In not-so-surprising news: I am an overpacker. Be it clothes or skincare, once the suitcase is open, I panic and overestimate the need for absolutely everything. When I return home, half the clothes are unworn. Same goes for self-care products. I’m working on it, though. Recently, someone asked me to recommend the best skincare travel set for a weekend away, which really felt like a challenge. One I decided to take on and put into practice.
Affordable last-minute flights only make sense when you can fit everything you need into a carry on. With that in mind, here are the items I consider most important: a cleanser is non-negotiable, the same goes for a moisturizer, added bonus if the set includes a treatment step. Ideally, each kit should last 3-5 days. Chances are, most of us have a favorite sunscreen, which comes in a TSA-required size by industry standards. And speaking of, one of my picks is full of SPF options that will keep you safe on even the sunniest holiday getaway.
Dermstore x The Skin Cancer Foundation Sun Protection Kit
Let’s start with sunscreen. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, regardless of the time of year, it’s critical to wear broad-spectrum SPF. This curation of various sunscreen formulas covers all the bases: face, body, lips, scalp, mineral, chemical, cream, powder, stick, etc. You are getting EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 (Full Size), COOLA Scalp and Hair Mist Organic SPF 30 (Full Size), TULA Skincare Protect Glow Daily Gel Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (Full Size), MDSolarSciences Solar Stick SPF 40 (Full Size), Colorescience Sunforgettable® Total Protection™ Sheer Matte Sunscreen Brush SPF 30 (1.5g), Supergoop!® Handscreen SPF 40 (1 oz), jane iredale LipDrink Lip Balm (0.1 oz), La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60 x2 (15ml). $65 (a $212 value) at dermstore.com
The Caudalie Essentials
What you get: Vinoclean Instant Foaming Cleanser (50ml), Vinosource Hydra Sorbet Cream (15ml), Soleil des Vignes shower gel (30ml), and Vinotherapist body cream (30ml). This is a minimalist’s dream, especially for those with normal, combination or oily skin. Every formula is super refreshing and will keep you clean, glowing, and hydrated during your weekend getaway. Bonus tip: use the cleanser on dry skin first, add water, rinse, then repeat on damp skin–you’ve just double cleansed. Personally, I find the $24 price tag very attractive. And the bag is adorable. Available at caudalie.com.
iS Clinical The Essentials Experience Kit
What you get: Cleansing Complex (60ml), Pro-Heal Serum Advance (5ml), Active Serum (5ml), Hydra-Cool Serum (5ml), Reparative Moisture Emulsion (2g packet), and Youth Eye Complex (1g packet). Since I absolutely love this gel cleanser, I knew this boxed set would be a perfect travel companion for at least one summer weekend away to Maine. If you’re new to the brand, this is an excellent way of experiencing the serums–and hopefully discovering your new favorite treatment step. Pair it with your favorite SPF and you’re cutting zero corners on your next trip. $105 at lovelyskin.com
Jordan Samuel Skin Minis Kit
What you get: all four of Jordan’s beloved face cleansers plus Hydrate, the mist–all in travel-ready 30ml sizes. I love how this edit focuses on barrier-loving cleansing formulas, something we should be extra mindful of during travel. Once you are properly cleansed and hydrated, pick a couple of minis from your stash to moisturize your face day and night. Since I tend to be slightly heavy-handed with my face cleansers, multiple options to get me ready for the day (or bed!) are greatly appreciated. Partial to the After Show Cleanser, I predict those new to the brand will be ordering a full-size tube before your getaway wraps up. It’s that good. $68 at jordansamuelskin.com (try using code OMGBART to save 15% on your order during checkout).
Murad Brighten Trial Kit
What you get: Essential-C Cleanser (60ml), Vita-C Glycolic Serum (10ml), Rapid Dark Spot Correcting Serum (10ml), Essential-C Day Moisture SPF 30. This is technically a try-me kit of the Murad Vitamin C line but I’ve found it to be excellent for travel. What sealed the deal for me? The generously sized cleanser and sunscreen. If you prefer to layer a richer moisturizer at bedtime, pack an extra pot or tube of something more robust that you use at home. My combination skin, however, finds this particular assortment perfectly sufficient. One thing I’d add to my dopp kit—an eye cream. $52 at murad.com
