Packing a travel makeup bag can be a daunting task for someone like myself that owns enough makeup to fill up a section in Sephora. I’ve been traveling a lot lately and with three more trips in the book this year, and probably more to come, I’ve learned a couple of things when it comes to packing your travel makeup bag that can help ease the stress and anxiety of what to bring.
1. Make a list of outfit styles.
When packing makeup for my travel bag I’ve found the easiest way to get a grasp on things is to take note of what I’ll actually be wearing. Casual outfits are going to call for a lighter makeup applications, so you probably don’t need to bring your 108 pan eyeshadow palette with all the pretty glitter. If you have dressier outfits, pick out eyeshadow palettes that have the exact colors you need. Z-palettes are great for this as they allow you to create your eyeshadow palettes as well as house coordinating blushes.
2.Choose Travel Friendly Items.
The last, thing you want to do, is pack your expensive 16oz bottle of face wash in your travel bag. This is asking for an accident or even worse thievery. Always use travel size products. The petite size of the products will give you more room in your makeup bag and won’t be that huge of a loss if they happen to get lost or stolen. Mostly all skincare and cosmetic companies make travel-friendly size products. On my recent trip to New Orleans, I brought my travel sized Boscia Skin Care kit. If you don’t have time to grab the travel sized version you can always decant your products into TSA approved containers that can be stored in carry-on luggage. Sephora makes a great Carry On Airless travel set that is air tight and can withstand the change in altitude.
3. Pack Your Makeup while applying.
One of the best ways, I’ve found, to pack your travel makeup bag for a trip is to pack while applying. You won’t believe how much this will cut down on the chance of you leaving something behind. Usually, when I fly my makeup is pretty much natural so I do an everyday face. After I use a particular item I just put it into my makeup travel bag. I also do the same with my makeup brushes, though I tend to store these in a separate pouch. Once you’ve completed your look for the day, add the items that you didn’t use but put to the side for your dressier outfits and you’re all set. This method also cuts down on over packing as you’re only going to bring things that you’ll use rather than bring things that you think you’re going to use, but never will.
4. Choose the Proper Travel Makeup Bag.
I’ve used many bags to store my makeup while traveling, but my favorite so far has to be the Flight 001 F1 SpacePak Toiletry bag. It allows for me to put my makeup on one side and skin/body care on the other side. To store my makeup brushes I use a small makeup brush pouch and I make sure to bring Multi Purpose brushes. Sonia Kashuk has a great array of brushes for both travel and everyday use. I like to keep a set of her brushes in my travel pouch so that I don’t have to worry about switching back and forth.
There are also some unconventional rules I like to follow like wrapping perfume in a sock and storing it in a shoe. I even make sure all my lotions and creams are stored in separate plastic bags as they will save your life if you have a bottle to burst. What are things you do when packing your makeup bag for travel? Share your suggestions in the comments below!
I always make a list whenever I pack. The last time I went away, I packed so much less makeup than I’ve ever packed previously. I’m getting much better since I usually tend to overpack for those ‘just in case’ moments.
Great tips. Travel/deluxe items come in handy for short trips.
I will often bring one neutral palette and then shadow sticks for the pops of color. They can be used either as eyeliners or shadows, so I don’t feel like my looks are too limited.
Awesome how-to! I make lists and start packing days in advance so I can take things away. Especially if I’m flying…. carry-on only for this girl lol
I used to travel a lot on business, and packing makeup and especially toiletries was a chore since I usually couldn’t check my bags when I was traveling with my clients since they usually don’t. Decanting or buying 3 oz sizes of everything is such a drag. I am a big believer in travel palettes to simplify things.
I love using my zuca for makeup and skincare 🙂
Great tips! I am a pro now at packing for traveling and do many of the things you do!
Great tips, I always overpack!
Great tips. I normally pick a neutral palette that I am currently loving and basic makeup items. I really don’t tend to overpack makeup which is surprising. I DO overback everything else though.
Great tips!! I have a habit of not packing my makeup as I go, so it’s a mad rush when we’re leaving to make sure I’ve got it all haha!
I love the tips and the new url!
I travel so much that by now it’s second nature, but for people who don’t, it can be overwhelming to figure out what to do. Your list will definitely help.
I love the idea of this post
such great tips! I never thought of packing my makeup while Im applying it and to match to the styles you are packing! I dont use or travel with liquid makeup due to spillage in the past.