1. Choose a large makeup bag with compartments
Trust us when we say a large travel wash bag with detachable compartments will transform the way you pack. You can keep your primers and base products in one section and your colour cosmetics safely stored in another. Having compartments not only gives you room to take everything you want but organises it so you know where to find everything. A large travel makeup bag will also keep all your precious products safe, which bring us nicely to our next point…
2. A leak-proof beauty bag is a must-have
We cannot stress enough how important it is to always travel with a leak-proof wash bag to make sure the inevitable spillages are safely contained. Nobody wants to arrive at a hotel to find foundation spilt all over your carefully packed clothes. Quality waterproof fabrics and reinforced seams add an essential layer of protection, so for total peace of mind, make sure you invest in only the best travel wash bag and cosmetic makeup bag.
3. Plan your makeup looks and make a checklist
Just like you might plan what outfits you want to take with you, having a rough idea of what fabulous looks you want to rock on your trip means you can pack exactly what needs to come away with you. That said, this is your holiday, so as well as your regular beauty essentials, you may also want to pack some of your luxurious lotions as well as some fun colourful makeup as well. To make sure you don’t forget anything, create a checklist so nothing gets left behind. Keep the list on your dressing table and check off the items as you pack them. Using a travel wash bag with clear compartments allows you to double check what’s packed, and what’s not!
Did you know? 59% of British women say their beauty routine helps them to feel relaxed. Why wouldn’t you want to feel the same way when you’re on holiday.
4. Keep it packed
The best way to ensure you never forget anything is to keep some items always packed in your beauty kit bag. Having a hanging travel wash bag or folding wash bag with compartments is great for this as you can keep travel sized products in one place ready to grab at a moments notice. Items such as makeup remover, cleansers and travel makeup brushes are perfect for storing in your bag at all times.
Nobody wants leaky shampoo on their clothing or bronzer on their swimwear. If you’ve ever wondered how to pack your toiletries safely and keep cosmetics free from spillages on the go, here’s the latest edition in our handy how-to guides. (Previous topics we’ve tackled include: essential items to pack in your hand luggage, how to clean hard-shell luggage, and five ways to use our best piece of hand luggage.) After all, travel is our business.
Q: How do I pack make-up for a flight?
Our small-but–mighty travel accessories put a wealth of different options at your fingertips. If you’re checking in your luggage, packing cubes are perfect. They come in a variety of sizes (and shades) to suit different contents: put your make-up in the smallest cube and tuck underwear and small items of clothing in the medium cube. The clear mesh lid means you can see contents at a glance and there’s no need to unpack on arrival; just lift them out.
Your favourite lipstick or blusher will also be very happy at home in our irresistibly cute Clifton Mini, which has room for a phone, wallet, keys and an accessory or two, giving you easy access to your necessities on the go.
Q: Can you take make-up in hand luggage on a flight?
Make-up in a solid or powder form is allowed in carry-on and checked bags with no quantity or size limitations. However, for carry-on luggage, make-up in a liquid, lotion, gel, paste or creamy form must be in containers that are 100ml (3.4 ounces) or less. Buy a reusable clear bag in advance or store your cosmetics in one of Antler’s mini organisers, Clifton Minis or packing cubes, then transfer the contents over when you get to the airport.
Q: Any top tips for packing travel make-up for carry-on?
The golden rule with hand luggage: less is always more. To save room and weight, opt for multi-purpose products like cheek and lip stains, or a bronzer palette with a highlighter included, which you can use as an eyeshadow too. A beloved lipstick will work well as a cream blusher. Many brands sell travel versions of their best-selling products.
Q: How do I pack toiletries in my carry-on?
Our stylish wash bags will do the trick. Give your toiletries a luxurious home in our Leather Brompton Wash Bag or opt for the neat, chic Chelsea Wash Bag. If you’re looking for something a little unusual, how about our Clifton Vanity Case, which can be strapped onto your carry-on case? It’s a mini version of our classic Clifton case: a hard-shell suitcase hero that’s designed to go the extra mile. Measuring in at just 16 × 34 × 27 (cm), it’s the perfect size for makeup and toiletries. At security, transfer your toiletries into a disposable clear bag, then place them back once you’re through.
Q: Any top tips for packing travel toiletries for carry-on?
Pare down your usual skincare and grooming regime and opt for the essentials only. Opt for products that double up: eg tinted moisturisers or moisturisers with added sun protection. Look for travel-size versions of your favourite products, or buy clear 100ml bottles and pour your products in at home before you leave: shampoo, conditioner, face wash, body lotion, detangler etc. You often can find sets of containers made especially for travel that include flip-top bottles, pump bottles, and more.
Sample perfumes or mini perfumes are a great way to smell nice while you’re away, without having to lug a heavy glass bottle. Store your toothbrush and dental floss in your carry-on case, saving space for liquids. Pack your liquids bag strategically to maximise the limited space available.
Leave a little bit of spare room, in case you decide to add something in or realise you’ve forgotten something important. Place your toiletries bag somewhere accessible: in a Clifton Crossbody, Mini or Vanity Case, or one of our stylish lifestyle bags, if your airline permits an additional small bag.
For more help with packing, use our nifty online packing tool, which generates personalised packing lists based on your trip.