Queer Travel Essentials: From Dopp Kits to Luminous Looks
Travelers know to expect the unexpected, and whether you’re on the road for business or pleasure, having a high-quality selection of grooming favorites at your fingertips is crucial for your pampering routine at the beginning and end of each day. Whether for a quick weekend getaway or an extended adventure, LGBTQ+ travelers know that a well-prepared dopp kit (or toiletry bag) is an indispensable companion for any journey.
This compact and thoughtfully curated pouch holds the key to maintaining your personal grooming and skincare rituals while on the move. In this guide, we’ll delve into 13 trusted brands that include some must-have items to include in your travel dopp kit, along with suggestions for enhancing a collection that ensures you look and feel your best, no matter where your wanderlust takes you.
ATWATER
ATWATER Skincare, founded by the dashing and burly Chris Salgardo, is revolutionizing grooming routines with its clean, non-toxic formulas and customizable regimens. Tuck your preferred AutoNail Lacquer color ($20) into your travel bag for a stylish accent while you’re on the go. The four handcrafted colors include Black Chopper, Mechanic Dark Blue, Graphite Dark Grey, and Tank Dark Green. Express yourself during your travels with ATWATER.
Beekman 1802
Beekman 1802 skincare is renowned for its dedication to natural ingredients and a farm-to-skin philosophy. Founded by The Amazing Race winners (and couple) Brent Ridge and Josh Kilmer-Purcell, Beekman 1802 draws inspiration from their historic farm in upstate New York. Their skincare products are artfully crafted with goat milk, botanical extracts, and other wholesome ingredients, resulting in a gentle and effective range that caters to various skin types.
Milk Shake Hyaluronic Acid & Squalane Facial Toner Mist ($19) is an alcohol-free, bi-phase formula that combines goat milk and mugwort with squalane and hyaluronic acid to keep sensitive skin toned and hydrated throughout the day. The best-selling Bloom Cream ($18) is a lightweight, elegant facial moisturizer designed to complement all skin types and visibly “bloom” with each pump. Need a rejuvenating boost for those jet-lagged eyes? Dewy Eyed Illuminating Depuffing Eye Serum ($15) is an intensely concentrated blend of silk tree extract, goat milk prebiotic, and potent botanical extracts.
Blue Lagoon Iceland
Embark on the essence of Blue Lagoon‘s amazing skincare with the Signature Face Mask Travel Set ($150). This exclusive collection features travel-sized bioactive face masks that encapsulate the core elements of Blue Lagoon’s renowned therapeutic offerings. Harnessing the potency of silica for purification, algae for nourishment, minerals for hydration, and lava for exfoliation, these exceptional formulas can be used individually to unlock their unique benefits or paired together to amplify their synergistic effects. The set encompasses the Silica Mud Mask, Algae Mask, Mineral Mask, and Lava Scrub Mask, offering a comprehensive and indulgent skincare experience. If you haven’t been to the Blue Lagoon yet, be sure to start looking at flights today!
Dr. Barbara Sturm
Dr. Barbara Sturm, an influential figure in the skincare industry, is celebrated for her innovative and science-driven approach to beauty. Her eponymous brand, Dr. Barbara Sturm Molecular Cosmetics, is globally acclaimed for its cutting-edge formulations that prioritize ingredient quality and skin health, earning her a devoted following among skincare enthusiasts and celebrities alike. The all-inclusive Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Discovery Kit ($125) contains a seven-piece skincare set, containing most of the skincare items you might need while on the road. The kit includes the Cleanser, Facial Scrub, Face Mask, Hyaluronic Serum, Eye Cream, Face Cream, and Anti-Aging Body Cream. All products are tucked neatly in a cotton canvas bag made from recycled materials.
Embryolisse
The best-kept Parisian secret is out. Embryolisse lait-Crème Concentré is a fabulous daily face and body cream that cleanses, hydrates, nourishes, and protects the face and body. Lait-Crème Concentré ($16), which contains shea butter, beeswax, soy proteins, and aloe vera was created by a dermatologist from a Parisian hospital that specialized in skin pathologies. The sleek newish travel-size cream can slide easily into your carry-on.
Gabriel
Established by Gabriel De Santino in 1992, Gabriel Cosmetics Inc. emerged as a botanical skincare venture, inspired by Gabriel’s personal upbringing and childhood exposure to homeopathic skincare and cosmetics. Their novel Reef Safe Mineral Sunscreen ($3) is designed for both the face and body. The sunscreen is a broad-spectrum SPF 50 and offers up to 80 minutes of water resistance. This smooth and soothing cream comes encased in an adorable .5 oz. package; it seamlessly fits into your bag for your beach-bound adventures.
glowoasis
Exfoliating and detoxifying are so important after a long day of travel. glowoasis powederporefect minis are easy to toss in your dopp kit or carry on. Each pack comes with fifteen travel-size enzyme exfoliator packets used to clear out dead skin cells while detoxifying pores. All glowoasis products are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and sustainably sourced & packaged.
