How I Pack My Toiletries (and Everything I Bring With Me)
Here's my lineup of TSA-compliant skincare, haircare, and beauty products.
Packing toiletries used to be my least favorite part of travel. I’m very Type A in the fact that I like to have everything I “need” with me—from specific hair products to every step of my skincare routine—so it always felt like an overwhelming task.
Then, a couple of years ago, I decided to put in a bit of time, effort, and research to streamline the process. I bought clear shelf organizers for my bathroom; now, these hold all of my Sephora samples, small hotel toiletries, and the below travel-sized products. I also stock up on the mini versions of products I can’t easily consolidate into small containers—things like contact solution and toothpaste. Now, when it comes time to get all of my toiletries together, I’m able to quickly “shop” from my own shelves, throwing them in one of my go-to Dopp kits (also below).
At the same time, I’ve tested more than my fair share of lotions, serums, etc., attempting to identify the non-negotiables that come with me on most trips. For context, I have incredibly dry skin, and plane travel tends to take its toll—so moisturizing products are usually at the top of my list.
Toiletry bags, pouches, and containers
July Open Toiletry Bag: I try to stick to just one pouch for all of my products. While my go-to toiletry bag is actually no longer in stock (RIP Paravel), this version from July is a similar size.
Stoney Clover Lane Small Pouch: I do love Stoney Clover Lane pouches—I have a couple that I rotate between for toiletries, snacks, and electronics—but they are expensive. These Amazon Nylon Makeup Bags are a solid dupe, though.
Clear Makeup Bag: Depending on where I’m going or what I’m doing, I’ll sometimes opt for a clear toiletry bag. My current favorite is also sold out, but this under-$20 version is pretty similar.
Cadence Capsules: I’ve been using Cadence Capsules (magnetic, leakproof, reusable containers) for about 3 years now. Yes, they’re pricey, but they keep me from having to repeatedly buy TSA-compliant versions of my regular shampoo and conditioner.
Travel-sized products I always have on hand
2-ounce bottles of contact solution: Basic, yes, but incredibly helpful if you’re someone who wears monthly contacts. I’ve found that one bottle can last me a solid 10 days on the road.
0.85-ounce Crest toothpaste, 12-pack: If you, like me, use a toothpaste that comes in a relatively big tube, I’d recommend keeping a few of these tiny tubes in your bathroom cabinet.
Travel skincare
Beauty of Joseon Day Dew Sunscreen: I’ve been a fan of this Korean skincare brand for a while, and this sunscreen goes on easily and is the perfect size for travel. (It does have a slight “sunscreen” smell, though.)
Dieux Instant Angel Lipid Rich Facial Moisturizer: At home, I use the Beauty of Joseon Dynasty Cream; when I’m on the road, I like to bring this 0.85-ounce facial moisturizer from Dieux.
Drunk Elephant C-Luma Hydrabright Vitamin C Serum: I’ve rotated between Vitamin C serums over the years, and this Drunk Elephant version is a recent discovery. While I like the glow it gives, I also appreciate its packaging; the twist top and pump aren’t at risk of an accidental spill while in transit.
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta® Universal Daily Peel Pads: I cannot say enough good things about these anti-aging, exfoliating pads. I only use them once a week (the package says every day, but that would be way too much for most people…), and they’ve eliminated any need for me to get a regular facial. If I’m traveling for more than just a couple of days, I’ll throw one of them in my bag for a mid-trip brightening.
MERIT Great Skin Instant Glow Serum: If I have room in my toiletry bag, I’ll sometimes bring a bottle of Merit Great Skin for an extra boost of glow and hydration.
NUXE Rêve de Miel Ultra Nourishing Lip Balm: I refuse to travel without lip balm. Lately, I’ve been toting around this honey lip balm I bought in Paris a couple of years ago (it lasts forever).
Travel haircare
