Whether you’re headed overseas, venturing out on a cross country road trip, or planning a late summer beach vacation, you’ve probably already started packing your bags for a long-awaited getaway (or at least thought about it). If you’re like us, planning and packing are the only things standing between you and your last chance for a summer vacation and the thought of it makes you want to cry real tears.
You’d be happy with packing as little as possible as long as you have everything you need. And yet, the anxiety is real when you forget something and you’d prefer to end the summer stress-free.
Ironically, some of the most commonly overlooked items are the ones you use every day – like your tooth or hair brush. And what’s more, 9 times out of 10 most of us never fail to leave behind half of our everyday skincare essentials.
But this time is different. You’ve made a vow to yourself not to forget anything – and we’re here to see you through on that promise. If you’re packing for a trip, use the handy list below to make sure you’ve got everything you need!
Is this in your bag?
Face wash – Admit it- you’re basically lost without it, which is why we put it first. You’ll want to refresh your face after a long day of sightseeing or trekking around outside in the heat.
Day/Night Face cream – Opt for a dual functioning cream- one that’s light enough to wear under makeup by day but moisturizing enough to deeply penetrate your skin overnight.
Non-drying toner + cotton pads – Wake up your face in the AM or use periodically throughout the day to refresh your skin. Tea Tree Skin Toner is a great option as it cleanses and refreshes all at the same time.
Sunscreen – This is definitely one you can’t forget. Bonus points if your daily moisturizer contains SPF. Packing a bottle that doubles for face and body is also a great travel hack.
Moisturizing Shampoo + Conditioner – It can be tempting to bring along your regular sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner but they can be inconvenient and too heavy and to lug around. Opt for travel sized bottles like this 2 oz. Coconut Oil Moisturizing Shampoo.
Makeup remover wipes – You won’t regret scooping up a travel pack of makeup remover wipes on your way out the door. Perfect for lazy days or long nights when washing your face is just out of the question.
Lip Balm – When you’re constantly on the go, dehydrated, or exposed to salt water, you’re bound to have chapped, dry lips. Traveling can take a toll on your lips, but it doesn’t have to show in pictures! Here’s a great solution.
Prepackaged face mask – Vacation is all about relaxation, right? Kick back and rejuvenate your tired skin with a single-use face mask (or pack a few since they take up zero room in your bag).
Deodorant – With all the moving around you’ll be doing, you’d hate to forget this one. Avoid a sticky situation in the summer heat and bring spray-on deodorant instead of the stick kind.
Body Cream – If you’re spending time out in the sun with most of your skin exposed, you’ll want to stay moisturized. Packing a travel size cream is the perfect amount for a short vacay- here’s a complete kit.
That should cover the skincare essentials! if you have a little extra room and want to be prepared for anything, here’s a few miscellaneous items that are sure to come in handy:
- Oil blotting paper
- Body spray/rollerball perfume
- Travel tissue packs
- Contact solution
- Vitamins
- Travel sewing kit
- Hand sanitizer
And last but not least…
The ultimate travel hack: Lavender oil – If planes or long car rides stress you out, this item will be your saving grace during your travels. Its soothing and relaxing qualities will keep you calm in stressful situations and help you sleep at night. (tip: scatter several drops of this 100% lavender oil on your pillowcase or combine it with a carrier oil and rub into your skin for a relaxing night)
With this skincare essentials packing list in hand, there’s no question of whether you’ll be prepared for your next summer getaway. The real question is, where will you go? Tell us where you’re headed in the comments below! Happy travels!