Finding out you have a last-minute trip—whether it’s for work in Japan or a long-planned family reunion—can be exciting, but it also comes with a fair share of stress. One of the biggest challenges, especially for beauty lovers on a budget, is figuring out how to pack makeup without risking spills, breakage, or wasted space.
A great way to simplify your travel makeup routine is by using multi-purpose products. Since space is limited, why pack two items when one can do the job? For example, Soft Sweep works as a makeup remover, cleanser, and toner all in one, and it’s easy to transfer into a smaller travel container. Triple Threat is another space-saver, offering waterproof, long-lasting color for your face, lips, and body, with a built-in blending brush for convenience.
When it comes to eyeliner, leave the pencils and crayons at home. They can break, melt, or create a mess in your bag. Instead, bring a dark eyeshadow and an eyeliner brush. You can use an eyeliner pot or the darkest shade from a palette you already own. To turn powder shadow into eyeliner, simply wet the brush before dipping it into the powder—this helps it glide on smoothly and stay in place. If you prefer a bolder look, opt for a waterproof liquid liner to avoid any melted mess in your luggage.
Airplane pressure changes can cause bottles to leak or even explode, which is why it’s important to remove excess air from containers before packing. A personal reminder of this? A post-flight BB cream explosion that left a stain on my sister’s bathroom rug. To prevent similar disasters, double-wrap any liquid products. While zip-top bags work, they take up space, so a tight layer of plastic wrap around each container is a more compact solution. If something leaks, just toss the plastic wrap and rinse off the container.
Pressed powders and eyeshadows are also at risk of cracking during travel, while liquid makeup can spill. Loose powder may take up more space, but it’s sturdier than pressed powder and less messy than liquid alternatives.
Finally, don’t forget TSA’s liquid restrictions. You’re allowed one quart-sized bag of liquids, with each container holding 3.4 ounces or less. If you need a refresher on the rules, check the official TSA website before you pack.