Travel Tips: Picking and Packing Beauty Products for Jetsetters

Whenever possible, I always try to avoid checking my luggage when I'm traveling. However, it can be tough with my intensive beauty regimen and having to follow TSA 3-1-1 guidelines. With airlines increasing fees for checked luggage, my Memorial Day weekend getaway cost me $25 ($50 round trip!) for one suitcase. If you're a frequent traveler and can get away with not having to check your bags, packing light and efficiently is essential.

Make the most out of your carry on and avoid paying those fees. Here are some tips to help you save money and maximize space for your beauty products:

• There are different types of travel-sized kits that you can buy or just rely on the toiletries your hotel carries. Most hotels supply shampoo and conditioner, body lotion and soap, but they aren't always the brand or quality you'd like them to be. Unless you're going to be staying at the Hilton, check with your hotel and see what they offer. Most hotels also supply hair dryers, so you won't need to pack one.

• Save small bottles and containers and fill them with your must-have beauty products. I do this for my shampoo and conditioner since I'm really picky and the stuff at most hotels never really cuts it.

• Traveling is the perfect time to use those free samples you get from buying beauty products or when you go to a cosmetic counter. If you're staying at a hotel that has a nice products, request extras to bring for your next trip.  I stayed at a hotel once that provided Korres products, so of course I had to stock up.

• On shorter trips, use dry shampoo (spray or powder) to clean your hair and scalp. You can save space in your quart-size bag if you go for a powder.

• Most perfume bottles are bulky so don't even bother trying to transfer it into a 3 oz. bottle. Instead, go to a department store or Sephora and ask for a sample size of your favorite perfume.

• Body wash is not really important to me, but if you must bring your own, try using a bar soap instead of a body wash. Bar soaps are less messy and don't need to be included in your bag of liquids.

• Try using mineral powder foundation and leave your liquid foundation at home. Liquid foundation must be included in your liquids bag.

• Use pre-moistened face wipes, like Clean & Clear Oil-Free Facial Cleansing Wipes, instead of face wash (another product that frees up space in your bag for liquids).

Things to leave behind…

• Body wash and body lotion - if you can do with what your hotel offers.

• Makeup you don't wear everyday.

• Sunscreen - they come in big bottles and can be bought at your destination.

• Nail Polish - just get a mani/pedi before you take off.

Avoid luggage disasters by taping the tops of your liquid containers to prevent leaking and exploding. Keep containers away from shoes, especially high heels, and any other items that can puncture them.

Do you have any other tips for traveling with your beauty products? Are there any products that you MUST travel with?