What's in my bag: travel bag edition The essential beauty products to survive hours on any means of transportation
Whether it’s a long-haul flight or a quick one-hour route with an airline that weighs and measures your bag down to the last gram, there are certain products that simply can’t be missing from my travel tote or carry-on. Those TikTok-worthy airport beauty routines? Probably only doable on a private jet, because who really has the time (or courage) to gua sha their face when there’s barely room to stretch your legs? So here’s a realistic version of what to bring in your bag while traveling.
What can you bring in your carry-on? Skincare and Makeup
Face cleanser and sanitizer
Just the thought of touching my face with my hands on a train or plane gives me chills. Whether it’s the stale air, sticky armrests, or the feeling of wearing the DNA of ten other people, you always sanitize your hands first with the usual gel or spray, and only then think about your face. Facial cleansing wipes are a lifesaver: lightweight, practical, space-saving, and they get the job done. They’re perfect for wiping off that invisible but tangible grime that clings to you when you travel—even if you’ve just been sitting for hours. And to really protect your skin, invest in a good hypochlorous acid spray. It’s one of those products not everyone knows, but it makes a difference: it disinfects, soothes, and doesn’t dry you out. Exactly what you need when you’re stuck for hours in shared air.
Lip balm
Lip balms are one of those things you constantly lose but can’t live without, especially on trips where the air conditioning is so intense it feels like you’re in Siberia. One blast of cold air in your face for hours and you’ll know what it really means to have lips that pull tight and crack instantly. They’re probably the only beauty product that’s truly essential when traveling.
Pimple patches
Pimples always seem to have perfect timing when you travel. Maybe it’s the stress of another delayed train, the change in climate, or just the constant presence of germs in the air. Thankfully, there are pimple patches: small, subtle, transparent, nude, or cute and colorful. Just stick one on and let it work while you enjoy the trip. They absorb impurities, shield your skin from more bacteria, and calm redness.
Face cream, but make it a stick!
Face cream is essential, obviously. But a stick version is next-level. You swipe it on without ever touching your face. It’s compact, discreet, travel-friendly, and perfect for fighting off the AC. Even better if it comes with sun protection, because we all know UV rays are way stronger at high altitudes.
Eye mask
An eye mask is essential if, like me, you catch those 5 AM low-cost flights. Pop it on and sleep. Or pretend to sleep—which is already a half-win. Bonus points if it has cooling gel inserts: you’ll land refreshed and without puffy eyes.
Concealer
After hours of travel, even the most rested face needs a little help. Having a concealer on hand is the easiest way to look fresher, even if you just spent four hours next to a group treating the train like a conference room. The ideal shade? Peach or pink-toned: they neutralize dark circles beautifully.