I am one of those people who finds airports stressful. Getting through security can be rather harrowing on a good day. I like to ensure I have everything packed appropriately so that I can breeze through quickly while they casually scan my shoes. I pack all liquids, pastes and gels in the allotted one litre capacity ziplock bag. Everything that doesn’t qualify goes in a separate make-up bag inside my case. Perhaps this is tempting fate, but I haven’t been stopped yet, and I feel confident I can win an argument (even shoeless) with a male airport security worker about whether my foundation stick qualifies as a paste. It doesn’t.
L’Oréal Fibrology Thickening Shampoo and Conditioner (€5.99 each for 400ml)
I recently bought tiny 30ml bottles of my favourite affordable shampoo and conditioner at a UK airport for almost £4. Next time, I’ll be decanting from large bottles at home into two 100ml clear travel bottles, and saving myself some money. If you think you can get away without washing your hair at all, swap these out for a mini dry shampoo to freshen dull hair.
Clarins UV Plus Day Screen SPF 50 (€38)
It is never worth forgoing facial SPF when travelling, especially if you are going to be in the sun. This one from Clarins is supremely comfortable and reliable.
Chanel Hydra Beauty Micro Crème (€84)
Rather than shelling out on mini moisturiser, decant something that works for both day and night into a small travel pot. This one from Chanel, being sumptuously hydrating and ideal under make up, is my current favourite.
Two lip products
You’re not going to wear more than two lip colours on a short break. Bring a nude like Nars Audacious Lipstick in Raquel (€30) and a sturdy, longwear bright like MAC Retro Matte Liquid Lip Colour (€22) in Fashion Legacy, a standout screeching red.
Bobbi Brown Instant Full Cover Concealer (€29)
Not qualifying as a liquid, paste or gel, I'll usually travel with my Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Stick (€38), which I'll pack separately in a bag with powder products. A good concealer can be used instead of foundation if necessary, and this one is excellent.
MAC Haute & Naughty Waterproof Mascara (€25.50)
This mascara, though not fully sweat-proof (nothing is), is waterproof and smudge resistant, making it ideal for the stresses of travel, swimming, and warm weather.
Colgate Total Healthy Clean Travel Toothpaste (€1.79)
I tend to buy two or three of these at the start of the summer. Since forgetting toothpaste on a rural camping holiday a few years ago, it’s the first thing I pack. That furry-toothed sensation still haunts my nightmares.
Emma Hardie Amazing Face Moringa Cleansing Balm Mini (€13.50 from Marks and Spencer)
Cleansing properly is essential, even when it’s inconvenient. This mini version of Emma Hardie’s cult cleanser is travel friendly and longlasting, though small.
Jo Malone London Pomegranate Noir Cologne 30ml (€54)
The scent is legendarily rich, musky and sophisticated, and the 30ml bottle is eminently packable.