Jack Black
Not to be confused with the Nacho Libre star, Jack Black skincare is a fabulous line of skincare and grooming products geared a bit more toward the furrier crowd. Their products are cruelty and paraben-free, and everything is dermatologist tested. The Jetsetter ($59) is a logical on-the-go selection from the high-quality line. This fab travel kit includes a selection of favorites from the brand including their Double-Duty Face Moisturizer SPF 20, Pure Clean Daily Facial Cleanser, Beard Lube Conditioning SHave, Turbo Wash Energizing Cleanser for Hair & Body & Pit Boss Antiperspirant & Deodorant organized in a luxe travel bag with enough room for your toothbrush and paste of choice.
Leonor Greyl
Let’s face it, hotel shampoos and conditioners don’t always suffice. Leonor and Jean-Marie Greyl launched a salon and the Leonor Greyl brand in 1968, and their venture took flight. This trusted brand offers an array of travel kits catering to different hair concerns. Their Premium Luxury Travel Kit for Damaged Hair ($75) includes everything you need to protect your gorgeous hair on the go. This fabulous kit includes L’Huile de Leonor Greyl, their signature pre-shampoo treatment featuring a versatile blend of botanical oils that nourish, shield, and detangle. Planning a swim or exploring some baths during your travels? This is an absolute must-have.
Malin + Goetz
Malin + Goetz, the New York-based apothecary brand, has gained a devoted following for its minimalist approach to skincare and grooming. Matthew Malin and Andrew Goetz, an adorable gay couple, launched a line in 2004 with a focus on gentle, effective formulations that cater to sensitive skin. In 2013, GQ magazine dubbed the duo the “first couple” of grooming. Their best-sellers travel kit ($38) can be found in hotel rooms all over the globe. This set of best-selling everyday essentials for the face, body, and hair come in a charming variety of travel-friendly, aluminum tubes.
Kiehl’s Since 1851
The original Kiehl’s apothecary opened on the corner of 13th Street and 3rd Avenue in NYC back in 1851. Kiehl’s has been delivering high-quality products ever since. Travel Bath and Body Value Bundle ($45) is an excellent selection of some of Kiehl’s best products. This assortment of essentials comes in a sleek Kiehl’s Black Canvas bag containing Amino Acid Shampoo, Amino Acid Conditioner, Creme de Corps Body Lotion with Cocoa Butter, and the Ultimate Strength Hand Salve. Feel like you’re in the Equinox locker room back home as you freshen up before embarking on your sightseeing adventures.
La Prairie
La Prairie is an ultra-luxe Swiss skincare brand known for opulence and cutting-edge cellular science. La Prairie’s products epitomize skincare indulgence, delivering age-defying results and a sensorial experience that reflects the brand’s commitment to timeless beauty. Begin your vacation journey with the Skin Caviar Liquid Lift ($785), a potent lifting serum with caviar beads (yes, caviar beads), and a milky emulsion to both lift and firm saggy skin. Follow the serum with Skin Caviar Luxe Eye Cream ($435), targeting the most delicate area of the face. Bid farewell to tired, jet-lagged eyes with this potent and indulgent boost of caviar. Use the accompanying silver spatula to get the perfect amount to soften those lines and depuff before you set out on your day. Reach the climax of your morning routine with Skin Caviar Luxe Cream ($555), an indulgent lifting and firming cream that will both shield and nourish your skin while you’re on the move.
WYOS (Write Your Own Story)
WYOS, short for Write Your Own Story, is an innovative five-piece personal care line designed for portability, mess-free application, and waste reduction. The line includes The Big Reveal Purifying Clay Mask Stick ($20), featuring quick-drying white clay; The Mane Event Daily Shampoo Stick ($16) is a long-lasting, sudsy stick that leaves hair ready for the day; The Clean Sweep Gentle Face Cleanser Stick which delicately cleanses while preserving moisture, leaving the skin feeling clean and rejuvenated; The Disappearing Act Shaving Suds Stick ($16)a playful new approach to shaving. Glide the product in circular motions across your face before shaving. The Shining Star All Over Oil Stick ($20) is a non-greasy moisturizer that will leave a radiant glow before you check out and head out on the next stop of your adventure.
As you make your way to the airport, hit the open road, or embark on your chosen mode of transportation, take comfort in knowing that you’re equipped with a meticulously arranged dopp kit. These essentials are here to ensure you not only look your best but also feel fantastic. Now, go chase those travel dreams with confidence!
