Updated on October 15th, 2025
AD | Whether you are planning a weekend city break, going on a two-week vacation in the sun, or traveling the world, it can be hard to know what beauty products to pack in your suitcase. Of course, you want to ensure you look your best for your vacation photos. However, you also need to consider how much space you have and what items will be able to withstand the journey. Continue reading to discover five low-maintenance makeup tips for traveling that guarantee you will still look gorgeous wherever you may be in the world.
1. Avoid packing powders
If there is one makeup item that you should leave at home when traveling, it is powders. As you might have already guessed, these are highly likely to break, which would wreak havoc in your carefully packed suitcase.
Instead, if you cannot go without your usual blush or bronzer, opt for cream-based ones. Cream makeup products are less likely to make a mess compared to powder products.
2. Use travel containers
There is no point in taking full-sized bottles of all your favorite skincare and beauty products for a vacation that will only last a week or so. Plus, if you are not checking in a suitcase, you may be limited in the amount of liquids you are allowed to take with you.
The beauty of travel-sized containers and pots is that they can easily fit in your hand luggage. Furthermore, travel-sized items provide just the right amount of product for a short trip.
3. Bring a compact mirror
Do not assume that the place where you are staying will have a bathroom mirror, especially if you are staying in a hostel or if you are planning a Greece yacht charter — where access to your reflection may be limited.
To avoid getting caught short, always pack a compact mirror in your handbag. Carrying a compact mirror with you ensures that you can easily check your makeup on the go.
4. Focus on multi-tasking products
When space is limited, you should choose makeup products that can be used for more than one purpose. For example, a tinted moisturizer can act as a foundation, a sunscreen, and a skin hydrator.
It can also be useful to use certain makeup products for areas other than what they were designed for. For instance, you can use lipstick as a blush or bronzer as eyeshadow. Additionally, you can buy best at-home lash extension kit, which you can use multiple times to enhance your look without needing extra products. You may be surprised at just how creative you can be when needed!
5. Pack lots of makeup wipes
Although they may not be the best beauty product for your skin, makeup wipes are perfect for times when you do not have access to a shower or bath but want to feel refreshed. Look for wipes that are suitable for sensitive skin, especially if you are traveling somewhere where your skin will be exposed to the sun. Also, always make sure you dispose of them correctly.
You should be able to buy makeup wipes when you arrive at your destination. However, if you are traveling somewhere more remote, make sure you take plenty with you.
Wonderful travel tips! We recently had a new store open in our city which sells really affordable travel containers for less than $4. It’s made packing so much easier, especially when traveling with a carry on with liquid restrictions. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you! That’s awesome that you found affordable travel containers! They are handy when travelling!
Brilliant ideas.
Thanks!
Such a great and useful tips.
Thank you!
The cakes break is true. Packing a lot of liquids is a problem and one needs to forego packing a lot such as serums etc. Multitasking option is actually needed and is handy, the options one can use for more than one application. Though I feel less makeup of all sorts is more when traveling. Quite relevant and accurate xx
Isa A. Blogger
I agree less is more when traveling, and it is handy to have multipurpose products!