You’ve got your carry on packed, your packing cubes have your capsule wardrobe organized—all that’s left to do is magically take your 12 step skincare routine + 10 daily cosmetics products and shrink them to fit a TSA-approved bag. No. Problem.

Here are some of my favorite hacks for getting this done (relatively) painlessly

1. Buy mini sizes!

Don’t roll your eyes—this seems obvious, but I can’t tell you how many security checkpoints I’ve been waiting at, only to realize the hold up is some sweet couple who packed FULL SIZE BOTTLES of every toiletry item and stored them in gallon size bags. No, nope, no way. Remember that collapsible bottle I told you to pack in your carry on? Make sure it’s EMPTY!

Be everyone’s favorite line buddy and make sure you follow the rules! If you carry-on liquids (creams/gels/aerosols/pastes), they ALL must fit in 1 quart sized, clear bag. They must also be 3.4 oz. or less per container. 

This is where pre-made miniature sizes of your favorite products come in super handy. Sure—you can find this stuff at Target or a pharmacy, but we know we all want a lil extra somethin’. 

Luckily, my skincare routine DOES release a mini size every summer, so I make sure I stock up so I’m able to pack effortlessly for trips.

I hit up Ulta or Sephora for my favorite beauty items in minis. You’ll also just save money if you want to try a specific item and not pay full price for a regular size! I do this all the time—minis last a lot longer than you’d think, especially when it comes to makeup. My faves? Bronzer/highlighters, mascaras, foundations, and eye palettes.

2. Make your own minis

Sadly, the pre portioned mini isn’t always available. Cue the tears! There is a way to take the products you love with you, DIY style. 

I tend to save my empties (jars, pots) to clean + repurpose. Budget and earth friendly! If you don’t have any empty cosmetics containers laying around, there are a few cool options online too.

KITSCH Ultimate Travel Set

I love how adorable this set it—seems versatile, too! You get pouches, mini jars, a funnel, baby scoop, and pump/spray bottles! This seems to have everything I could need. The pretty colors don’t hurt either.

I don’t know if this set will last for the long haul, but it’s definitely a cutie-pants option if you aren’t traveling all the time. Available at Ulta or MyKitsch.com

GOTOOB bottles

These little guys come in a few sizes, are leak-proof, and made of super durable silicone. I’ve personally used and loved these, so they get a slightly higher recommendation from me! You can find these at the Container Store + Amazon.

Bring your samples!

Remember the good ole’ days, when you went to a department store with your grandma, got a makeover or facial at a beauty counter, and got a free tote bag or samples with your purchase? Just me? I have loved potions since childhood, when I would mix them up from various lotions, oils, and God knows what else from my mom’s bathroom cabinets. 

Obviously, I love a good sample because I love to try new beauty products, but also because they can be super handy for a quick weekend getaway! 

I save sample packets of face creams, sunscreen, facial cleansers, foundation samplers, blush and eyeshadow sample cards so that if I need to travel very lightly, I can still have some beauty basics with me. Trust me, this technique is one of my favorite secrets!

Where do you get free samples galore?! Some of my favorite brands with great sampling opps:

• Sephora (obviously)

• Ulta

• Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

• Glossier

• Rodan + Fields

What do you think? Are you feeling armed + ready to pack up for your next adventure? I sure hope so. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the tips from this blog series, download my Ultimate Packing Cheat Sheet—it’s divided into our carry on, capsule, and beauty buckets to help you stay organized!