Are you off travelling or on holiday this year? Whether it’s a long or short trip, sometimes you don’t want all your big bottles coming with you. Then there are the times you want to dispense products between containers. Some beauty brands allow you to purchase top-ups and refills rather than whole new sets which can be super handy, especially when you’re on a budget.

Whatever type of makeup container you’re after, Sephora are bound to have something for you. The collection includes travel size containers, beauty blender covers, compact cases, brush holders, empty spray bottles and cushion cases. Do these words mean anything to you? While the world of makeup containers (and sometimes the world of makeup generally) can be confusing, it’s worth getting stuck in for the times you’re on the move and don’t know what to do with your lotions and sprays.

Why are makeup containers a great idea?

There are a few reasons why makeup containers are super handy, especially makeup travel size bottles and empty spray bottles. The first is the ease of transporting your holiday beauty essentials through airport security when you’re only travelling with hand luggage. As you know, there are usually strict limits on liquids being taken onto aeroplanes. How would we get through a week at the beach without sun cream, moisturiser and shampoo, to name just a few? Never fear: simply pick up some mini makeup containers and dispense just enough product into them to last the week. The other benefit of mini containers is that you've got less to lose if leaks and spillages occur. No one wants to lose 100ml of their favourite product, right?

Another reason to invest in makeup containers is to save hassle when you hit the town on a night out. Rather than lug around a big bottle of perfume and risk losing or breaking it, bag yourself an empty spray bottle and you’re sorted - spritz in a small amount of your signature scent and pop it in your clutch bag. These lightweight plastic bottles will never smash, meaning your handbag and mobile phone is protected against spills. Phew!

So, which Sephora products could do you a service? Let’s take a look at the products that could make life, leisure and airport layovers easier than ever before.

The Weekend Kit from the Sephora Collection

If you’re not sure what this year holds, bag yourself a collection of handy makeup containers with this 5-piece set. Containing two mini bottles, an empty spray bottle and two circular pots, it covers all bases. Dispense shampoo, body wash, sun cream or any other liquid into the two bottles, spritz your favourite perfume or body spray into the empty spray bottle, and transfer lip gloss, moisturiser or any other cream-based product into the tubs. You’ll be able to survive any weekend mini break or work trip on just hand luggage - hurrah!

Rose Golden Brush Holder

Makeup containers aren’t just for dispensing products. Packing makeup brushes has never been easier than with a specially-designed brush holder. No one wants lose makeup brushes in their bag, especially when their bristles can so easily be damaged. The Rose Golden Brush Holder from Zoeva allows you to stow all your brushes and beauty tools in a pretty plastic container - you’ll never fret about losing them again! Better yet, it’s wipe-clean and super convenient for transporting the tools that come into contact with your precious complexion.

The Blender Defender from Beautyblender

Keep your beauty blender clean and well protected with a beauty blender cover. There’s none better than the handy Blender Defender: an anti-microbial silicone case that offers expert defence against the elements. The hard shell cover keeps your beauty sponge from getting damaged or dirty. For hygienic makeup application, you can’t beat it!

Powder Foundation Compact AF from Jill Stuart

The ultimate solution for your favourite powder foundation, this glamorous case is both stylish and useful. Swarovski crystal latch the compact closed for a watertight finish that will withstand leaks and spills in your handbag. Once the powder has run out, purchase a refill of your favourite product and top it up. Even if you change makeup brands, partners, homes and jobs, this stunning compact case will stay by your side to ensure perfectly-applied foundation at all times!