Never-Travel-Without Trio

My never-travel-without trio | Nightstand & handbag beauty essentials

DETAILS
When — Dec 2025
Brand — Dior, Ulta, Image
Rating — Met

Nightstand & Handbag Must-haves

There are a few things I never leave home without. These aren’t complicated, aspirational “travel routines.” They’re practical little fixes that make me feel pulled together fast: smooth nails, tamed cuticles, and lips that don’t look (or feel) like I’ve been licking envelopes all day. This is my never-travel-without trio.

Ulta Nail File (with case) - MEETS

This is the definition of a no-brainer. It’s $2, comes with a case, isn’t weirdly long, and it works. Also, my sister asked me to post things that aren’t too expensive. So here you go. Will it last for years? Not likely, but at $2, I don’t need it to become a family heirloom. I’m asking it to do just two (maybe three) things: fit in my purse without damaging the leather, prevent me from destroying my nails over one tiny snag and generally keep me from spiraling in public. It delivers on all three.

Dior Crème Abricot - MEETS

Dior says this is “tried and true since 1963.” I can’t confirm whether the formula has changed over the years, but I can confirm that I’ve been using it for about 20 years, and it works great.

Does it dramatically change your cuticles forever? I don’t know—we’d need a long-term scientific study for that. What I do know is that it feels good and makes my nails look instantly better. It gives natural nails a slight, healthy-looking sheen, tames rough cuticles, and makes the “no manicure” look intentional. If you are headed to a holiday party and didn’t have time to do your nails, here’s the cheat code: clean nails + lightly filed + Dior Crème Abricot.

I also love the packaging. It’s distinctive and flat, so it fits nicely in even a small bag.

Last but not least, Image Skincare Ormedic Lip Balm - MEETS

I’ve used this for years. I’ve tried all the viral options (Laneige and others), but I always come back to this. There is one caveat: I lean towards “clean” products. Unfortunately, there isn’t a standard definition for “clean.” This balm does have silicones and fragrance, so it might not align with some “clean” retailer criteria, but nothing about it feels harsh to me, and frankly, it works. I have very sensitive skin, and so does my family. All of us use it, including my son, who has eczema.

The claims: instantly soothes and replenishes dry lips—for me, yes—this is a MEETS. Enhances volume and fullness—here is my take: having moist, soft lips does wonders for fullness. I’m genetically blessed with full lips, so I’m not expecting miracles.

Final verdict: All three products are a MEETS. Not only do they live up to their marketing claims, but I personally love them.