Do you love to travel? Do you love to look good? If you think that backpacking around the world means giving up your heels and lipstick for hippy Birkenstocks and all-in-on trousers… forget it! That is so 1970s and it isn’t true. While travelling light does mean giving up on a few luxuries (like 3-4 pairs of shoes) it doesn’t mean you have to totally leave what you love at home. When air flights are involved you really have to considered what goes in your suitcase, and what stays out. Looking great on the road is easier than most think and a little lipstick definitely goes a long way!
Every travelling woman should have a few essentials, lets cover those first. 
- several small photos of yourself (for visas, rail passes, etc.)
- folding paper fan (for humidity!)
- mini flashlight (for power outages and dark rooms)
- one-size-fits-all sink plug for washing your undies!
- emergency toilet paper
- minty chapstick (for fighting ugly public washroom smells)
- chewable vitamin C (stay healthy)
- eyeshades
- earplugs
- lavender oil for relaxation at the end of a long day
Once you have your essentials, you’re almost set. But you may be wondering, so how do I look good while travelling? Hydration and proper sleep do wonders, you already know that! As for clothing, it’s all about creativity, packing pieces of clothing that mix and match and accessorise well with scarves, simple jewellery, vests, etc. so that you can make a dozen outfits out of just a few neutral pieces.
For example, dresses that can be worn for a night out on the town and double as something casual with a cardigan. Coloured tights for a splash of colour in your otherwise neutral wardrobe and comfy shoes for walking and look good (this is a harder one to accomplish). LBD (little black dress) is, like at home, a stable on the road. Clothing should be easily layered so think: light sweaters, tank tops, cardigans, tights….
As for beauty products, travel-size everything so you can take more of those products you love. When you buy your make-up, ask for samples so you don’t have to carry the full thing when you go away for just a weekend. A tube of red lip-gloss never goes unappreciated (unless it’s just not your colour) and can take you from sloppy mess to wind-swept chic in seconds. Moisture packed facial wipes are great for when you’re in transit on long bus rides, flights and train trips. When washing your face isn’t always possible, grab some of these. Tea tree oil ones are especially good since they unclog pores and fight potential blemishes.
What are your secrets for packing light and looking good while on the road?
image: dbl90 flickr creative commons
