Toiletries

☑ Hanging Toiletry Bag 

When it comes to staying in hostels, space and convenience are everything. That’s where a hanging toiletry bag comes in—it’s an absolute game-changer. With limited counter space and shared bathrooms, having a toiletry bag that can hang up means you can organise your essentials, keep everything within reach, and avoid cluttering up precious space. Plus, it’s so much easier to grab what you need quickly without digging through a packed bag. Trust me, once you try a hanging toiletry bag, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

☑ Transparent Toiletry Bags 

Packing transparent toiletry bags is a game-changer for hassle-free travel. It makes airport security checks seamless, saving you from last-minute rummaging or repacking, as most airlines require liquids to be in a clear, resealable bag. Beyond security, it keeps your essentials organised and easy to find, whether it’s skincare, makeup, or travel-sized toiletries. Plus, many are waterproof and easy to clean, preventing leaks from ruining your luggage. Ditch the flimsy plastic bags and opt for a sturdy, reusable transparent toiletry bag—it’s a simple upgrade that makes a big difference on any trip!

☑ Tissues

No matter how healthy you feel, chances are you'll get a little under the weather while travelling. A mini pack of tissues is a lifesaver—it’s perfect for when you're feeling sick but also doubles as a napkin, an emergency cleaning tool, or even toilet paper. Lightweight and versatile, tissues are small items that can save you in many situations!

☑ Tube & Spray Sunblock 

Sunscreen can be surprisingly expensive overseas, so it's worth packing a big bottle to save both money and hassle. I recommend bringing a tube for your body and a spray for your face—the spray is so much easier to apply, especially when you're on the go. It's one less thing to worry about while exploring!

☑ Aloe Vera Gel 

I packed a bottle of aloe vera gel, thinking I’d need it for after-sun relief, but honestly, I hardly used it. The sun overseas was much less harsh than in New Zealand, so a little goes a long way. Next time, I’ll stick to a small bottle—no need to overpack!

☑ Dry Shampoo 

If you're on the move or dealing with sweaty travel days, a small bottle of spray dry shampoo is a game-changer. It’s perfect for those times when you don’t have the luxury of washing your hair but still want to feel fresh. Quick to apply, lightweight, and a total lifesaver when you're short on time—definitely worth the space in your bag!

☑ Facial & Body Moisturiser 

If you’re like me and rely on facial and body moisturiser, make sure to bring big bottles in your toiletry bag. Overseas, you may not find your favourite brand, so it's worth packing what you need. For convenience, buy mini bottles for your carry-on or day bag, so you can easily refresh on the go without worrying about running out or finding unfamiliar brands.

☑ Hand Sanitiser 

I’m not a germaphobe, but hand sanitiser is something I always bring with me when I travel. In some countries, cleanliness standards can be quite different from home, and having a bottle of sanitiser on hand for day-to-day use makes a world of difference. It’s quick, convenient, and helps me feel a bit more comfortable while exploring new places. Stay safe, clean, and ready for any adventure!

☑ Body Wash, Shampoo & Conditioner 

When packing for a trip, bring a few mini travel-sized bottles of body wash, shampoo, and conditioner. They take up less room, and many places provide shower toiletries, so you won’t always need them. If you run out, you can easily buy small bottles locally. Plus, remember—you’ll likely go through more body wash and shampoo than conditioner, so pack accordingly!

☑ Razor & Spare Razor Heads

Packing a razor and a couple of spare razor heads is a small but essential travel tip. Whether you’re staying in hostels or remote locations, you can never guarantee that razors will be available when you need them. Having your own ensures you're ready for any occasion, and extra heads will keep you covered throughout your trip!

☑ Deodorant 

When it comes to deodorant, always pack roll-on! Aerosol deodorants can sometimes get confiscated at airport security checks due to liquid restrictions, plus roll-on takes up less space in your bag. It’s a travel-friendly, compact option that keeps you fresh without the hassle.

☑ Perfume 

When it comes to fragrance, I recommend packing one big bottle for your main luggage and a mini one for your carry-on. The larger bottle is perfect for long stays, while the mini version is ideal for quick freshen-ups on the go or in flight. It’s the perfect way to enjoy your favourite scent without the bulk! 

☑ Toothbrush, Container & Toothpaste

Don’t forget your toothbrush and toothbrush container for hygiene and convenience. You can always pick up a travel-sized toothbrush to save room, but it’s not a deal-breaker if you bring a regular one. As for toothpaste, skip the massive tube—it’s easy to restock once you’re abroad, so just bring a smaller size to last you a while. Fresh breath is a must, no matter where you are!

