or ghd’s small cordless straightener.
If you’re going long haul, some high-end brands like Dyson and ghd offer universal or dual voltage on many of their tools. However, their performance may vary depending on the local supply when using a simple adapter plug and with others you may risk the life of your pricey tool. It’s worth doing your research on whether to take your beloved styler with you or try your luck with the hotel hairdryer.
Packable perfume
There are a few solutions to travelling with perfume but the increase in refillable perfume options means it’s easier to decant your favourite scent into a travel atomiser. Made of metal, they solve the risk of breakage and the small size means you won’t need to lug a heavy bottle with you.
Setting spray
Keeping makeup in place in the summer heat can be a challenge, which is when using a makeup setting spray becomes useful. It keeps your makeup from smudging, creasing or fading until you want to remove it.
Mini lipstick
Grab a mini-sized lipstick in a tried and true colour and rely on it all holiday.
A bright pop looks stunning with summer outfits and really gives your face a lift, even if you’re not wearing any other makeup.
M.A.C Cosmetics does a number of its most popular shades of classic cream lippy in a size perfect for a pocket or purse.
