As an avid traveler, I practically live out of a single bag. Whether I’m going away for just a weekend or I’m country hopping for a few weeks, I’ve always struggled with packing light. Literally. In the past, my bags have been so heavy that I’ve broken zippers, straps, and even split seams. It may have taken me a while, but I’ve finally gotten packing down to a science. Here are some travel must-haves that will not only lighten up your bag but will simplify your life on the go.
1. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes
At home, I usually use Garnier SkinActive Micellar Cleansing Water to remove my makeup, but liquids tend to weigh down my bag when I’m on the road. Plus I would need to pack cleansing pads as well, which tend to take up too much room in my toiletry bag. Instead, I pack a few Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes. They’re great for removing makeup as well as any dirt and oil buildup, but I don’t have to bring the whole pack. Just a few wipes and I’m good to go!
2. Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus
When I travel, I tend to stuff my clothes in a bag with little or no attempt at keeping them nice. Especially if I’m taking on several cities; I’m lucky if I manage not to leave anything behind. Downy Wrinkle Releaser is my savior. Not only does it eliminate any wrinkles on my shirts or jeans, but it smells nice too, which can be crucial when I’m on the road for a while, and my bag starts to get that certain stench.
3. Cosrx Acne Pimple Master Patches
If your skin is anything like mine, then you experience breakouts at the most inconvenient times. Like when you’re traveling and have less time to focus on your skincare routine. These Corsrx acne patches are little miracle workers. They literally suck the bacteria out of a zit in just a few hours and help to speed up the healing process. They are ideal for traveling because they’re so light and compact. Even if you don’t end up needing them they’re hardly an inconvenience to carry around.
4. Not Your Mother’s Clean Freak Refreshing Dry Shampoo
I have a ton of hair, which makes washing it incredibly inconvenient. For this reason, I tend to wash my hair just once or twice a week, and I try to avoid washing it at all while traveling. This dry shampoo allows me to do that, extending my hair’s need for a wash for a few days. It keeps my hair looking clean longer by eliminating that natural oil that starts to develop by the scalp, and comes in cute little travel sizes that are TSA approved. Even when you’re not traveling, this dry shampoo spray is a must-have for those nights you’re rushing out the door and don’t have time to take a shower.
5. Sunland Fast Drying Microfiber Travel Towel
If you aren’t staying in a hotel or an Airbnb that provides you with towels, this is a great travel addition. It’s not as heavy as most towels you might have at home, and it dries fast enough so that if you’re always in a rush like I am, you won’t risk getting everything in your bag wet. This particular fast drying towel comes with a drying loop, so it’s easy to hang dry, but also it makes it convenient to attach to luggage if you’re going camping. It also comes with a mesh carry bag, which I only use for storing it when I’m not traveling but you might prefer.
6. Travel Hanging Toiletry Bag
I’ve gone through a ton of toiletry bags and they never seem to last more than a few uses. The zippers break, the seams open, and worst of all, the hook starts to rip off. After wasting money on all these cheap bags, I finally invested a little more money and got this beauty. Aside from the fact that it’s backed by a warranty, what drew me to this bag is the numerous slots. I like to use these for my makeup brushes. I keep all of my toiletries in the bag whether I’m traveling or not since it’s makes it so much easier to find things. Also, I’m not a huge fan of packing or unpacking. When it’s time to hit the road I simply zip up the bag and throw it in my backpack. It really makes packing a breeze.
If you’re doing any traveling this summer, consider adding some of these must-haves to your shopping list. Whether you’ll be backpacking through Europe, taking a road trip around the United States, or relaxing for a weekend on the beach, these things will make packing a sinch and keep your bag as light as possible. A life on the go doesn’t have to be stressful!
Photo by Dan 7Kidz on Unsplash
