Restocking Your Travel Toiletries + Bonus Tips

Travelling is usually a bit stressful, especially with the abundance of TSA rules and regulations waiting for you at the airport. Of course, this shouldn’t hold you back from curating your travel bag full of favorites and necessities, which will (if you can make it through security!) make your trip much easier. Here’s your guide to the ultimate travel toiletries bag, full of information on the essentials you’ll need.

The Method

When packing toiletries, choose the most compartmentalized bag in order to stay as organized as possible. Also, when planning which toiletries to pack, stick to your list so you can avoid bringing unnecessary items. Pack cleanly and in an organized fashion. Messy toiletry bags are more likely to leak and cause future problems along the way.

Bonus Items

Micellar Cleansing Water: Since micellar cleansing water is basically a makeup remover and facial cleanser in one, it’s great to bring if you anticipate having little space in your luggage. It applies easily with a clean washcloth or cotton pads and doesn’t need to be washed off.

Deodorant Wipes: Deodorant can take up a lot of space because of its bulky packaging, so opt for deodorant wipes instead. Like regular solid deodorant, the wipes will keep you fresh and odor free all day. Not to mention, they can be brought on the go for midday refreshing.

Anti-Itch Cream: You never know what might happen on a trip! A travel size anti-itch cream is always a good addition to a travel toiletry bag incase of a mild allergic reaction or inflamed bug bite.

Basic Meds: I always pack some Benadryl, Tylenol, and a few extra days worth of any prescription meds in my carry-on. You never know what irritants you may encounter, and it’s always better to be safe.

Don’t Forget The Basics!

Being at home, we tend to forget the products, large and small, that we use everyday. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve forgotten to pack face wash and had to buy a new bottle after arriving!

Shampoo & Conditioner: Hair always needed to be refreshed, especially if you’re taking a trip somewhere hot! Small travel sizes of shampoo and conditioner are always enough, and are TSA friendly. If you’re hesitant about taking liquids, try bringing a shampoo bar or dry shampoo (just watch out for aerosol restrictions on carry-ons.

Body Wash: Again, body wash is an essential for cleansing. I recommend going with an easy to use, non-irritating bar soap, like Dove or Cetaphil, for versatility and in order to avoid liquids.

Face Moisturizer: Everybody needs a face moisturizer, no matter the destination. Go one that can be used day and night in order to save space. I recommend the Trader Joe’s Nourish moisturizer, which has added SPF in case you’re going somewhere sunny.

Face Wash: Don’t skip out on the face wash! Especially with traveling, it’s important to keep facial skin clean more than usual. Different environments may change skin composure and lead to pesky breakouts or irritated skin. I recommend Cetaphil’s Daily Cleanser, as it is gently enough for use multiple times a day and comes in a convenient travel size. Check out my guide to great face products under $10 here.

Dental Stuff: This speaks for itself. Don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste! Opt for travel sizes with both in order to save space.