The Toiletries You Need for a Short Trip (Minimal Skincare Routine)
Over the years, I've learned that packing light makes traveling much easier. While it's tempting to bring every makeup and skincare product "just in case," I usually end up reaching for only a few of my favorite essentials.
One trip that completely changed the way I packed was my visit to Da Lat, Vietnam. We stayed in camping-style accommodations where the restrooms were a short walk from our tents. Since the weather was chilly and the bathrooms weren't nearby, I didn't always have the opportunity to shower or complete my full skincare routine. Instead, I relied on a few essential products that helped me stay clean, comfortable, and refreshed.
Traveling with a group also taught me another important lesson: space is limited. When you're sharing a car or trying to fit everyone's luggage together, you quickly realize that you can't pack everything. Every item needs to earn its place in your bag.
That experience taught me that you don't need an overflowing toiletries bag to enjoy your trip. Whether you're camping, taking a weekend getaway, or sharing a hotel room with friends or family, packing only the essentials saves space, reduces stress, and makes getting ready much quicker.
A thoughtfully packed toiletries bag gives you everything you need without weighing you down. Personally, I don't like buying travel-sized versions of products I already own. Instead, I either transfer my favorite products into reusable travel containers or pack the full-size bottle if it can't be decanted. It may take up a little more space, but I'd rather bring the products I know work well for my skin than buy duplicates just for travel.
However, if you travel frequently, investing in travel-sized products or refillable travel containers can save space, make packing easier, and be more convenient in the long run.
If you're looking for a minimalist packing list, be sure to check out my guide on what I pack in my travel makeup bag, where I share the beauty essentials I bring on short trips and weekend getaways.
The Toiletries You Need
When packing for a trip, I like to keep my toiletry bag as simple as possible. Bringing only the essentials saves space in my luggage while ensuring I have everything I need to stay clean, comfortable, and maintain my skincare routine.
Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss
These are non-negotiable travel essentials. Brushing and flossing regularly helps keep your teeth and gums healthy, especially when you're trying new foods and snacks throughout your trip. If you're traveling with only a carry-on, packing a travel-sized toothpaste can also help save valuable space.
I use an electric toothbrush that comes with a sturdy travel case, making it easy to pack without worrying about it getting dirty in my luggage. The case also has room for two brush heads, which is convenient if you're traveling with a partner or family member and want to share the handle while using separate brush heads. Another feature I appreciate is that it supports worldwide voltage, so I can charge it while traveling internationally without needing a separate toothbrush.
Aquasonic Vibe Series Ultra-Whitening Toothbrush for $39.95
Deodorant
A good deodorant is another travel essential, especially if you'll be sightseeing, hiking, or spending long days outdoors. Staying fresh can make a big difference when you're on the go. A travel-sized deodorant is ideal because it takes up very little space and is easy to carry in your toiletries bag or personal item.
Dove Advanced Care Clear Finish Antiperspirant Dry Spray for Women for $7.97
The Skincare You Need
Makeup Remover
If you wear makeup or sunscreen, don't forget to pack a makeup remover. Sleeping with makeup on can clog your pores and may lead to breakouts. I prefer using a cleansing balm because it quickly melts away makeup, sunscreen, and even waterproof mascara without the need for harsh scrubbing.
e.l.f., Skin Holy Hydration! Makeup Melting Cleansing Balm for $10
Cleanser
After removing your makeup, wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove any remaining dirt, oil, and impurities. Cleansing your skin before bed helps keep your complexion fresh and prepares it for the rest of your nighttime skincare routine.
I use Shiseido Complete Cleansing Microfoam, and it's one of the best facial cleansers I've tried. Not only has it helped my skin look brighter, but I've also noticed fewer breakouts since adding it to my routine. The bottle is quite large, and because the product can't easily be transferred into a travel-sized container, I usually only pack it when I have enough luggage space. Even so, it's one of the skincare products I recommend most because it has worked so well for my skin. It effectively removes all of my makeup, sunscreen, and excess oil while leaving my skin feeling clean.
