I enjoy spending my winters in Taipei as it’s warmer than New York but cooler than Los Angeles.  Combine the comfortable winter-esque weather with visiting family, lots of cheap and delicious eats with amazing night markets and it becomes the perfect getaway from the holiday madness.

As I usually spend most of my time going from relative to relative or eating, I can forgo the fancy outfits and  full makeup looks.  I pack only my absolute beauty basics and keep the rest of the suitcases free so I can fill it with cakes and snacks for the way back (my old roommate can attest to how delicious Taiwanese confections are).

Here’s what makes it into my luggage when I am bound for Taipei:

Sebamed Liquid Face and Body Wash ($19.95 US) is very mild, pH balanced at an optimal 5.5 value to maintain healthy skin and multi-purposed.  Yes, it’s not exactly travel sized but the generous portion makes up for not having to pack separate body and face washes.  This dermatologist-tested soap-, paraben- and alkali-free formulation is so gentle that it won’t irritate even sensitive or problematic skin.

Duri Rejuvacote Nail Growth System ($14 US) was one of my first beauty finds when I moved to New York over 6 years ago.  Since then Brooklyn-based Rejuvacote has been a mainstay in my beauty repertoire.  Technically it’s a nail treatment that revives split, cracked and dry nails but it also makes a great clear gloss when you’re on the go and don’t have your entire manicure set handy.  If you prefer the professional attention at your favorite nail salon, bring it along as it makes a great basecoat too.

Vichy Anti-Fatigue Ice Effect Eye Stick ($29.50 US) is cool (literally), compact and a carry-on must.  Unlike other offerings in the category, Ice Effect Eye Stick stays cool without having to pop it in the fridge beforehand.  I have no idea how Vichy does it but it’s a lovely, refreshing treat for the peepers when you’re traveling for 18+ hours from JFK to TPE.

Clarins Milk-Lotion Spray SPF 50+ ($32 US) feels more like a light moisturizer than a high protection sunscreen.   Clarins’ unique milky formulation is quickly absorbed and saves you from laboriously rubbing in the usual white cast of water- and sweat-resistant creams.  Whether I’m hiking in Yangmingsan National Park, on the beach admiring Nanya Peculiar Rocks or just exploring the city’s countless shopping districts, a thin layer of Milk-Lotion Spray comes with me.

Kerastase Oleo-Relax Shampoo ($15 US) and Masque ($26 US) are available in adorable TSA complaint travel sizes so your hair doesn’t have to suffer if you can’t deal with the awkward process of squeezing travel portions into label-less containers.  With variables like hard water, shower pressure and the inconsistent quality of hotel bathroom amenities, being able to grab and go my Kerastase staples is a beauty relief.  Kerastase also makes travel versions of select products from their Nutritive, Reflection and Resistance lines as well as the Elixir Ultime ($21 US).

Degree Women Expert Protection MotionSense Antiperspirant & Deodorant Invisible Solid ($4.69 US) is high-tech wetness protection.  The more you move and perspire, the harder it works.  Featuring motionSENSE technology, it offers more protection as you need it.

Sonia Kashuk Small Train Cosmetic Case ($14.99 US, Geometric & Blue print no longer available) is a major upgrade from the gallon-sized Ziploc bag I used to use.  The all-nylon, zippered case is a cinch to clean if your lotions and potions don’t agree with the cabin pressure.  There is also an elasticized inner pouch with a protective flap that tames makeup brushes, single-use mask sheets, nail files and hair accessories.

What would you bring if you were headed for Taiwan?  What did I miss?  What are you are absolute travel basics?

Nanya Peculiar Rocks on Taiwan’s northeast coast line

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