In my years of traveling, for work and for pleasure, there are a few things I’ve found you can skip packing when travelling to Japan.

Skip packing:

Extra makeup

Unless your skin is super sensitive, you can find decent back ups of drug store brands. Many high end, department store cosmetics companies have stores in the big cities too. As an example, I use MAC, NYX, and Maybelline as my primary brands; both MAC and NYX have stores in Tokyo. Maybelline is my go to for the “oh crap, I forgot mascara,” days which can be swapped for any drug store brand.

Lots of cotton swabs

I usually keep a small pack of cotton swabs in my travel bag, just in case I need them, but I often forget to refill the pack before throwing my toiletries in my suitcase. You can skip packing swabs but be careful as to the style. Any drug store or dollar store has a big selection to choose from. Buyer beware though, the cotton swabs tend towards the flimsy plastic at Japanese dollar stores. You will need a little more work to find the style with paper sticks.

Moisturizers for your hands and body

Again, if your skin is sensitive, bring your own in large enough quantities to last. If you can use any old thing, some familiar brands are also available in Japan. Nivea and Johnson & Johnson are very common in stores but even Daiso has serviceable hand and body lotions.

You can skip most of the items above but I have to say, there are some supplies you need to bring.

Must pack:

• All medications you might need – not all meds are legal in Japan, so check the consulate site long before you leave.
• Facial Tissues packs – you may get stuck needing toilet paper and these are handy to have in your bag.
• Extra under garments – I wear a large size in EVERYTHING and can’t find replacements easily.

What items are on your skip or must pack lists?