We all know the feeling of excitement and butterflies when the long-awaited vacation is finally here. 

Even though the lead-up to holidays may feel like it drags on forever, you might find yourself sitting by an empty suitcase just a few hours before your flight, not able to decide what to pack. 

Packing is tricky, but we have prepared a list for you that will give you everything you need to slay the suitcase monster, once in for all.  

But first, here are some general guidelines: 

• Choice of fabrics – this is an important aspect to keep in mind when choosing your wardrobe for the vacation. You don’t want to bring clothes that wrinkle. No one wants to spend their vacation mornings struggling with an iron.

• Color harmony – choose pieces from your wardrobe that can be combined and are easy to mix and match. You always want to leave some spare room in your suitcase for shopping, therefore choose your favorite shorts or skirt that goes well with different tees and tops.

• Shoestring packing – shoes are the biggest and heaviest item that goes in your luggage, so choose wisely. Not to say you don’t need all those heels for your trip (as you may feel you do need them), but just think about comfort. What is the weather going to be like? What are your plans? Most likely you can manage with only 2-3 pairs of shoes.

• Shampoo – A lot of us pay close attention to shampoo and beauty products we use daily. But surely you can go a week or two without your favorite shampoo, as most hotels have decent hair and body care products lined up in the bathroom. If you still feel like you do need it, fill it in a small container (you can find travel-sized containers on Amazon, eBay, or in stores). 

Now let’s get to the essential travel packing list:

1. Compression Socks

This might not come to mind as the first beauty essential to take on your travels, but it might be a game-changer. 

Whether you’re traveling by plane or car, compression socks will help to reduce leg swelling, discomfort, and even blood clots on flights that are over five hours. They are designed to apply pressure to your feet and calves, thereby increasing blood flow. 

Besides flights and long car rides, compression socks can be worn daily too if you have to stand on your feet all day or have circulation problems. They will help to keep your legs unswollen and pain-free. 

2. Travel Neck Pillow

This is the best you can do for your neck and back if you have long hours in a place or car ahead of you. It provides support for your back and neck and can help you keep a good posture. 

Just as the compression socks take fatigue away from your legs, a neck pillow helps with overall fatigue and physical discomfort. 

Don’t want to alight from that plane looking like a tired out zombie? The under eye powder pats help… but a neck pillow helps even more. Trust us.

3. Travel-Sized Skincare

Even though vacation is all about relaxing, the one thing you should not forget is your skincare, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors. But don’t waste your precious weight allowance on cleansers, creams, and serums. 

Take all your favorite beauty products in travel-sized containers. You can find them in stores or online. It’s much easier and you’ll save up so much space!

4. Multiple-use Makeup Products

Instead of bringing everything you have in your beauty bag, see if you have products that can be used in more than one way. 

For example, our PrimeBrow Complete wand acts as a brow tint, a spoolie and a serum. PrimeLip Gloss not only lushes up your pout, it is a glimmery shimmery highlighter too. Be creative!