If you’ve been following my Obrigada, Portugal blog series, you know that Portugal holds a special place in my heart.
Now, if you’re planning a trip to this beautiful country, you’re in for a treat. But would you believe me if I told you that I explored Portugal with just one carry-on, hiking backpack, and still had space to spare, even after returning home with a load of souvenirs and shopping finds?
Today, I’m going to share the thirteen essential travel items that made this adventure possible, unlocking the secrets of stress-free, light-packing travel for you.
1. Native Travel Size Natural Deodorant
This Native deodorant is the deodorant to have on your travels. Not only is its packaging super cute, but it’s the perfect size for your trips, fitting right in the palm of your hand. It effortlessly slips into your bag, keeping you feeling fresh even in Portugal’s hot, sunny weather. Plus, it’s made entirely from natural ingredients, adding an extra layer of appeal to this travel essential. My favourite scent is the coconut and vanilla one!
2. Tide Travel Sink Packets
Say goodbye to laundry concerns while on the move with these handy detergent packets. They’re perfect for hand washing shirts in your hotel room, saving luggage space, and allowing you to rewear a few tops during your trip. After washing and air drying, you’re all set for your next adventure with fresh, clean garments. Trust me, these packets are a game-changer for light and practical packing!
3. MUJI Polyethylene Petit Tubes
Simplify your packing and make room in your bag by swapping out those large shampoo and conditioner bottles. These little polyethylene tubes are perfect for keeping your essential toiletries and skincare products organized, ensuring you’re always prepared for your daily self-care routine while on the go.
4. Luxe Organix Premium Keratin Treatment
These sulfate and paraben-free shampoo packets are your secret to luscious hair that stays beautiful, even after sun exposure, salty sea swims, and the countless adventures you’ll have exploring Portugal. Plus, the aloe vera-infused formula not only keeps your hair nourished and vibrant, it also ensures it remains strong and resilient in the face of varying weather conditions.
5. Travel Size CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser
This CeraVe cleanser is one of my absolute favourites. This travel sized one not only simplifies your packing and saves space in your bag, but also ensures your skincare routine remains easy and effective during your travels. With its hydrating properties, it keeps your skin refreshed, making it the perfect choice for cleansing and maintaining a healthy complexion on the go.
6. ONTA Collapsible Silicone Water Bottle
This versatile silicone bottle is your hydration solution for exploring Portugal’s diverse landscapes, from the lush hills to the big cityscapes. The collapsible feature saves you valuable bag space, and makes it easy to stow away and have on hand for your next excursion, ensuring you’re always ready to stay refreshed.
7. Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Natural Sun Cream
Protect your skin from the Portuguese sun with this lightweight sunscreen, boasting high SPF protection for worry-free outdoor activities. The Isntree sunscreen is a great way to shield your skin from damaging UV rays while also providing hydration. This non-greasy sunscreen goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave a visible residue, while ingredients like panthenol and betaine help to keep your skin feeling nourished and moisturized.
8. Folding Compact Brush and Comb
Keep your hair looking great with this compact hair tool that conveniently fits in your bag for quick touch-ups, making sure you’re always camera-ready. Unlike bulky hairbrushes, it barely takes up space, and can easily fit in your bag or pocket. I got mine on a trip from Delta Airlines, but you can find lots of similar options on Amazon. A must-have for travel, whether gifted or self-purchased.
9. Aquaphor Lip Repair Stick
If there’s one item I can’t travel without, it’s the Aquaphor lip balm. Its ultra-moisturizing formula is my go-to in protecting my lips against chapping and dryness, ensuring they remain soft and supple. Plus, its compact size makes it a convenient addition to my travel kit. Whether I buy it locally or pack it from home, it’s a must for keeping my smile looking and feeling great on my adventures.
10. Band-Aid Bandages Travel Pack
These bandages are my absolute lifesavers, especially with all the walking and hiking I love to do whenever I travel. They’re the perfect line of defense against those unexpected paper cuts, blisters, and other minor mishaps that can happen on the journey. Their compact size and ease of use ensure I can swiftly address any discomfort, allowing me to keep exploring Portugal’s beautiful landscapes without skipping a beat.
11. Sephora Perfume Samples
Here’s my favourite travel hack: I never leave for a trip without a collection of those tiny perfume samples from Sephora. They’re a complete game-changer, saving me from lugging around a bulky perfume bottle, and perfect for those enchanting dinners out in a new city – like the ones I’ve enjoyed in Portugal. My current favourite is the Jo Malone Peony and Suede Cologne!
12. La Roche-Posay Toleriane Sensitive Cream
This cream is your secret to maintaining happy and healthy skin during your travels. Its gentle formula is perfect for those with sensitive skin like me, ensuring your complexion remains calm and balanced even in changing environments. This cream, in its compact size, is an ideal travel companion, providing the much-needed hydration and protection your skin craves whether you’re braving the sun, wind, or air-conditioned interiors during your trip.
13. Solar Power Bank Portable Charger
This solar power bank portable charger is a complete game-changer for my travels, especially during my adventures in Portugal. Whether I’m snapping photos, recording videos, or sharing my travel tales on the blog, this charger keeps my phone powered up and ready to roll. And with its waterproof and solar-powered mojo, it’s the perfect sidekick, ensuring I don’t miss any picture-perfect moments while exploring a new city.
In the world of travel, every ounce of luggage space matters, and every ounce of convenience counts. My adventures in Portugal have taught me that it’s the little things that make a big difference, especially when it comes to these 13 travel essentials.
From compact deodorant to smart hair tools, these items have proven their worth and have become inseparable companions on my journeys. And with the right gear, a heart full of wanderlust, and the joy of discovery, every trip becomes a remarkable adventure.
So, if you’re looking to unlock the secrets of stress-free, light-packing travel, remember these essentials, and let your next adventure be your most memorable one yet.
Obrigada, Portugal!
The Lilac Blog 