5 Skincare Staples I Always Keep in My Carry-On

As someone who splits her time between Lisbon’s leafy Praça das Flores and the world’s fashion capitals, I’ve perfected the art of packing light without sacrificing the rituals that keep my complexion glowing. My carry‑on is a curated microcosm of quiet glamour, filled with formulas that nourish skin as tenderly as my favourite bone‑white linens and as purposefully as a vintage ceramic vase on my bedside table. When you live life on planes, trains and occasionally a ferry to the Algarve, skincare isn’t an indulgence; it’s armour.

La Mer The Moisturizing Soft Cream

No matter where I’m flying, I have an airline-friendly jar of La Mer’s The Moisturizing Soft Cream tucked into my tote. Even in first class, cabin air can parch skin; this whisper‑light cream enrobes my face in healing moisture and helps skin look firm and lifted. It’s formulated in a way that nourishes, plumps and diminishes fine lines. I smooth a pearl‑sized amount over my face after takeoff and again just before landing. It melts in as easily as my deep‑ruby lipstick glides across my lips.

Blue Mercury | $100

Dr. Barbara Sturm Hyaluronic Serum

As a former fashion merchandiser, I’m acutely aware of how a “white T‑shirt” transforms a wardrobe; this is how Dr. Barbara Sturm describes her Hyaluronic Serum. The travel‑size dropper bottle dispenses a fluid that delivers both instant and long‑lasting hydration through short‑ and medium‑chain hyaluronic molecules, which penetrate deeply to replenish moisture reservoirs. When used consistently, the serum activates collagen and elastin production, boosting firmness and elasticity. I layer a few drops under my moisturizer morning and night, and I’ve noticed my skin stays supple even after long flights and days hopping between meetings.

Blue Mercury | $325

Caudalie Beauty Elixir Face Mist

There’s nothing more refreshing than spritzing Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir mid‑flight. Inspired by a 17th‑century Hungarian queen’s youth recipe, this (vegan, cruelty-free and) 100 % natural mist visibly tightens pores and sets makeup, delivering a glow and a long‑lasting, smooth finish. A blend of grape extract hydrates and reveals radiance, while peppermint and rosemary essential oils tone and purify. I keep the 30 mL bottle in my handbag; one spritz and I’m transported to the vineyards of Bordeaux, even if I’m actually somewhere over the Atlantic.

Caudalie | $20

Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum

A perfect night‑time companion, Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum is a potent face oil and a staple in my evening ritual. This “winningest face oil” is made with 22 nutrient‑rich botanicals, including brightening vitamins and balancing minerals. Suitable for every skin type and free of sulfates, parabens and synthetic fragrance. It imparts a dewy finish and a subtle herbal scent. I press a few drops onto damp skin after cleansing; the result is nourished, luminous skin that requires minimal makeup the next morning.

Blue Mercury | $215

COSRX Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence

Korean formulations have long been ahead of the curve, and COSRX’s Advanced Snail 96 Mucin Power Essence proves why. This lightweight essence is like a multivitamin for the skin; the travel‑friendly bottle delivers a high‑concentration formula with 96 % snail mucin. It hydrates without leaving a greasy residue, plumps, brightens dullness and supports elasticity. I apply a few pumps after my serum to lock in moisture and keep my complexion dewy. It’s hypoallergenic and formulated without parabens, sulfates or alcohol, making it gentle enough for even the most sensitive travellers. Best selling point... the low price!

Ulta | $8.50

An intentional ritual, wherever the journey

Travel can be chaotic, but I’ve learned that ritual creates harmony amid the rush. Each of these skincare treasures offers a moment of care and intention. They slip easily into my carry‑on, reflecting a deliberate approach to beauty: blending high and low, softness with structure. Wherever my passport takes me next, these five staples ensure my skin arrives as rested and radiant as my spirit.