Lucy Williams always provides endless holiday (and beauty) inspo.
No matter the occasion, I always overpack, justifying every additional item with a ‘you never know.’ Back to see my parents’ for a couple of nights? We’re talking five different outfit combinations, at least. An impromptu staycation? Let’s add in another four pairs of shoes and three similar-looking jackets. A trip to the coast? You best believe I’m packing every bikini I own. And no, I probably won't even make it into the sea.
If you think that’s bad, don’t even get me started on my thought process when packing beauty products, which win in the weight department hands down. Because of course I’ll need the four variations of curling iron and that purple-toned eyeshadow palette I’ve never once used before. Hey, you never know.
However, when you’re packing to go a little further afield you have to be slightly more methodical in your thinking—going over your allotted kg could set you back, after all. Plus, if you only have hand luggage, packing becomes like a fine art. Next month, I’m heading off on a sailing holiday to Greece. Although I have hold luggage, space is even more precious than usual due to the size of the cabins and to ensure the boat doesn’t get cluttered—we'll all take soft holdall bags you can store inside a cupboard as opposed to a hard case.
So I thought what better time to share with you the skincare, makeup and haircare products that will 100% make the cut, which really does say a lot. Read on for my product recommendations and tips and tricks for beauty packing effectively this summer.
1. The Flat Lay Co. Open Makeup Bag
I cannot explain to you how much this makeup bag has changed my life. Dramatic? Yes. But it's the truth. I usually do my makeup on the floor in front of the mirror and the amount of times I've rustled around trying to find a product while simultaneously spilling something on the carpet is pretty shocking (I'm exceptionally clumsy.) The drawstring bag lays flat in a circular shape, giving you a full view of your products and features zipped and Velcro pockets on the outside and inside, cushioned fabric to protect glass bottles, and elasticated bands to hold your tools and brushes securely. As you can see above, it's how I pack my makeup for all occasions.
2. Space NK Large Travel Bag
I've had my Space NK travel bag for years, and it's still going strong. I'll use this to store toiletries, skincare and haircare.
3. Hello Sunday The Everyday One SPF 50
Come rain or shine, you won't catch me putting anything less than factor 50 on my face. I'll be slathering this small but mighty SPF on every couple of hours, which is also the one I use everyday in the UK.
4. Nuxe Tanning Sun Oil Face & Body SPF 50
I'm usually quite wary of SPF oils but this does a great job of really protecting the skin while leaving it feeling hydrated and nourished. It also smells absolutely incredible.
5. Ouai St. Barts Body Crème
The deeply moisturising blend of coconut oil, cupuaçu butter and squalane is just the ticket after a long day in the sun. Plus, it smells like holiday.
6. Bioderma Sensibio Cleansing Micellar Water
The travel size version of my go-to micellar water. For the nights I can be bothered to wear makeup, I'll use this on a cotton pad to get most of it off before cleansing.
7. Byoma Creamy Jelly Cleanser
A dream at removing any excess makeup without stripping the skin or leaving it feeling tight. It's particularly refreshing to use during the summer months as it has a very light gel consistency. Also, check out the price tag!
8. Vichy Mineral 89 72Hr Hyaluronic Acid and Squalane Moisture Boosting Cream
A simple, no-fuss cream suitable for all skin types and designed to deeply hydrate and strengthen the skin barrier. After being in the sun all day, it's the perfect pick to give your skin a moisture boost.
9. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Set
I always like to take a travel hair set with me on holiday, and the 6-oil blend in this line of products helps to soften, smooth, moisturize and protect the hair.
10. Aveda Sun Care Protective Hair Veil
Don't forget to protect your hair on holiday! The lightweight spray is formulated with UVA/UVB filters that will protect your locks from damage and dryness.
11. It Cosmetics Your Skin But Better CC+ Nude Glow
I've been wearing this skin tint non stop for the last couple of months. It's a skincare-makeup-spf hybrid that gives the most glowy, gorgeous finish.
12. YSL Nu Cheek and Lip Tint
I'm using shade 'pinch' which makes for the perfect blush and lip shade—I think it's always good to invest in products that can multi-task and an even better idea to take them on holiday.
13. Jones Road Gel Bronzer
Great for adding to foundation as you develop more of a tan on holiday. I also use this to sculpt my cheekbones.
14. Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner
I don't go anywhere without my collection of VB Satin Kajal Liners. I'll be taking shade 'Cocoa' and 'Gold Lamé'.
15. Beauty Pie Deluxe Eyeshadow Quad in Smoky Rose
Price shown is member's price.
I've been on the hunt for the perfect holiday eyeshadow quad and I can now confirm I've officially found it.
16. Eyeko Limitless Lengthening Mascara in Brown
My all time favourite mascara. It stays put and doesn't smudge which is exactly what you need in warm and sunny destinations.
17. Rimmel Lasting Finish Lip Liner in Cappuccino
The OG lip liner I take everywhere with me. It looks so good with the YSL Lip & Cheek Tint.
18. Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment
Can wear during the day to keep your lips feeling plump and nourished as well as in the evening paired with a lip liner.
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