Packing for Carry On Only

Whatever kind of trip your going on, packing carry ons only is definitely the hardest of the lot. When I know I have to do it, I really dread it, and generally end up leaving it til the last minute. However, last September I traveled to Italy for a week and managed to pack only hand luggage, and get it just right, so here's the low-down on how to do that...

First off, this really comes down to battle of the smallest product. Depending on the number of days I'm headed away for, I'll usually pack a couple of foundation samples, much easier than lugging around a 30ml bottle of foundation. I always try to pack a primer too, because your makeup's no good if it's not staying on your face. A good concealer that does under eyes and blemishes, and doesn't cake is a must, I'd recommend the Maybelline Fit Me Concealer. A setting powder to help keep things matte and in place, and to double as a compact mirror is a good idea too, I like the Bourjois Healthy Balance Powder, because it gives a little coverage, and it's a super slimline compact. 

A small palette for eyes is a good idea, you'll want a good highlight colour for browbone, inner corner, and even cheekbones, an all over lid colour, and then a good crease colour to smoke things out that can double as a liner. The Wet and Wild Colour Icon Palettes are great for that, or a customisable MAC Quad would work. Mascara samples are given out by the bucket load at high end counters, so now is the time to whack one of those out!

I have quite a few mini sample sizes blushes and bronzers, so I tend to reach for those, a nice every day blush with a hint of shimmer to perk up the complexion, and a matte bronzer to use as a contour or to warm up the face. If you don't, a blush/bronzer duo is a good idea, NARS do great ones, or Elf if you're after something more bank balance friendly. 

Lip wise I usually just pack a tinted lip balm, kill two birds with one stone, I love the Maybelline Baby Lips and the Kiko Kiss Balms.

Other beauty bits, you're obviously gonna want to pack deodorant (duh), I try not to pack shampoo and conditioner if I can help it, if it's only a few days I'll use what's in the hotel, and if I'm staying longer, I 'll just buy some cheap stuff out there and leave it behind. Skincare can basically be whittled down to two products, an oil that can be used to cleanse, hydrate, on your hair or on your skin, and some kind of spot treatment, since flying sends skin haywire. I usually just decant some coconut oil and take a small tee tree oil. Job done.

How do you pack for carry on only flights?