Forget your crammed make-up bag, overflowing toiletry case and multitude of products — when it comes to looking good on the go the secret is to take off with just a few hard-working essentials. And, if packing light brings back memories of hideous 'one-shade-fits-all' travel compacts, don't worry — these days multitasking travel products are bang up to date with the latest technology and colours.
Mac's Look in a Box (£25.30, maccosmetics.co.uk) contains the brand's make-up must-haves — three eyeshadows, mascara, eyeliner and lipstick — and is perfect for a short jaunt away. Choose between Indie Girl, Gothette and Goldie Rocks to create different looks.
Also from Mac (and even smaller in size) is the Trip Total Face Kit (travel retail only, £26.15, maccosmetics.co.uk) which contains a cream-colour base, iridescent powder and lip glosses, all packed in a neat compact. Add in Benefit's Stay Don't Stray (£19.50), a primer pen for concealers and eye shadows that helps make make up last longer (thus lessening the need for huge amount of products and reapplying), and you'll have all you need for a trip away.
Another option is Sue Devitt's take on the travel palette, inspired by the southern seas. The new-for-Spring Hydrating Marine Minerals Destination Eye and Cheek Palette (£30, harveynichols.com) is dual purpose — its swirl of colours can be used as blush or as individual eye shades.
If you have to pare it all down to one product, however, it has to be Pixi's smoky eye Primer (£12, boots.com). The magic pen has a shadow end that 'locks' on the eye, so that eye make-up remains flawless for hours. It can be used as a liner or a base colour — and it also contains chamomile flower and vitamin E to nourish the skin.
