You ever pack for a gig and feel like your entire kit’s gonna need its own seat on the plane? SAME. But listen, overpacking is so last year—this time, we’re going compact, clever, and carry-on approved. Because let’s face it, no one wants to be that MUA wrestling with a 20kg kit while trying to hail a cab.
- Palette Power: All-in-One Everything
Do yourself a favor—invest in a killer face palette. You know, one of those that has blush, bronzer, highlight, and maybe even a couple of eyeshadows. Less rummaging, more creating. Pro tip: Go for customizable palettes (Z Palettes are a lifesaver) so you can swap shades based on your client list. Genius, right? - Mini Brushes = BIG Game Changer
Whoever thought travel-sized brushes couldn’t do the job clearly hasn’t met the right ones. Get a quality mini brush set that fits in your palm. And don’t freak if you’re short on brushes—multi-task! Your fluffy shadow brush? Makes a decent contour brush in a pinch. - Cream Products = Space Savers
Okay, hear me out. Cream blush, cream contour, cream everything. They’re compact, don’t spill, and double as lip or eye colors. Bonus: cream products blend faster than powders, so you’ll save time too. Time = more coffee, less stress. - Mini Versions of the Holy Grail
Don’t haul full-sized bottles when you’re working on-the-go. Get those adorable travel sizes (they’re cute AND efficient). My faves? MAC Fix+ (hello, multi-tasking setting spray and skin refresher), mini micellar water, and a teensy tube of your go-to primer. - A Killer Makeup Bag
This is underrated. You need a sturdy, compartment-filled bag. One with see-through pouches so you’re not digging like a maniac at 6 a.m. And if it’s waterproof? Jackpot. Spills happen, babes. Protect your babies. - Disposable Tools Are Your BFF
Pack plenty of disposables—sponges, mascara wands, lip brushes. They’re hygienic, lightweight, and your clients will think you’re the ultimate pro. - Dry Shampoo for Brushes
Yes, it’s a thing. It’s not always possible to deep-clean your brushes between jobs, so grab a quick-dry spray cleaner. It’s like Febreze for your tools, and trust me, it’ll save your life when you’ve got back-to-back clients. - Always Carry a Backup Power Bank
Not makeup, but crucial. Phones die, lights flicker—don’t let tech hold you back. A power bank ensures your ring light or phone is always ready for selfies or invoices.
Real Talk
You don’t need to pack everything. If you plan smart, you’ll still slay without bringing your entire collection. Think of it as makeup minimalism—get creative with fewer products and save your back from lugging that massive kit around.
So next time you’re packing, ask yourself, “Will I really use this, or am I just scared to leave it behind?” Spoiler: You probably won’t use it.
