Looking Hot While Traveling (Female Version)

The term "backpacker" rarely conjures up images of Gisele Bunchen or Scarlett Johansson look-a-likes. Rather, it usually projects one of those "one with nature" girls, who will forgo their make-up case for extra space in their luggage to pack their hiking boots. I mean, guys have it lucky considering how for them, prolonged backpacking trips generally just leads to a better tan. And even if they forget to shave and get all hairy, if they resemble Ewan McGregor at the end of Long Way Down, it's still pretty hot.

Consequently, if females abandoned any sort of beauty maintenance in favour of achieving that intimate connection with nature, the outcome might not be so pretty. While the tiny communal bathroom at any given hostel around the world isn't the best place to give yourself an exfoliating facial, or do a smokey eye, there are many ways to look good effortlessly. Below are five products I love for quick fixes to looking good on the road.

Bare Escentuals Mineral Foundation

1. Mineral make-up
Mineral make-up, especially foundation is great because it's free of preservatives and super light. It gives you a nice natural look, and helps to hydrate your skin, preventing that horrible flakey make-up look. I'm personally a huge fan of Bare Escentuals because it provides some SPF coverage, and the ingredients they use are so pure, you can sleep in it! Perfect for road trips, long nights of partying, and time spent with the foreign hottie (FH for short).

My favourite pair of wedges from Spring

2. A Pair of Wedges 
The last thing you want to pack for backpacking is a pair of stilettos - they're uncomfortable and you might wear them once or twice during your entire trip if you're lucky. A better alternative, is a nice pair of wedges. They're as comfortable as wearing flats and a great way of adding a few inches to your height. What's more, they won't hurt your feet while exploring a new city during the day, great for dancing at a club at night, and the wedges are thick enough to inflict pain to use for self defense if needed.

Leighton Meester, thegloss.com

3. Red Lipgloss 
Red lipgloss is always my go-to if I want to look dressed up but am pressed for time. It literally takes ten seconds to put on, and makes you look and feel instantly glam. If you're limited in space and can only bring one make-up product, I would definitely recommend this. I prefer lipgloss over lipstick because lipstick can feel heavy and dry out your lips. A good lipgloss however, can keep your lips hydrated and prevent chapped lips. Nice lips will come in handy when you notice that FH is totally checking you out from across the room...

The Body Shop's Tea Tree Facial Wipes

4. Facial Wipes
These are amazing to have if you frequently take long bus or train rides, or flights. All the recycled air can leave your face feeling really oily, and these wipes are perfect for combating potential break-outs. Especially with overnight rides or flights, they are an easy substitute for washing your face. I particularly like the tea tree wipes from The Body Shop since they double as a make-up remover, and help to fight blemishes and unclog pores. First impressions are important right?

Clinique sunscreen

5. Suncreen
Especially for travels to the Southern Hemisphere where the sun's rays are harsher, sunscreen is a must for both health reasons and preventing a sunburn. While we all want a nice glowing tan, there's nothing less attractive than returning home bright pink and in pain.







What are some essentials you love to take with you?