Why hasn’t the word maximalist caught on? I know it’s a little awkward to say, but in my opinion, the trend towards minimalism really discriminates against those of us who like lots of stuff. What happened to the collectors and the acquirers and the, um, shoppers? They make the world, or at least the economy, go round.
Life as a maximalist can be tricky. Because clutter. And you’re always running out of places to put things, or forgetting what you have and buying more of it. And it’s especially tricky when it comes to travel, because airlines just don’t seem to get the need for gallon-sized jugs of conditioner. We are now forced to pare down our beauty routines to a few doll-sized products stuffed in a clear plastic bag. But where others may see adversity, I see opportunity, i.e. shopping. Because a true maximalist knows that travel requires beauty products in adorable travel sized containers, and lots and lots of them. While others see makeup palettes as an opportunity to save space, I see them as an opportunity to pack more palettes. But whatever your packing philosophy, these packable wonders make it easy to bring everything you need (and a lot of what you want, too!) Here, my favorite portable palettes, potions and lotions for wherever your summer plans take you!
The Bags
It all starts with a great cosmetic bag, or 12. The more the better, to hold more stuff. In addition to the cute bags, grab at least one clear one for the carryon.
Madewell Large Crystalline Travel Bag
This is a major upgrade from the leaky Ziploc you’ve been toting around, and it’s roomy enough for lots of products!
Limited Edition James Goldcrown for Henri Bendel Cosmetic Clutch
This gorgeous makeup bag doubles as a clutch. So practical!
James Goldcrown for Henri Bendel Cosmetic Clutch, $128. HenriBendel.com
F1 Spacepak Toiletry Bag
The Goods
MouthWatchers Travel Toothbrush
These handy, portable toothbrushes have flossing bristles to get between the teeth, and silver bristle technology that eliminates the bacteria on the bristles in just a few hours.
IT Cosmetics Je Ne Sais Quoi Palette
A powder, a luminizer, a blush and a bronzer in one pretty pink palette, plus each of these products is a standout on its own!
Herban Essentials
Besides the clever name (I love a good play on words, don’t you?), I can think of a million reasons to love these wipes, which I was first introduced to back in my beauty editor days. They are made with real essential oils, so the Lemon, Lavender and Peppermint wipes are naturally antibacterial and aromatherapeutic. They’re like a little spa treatment in a wipe.
Kesh Argan Oils
Discover what the argan oil hype is all about with this sampler of the brand’s scented Argan oil. This set comes with 5 portable oils for face, body and hair, and includes unscented, Rose Essence, Eucalyptus Essence, Orange Blossom Essence and Lavender Essence.
Olio e Osso Balm
De Mamiel Altitude Oil
This little magical bottle of plant oils is like the perfect antidote to stress, air travel, and just everyday exhaustion. I don’t know what’s in it, but it’s incredible.
Aromatherapy Associates Bath and Shower Oils
I find flying really stressful, and driving, for that matter, so I always take along luxurious bath and shower products when I’m on a trip so that I can steal a few minutes in my day to relax. This yummy collection of oils can be applied to the skin before showering, or into the bath for a spa-ish experience. And there’s an oil in here for whatever ails you: Revive, Relax, Support. Even Inner Strength.
Sleek Makeup Brow Kit
I love that this little kit from the new British brand contains two brow shades and a pair of mini tweezers. So portable and convenient.
Arbonne Liquid Sunshine Lip Balm
Flying is drying, and this soothing lip balm hydrates and protects with SPF15.
Vichy Idealia Eyes
A fancy French eye cream you can buy at the drugstore, this products tones, hydrates and uses a blurring agent to mask circles and make your eyes look brighter.
Veil Cosmetics Concealer
This triple-duty product conceals, highlights and corrects, and it comes with its own brush.
Savvy Travelers Wipes
This clever company has a wipe for virtually anything you can think of, from freshening your breath to wiping down your screens. The JetSet kit, $15, contains 16 wipes, including screen wipes, deodorant wipes, teeth and mouth cleaning wipes, and face cleansing/toning/moisturizing wipes.
Ursa Major Face Tonic
This all natural face tonic cleans, exfoliates, heals and hydrates. Plus, it smells amazing. (Also comes in a 2 oz. travel size).
Elizabeth & James Solid Perfume
Leakproof fragrance is a must, so try a rollerball version of your favorite scent, or a chic solid fragrance compact like this from Elizabeth & James.
Nirvana White Solid Perfume Compact, $40, Sephora
Frownies
These reusable eye moisturizing eye gel patches are fabulous for post-flight puffiness!
The Luxuries
Once all the necessities are packed, it’s nice to throw in a few things just for pampering.
Verloop Travel Scarf
I am always, always cold when I travel, and this pretty, colorful wrap doubles as a cozy travel blanket.
F1 Shades Eye Mask
Get some rest and look adorable at the same time with a colorful eye mask!
Whether you’re a backpacker or an overpacker, I hope some of these products make your next trip prettier and more luxurious! Safe travels!
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