We love travel, but… it can take a toll on the body. Crowded airports, dry airplane air, early mornings, late nights, new foods + jet lag = UGH. Wellness woes on the road are tough. Never fear – I’m sharing some of my favorite travel-friendly skincare products, muscle helpers and immune essentials that I carry with me when traveling. And, keeping the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule in mind, I’ve swapped some traditionally liquid items for solid alternatives to make packing even easier. All of my products are vegan and cruelty-free.
Psst! If you’re looking for some helpful advice on travel bags and accessories, check out this link.
Many of the links below are affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I’ll receive a small commission (at no cost to you). As always, I only mention products and services that I use myself and genuinely recommend.
For your body
Body Sunscreen
Don’t pass up the sunscreen! (My dermatologist approves of this post.) Nourishing, non-greasy + an SPF 50 formula! This lightweight, liquid formula feels more like a lotion than a sticky sunscreen. It’s good for our Earth. Plus, plant-based ingredients, including shea butter help moisturize and soothe skin.
Rad Rounds
As I get older (PSA – I’m not 22 any longer), my body just hurts. Add in long hours on a cramped plane, long hours walking on cobblestones, the occasional hike, etc. These easy-to-use massage balls are designed to pinpoint tight muscles with precision and mobilize sore muscles that other tools can’t touch. Made of top-grade silicone, the rounds can be heated or cooled. Ohh, la, la!
Liquid IV Hydration
So, I was born in the 80s. We had a drinking fountain in our school. We didn’t carry around water bottles. I think I was dehydrated until I was about 30 yrs old! I’m trying to catch up now. Haha! I always carry a few of these packets. Whether recovering from a cold, experiencing dehydration or battling a stomach bug, the electrolytes and boost of hydration this powder provides will have you feeling better in no time. Just mix a packet with 16 ounces of water and drink.
Therabody Theragun Mini
If you’re not a fan of the Rad Rounds, I recommend this little, handheld massage device. I run and hike a lot when traveling and this baby expertly works out travel-induced pains thanks to its three speeds and three attachments meant for personalizing your recovery.
Tiny & Cute Travel Razor
No explanation needed. A girl’s gotta still shave even when traveling, right?
For taking care of your skin & hair
Tea Tree Oil
I discovered Tea Tree Oil when I was traveling in South East Asia in 2004. I’ve been a fan ever since and use it for all types of ailments. It works against everything: blemished skin, pimples, dandruff, and even insect bites. All thanks to its unparalleled antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
Solid Shampoo & Conditioner
Call it laziness, maybe? These shampoo and conditioner bars are good for the Earth (sans plastic bottles), they are paraben-free, vegan and cruelty-free (as all products should be, right?), AND they are packed with nourishing products – like rice water – to ensure hair growth and a healthy shine. Wet your hair; rub bar between hands into a rich lather or “paint” directly onto your scalp. Massage with fingertips, then rinse & repeat as desired.
OSEA Body Care
Now that I’m 40ish, I spend a bit more on products for my skin. I am adamant that products are cruelty-free and vegan. No product should be animal tested. OSEA is also firm in its commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly packaging. Their products are thoughtfully made, completely natural and derived from seaweed which is rich in vitamins, minerals. I carry whatever I can fit in my skincare kit: serums, ocean cleanser and my favorite – their algae body oil.
Elta MD SunScreen
My dermatologist loves this brand and so will you! EltaMD UV Clear Face Sunscreen is an oil-free sunscreen made with transparent Zinc Oxide that helps protect your skin from damaging UVA and UVB rays
Brush
What can I say about a brush? It’s natural (no boar bristles here), small and works great for detangling!
7MAGIC Fast-Drying Hair Dryer
Now, I’m all about air-drying hair and going all natural. BUT, I have the hair type that just doesn’t look pretty when it dries naturally. It’s half wavy, 1/4 frizzy and all sorts of weird. I like to pretend I’m a no fuss gal, but I do carry a hair dryer. This little one is great – ionic, foldable and it comes with a travel bag.
Amika Exofoliating Jelly Scalp Scrub
IF you have the space (and want a little pampering on the road), there’s so much to love about this luxe shampoo by Amika. It makes hair both look and feel amazing, and it cleans the scalp so well, you can likely go longer than usual between washes (a definite perk while traveling).
Toothpaste (and Brush)
What you put in your mouth should be healthy and chemical-free too. Boka toothpaste is also cruelty-free and vegan, ensuring ethical and environmentally friendly oral care.
Face Color
Ilia is one of those amazing makeup brands where you wish you could buy everything in their store. Every item is packed with healthy ingredients like hyaluronic acid, squalane and niacinamide that can benefit your skin. I don’t carry a ton of makeup with me when traveling, but I ALWAYS carry mascara and this little gem. I use the color stick for my cheeks and lips (and a little on my eyes, too).
A few more of my favorite travel items!
- Travel-toiletry containers allow me to bring some of my all-time favorites. I fill up these Silicone Bottles or use amber glass bottles for my essential oils.
- This first aid kit (’cause accidents happen)
- Dry shampoo
- Save beauty samples for your future trips.
- The perfect hanging toiletry bag
- Do not underestimate the importance of your sleep on the road: create the perfect conditions to rest anywhere – silk pillowcase, earplugs, and this Silk Eye Mask for Sleeping.
