When traveling, maintaining a solid skincare routine can be challenging due to fluctuating climates, dehydration from air travel, and being on the go isn’t always conducive to maintaining good practices. Over the many trips I’ve had over the last couple of years, I’ve managed to whittle down my must-haves to a curated selection of reliable, multi-tasking products that keep my skin healthy and hydrated, no matter the destination. Here are the five essentials I never leave home without.

 

La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5+

This multi-purpose balm is a lifesaver for dry, irritated, or sensitive skin, making it perfect for travel. The formula is rich in panthenol (vitamin B5) and madecassoside, which promote skin recovery. I love using it on dry patches, sunburns, or even as a lip balm. It’s lightweight enough to use on the face, but powerful enough to heal rough spots on the body. The versatility of this balm is ideal for saving space in your travel bag.

Mecca Cosmetica To Save Face SP50+ Brightening Sun Serum

Packing a sunscreen is a must and especially one that has skin friendly ingredients like Niacinamide. I love the lightness of this formulation and it’s not sticky. It is super easy to layer under makeup and doesn’t cause it to feel greasy. Reapplying is super easy.  Plus, the travel-sized version is airport security and handbag friendly.

Dermal Therapy Original Lip Balm

Chapped lips are almost inevitable when traveling, especially on flights or in colder climates. Dermal Therapy’s Original Lip Balm offers intensive hydration with a high concentration of urea, which works to repair and restore the lips. I rely on this balm to keep my lips soft and hydrated, no matter the weather. It’s a small but mighty essential that never fails.

Drunk Elephant Lala Retro Whipped Cream

Drunk Elephant’s Lala Retro Whipped Cream is my go-to moisturiser for travel due to its rich yet non-greasy formula. It provides deep hydration with a blend of six African oils and plant ceramides, making it perfect for revitalising tired, jet-lagged skin. I love how lightweight it feels while still offering long-lasting moisture, especially after long flights. The compact packaging and potent formula make it a staple in my skincare travel kit. It comes in a 15ml pot which is the perfect size to include in your see through plastic bag on the plane!

CeraVe Hand Cream

Traveling often leads to dry hands, especially in colder climates or after frequent use of hand sanitizer. CeraVe’s Hand Cream is packed with ceramides and hyaluronic acid, which restore and lock in moisture. What I appreciate most is how it absorbs quickly without leaving a greasy residue, making it practical for on-the-go use. It’s gentle, hydrating, and perfect for sensitive skin.

 

Bonus item – Barely intimate beauty wipes

Ok so this may not be counted as skincare but I find personal wipes super handy when you’re travelling. These ones from Always are a great size to pop in your bag and they’re suitable for all skin types. Great for a refresh if you need one on the plane or in transit and handy for those times when you just need a wet wipe.

 

About The Author

Katherine Ng

Katherine is not your typical Beauty Editor. Finance consultant by day and beauty and fashion addict at all other times, Katherine spends her hard-earned money helping the Australian and international economy with her never ending pursuit of everything pretty. A keen traveller, Katherine still holds dear her Melbourne roots with an overflowing wardrobe filled with black clothes, shoes and handbags. Katherine also has a deep love of food and wine, and you can find those adventures on instagram at @thegreedykat Email: kath@couturing.com Twitter: @kath_couturing Instagram: @kath_ng

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