Must-pack picks from your favorite skincare brands

Our skincare routines often go in one of two ways when we’re traveling: either they’re so complicated with so many products that we stuff our toiletry bags to the max, or we tend to overlook them when we’re sidetracked basking in the vacation sun.

But it’s when we’re away from home that taking the time to indulge in self-care—especially when it comes to our largest organ, our skin—matters most. And what it comes down to are three core items: sunscreen, moisturizer, and hand cream. So we asked you to name your top brands when it comes to these essentials— here are some products that make useful travel companions.

Mineral sunscreen can pull on the pursestrings, but this zinc oxide Neutrogena option hits the right notes of quality protection at a drugstore price. The dermatologist-approved brand is gentle enough that it’s hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive skin, yet it’s tough enough to be water resistant and shield the rays with hefty SPF 50. Just beware the thick cream takes a bit of time and effort to rub in (have a mirror nearby to make sure there aren’t traces), but it’s worth it for the strong, safe shield.

Active days with fun in the sun call for a serious dose of protection—and this Banana Boat lotion is ready to go the distance with a formula that resists water and sweat, but also provides a lightweight mineral coverage that has earned accolades from the Skin Cancer Foundation, as well as the National Eczema Association.

There’s a lot wrapped up in this stick sunscreen that allows for hands-free application, especially useful on the face, ears, and nose. Made purely of natural botanicals, like tea leaf, sea kelp, and lotus extract that’s gentle on the skin, it’s also water resistant for 80 minutes with broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection at SPF 50.

This all-purpose daily moisturizer soothes as much as it protects. By combining oatmeal and much-needed emollients, the fragrance-free formula is designed to nourish the skin for 24 hours, so that you can focus on your day, instead of scrambling through your carry-on for more lotion.

This simple formula was made to check off all the right boxes. It’s free of oils, dyes, fragrance, and alcohol, yet is still hypoallergenic and won’t clog pores—plus it has an added boost of broad spectrum SPF 15 to help save time on the go. The sheer lotion absorbs quickly, but has results that last for 12 hours.

Olay’s not just committed to getting you through the day—it's also working hard to ward off signs of aging with this multifunctional moisturizer that’s truly looking out for your best interests. Its seven superpowers include hydrating, replenishing, brightening, evening, firming, smoothing, and minimizing pores. Plus it’s filled with VitaNiacin Complex II to keep that skin looking fresh and healthy.

Chapped skin can really get in the way of a travel day, but Aveeno is ready to take that worry off your hands. This hand cream goes hard with an intense formula that moisturizes for 24 hours—and even lasts through hand washings.

This Jergens lotion doesn’t just soothe your hands—it also soothes the soul, thanks to its infused lavender essential oil. Combined with raw shea, coconut, and mango butter, it’ll bring your skin back to life while restoring your spirit. It’s no wonder it’s being called a “deep breath in a tube.”

Raise a glass to this easily packable tube (it’s just one ounce) filled with a rich formula that combines vitamin E, aloe, shea and cocoa better, and hyaluronic acid with an inviting fragrance, featuring notes of tangerine, berries, and, of course, bubbly champagne.