My Travel Makeup Bag: What I Carry With Me

Whenever I travel – whether it’s for fashion week or just a weekend escape – my makeup bag is one of the first things I pack. Over time, I’ve learned exactly what works for me, what I really use, and how to put everything together in just a few minutes. Especially since I usually do my own makeup, even for big events – so my travel kit needs to be reliable but still feel a little fun.

I love trying new products, so my routine does shift every few months. But lately, these are the pieces I’ve been reaching for again and again. It’s a mix of glow, ease, and a little glamour – all in one zip-up pouch.

Most days, I don’t wear foundation at all. A touch of concealer here and there, and that’s enough. But when I do want a proper base – especially for dinners or events – I go for lightweight formulas that blend effortlessly and leave a dewy finish. The Hourglass foundation has been perfect for that. It gives coverage, but still lets my skin shine through.

A glow is non-negotiable, so I’ll usually layer the Dior Glow Maximizer underneath or mix it into my base. I also love using the Rare Beauty bronzer stick to warm things up – it’s creamy, subtle and just melts into the skin. And lately, I’ve been obsessed with the Rhode blush in Teddy – it’s the perfect sun-kissed tone that looks like you’ve just come back from a long beach walk.

If I want to keep things super simple, I just sweep a bit of the Hourglass palette across my cheeks and I’m done. It’s all about that healthy, effortless look.

For eyes, I tend to stick with what I know works: soft, earthy tones that flatter my skin tone and suit any outfit. The Natasha Denona Palette has the perfect mix of warm mattes and subtle shimmers. And if I want something quick but with a bit of drama, I’ll use one of the Armani liquid eyeshadows – the glittery ones are so easy to apply with fingers and give instant glam.

I always use a mascara primer – lately it’s been the Chanel white primer – followed by Diorshow mascara or something similar for full, fluffy lashes. I might add a touch of Hourglass gel liner for definition, but nothing too heavy.

When it comes to brows, I keep things very minimal. A few strokes of the Kosas brow pencil, a brush through with either the Refy or Makeup by Mario brow gel, and that’s it. Clean, lifted, natural.

Lips are the one place where I really love to play. I’m always mixing things up – but at the moment, there are a few staples I keep coming back to. The Prada lipstick in Nudo is my go-to for something classic and elegant. I’ll often pair it with a slightly darker brown-toned liner to define the lips – and then soften the look with a rosier gloss or stain.

The Buxom lip gloss gives that juicy finish I love, and I’ve also been using the Wonderskin lip stain for a more long-lasting base. And let’s not forget the Rhode lip balm – always in my bag. I also sometimes add a bit of the Rhode contour pencil on the lips too, just for a little tone and shape.

It’s all about balance: a bit of contrast with the liner, then softening everything with a touch of shine or colour for that healthy, fresh look.

So that’s it – my current edit of travel makeup must-haves. These products keep me feeling polished but never overdone, and make getting ready on the go feel like a breeze. I’ve rounded up everything below – my full travel makeup bag in one place, ready to shop.

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