It’s not every day a movie inspires a lifestyle change, but back in 2019, during a long flight, Crazy Rich Asians did just that for me. If you’ve ever watched it, you might recall the scene where Peik Lin (Awkwafina) drops Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) off at a party and is invited to join. Without missing a beat, she pops open her car trunk, revealing a stash of “outfits on the go” and picks one out that’s perfect for the occasion. That’s when it hit me—an epiphany if will —I need something like that in my life! Except, instead of just outfits, I envisioned a personalized emergency fresh up kit.
And so, the idea took shape—a portable, “life-saving” solution to handle all the unexpected messes, mishaps, and minor inconveniences that tend to pop up when on the go. Not to mention, something perfect for those spontaneous outings when I can’t be bothered to head home first.
Fast forward a few years, and my emergency fresh up kit has rescued me from countless “Did I really leave the house like this?” moments and even earned me the reputation of being the go-to prepared friend in my circle.
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What is a fresh up kit and why do you need one?
Think of it as a miniature collection of essentials designed to keep you feeling refreshed and prepared for anything whilst out and about—whether It’s to a last-minute meeting, freshening up after a gym session, or surviving the world’s longest flight delay. This isn’t just a kit—it’s a lifestyle. And trust me, once you create one, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!
Top tips for your kit
- I keep most of my items in a large bag in my car and a few key pieces in my handbag. If you don’t have a car, no problem—just prioritize the essentials and carry what fits comfortably in your bag.
- Frequently update and refresh your kit weekly or every other week—especially during seasonal changes!
What’s in my fresh up kit?
The best part about a fresh up kit is that it’s completely customizable. While I’ll share my go-to essentials, you can easily tailor it to fit your needs and lifestyle.
Beauty essentials
1. Makeup and makeup brushes
For those “why does my makeup look like this?” moments, to touch up your look or create a fresh face when needed—perfect for unexpected events.
2. Perfume
A quick spritz can do wonders for your mood and confidence. I like to keep a travel size version of my signature scent—It’s subtle, portable and instantly elevates how I feel.
3. Compact mirror
A lifesaver for discreetly checking for smudged mascara or spinach in your teeth (because same!) This compact mirror offers 10x magnification and an LED light, perfect for quick touch ups.
4. Tweezers
Perfect for stray brow hairs or those annoying splinters that show up at the worst times.
5. Mini nail manicure set
For when a broken nail feels like a personal attack or you need a quick file.
Skin and body care essentials
1. Face wipes
Whether it’s a sweaty commute or leftover mascara, face wipes keep your face feeling fresh.
2. Oil blotting sheets
Shine happens—these little sheets stop you from looking like a disco ball.
3. Hand wipes and sanitizer
Because sticky hands or public surfaces are just… ew. Choose one with a nice scent so your hands feel clean and smell amazing!
4. Luna Daily everywhere spray-to-wipe
This is my go-to for a quick fresh up and it honestly really is like a shower in a bottle! Whether it’s your period, a sweaty day, traveling, or you’re after a post-gym refresh, this pH-perfect full-body cleansing spray is your new bestie! And, It’s gentle enough to use anywhere (even your vulva!)
Luna Daily
The Everywhere Spray-to-Wipe
Powered by Luna Daily’s unique THERMA-BIOME+™ complex that includes thermal water; prebiotic lactic acid and inulin; and vitamins C, E, A and F. Perfect for hydration, cleansing, and to support, nurture, and protect your skin microbiome.
5. Disposable face cloths
For those moments when your face needs more than a quick wipe but a full wash isn’t an option. These face cloth tissues are strong enough to withstand water and are perfect for dry patting after washing with minimal bacteria transfer.
6. Face products
I like to keep miniature versions of my essential skin products—toner, serum, moisturizer, sunscreen. I simply put them into travel containers and I’m good to go.
7. Lip balm
Because no one actually leaves the house without their trusty lip balm, right?!
8. Hand cream
Ohh, and hand cream too! An absolute must for keeping your hands soft and hydrated, especially in dry weather.
9. Body cream
For me, this is a hit and miss, most times I find It’s not the first thing I reach for in my kit, but this fresh up kit is for just “just in case moments” after all, so why not!
Haircare essentials
1. Hair wax stick
Perfect for taming flyaways and keeping your hairstyle intact. My go-to is the Kitsch hair wax stick, it’s the perfect hair tool to tame my strands for a more polished and put together look.
2. Dry shampoo
Because let’s be real, sometimes life takes us by surprise and a full on wash isn’t an option!
3. Comb or hair brush
My trusty Tangle Teezer hairbrush has become a life-line for a quick fix for messy hair after wind, rain, or an intense workday!
4. Hair ties, clips and bobby pins
I can’t even tell you the amount of times me and my friends have scavenged around in our bags hoping to miraculously find a hair tie! That’s why it’s a no brainer for me to keep a stash in my kit, absolutely non-negotiable!
Hygiene essentials
1. Toothbrush and toothpaste
A travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste is a lifesaver for post-coffee breath, midday freshening up or a quick clean before a dentist appointment (always!)
2. Mouthwash
And speaking off oral freshness, a mouthwash is perfect for a quick refresh after meals or when gum just won’t cut it and these mini mouthwash packs are just the best!
3. Deodorant
Because there’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot to apply deodorant or sweating throughout the day with no means out! I use a travel sized version of my favourite brand to keep BO and sweat at bay.
Clothes and other bits
1. Change of clothes
Because spills, sweat, or surprise plans shouldn’t ruin your day! I like to keep a couple of outfits in my bag and change them weekly (even If I haven’t worn them) to keep them fresh from being in a contained space for too long.
2. Fresh pair of panties, bra and socks
Same applies for these essential bits! And to be honest with you, I’ve probably dug into my kit a few too many times for a fresh pair on a hot summery day to keep me super refreshed and feeling good.
3. Gum or mints
Bad breath is a confidence killer, and I’m not about that life. When a brush session isn’t needed, I like to alternate between gum (for the minty kick) and mints (for when I’m feeling a little fancy).
4. Stain removal pen
If you’ve ever dropped spaghetti sauce on your shirt five minutes into wearing it, this is for you! A stain removal pen is like your fairy godmother in stick form—just apply it to the mess and go about your day!
5. Mini first aid kit
As a mom, for me a mini first aid kit is essential! Sure, I’ve only used the plasters and anti-septic wipes so far, but having all the extras gives me peace of mind.
6. Pain killers
Because headaches and cramps don’t wait for convenient times, so neither should you!
The bottom line
Putting together an emergency fresh up kit is just a simple yet powerful way to enhance your daily life and give you an extra boost of confidence whilst out and about. So find your favorite bag, fill it with your essentials, and join me in the prepared friend club!
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