How To Pack Carry On Beauty for Long Haul Travel

Carry On beauty is one of those things that either seems to be done in excess or not at all. And I confess, several years ago I would have been one of those who took everything on a flight from a full makeup kit to every skin product under the sun. But I never used them - and always regretted not packing what my skin craved. And I've finally cracked it, so here are my absolute (skincare heavy) essentials for a long haul flight.

Basic Hygiene.

I would always recommend showering before a flight. Because my parents live in an awkward location to reach, I often end up travelling for over 24 hours so I leave my shower till the last possible moment. But I'd also suggest bringing several essentials including aerosol deodorant (minis are safe to take on board and can be so helpful) - I'm not brand loyal but Nivea do produce minis. I also always take a dry shampoo - a current favourite is the Soap & Glory The Rushower* which smells incredible so is ideal for not only freshening up but also making yourself smell wonderful. I also always bring a travel toothbrush (mine folds up and is from Boots) and a mini toothpaste. Again, not brand loyal but I like being able to maintain some semblance of routine which has to include brushing my teeth.

Skin Cleanse.

I never wear skin makeup to fly in. With such a dry atmosphere, it's never a good idea to wear anything that could further affect your skin but if you do wear some, I'd suggest cleansing your skin the second the plane takes off. I despise face wipes but carry a mini Garnier Micellar Water which is not only great at cleansing your makeup but is also great to refresh the skin. You'll also need to bring some cotton wool so don't forget to keep this in a zip loc bag for the flight! Even if you're not wearing makeup, I'd suggest cleansing your skin before applying any further skin products.

Hydration.

It's been said that for every hour you spend on a plane, you should try to drink 1 litre of water. I know. Insane. But whilst this is important to avoid dehydration, this also shows the likely impact upon your skin. I always tend to pack a mini serum such as the Antipodes Hosanna H2O Intensive Skin Plumping Serum* which does what it says on the tin and is incredibly hydrating. I used to always bring my all time favourite Antipodes Divine Face Oil but sometimes find this too oily so have been switching this out for the serum. I apply this first and then apply the Antipodes Rejoice Light Facial Cream* which is a great moisturiser even though it says it's light! I have both of these in minis which makes them ideal for space saving on board! (Sidenote: I'd suggest "preparing" your skin prior to the flight and making sure you're regularly moisturising and drinking enough so your skin is in top condition.) A lip moisturiser favourite has to be the Nuxe Reve De Miel Lip Balm which is so nourishing and leaves my lips hydrated and soft.

Mask.

Depending on how my skin is behaving, I sometimes bring a mask. More often than not, I depot the Origins Drink Up Intensive Overnight Mask but I also bring a mini of the REN Glycolactic Radiance Renewal Mask. If I'm feeling dehydrated, I apply the Origins but closer to landing, I sometimes go for the REN so that any dead or dried out skin is sloughed away. Plus, there is nothing better than stepping off the plane with a bright and radiant complexion. 

What are some of your favourite Carry On items?