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I am the QUEEN of procrastination when it comes to packing.  I usually have my outfits and what not picked, but it’s always “what makeup am I going to wear with what outfit”? Do I need these extra outfits? Maybe. Do I need 8 eyeshadow palettes? Probably not.

I just feel the NEED for all the makeup to be with me! I just like to feel at home when I travel just in case I come up with a bright new makeup idea. (also known as I’m trying this at the last minute and hope it looks ok) 

When it comes to traveling, usually cosmetics and skincare can take up a lot of unnecessary space because of the bulky packaging. (Let’s be clear, makeup & skincare is always necessary) You can use this space for accessories, shoes, extra outfits, and much more.

So let’s talk about these tips, tricks & hacks that can be useful for you when traveling with makeup.

• Wrap the Makeup Bag-Absolutely

I know this sounds crazy, like who is wrapping something up that is keeping something secure?  Listen, I get it. The best way to travel with makeup is to wrap up your makeup bag with a t-shirt or some piece of clothing and then add it to a packing cube to make a protective barrier around the cosmetics bag. 

Or, you can also, get a great makeup bag here that has padding and barriers to fit any size of bottle, jar or tube. It’s totally customizable and I love it for that.

• Replace Any Expensive Makeup Brands-Hmmm…

I am a snob when it comes to certain makeup I pack.  I know some things are easier to replace than others, but if I KNOW that my $70 foundation is what I’m looking for, Imma take it with me.  If you do have plans to travel for an extended period of time, then you also have the option to replace the expensive makeup brands with regular drugstore labels.

This will work just as well and will also be less painful for your heart and wallet if it breaks or gets lost. If you want to buy alternatives, several drugstore brands are widely available worldwide. I, unfortunately take the chance. Every. Single. Time. Le Sigh…

• Use Fewer Eyeshadows and Replace Regular Mascara-How DARE you!

Sounds scary right? It is better to bring between a maximum of four eyeshadows when traveling with makeup. And no, I actually don’t mean palettes, I mean single shadows.  The Horror!!!

You only have to make sure that the colors you choose match ALL the outfits, and minimize and maximize the depth of the colors you can create. You will be quite impressed at how you get different shades from very few colors, and as a bonus, eyeshadow can be transformed into eyeliner by adding setting spray or Duraline. So you're killing two birds with one stone!

When taking mascara with you, it is better to replace the regular one with waterproof mascara. When you are outdoors, there are many activities. Humidity and sweat that will leave you with raccoon eyes, and you will not appreciate that look. I promise you.

• Depotting-A Pain but Sometimes Necessary

You can depot your product into smaller containers when planning to travel or create your custom DIY makeup palettes. Let’s say you’re going for a two-week trip, it is unnecessary to take a full-size bottle of foundation.

Even a small amount of travel sizes can be quite enough for you, and therefore, depotting is very helpful for you to take what you require while saving space and weight. However, you can take a full bottle in case you plan to touch up or redo your entire beat!

• Lipliner or Eyeliner-Pray it Doesn’t Melt!

When traveling to scorching climates, the chances are that your lip or eyeliner may melt. I had chapstick made specifically with SPF melt in Vegas heat.  Therefore, it is better to consider leaving them at home instead or using eyeshadow to line your eyes. Now, you can always try the trick above….If your look doesn’t work well without eyeliner, you can go for a waterproof liner. As far as lips go, pack lots of gloss….

Bottom Line

It can always be a great idea to minimize your makeup stash when you are traveling. Not only would this be saving some space for you, you will also be able to find out that you don't wear much makeup when traveling, as compared to doing it at home.

Your skin can get a partial breather which is always a good thing. Plus, it will leave more room for accessories like your brushes, clips, etc. Always keep downsizing in mind whenever you are planning to take makeup for travel.  

So, that’s all I got!

Tell me in the comments below what your favorite ways to pack your makeup!

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