zip up makeup bag

WHAT TO PACK IN YOUR EMERGENCY TRAVEL BAG

I always keep a small bag of essentials in the bottom of my purse, but when traveling, it becomes even more crucial to have a few must-haves on hand—especially if you’re like me and need a chapstick within reach at all times! Whether you’re on a plane, cruise ship, or in a foreign country, you can’t always just stop by a store when something comes up.

To help you stay prepared, here’s a list of toiletries and emergency essentials for your next trip. The goal is to pack everything you might need in the most compact bag possible. You may not need every item, but this list covers a wide range of travel must-haves. I put this together simply by going through the bag I already carry, so you can trust it’s based on real-life experience!

For your convenience, I’ve included links to some of my favorite items, but many of these can be found at home, the dollar store, or Target.

ESSENTIAL TRAVEL BAG MUST-HAVES

Before you start packing, you’ll need a small bag or pouch to keep everything organized. If you already have one, great! If not, I highly recommend these Mesh Zipper Pouches—they come in various sizes and are see-through, making it easy to find what you need. I use them for everything, from organizing passports and electronics to storing paperwork.

ESSENTIALS FOR YOUR TRAVEL BAG

Small tissue pouch
Cough drops
Favorite chapstick (because you can never have too many)
Bandages & alcohol wipes – I love Welly brand bandages; they’re both cute and high-quality. Handy for little ones and adults alike!
Folding brush/comb
Aquaphor Healing Balm Stick – This is a multitasking lifesaver! It works as chapstick, lotion, diaper rash relief, and even for minor burns or dry skin. A must-have.
Antacids
Pen – Perfect for travel forms, notes, or when you can never seem to find one in your purse.
Travel-size ibuprofen – You can buy these in convenient single-dose packets. I keep them in my purse, car, and emergency kits—so handy!
Acetaminophen – Have you ever tried Goody’s Extra Strength Headache Powder? These dissolvable packets contain caffeine for fast relief (just note they also have aspirin).
Nail file – Because nothing else can replace it when you need one!
Flossers – Ever had something stuck in your teeth at a restaurant? These are lifesavers. A small travel case of Plackers is perfect.
Tampons, pads, liners, or a menstrual cup
Extra cash – Small bills for vending machines, tips, or emergencies.
Extra hair tie & bobby pins
Disposable face mask – While not always required, it’s good to have one just in case.
Pepto Bismol Chewables – Trying new foods is part of the adventure, but if your stomach disagrees, these are great to have. They treat multiple symptoms and pack flat.
Dramamine – If you get motion sickness (like I do!), this is a must for car rides, cruises, or even sitting on a dock.
Hand sanitizer gel or wipes

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS FOR EXTRA CONVENIENCE

Travel-size deodorant or Lume invisible cream
Travel-size makeup for quick touch-ups
Small folding fan
Glasses cleaning wipes – For fellow glasses wearers, these are a must.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipes – Single-use packs are perfect for freshening up on international flights.
Children’s chewable medications – If you’re traveling with little ones.
Oil blotting sheets – I found these bamboo charcoal oil blotting sheets—super effective, and a single pack comes with 600 sheets!
Safety pin, paperclip, rubber band – Tiny but useful in unexpected situations.
Travel-size sewing kit
Compact mirror
Wisp mini toothbrush – No water needed, perfect for freshening up on the go.
Gum or mints
Shout Wipes or Tide to Go Stick – For inevitable spills.
Mini scissors

CUSTOMIZE IT TO FIT YOUR NEEDS!

The best part about putting together your own travel essentials bag is that you can tailor it to what you need most. If there’s something you use regularly, try to find a travel-size version to save space.

This would also make a fantastic gift for a high school or college student heading back to school! A cute bag filled with both essentials and fun accessories would be both practical and thoughtful.

What are you adding to your travel emergency bag?

QUICK AND EASY DIY MINI BOXY MAKEUP BAG IN JUST 10 MUNUTES

Here’s a great DIY project for creating a boxy mini makeup bag! It’s compact enough to fit in your stylish purse while still being spacious enough for all your touch-up essentials—perfect for a party, an evening out, or special events like weddings.

If you’ve never sewn with a zipper before, this is an ideal project to start with. I promise, it’s super easy!

Supplies

Two coordinating fabric (one is preferably upholstery weight)
Zipper
Coordinating thread
Pins
Sewing Machine
Scissors
Ruler

Step 1

Cut two pieces from each fabric of your choice, with each piece measuring 5 ½ x 9 ½ inches.

Step 2

Lay one of the outer fabric pieces face up on your table. Place the zipper on top, face down, aligning the top edge of the zipper with the top edge of the fabric. Next, take one of your lining pieces and lay it right side down, ensuring it also meets the top edge of the zipper.

Step 3

Pin along the top edge so that all three pieces—the outer fabric, zipper, and lining—are securely attached.

Step 4

Baste the pinned pieces together using needle and thread, then sew along the top edge with your zipper foot. Once you’ve sewn it, flip the outer fabric so it’s on the outside, right side up.

Step 5

Now place the second lining fabric right side up on your table, then sandwich the pieces you just sewed in between, and finishing with the second outer piece right side down on top.

Step 6

Pin, baste, and sew along the top edge with your zipper foot, just as you did for the other side.

Step 7

After sewing, iron the outer pieces flat. Then, fold them together so that the outer pieces are right sides together, with the lining pieces sandwiching them in between.

Step 8

Pin at the opposite side of the zipper and sew along the bottom edge, securing all the layers together.

Step 9

Move the zipper to the middle and unzip it halfway. Sew along the two sides, making sure to sew through the zipper; pinch the zipper together while you’re sewing to ensure a smooth finish.

Step 10

Pinch each edge in and use your ruler to measure 2 ½ inches across.

Step 11

Mark the line with a pen, then pin next to it. Sew along the marked line, and once done, snip off the triangle ends. Repeat this process for all four sides.

Step 12

Fold the bag inside out so that the outer pieces are on top, and you’re all done! Enjoy your new mini boxy makeup bag!

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, this Quick and Easy DIY Mini Boxy Makeup Bag project is a fantastic way to create a stylish and functional accessory in just 10 minutes. Perfectly sized for your purse, it provides ample space for all your essential touch-up supplies for any occasion, from parties to weddings. By following simple steps and working with a zipper, you can enhance your sewing skills while crafting a personalized item that reflects your unique style. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crafter, this project is sure to bring satisfaction and a sense of accomplishment. So grab your materials and start sewing your very own mini makeup bag today!