When travel is a part of your life, you quickly learn the difference between items you need and items that take up space. I’ve spent years taking 2-3 day mid-week and weekend trips on both coasts. Through this, I’ve learned an important rule: less is so much more.

If I’m booked for a weekend trip, I now find myself on auto pilot, reaching for the same items and tossing them into my suitcase. A quick hand cream, pair of eye masks, or a fragrance refresh, I’ve ensured these items are always stocked in my bag for the journey. It only makes sense for me to share these essentials that follow me on every quick trip out to LA or NY. While you’re packing your stylish outfits, don’t forget to pack these 8 essentials!

A stylish weekend travel bag filled with essential items for a getaway, including skincare products, sunglasses, and a book.
Photo: Toluwani

The List

NiveaHand Cream

For years, I’ve not only had this hand cream in my travel bag, but my purse as well. I can’t even seclude this item for travel, because it works too well. It’s the only hand cream that keeps my hands moisturized for 8+hours in any season or weather. And? It’s under $2!

Summer FridaysJet Lag Mask

Can be used as a mask or a moisturizer, this mask is fragrance-free and completely hydrates your skin. It contains niacinamide, glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and antioxidants – the only mask I can trust on my face after a long day of travel.

As a natural germaphobe, this spray is a life-saver. Sometimes airplanes are stuffy, sometimes car rides get hot, this spray keeps my face free from bacteria all throughout the day. 2-3 sprays is all I need to keep my face clear, redness down, and mind at peace.

This line of fragrances understands the power of smelling good in various seasons, settings, and time of day. My #1 travel scent is You Remind Me. It’s a clean, skin-like musk with notes of Aricot Skin, Orange Blossom, and Sensual Musks. It’s a scent that’ll have people chasing you into the airport lounge asking “What fragrance are you wearing?!”

TopicalsSlick Salve Balm + Under Eye Masks

Not many products keep my lips hydrated through TSA, during the flight, and at baggage claim. It’s the only gloss I truly rely on for all sorts of travel. Try their Acai shade (berry). The under eye masks brighten and tighten, which is perfect for an after-flight refresh.

Elisa JohnsonJane Sunglasses

If I had to single out a pair of shades that work when I’m dressed up or dressed down – it’s these.

Book Read: People We Meet on Vacation – Emily Henry

One of my favorite summer reads, Emily Henry and her romance novels never miss. Who doesn’t love a good book in the airport?

BeisThe Weekender (Beige)

The name of this bag is spot-on. Perfect to pack all your items for the weekend. Small enough to be a carry on, spacious enough to fit all your needs. A bonus? Beis designed the bottom compartment to keep your shoes, toiletries and travel essentials separate. It’s the only bag I can trust to make sure my trips are done right.

 *bonus* A no-brainer: Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes (if you know, you know!)

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