Would you like to get a sneak peek into my travel bag? – Let me share the list of travel beauty essentials on the go. This stuff helps me look and feel my best while making the most of every single trip.

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Best Travel Beauty Essentials

Why Does a Travel Beauty Routine Matter?

Travel can be one of the biggest challenges for maintaining a consistent skincare routine. Many factors work against us when we’re on the go, starting with the flight’s liquid restrictions and the dust from public transport. The dry air on planes typically strips the skin of moisture, leaving it dull and dehydrated – unless you take steps to care for it. Additionally, most trips involve significant climate changes, which can lead to breakouts or dry patches. As if that weren’t enough, changes in water quality, increased sun exposure, and disruptions to our usual diet are almost unavoidable when traveling. Looking good and feeling good often go hand in hand, which is why packing my travel beauty essentials is always a priority. Even with limited luggage space, I do my best to stick to my usual skincare routine while traveling. Over time, my travel beauty regimen has become an integral part of my healthy lifestyle. Self-care is especially important on the road, particularly after a long day of sightseeing or hiking.

There are several must-have beauty essentials I always bring with me when traveling. As I’m currently packing for my trip to Ireland, let me share the key items in my toiletry and makeup bag.

My Travel Beauty Tips and Hacks On The Go

• Travel-size bottles allow me to bring some of my all-time favorites to make every place feel like home (I often fill up these Silicone Bottles or use amber glass bottles for my essential oils)
• Save the beauty samples for your future trips ( you get lots of cool small-sized products for free while shopping in Sephora)
• Use a hanging toiletry bag (it´s no secret that many accommodations do not have enough bathroom space, but with this hanging travel-toiletry bag it is easy to have all the travel beauty essentials organized)
• For liquid products, do not forget to use zip-lock type bags or silicone caps/sleeves
• Search for products that are sold exclusively at your destination (you can buy these as souvenirs and then use them during the whole of your trip)
• Do not underestimate the importance of your sleep on the road: create the perfect conditions to rest anywhere – silk pillowcase makes my skin & hair look amazing, earplugs are handy with pressure relief on the plane, Silk Eye Mask for Sleeping creates a complete blackout
• Get some multi-use makeup products, like for instance ILIA Multi/Stick , Creme Cheek Blush & Lip Color, or any all-purpose cream
• Travel capsules or contact solution cases are great for foundation, concealer, powder (when you only travel for a few days and want to go extra-light)
• Consider separating makeup, skincare, & haircare into different Clear Toiletry Bags: just dumping everything out of one single bag is so time-consuming when you arrive at a new destination and start unpacking (I often pack with me one hanging toiletry bag for skincare and a smaller one for make up)
• A multi-purpose moisturizer for dry, itchy skin is a must-have, as changes in weather, water, and the stress of traveling can leave your skin irritated and itchy; Arnica Relief Cream is handy for active & adventurous trips, and a natural Body Oil is essential for summer travels
• A super hydrating serum that locks in moisture is a game-changer, for instance a Cactus Serum by Whamisa (use ATC5 code for 10% off)

What´s inside my toiletry bag?

Essential Oils

Years ago, I took an aromatherapy course and have been making my own essential oil blends for traveling ever since. Here in Spain, I typically use the French brand Pranarom. My favorites include Protect Essential Oil Blend Wellness Kit, Stress Relief Roll-On, and Aromalgic Bio Massage Oil Supple Joints. For winter travels, I always bring the congestion relief rub Organic Vapor Rub and Aromaforce Immune Defence Wellness Blend

On Amazon, you can find the Organic Lavender Essential Oil Roll-On, Aura Cacia Chill Pill Oil Roll-On, and Gya Labs Frankincense Essential Oil Roll-On. For aromatherapy on the go, I prefer the Essential Oil Clay Diffuser. While it’s relatively fragile, it’s far more portable than other travel-size essential oil diffusers and helps me create the perfect atmosphere to rest and recharge.

Sheet Masks

Sheet masks are one of the handiest beauty essentials for travel. They don’t take up much space and give me a little spa moment on the go. There’s nothing better than a vitamin-packed skin treatment after a long, exhausting flight. The nutrients help revive my face and restore its glow. I like to bring along Andalou Naturals Instant Brighten Facial Mask, Andalou Naturals Instant Clarity Mask, Acure Organics Eye Hydrogel Mask, Soothing Eye Masks, and a Moisturizing Foot Mask. Another current favorite for travel is this Klorane Stick Mask with organic mint and clay. It’s tiny, easy to pack, mess-free to apply thanks to its stick form, and seems like it will last a long time. This mask is only available in Europe for now, alternatively you can get SKIN1004 Quick Clay Stick Mask.

Products with Tea Tree Oil

For years, Tea Tree Oil has been one of my favorite travel beauty essentials. It’s a versatile secret weapon that works wonders on everything from blemished skin and pimples to dandruff and even insect bites, thanks to its powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. Recently, I discovered Australian Bodycare, a brand dedicated to creating natural tea tree oil products for treating common skin issues. You can purchase Australian Bodycare products on Amazon, through their UK online store or via their Spanish website.

Australian Bodycare Tea Tree Oil Spot Treatment has become one of my must-haves when I’m on the go. I use it not only for blemishes and pimples, but also for mosquito and insect bites. Another handy product is the Australian Bodycare Anti-Itch Spray, which is great for soothing any kind of irritation while traveling (it’s no surprise it’s also on my list of travel essentials for kids). I absolutely love the Australian Bodycare Scalp Treatment and Scalp Brush. Both are must-haves for addressing scalp concerns like itchiness, greasy hair, or dandruff. When I’m at home, I use the treatment once a week, gently massaging it in with the brush. For travel, I pour some into one of my travel-sized bottles. The last time I went on a hiking weekend in the Spanish Pyrenees, my scalp became really itchy from wearing a ponytail and hat non-stop. Thankfully, I had the Australian Bodycare Scalp Treatment with me, and I ended up using it for three consecutive days.

