Beauty kit 101

If you’re staying for several nights, you’ll want a kit that contains pint-sized versions of all your favorites, leaving your skin as fresh and clean as it is at home. Consider purchasing spill-proof plastic containers to fill with your essentials. Choose a vinyl or waterproof bag for easy rinsing should any of the containers spill. Go for two-in-one products that save money and space in your travel bag.

Also look for products that come in single-use packets, which last longer and minimize the mess. If you’re taking your beauty kit on the plane, make sure your containers are three ounces or less and neatly-packed in a Ziploc bag, according to TSA regulations.

Your checklist

Cleanser. Rodial Jet Set Travel Wash is a gentle cleanser that refreshes the skin with tangerine and lavender. It doubles as a body wash and shampoo.

Makeup remover. La Roche Toleriane Eye Make-Up Remover is the perfect travel solution: 30 single-use packets that quickly and gently remove all traces of makeup.

Toner. Look for a lightweight toner in a misting bottle where cotton balls aren't required. Try Kinerase Hydrating Antioxidant Mist to refresh the skin and protect it from environmental pollutants — particularly essential if you’ll be traveling by air.

Exfoliator. For deep-cleansing while on the road, choose Philosophy Microdelivery Peel Exfoliating Cloths to lightly exfoliate and clean pores without having to pack another bottle or tube.

Facial moisturizer. To save space, pack a three-in-one combo — moisturizer, sunscreen and foundation. Try DuWop Revolution Face, a sheer moisturizer with sunscreen that comes in your choice of eight shades for flawless coverage.

Body moisturizer. Constant temperature changes while traveling can wreak havoc on your hands and body; be prepared with a deep conditioning treatment like L’Occitane 100% Pure Shea Butter. In a pinch, you can also use this cream as a nourishing treatment for dry hair.

Acne spot treatment. Even if your skin is crystal-clear at home, environmental changes can leave you with unexpected blemishes. Don’t let it ruin your trip. Invest in an emergency spot treatment like SensiClear Blemish Free Acne Spot Treatment, which unblocks clogged pores and leaves skin glowing.

Shaving. While on vacation, taking the time to shave is the last thing many of us want to do, but it's a must during the warmer months. Pick up the Skindinavia Women’s Shaving Kit, which includes both a soothing shave gel and a post-shaving spray that slows the regrowth of hair, so you can spend your time on the beach instead of in the shower.

Give the man in your life a clever travel razor like the Anthony Logistics MACH 3 Travel, which ensures a smooth shave. A hidden compartment stores an extra blade. For a great on-the-go kit, try The Art of Shaving Kit. The sleek black case contains a pre-shave oil, shaving cream, blade and after-shave balm to make packing easy and efficient.

Leave-in conditioner. Skip the styling gel and treat your hair to an ultra-hydrating natural conditioner like Alterna Hemp with Organics Leave In Conditioner to moisturize, detangle and protect your hair while traveling.

Easy breezy makeup. When there’s no time for makeup and no room in your bag for a cluttered mess of cosmetics, the natural look can be subtle and sophisticated, as well as a time-saver.

• Tinted lip balm with SPF. Protect and moisturize your lips while giving them a hint of shine with Lancaster Shine On Lip Balm SPF 20 Nude.
• Concealer. Skip the foundation and smooth on a moisturizer with SPF instead. Use a multi-use concealer to cover up any imperfections such as under-eye circles, redness and blemishes with CoverBlend Multi Function Concealer.
• Eyes and cheeks. Choose a color palette that's multi-functional to brighten both the eyes and cheeks. Try DuWop Eye Palettes-Rose Eyes: With shimmers and cream shades, the possibilities for both day and night makeup are endless.

The emergency travel kit

For those spontaneous overnight adventures, you’ll want a tiny travel kit that you can easily throw into your purse at a minute's notice. Leave your serums and creams at home — your skin can survive for a night or two with just the bare essentials. Of course, don’t forget to pack a toothbrush.

Cleanse, tone and exfoliate. No room for fancy bottles and foaming cleansers in this travel bag? Stick to cleansing pads that remove dirt, debris and makeup while gently toning and exfoliating, like DDF Glycolic Daily Cleansing Pads 5%.

Sunblock to go. Perfect for an unexpected beach weekend, sunscreen packettes make sun protection easy. Throw a couple of packets into your purse, beach bag and travel tote. MD Skincare Powerful Sun Protection SPF 30 Sunscreen Packettes are hassle-free and offer broad spectrum protection.

Ready-made

Don’t want to take the time to create your own kit? Choose from several pre-made kits designed by the experts.

Dr. Michelle Copeland Skin Essentials Kit is a fantastic set of travel-sized cleansers and toners, along with a few other pint-sized formulas. A highly regarded line, Dr. Michelle Copeland skincare is an excellent choice.

Women aren't the only ones who need to worry about their skincare on the road. Menscience Travel Kit makes the perfect gift for the globetrotting man in your life. In it, you’ll find shaving cream, face wash, lotion, aftershave, shampoo, deodorant and even a sleeping mask.

So, remember sensational skin is just a pre-packed kit away. Whether it’s a short getaway, family event or business trip, your beauty bag is always ready when you are.

See also:

The Busy Girl's Guide to Feeling Fresh and Fabulous All Day

Out with the Old, In with the New: Clearing Bathroom Clutter

Cosmetic Packaging 101: More than Just Ingredients