One of the hardest tasks whilst preparing to go travelling is deciding what goes into your beauty bag! Whether you’re travelling for 12 weeks or 12 months, it’s always difficult deciding which backpacker beauty essentials you’ll really need.

Toiletries are my downfall, and my dangerous ‘what if’ packing mentality often leaves me with an oversized wash bag and far too many items that I never even use. However, 3 months of backpacking has finally kicked my habit of over-packing toiletries and now, I can safely say there are only a few beauty essentials that you truly need to stay girly and groomed whilst you’re away. What I’ve realised is that you don’t need to sacrifice your much-loved beauty essentials; the key is packing smartly and thinking realistically about what you’re going to use.

If you’re planning on backpacking around the world, check out my backpacker beauty essentials to help you stay beautified whilst you’re on the move!

SPF Moisturiser

Even if you never burn, don’t underestimate the value of SPF moisturiser. UV rays can be seriously damaging to your skin as they cause premature ageing and increase your risk of developing skin cancer, which we all want to avoid. Opt for a high factor SPF, and make sure you try before you buy. The last thing you want is a thick, heavy cream that will clog your pores when you’re sweating in the heat.

Mascara

A good mascara is possibly one of the only make-up essentials you need. You might be tempted to pack your cosmetic bag with foundation, eyeshadows and make up brushes, but in reality you’ll probably never end up wearing it. With a slick of mascara and a lining of waterproof eyeliner you’ll achieve a dramatic effect that takes just a few seconds to apply when you’re on the go.

Tweezers

Eyebrows are key features that frame and define your face, so a decent pair of tweezers is essential for keeping those stray hairs neat and tidy. I love the Tweezerman range as they’re precise and sturdy and available in a range of girly colours and patterns.

Carmex

If you don’t want to carry lipstick, lip balm and lip gloss, Carmex acts as your perfect solution. I swear by Carmex as it’s lovely and nourishing, it keeps your lips soft and shiny and it’s small enough to slip in your pocket. Perfect.

 Hair Oil

Even though you won’t be damaging your hair with heat and styling tools, salt water and sun can have an equally detrimental effect. I swear by Wella Luxe Oil which transforms the condition of damaged hair and makes it feel soft and shiny after every wash. It’s a little pricey but one bottle lasts for months and it’s the perfect treatment to prevent dry, damaged hair in just one step.

Compact Mirror

One of the most useful essentials in my toiletry bag is a compact mirror. You may struggle to find a good mirror in hostels or cheap hotels, so it’s always nice to have a back up so you can tame those flyaways and check that you’re looking your best!

So, if you’re planning on going travelling this year, don’t stress! Follow these useful backpacker beauty essentials and you’ll have everything you need to stay girly and groomed on your travels!