Weekend escape or full-blown girls’ trip? Pack smart. These travel essentials deliver glowing skin, effortless style, and soft-life vacation energy.
Wanderlust is in the air. Everywhere I turn, there’s a girl with her travel bag, looking effortlessly travel-ready. The girls are finally taking those trips out of the group chat this year! We’re talking curated outfits, bookmarked TikToks and Pinterest boards coming to life. But while you’re packing that camera-ready wardrobe, don’t forget the beauty and self-care essentials that will keep you glowing, comfortable, and carefree throughout your trip.
Travelling as a Black girl comes with its own unique needs. We might only get to see the glam on social media, but apart from the complex realities of travelling as a Black person, changing climates means special care. Your skin needs hydration while in transit, and your hair needs extra protection. These items are portable and travel-friendly — you’ll barely notice the added weight. If this is your first trip or you live in the air, before you zip up that suitcase, here are six non-negotiable items you should have in your travel bag as a Black girl.
Read also: Let’s explore 6 underrated travel destinations in West Africa
Never skip the sunscreen (SPF)
No matter your melanin levels, sunscreen is a must-have. Everyone has moved on from the myth that dark skin doesn’t require SPF. You can still suffer sun damage, hyperpigmentation, and premature ageing by being exposed to direct rays from the sun. A good broad-spectrum SPF protects your skin from UVA and UVB rays, especially when heading to tropical locations with lots of sun. Look for lightweight formulas that’ll suit your skin and makeup, if you decide to wear any. The goal is to enjoy and still protect your melanated skin. Ensure your hands are clean before you reapply, especially if you’re hopping between locations.
Recommendations
Skin Aqua Super Moisture Gel Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF
Hydration on the go
Over here, we love staying hydrated – internally and externally. Travelling often means switching climates, getting less sleep, and losing moisture, all of which affect your skin, regardless of your mode of transportation. Facial mist, toner and moisturiser keep your skin refreshed and radiant. Go for a lightweight hydrating water-based moisturiser or gel-creams, with ingredients like rosewater, hyaluronic acid for your facial mist. We want to see that glow, sis!
Recommendations
Caudalíe Grape Water Moisturizing Face Mist
Clinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing Face Lotion
Body butter for that melanin glow
Dry elbows and ashy knees on vacation? Blasphemy A rich, nourishing body butter is a must-have in your travel bag. It keeps your skin soft, radiant, and deeply moisturised after long days in the sun. Depending on your choice, you also get to smell divine while maintaining your glow. Go for shea-based or cocoa-rich formulas, that deliver deep, long-lasting moisture, repair the skin barrier and prevent the dryness that often shows up as ashiness. These rich, non-greasy textures also enhance your natural glow, adding a buttery sheen to your skin and soothe inflammation while protecting against environmental stress.
Recommendations
The Body Shop Coconut Body Butter
Naturim Glow Getter Multi-Oil Body Butter
Read also: Explore these stunning African parks for an adventurous holiday this summer
Lip gloss for the win
There’s nothing that ruins the vacation mood faster than dry lips. Your lips have to stay moisturised just like the rest of your body. Whether you’re sightseeing or sipping cocktails, the power of a good lip gloss reigns supreme. It adds instant shine, plumps your lips, and takes your selfies from regular to soft glam. Keep a clear or nude one in your bag at all times: they are best for travel because they pair well with any colour of lipstick you choose or with just a lip-liner.
Recommendations
Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb – Glass Slipper or Hot Chocolit
Zaron Luxurious Lip Gloss – Sugar Plum
Didi Beauty All Nood Here Lip Gloss
Stay ready with travel-sized perfume
Never compromise on smelling good, even when you’re on the go. Your scent is your identity and should follow you everywhere. When travelling, opt for a travel-sized atomiser of your favourite scent or grab a rollerball version. If you have more room in your carry-on travel bag, you can add mini sizes of your favourite scents while you put the atomisers in your handbag. Don’t hesitate to layer your scents, it lets you create a signature fragrance that lasts all day and transitions beautifully from beachside mornings to dinner at golden hour. Remember, fragrance completes the outfit.
Recommendations
Maison Francis Kurkdjian’s Baccarat Rouge 540
Kayali Vacay In A Bottle Miniature Set
Silk scarf for that extra protection
A silk scarf is the multitasking queen of travel must-haves. It protects your edges while you sleep, minimises frizz while in transit, and keeps braids, wigs, or sleek buns looking fresh. On the go, it doubles as a beach wrap, headband, or even a halter top when styled right. For the fashion girls, it adds instant flair to any outfit. Tie it on a bag, wear it as a belt, or style it into an up-do. It’s chic, functional, and lightweight. It is the definition of small but mighty. You’ll always be glad you packed it.
There you have it — your ultimate holiday essentials checklist with skincare saviours and style staples. These items keep you looking and feeling your best no matter the destination. Don’t forget a good book, your passport pouch, oversized sunnies, and most importantly, the right holiday attitude. A soft, carefree vibe is just as essential as anything else. I can’t wait to pack my travel bag for my next getaway. And if you’re still planning outfits, don’t miss our Holiday Capsule Wardrobe for style tips that travel well. Safe travels, and may your glow last longer than your travel time!
