Pack your travel makeup bag like a pro with these tips and list of essentials. Don’t forget to save the free checklist in this post for when you pack makeup for your next trip!
I’ve done a lot of trial and error over the years when it comes to packing makeup and skincare and have all the deets below of recommendations of the best travel makeup case for your needs and a list of makeup essentials you’ll want to pack. Remember, everyone’s makeup preferences are different so feel free to ignore anything you feel you won’t use or need.
I still remember the time I packed over 20 pounds of makeup for a 4 day trip. It was full of full size makeup products, multiple bulky eyeshadow palettes “just in case I felt the need for options” and nearly a dozen lipsticks because again, “just in case”. It was excessive and took up much unnecessary room in my suitcase, especially considering the weight limit.
Since then, I have practiced several different ways of packing makeup essentials for various trips. My goals were to make sure my makeup bag was lighter (especially for when I travelled by plane), plan ahead on coordinating makeup with my outfits so I didn’t lug around a dozen lipsticks and multiple eyeshadow palettes, and pack travel size products when applicable.
Linking some great options of travel makeup bags, cosmetics bags, and toiletry bags that can double as makeup cases in the widgets below. A lot of these makeup bags can be found on Amazon while a few are specific to the brand’s website. Alternatively, you can find some great budget friendly ones at your local Marshalls, TJ Maxx, or Ross!
When thinking about what kind of cosmetic bag to travel with - ask yourself if you want your brushes and makeup products to fit in one bag as opposed to having separate bags for each. If you’re looking for a makeup case that has a designated section to hold brushes, the that I currently use from is a great option! The quality of the is incredible and it comes with a clear removable bag that’s TSA friendly!
See the widget below for travel makeup cases that include a compartment for makeup brushes and keep scrolling for makeup bags under $25, and more!
Consider using makeup travel containers like if you don’t want to carry your full size products like foundation, primer, and skincare. This will allow you more space for other essentials and a more lightweight travel experience.
Check out the widget below to find travel friendly items to add to your travel makeup bag.
Packing multi functional products is a game changer! You'll pack fewer products and it helps save space and with keep your makeup bag lighter. Some of my favorite multi functional products are these that can triple as lipsticks, blushes, and eyeshadows. Also, these that look beautiful on the cheeks and eyes.
Regular makeup brushes can take up a lot of space and if you’re looking to create some spare space in your makeup bag, travel size makeup brushes can be a solution! They’re smaller and work just as great. The widget above has a few travel size makeup brush sets linked.
If you’re not travelling with a separate compact mirror, consider traveling with an eyeshadow palette that does have a mirror. I find this helpful when hotel rooms don’t have enough mirror space, especially when sharing a room with multiple people. Also - having your own mirror can be helpful when the hotel room lighting isn’t the best. You can use your mirror near a window to get more natural light. Looking for a travel friendly mirror? one is compact and has LED lights.
BONUS: Use this checklist to curate what makeup to pack for your next trip! Check off everything you’ve packed and cross off anything you don’t plan on taking with you.
I’m working on a “What to Pack in your Travel Skincare Bag” similar to this and will link it here once it’s up!What to Pack in your Travel Makeup Bag + Free Checklist
