From Tarmac to Poolside: Beauty Must-Haves to Pack This Summer
Whether you’re jetting off to a luxury resort, heading on a chic weekend escape
Or simply basking in summer Fridays closer to home, one thing’s for sure—your beauty bag deserves a seasonal refresh. Think glow-enhancing skincare, effortless makeup, and travel-friendly essentials that keep you looking fresh, polished, and radiant, no matter the destination.
Here’s your definitive guide to summer beauty finds worth packing—because looking good should feel just as good.
The Skin-First Essentials
Hydration is non-negotiable. Warm weather, saltwater, and long flights can leave your skin thirsty. Start with skincare that works and travels well.
Hydrating Mist: A facial mist with rosewater or aloe is perfect for midday refresh or post-sun cooldown. Try: Caudalie Beauty Elixir or Tower 28 SOS Spray
Vitamin C Serum: Brightens and protects from sun damage. Look for travel-size bottles like Summer Fridays CC Me Serum.
SPF, Always: A non-greasy, radiant-finish sunscreen is a must. We love Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen or Black Girl Sunscreen for deeper skin tones.
Glow-On-The-Go Makeup
Summer makeup should feel light, breathable, and enhance your natural beauty.
Skin Tint or Tinted Moisturizer: Skip foundation for something sheer and skin-loving. Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop or ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint are top picks.
Cream Blush + Highlight Duo: Adds that dewy “I’ve been at the beach” glow. Try Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Blush and Westman Atelier Lit Up Stick.
Glossy Lips & Brow Gel: A tinted lip balm and a good brow gel go a long way. Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment and Benefit Gimme Brow+ are vacation staples.
Travel-Friendly Haircare
Humidity, salt, and sun can throw your hair for a loop—come prepared.
Silk Scarf or Satin Scrunchie: Protects your hair and doubles as a chic accessory.
Moisturizing Leave-In: Keep your strands soft and hydrated. Melanin Haircare Multi-Use Leave-In Conditioner is versatile and nourishing.
Mini Styling Tools: A compact flat iron or curling wand saves space and keeps you styled. Don’t forget your heat protectant!
Wellness & Body Must-Haves
Beautiful skin starts beyond your face—body care matters too.
Body Oil or Rich Lotion: Give your limbs that supple summer glow. Necessaire Body Oil or OUAI Body Crème are divine.
A Luxe Fragrance Rollerball: Go for a warm, floral, or citrusy scent in a portable size. Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Vitae or Byredo Bal d’Afrique are splurge-worthy.
Supplements & Beauty Greens: If you’re consistent with your inner wellness, pack your go-to collagen, greens, or wellness drops.
The Carry-On Beauty Edit
Save space and still look flawless.
Makeup Wipes or Micellar Water Pads
Mini Tool Kit: Tweezers, travel razor, nail file
Silicone Travel Bottles for your go-to shampoo/conditioner
Compact Mirror or LED Travel Light Mirror