Solid Shampoo & Conditioner

While dry shampoo spray can be a lifesaver, I always feel an urge to wash my hair on the road (especially after the flights). So I love having with me a Solid Shampoo and Conditioner (plus, the soap-saver bags for storage). In Sephora, I like the French brand Respire. Additionally, I often bring with me on the go Klorane, or any other dry shampoo, like Batiste (but only its natural line).

Massage on the go

A stiff neck is my constant concern on the road, so I simply can not live without stretching and massage. Gua Sha with essential oils and massage balls are my absolute must-haves.Although, I am currently looking for a travel massage gun (the doctor suggested to me Theragun, but since it’s not the most budget-friendly one, I am still hesitating on whether I actually need one; I will update the post once I try it).

Makeup remover wipes & cleanser

No-rinse facial cleansing is everything. Wiping all the dirt and makeup off the face is the first step for happy skin on the go. I always have makeup remover wipes inside my travel bag. I love the ones with natural ingredients, like Sephora Soothing Cleansing Wipes, Burts Bees Clarifying Facial Cleanser Towelettes, and Petal Fresh Renewing Blueberry & Lemon Makeup Removing Towelettes.

While my post-travel skincare usually starts with makeup remover wipes, I love to follow it up with a good cleanser. The current favorite on the road is Dr. Hauschka Cleansing Cream (in winter, I prefer Weleda Almond Soothing Cleansing Lotion).

If I shop on the go, I usually pick on Amazon Thayers Face Cleanser, Andalou Naturals Brightening Creamy Cleanser, Honest Beauty Gentle Gel Everyday Face Cleanser, or anything from Dr.Hauska. More handy products for cleansing on the go: Soap Sheets, Bathing Wipes, SheaMoisture Face and Body Bar for Blemish-Prone Skin, and Body Wash in a Sponge.

Make-up travel essentials

I usually avoid wearing heavy makeup while traveling. Sometimes, I like to glam up for a nice dinner, but in most cases, the ‘less is more‘ motto works better for my skin. You can read more about my makeup in this post.

Solid Stick Creams, Balms & All-Purpose Creams

My current all-purpose cream favorite is Weleda Skin Food for Face and Body (for some reason in Spain it is sold as face&body, but internationally the brand offers Weleda Body Skin Food and Weleda Skin Food Light for Face). It´s this one self-care product I would bring with me on a desert island lol – I literally use it on my face, lips, nails, and body. Sometimes, in order to save space, I store it in one of my Ambar jars, while adding a few drops of essential oil (for travels I prefer mandarin and vetiver). Another possible alternative is Dr. Bronner’s – Organic Magic Balm. Also, solid stick creams, like Bee Naturals Skin Cream and Wild Carrot Nourishing Eye Balm are the easiest to pack.

Dyson Hair Straightener & Other Hair Essentials

Dyson Hair Straightener and Oribe Maximista Spray are my favorite tools to glam up my hair. Typically, I wash my hair and apply a mask or conditioner (while brushing it through with the Janeke Detangler Brush or Fiora Naturals Hair Detangling Brush before rinsing; this ensures even distribution so the product reaches every strand). Afterward, I use a leave-in conditioner spray.

Next, I wrap my hair in a silk turban for 20 minutes. Once dry, I either style it with the Dyson Hair Straightener for a sleek look or use a handmade silk curling set for natural waves. Although I initially bought my first hair roller set on Amazon, I’ve stopped using it and now prefer the hair ribbon curler sets with scrunchies that I found on Etsy.

Dental Care Essentials for traveling

Oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice, is one of my favorite ways for maintaining oral hygiene while traveling. It involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 10-20 minutes, which helps reduce harmful bacteria, freshen breath, and promote overall oral health. Another carry-on must-have is a PUR 100% Xylitol Gum.

Silk & Sleep

I enjoy having with me on the go one of my silk masks – a Silk Eye Mask for Sleeping or a Silk Eye Pillow filled with Lavender. Many frequent travelers love bringing on the road their own Travel Sleep sheet set. But personally, my all-time favorite is the Pure Linen Sheets Set. So, other materials don’t inspire me enough to pack extra sheet sets (except for that silk pillowcase, which I love having with me everywhere).

My travel tips & favorites

• Favorite Clean Makeup for Traveling: Best Brands You Should Pack (read it)
• What to wear in Spain: My Favorite Spain Outfits (read it)
• Favorite Travel Essentials for Kids (read it)
• My Top Hiking Essentials On The Go (read it)
• Favorite Carry-On Essentials: What I Never Travel Without (read it)
• An Ultimate A to Z Spain Packing List (read it)
• Best Luggage for European Travel: My Honest Review (read it)

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For more travel tips check my Pinterest boards Travel Tips&Ideas and Travel Tips+Tricks.

• Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda, Booking, and Hotellook
• Tours&excursions: My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide, and Viator
• Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
• Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
• For Foodies: Eatwith is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
• Audio guides: Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
• Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner, WayAway, and Kiwi
• Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide)
• Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Trainline, Busbud, and Omio
• Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Rental Cars and Discover Cars
• Top E-Sim: To avoid roaming fees, I like Saily (use AtLifestyleCrossroads for for a 5% discount)
• Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
• Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
• Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
• Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
• Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp and Compensair
• Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
• Package Tours: Head to CheapOair and Expedia
• For Bloggers: To monetize my blog, I work with Travelpayouts and Stay22