Getting ready for an upcoming trip is an exciting time. You’re thinking about your itinerary for the week (or lack thereof), the different sights you’re looking forward to seeing, and of course, all the delicious food you’re going to eat.

For many of us, packing our toiletries is the last thing on the to-do list before we leave. It's always better to be prepared when it comes to packing. Make a list of what you want to take to avoid the last-minute bathroom scramble when the taxi to the airport is already waiting outside.

There are two main things to consider when packing your toiletries: size and efficiency. So, we’re here to make it easy for you. We'll help you choose which products to take when you’re limited on space.

How to choose the right travel wash kit

If you’re going away for just a long weekend or a week, there’s no need to bring a huge bag for your toiletries. You might be able to forgo a couple of the non-essentials if you’re limited on space. Or, if you’re going away for an extended period, you might want to consider a folding or roll-up bag so that you can fit more in and pack it away neatly.

Either way, it’s worth considering how much space you’ll have in your suitcase. If you’ve only got room for a rucksack on the plane, you won’t want to take up too much space just with your travel toiletry kit. Plus, you’ll need space for souvenirs and snacks, of course.

What makeup should I take on holiday?

When deciding what to pack in your suitcase, consider your itinerary. If you’re in a sweltering country or camping in the wilderness, makeup might not seem like a necessity. However, if you want a little extra to look your best in the evenings, or if you plan on being in a lot of photos. Here are some basics for your holiday travel makeup kit.

Tinted Moisturiser: This is great because it’s a two-in-one product. Perfect for saving space and helping your skin look more even and hydrated (especially if you’re likely to be a bit red after being in the sun all day.).
Concealer Pen: This lightweight formula is great for a bit of additional coverage in areas that might need brightening. Use it to help cover up red insect bites (unless they’re really sore – then only put bite cream on there...) and any last-minute breakouts that appear. It’s also very small, so it fits in a limited travel makeup kit without too much space.
Bronzer: There’s something extra special about a holiday glow. You can apply it using the Metal Powder Brush. Add a little extra using a bit of Bronzer around the top of your forehead and your cheekbones.
Anti-Shine: Help to keep oiliness and sweatiness at bay. You can always take this out and about with you if you’re worried about looking shiny throughout the day.
Metal Powder Brush: Use this soft vegan brush to apply your powder products in a breeze.

Is your travel makeup going to get through customs?

If you’re not checking a bag into the plane hold, you’ll need to consider whether your toiletries will make it through customs. You wouldn’t want to have to throw any of your precious toiletries or travel makeup set away – so it’s always worth checking before you go.

In most countries, liquids going through security must be under 100ml and packed in one small, clear plastic bag, approximately 20 x 20cm. The bag must also be able to close. For more information about hand luggage allowances and what you can and can’t take, check out the website of the airline that you’re flying with or the UK Government website.

Luckily, most makeup and skincare products tend to be under 100ml. But you might want to consider investing in travel-size shampoos, conditioners, body washes and cleansers.

If your full-size products won’t fit or are over the liquid limit, you can always get around the issue by transferring what you need into smaller bottles. Just be sure to label them so that you know what you’re using.

If you’re going to a hotel, remember there might be some samples you can use too. You’re usually safe to assume there will be shower gel and shampoo given as a complimentary extra in the room. Unless you’re very particular about what you like to use, it’s a safe bet to emit these from your suitcase.

Use a makeup travel organiser

Using a washbag that has different compartments makes staying organised a lot easier. You can use one compartment for your grooming essentials, such as skincare and makeup, and one compartment for hygiene products, like shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste and deodorant. This way, when it comes to finding what you need, it won’t take long at all—less time in the bathroom, more time having fun.

Do you need travel-size makeup?

In the majority of cases, makeup is under 100ml. All War Paint makeup can be taken through security, apart from the Remover.

The best travel makeup bag

In our humble opinion, the War Paint Wash Bag makes the perfect man's travel kit. Made from lightweight canvas, the wash bag can easily fold down when it’s not in use, but it is also an excellent size for easily fitting all your skincare, makeup and haircare products inside.

The packing checklist

And finally, here’s a simple checklist of everything to pack for your upcoming holiday. Some of these might not apply to you – if you’re heading camping for a week, you might not want to bring a full makeup kit, for example!