 ☑ Pimple Patches

Traveling often means sweat, changing climates, and stress—all of which can trigger skin breakouts. That’s where pimple patches come to the rescue! They’re a simple, compact solution that helped me avoid the need to bring a ton of skincare products. Just apply them to your blemishes, and they work overnight to keep your skin clear without the hassle. A total skin-saver for any trip! 

☑ Lip Balm

If you're like me and apply lip balm 100+ times a day, it's a total must-pack for your travels! I always recommend stocking up on your favourite brands and bringing along as many tubes as you need. Overseas, you might not find the same brand, and dry, chapped lips are the last thing you want to deal with while travelling. Keep your lips soft and hydrated no matter where you are!

☑ Ear Plugs (X2)  

Even if you’re a heavy sleeper, earplugs are a must-have for getting restful sleep while travelling. In hostels and on transport, noise is often unavoidable. That’s where Loop earplugs come in—these are a game-changer as they stay in place and won’t fall out while you sleep. I always recommend bringing two pairs—just in case you lose one. Trust me, they’re a lifesaver for catching those precious hours of sleep!

☑ Eye Mask

A blackout eye mask is absolutely essential for travellers, especially when you’re staying in hostels, riding buses, or flying. It helps block out any light, making it much easier to catch some rest no matter where you are. Whether you're trying to sleep on a long bus ride or settle into a dorm room, a simple eye mask can make all the difference for better sleep and more energy for your adventures!

☑ Antibacterial Wipes

Antibacterial wipes are a total game-changer when travelling, especially in hot climates. They’re perfect for wiping sweat off your face, body, and hands, helping you stay fresh when there’s no shower nearby. Whether you’re sightseeing in the heat or dealing with a long travel day, they’ll help you cool down and feel refreshed in an instant. A small, handy essential for any adventure!

☑ Hair Brush

If you have long, thick hair like mine, a good quality hairbrush is a must for travel. You need something durable that won’t break and can easily handle your knotty, travel-weary hair. A sturdy brush will make it much easier to detangle and manage, even on the busiest travel days. Trust me, your hair (and your patience) will thank you!

☑ Scrunchies (X2) & Claw Clips (X2) 

Whether you prefer scrunchies, claw clips, or another favourite hair tie, make sure to pack them for your trip. They’re essential for those hot, busy days when you need to keep your hair out of your face. And if you run out or want a fresh style, you can always pick up more overseas—but having your go-to options will save you time and hassle!

☑ Nail Scissors, Cutters & Tweezers

While it’s easy to overlook, nail scissors, cutters, and tweezers are small but essential tools for your travel kit. Whether you need to trim nails on the go or deal with an unexpected splinter, these tools are incredibly handy and can save you from potential discomfort. They take up minimal space but are so useful when you’re away from home. Trust me, having them on hand will make your trip that much easier!

☑ Feminine Hygiene Products 

The availability of feminine hygiene products can vary greatly from country to country, so it’s always a good idea to stock up before you go. Whether it’s tampons, pads, or other products you prefer, having them on hand ensures you're never caught off guard, especially in places where these items may be harder to find. Travel stress-free and prepared—your comfort is key!

☒ Boob Tape/Covers Accessories 

Before my trip, I considered packing boob tape and nipple covers, but they turned out to be completely unnecessary. I mostly wore a bikini under my outfits or went braless, and in the heat, sweat made the tape useless anyway. Instead of dealing with sticky, uncomfortable products, I embraced natural comfort. If you’re heading somewhere warm, save the space in your bag—you won’t miss them!

☒ Travel-Size Hair Brush

Skip the travel-size hairbrush! If you have long, thick hair like mine, those tiny, compact brushes are more trouble than they’re worth. Mine was too small to detangle properly and ended up breaking anyway. Instead, bring a sturdy, full-sized brush or a wide-tooth comb that can actually handle your hair. It’s worth the extra space in your bag to avoid the frustration of dealing with a flimsy brush that won’t last the trip!

☒ Travel Bottles

Skip the hassle of travel bottles—they're annoying to refill, prone to leaks, and often more trouble than they’re worth. Squeezing thick products into tiny containers is frustrating, and pressure changes during flights can cause messy spills. Instead, opt for pre-packaged travel-sized toiletries, which are widely available and TSA-approved. Many hotels and hostels also provide free essentials, so you can save space and avoid the mess.

☒ Soap Tablets

Soap tablets might seem like a great space-saving hack for travel, but in reality, they can be more trouble than they’re worth. While they take up less room in your bag, they often get messy—crumbling apart or dissolving too quickly in humid conditions. Many soap tablets also lack the rich lather and quality of a good liquid or bar soap, leaving you feeling less refreshed after a shower. Plus, they can be inconvenient to use, especially in hostel or hotel showers where you don’t have a good spot to keep them dry. Instead, consider a travel-sized liquid soap or a solid bar in a protective case for a hassle-free shower experience!