Backpacking Packing List: Makeup, Hair, Accessories!

This is the area where I really want to make sure I don't forget something, or pack too much! 

More stuff = More weight!

  

My lovely toiletry bag

I'm going to break down for you (and myself) what exactly I am bringing with me on my 2 month trip, where you can get it, and how much it cost. So the first category is...

Hair 

• Shampoo and Conditioner- Just put your favorite brands into mini bottles, either store-bought or hotel ones reused. don't try to bring full size bottles, they sell them in Europe if you run out, and you really don't want to carry around that extra weight
• Comb or travel brush/mirror compact (I can't seem to find mine right now, but you can find them at Walmart with all the travel toiletries. I found mine on sale at Pier 1, $2. Trust me, you don't need a giant brush, a comb or mini brush will work just fine
• Bobby pins- for those fly aways, since you won't have any hairspray $3
• Crease-less pony tails- these are amazing because they won't leave a crease from the band in your hair, so you don't have to worry about wearing your hair down. These came from walmart, $1.50
• Head bands- these will cover up the grease close to your scalp. i personally prefer these to the plastic head bands, because they seem to give me headaches. $3
• Small Scarf or Bandanas- these will also help cover your grease $1, goodwill
• That's it! But what about hairspray? hair dryer? straightener? mousse? If it makes you feel comfortable and you really couldn't do without, bring these along, in a travel size. But as far as hair dryers and straighteners go, if you really need one I would buy it in Europe. I know many people who have had their expensive appliances catch on fire, because of the different voltages. 

Tip: Use a toilet paper roll to hold all your hair accessories, so they don't fall to the bottom of your bag!

Accessories

It is important to plan your accessories because these are what let you change the looks of your outfits!

• Purse- it is important to choose a purse that will look good during the day and still be nice enough to take out at night when you dress up a little. I chose this one because I feel like the chain straps really dress it up, while still being casual. I found this at Belk or JcPenny on sale
• Scarves- really change the look of an outfit. You'll want light airy ones for summer. I got the coral one at JcPenny for $12 and the snakeskin one at Walmart, $7. I can also tie the small leapard one shown in the hair section around my neck.
• Sunglasses- $6 Rue 21. leave your nice ones at home
• Necklaces- I chose gold jewelry based on my purse. One long necklace for V-necks and one close to the neck, for scoop necks. Rue 21, blue one-$10, keys- $8
• Watch and Bracelet- gold again, so they all match. JcPenny, watch $20, bracelet $8
• That's it! What about earrings? Rings? I might bring a cute cocktail ring, but I'm definitely leaving my engagement ring at home and just wearing my wedding band. As  far as earrings go, they're too much of a hassle for me. And you don't want to be wearing too many accessories! Simple is better.

Tip: Pack your jewelry in itty bitty ziplocks, so that they won't get tangled or scratched.

 Face and Body

Body

• Razor, Tweezers, Wax strips
  
• Nail Clippers, File
• Toothbrush, Floss, Toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Bar Soap or liquid soap- I prefer the bar because it is unscented and sensitive so i can also use it to clean other things, like clothes in the sink or my hands
• Body Spray or perfume- poured into travel size container
• Body Lotion- poured into travel size container

Face

• Baking Soda or Face Wash- I prefer baking soda because i can use it as toothpaste when my small tube runs out. I've poured it into an empty spice container.
• BB Cream or moisturizer, spf, and primer- This stuff is amazing! it has 20 SPF, moisturizes, and is tinted so gives coverage. if you google BB cream reviews you can learn about them, but i prefer the garnier one because it comes in a 2 oz container (most are one), gives you better coverage, and is not oily! $12
• Waterproof eyeliner- this and my BB cream is what I plan on wearing everyday. NYC $3
• Mascara- for special occasions
• Lipstick- for special occasions/ feeling pretty. I'm bringing  a red and a nice summery pink.

Tip: After getting through security, pack your things you will need in the shower in one plastic bag (shampoo, conditioner, soap, razor, lotion, shower cap, etc.) so its easy to grab and go. Pack all your other toiletries (makeup, nail stuff, toothbrush, etc) into a bigger toiletry bag. Your commonly used items (sanitizer, hair clips)  should go in your purse.