How To Pack When You’re a Product Junkie: Advice From a High-Maintenance Gal

Last week we were at the beach with our extended family. It’s always one of my favorite weeks out of the whole year. As the kids have all gotten older, the “grown-ups” have finally gotten to enjoy actual conversation on the beach.

One thing led to another and I started talking to my sister-in-law, Lauren, about packing. More specifically, we were discussing how to pack our bathroom counter products. As evidenced by this article I’m about to share- I’m sure she saw my face go completely blank. My product packing begins and ends with me throwing face wash and mascara in a bag.

Lauren, on the other hand, is the queen of taking care of her skin and looking adorably dolled up at all times. I have high hopes that one day I’ll get my act together and be a little more like her. Until then, I asked her to write a guest post about how she handles all of her product packing.

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Aunt Lala and Mary Grace’s “spa” at the beach!

A Guest Post From Lauren Prince

Sarah is low-maintenance. She wears little to no makeup on a daily basis.

When it comes to her skincare routine, her motto would be KISS it (keep it simple and straightforward.)

So when the question was raised about how to pack bathroom counter products, she thought of me!  I have been in the cosmetics and skin care industry for the better part of 20 years and love to try new products. I never leave home without a little bit of makeup on…even if I’m going to the beach, lake or pool! I just feel more myself when I’m fixed up. That’s just me.

Whether you’re a KISS it kinda girl like Sarah or a product junkie like me, we all need to travel with our products!

But what’s the best way to pack?

First off, organize your list of products to pack.

The night before I leave for a trip I grab my Toiletry Travel Bag and bring it into my bathroom. I go through my routine step by step and drop each item I use into my travel bag. Then I know they won’t be forgotten. (It’s easy to accidentally throw your hairbrush back in the drawer like you always do, then realize you forgot it when you arrive.)

Next, Prioritize your packing needs.

I decide what I really need and if there’s anything I can skip for the duration of my trip. This is the part that requires a level of self control.  You can’t take it all! For example: I always “roll” my face, neck and chest with my Rodan and Fields Amp Roller every night before bed.  (Helps with wrinkles and loss of firmness- important stuff!) But, I decided to leave it home during my last trip in my quest to pack light.

No big deal. I’ll get right back to rolling when I’m home in a week.

What I can’t go without, however, is my skincare regimen. Gotta have my cleanser, toner and moisturizers for day and night.  Thankfully, there are travel sizes available of my Rodan and Fields Redefine regimen!  They are the cutest little mini-versions of my regular product.  The size is even TSA approved for carry-on bags…super convenient!

Lastly, Be Wise with what you pack!

If your trip will have you outdoors most of the time (even riding in a car) bring LOTS of sunscreen!  For my family of four I brought 6 tubes of sunscreen for the week.  Sounds excessive, I know. But, we used almost 5 tubes during our beach week. This is an area where it’s too risky to skimp!

Your stress level may go down when you’re on vacation, but your skin’s does not!  A new environment, eating differently (hello ignoring your diet) and even washing your face with different water can stress your skin. Make it a priority to maintain your regular skincare routine.

And enjoy your trip!

Lauren is a follower of Jesus, wife, and mother of two boys.  As an independent consultant for Rodan and Fields, she enjoys helping people look and feel their best.  

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