Toner
A toner is an optional step, but I like to bring one whenever I have the space. After cleansing, it helps remove any leftover residue while leaving my skin feeling clean and refreshed. Depending on the formula, a toner can also provide hydration, soothe the skin, or help balance excess oil before applying the rest of your skincare products.
TIRTIR Milk Skin Rice Toner for $20
I absolutely love this toner. It helps my skin look brighter and more radiant, even in cold, dry weather when my complexion tends to appear dull. It also leaves my skin feeling hydrated and refreshed, making it one of my favorite skincare products to pack when I travel .I can't sleep unless I've completely removed all of my makeup—I just don't feel clean otherwise. This helps remove anything my cleanser may have missed, leaving my skin feeling fresh and ready for the rest of my nighttime skincare routine.
Moisturiser or Night Cream
Travel can be dehydrating, whether you're spending hours on a plane, taking a road trip, or exploring outdoors all day. Applying a moisturizer or night cream before bed helps replenish lost moisture, supports your skin barrier, and leaves your skin feeling soft and hydrated when you wake up. If you're packing light, choose a travel-sized moisturizer or transfer your favorite product into a reusable travel container.
Benefiance Overnight Wrinkle Resisting Cream for $99
The packaging for this night cream is quite heavy, so it's not the most travel-friendly option if you're trying to pack light. It's also a luxury skincare product with a higher price tag. However, I love how moisturizing it is. I wake up with soft, hydrated skin, and I've found that my makeup applies more smoothly the next morning.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen is one of the most important skincare products to pack, no matter where you're traveling. It helps protect your skin from harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and sun damage. Apply sunscreen every morning and remember to reapply throughout the day, especially if you're spending time outdoors or at the beach.
Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protector Lotion for $52
This is my favorite sunscreen, especially the oil-free version. It feels lightweight on my skin, doesn't leave it feeling greasy, and wears comfortably under makeup. It's one of the skincare products I always try to pack when I travel because it helps protect my skin without feeling heavy.
Lip Balm
Your lips can become dry and chapped while traveling due to sun exposure, air conditioning, or long flights. Packing a nourishing lip balm helps keep your lips soft, smooth, and hydrated throughout your trip. If you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, consider choosing a lip balm with SPF for added sun protection.
I have a habit of picking at my lips, which sometimes leaves them dry, chapped, and even bleeding. Whenever that happens, this is the lip balm I reach for. It helps soothe my lips, keeps them hydrated, and makes them feel much softer as they recover. I always keep one in my toiletries bag because it's a product I know I'll use while traveling.
Optional Items to Pack
Unless you're particular about the shampoo and conditioner you use, it's usually fine to use the ones provided by your hotel. Most hotels supply basic toiletries, which can help you save valuable space in your luggage and reduce the number of liquids you need to pack.
Before your trip, check whether your accommodation includes complimentary toiletries. If they do, you can leave your shampoo, conditioner, and body wash at home and make room for other travel essentials instead.
Of course, if you have color-treated hair, sensitive skin, or prefer specific products, it may be worth bringing your own travel-sized bottles.
Shower
☐ Shampoo
☐ Conditioner
☐ Body wash or soap
☐ Razor
☐ Shaving cream
Hair Care
☐ Hairbrush or comb
Personal Hygiene
☐ Cotton swabs
☐ Cotton pads
☐ Wet wipes
☐ Tissues
Final Thoughts
Packing your toiletries doesn't have to be complicated. Instead of bringing every product you own, focus on the essentials that you'll actually use. A well-packed toiletries bag can save space, make traveling more convenient, and help you maintain your daily routine no matter where your trip takes you.
I've also included a travel toiletries checklist with additional items you may want to pack if your hotel doesn't provide them or if you simply prefer using your own products.
