My Cuba packing list featured Amazon's best-selling compression packing cubes — here's what I brought, from Lululemon must-haves to Sephora faves

When I planned my trip to Cuba, I knew I'd need to pack smart. Between the tropical heat, touristy plans and beach days, I wanted to be comfortable and prepared, while looking my best. So, I organized everything into a few trusty packing cubes and my favourite LOJEL Cubo suitcase (now on sale for $90 off).

I got this $30 nine-piece set of Kingdalux packing cubes on Amazon — now 24 per cent off — that held my clothes, shoes and bikinis. For just $23, these compression cubes allowed me to keep my things organized, and doubled as a clean way to store my items at the hotel.

In this article, I rounded up what made it into these packing cubes, including some Amazon travel essentials like the best sunscreens, my favorite makeup must-haves and comfy athleisure wear. You'll also find water treatment products and high-fidelity earplugs that kept me hydrated and well-rested throughout my trip.

If you're headed to Cuba, or anywhere warm, here's what's in my packing cubes to help you pack for a trip that's stress-free, comfortable and safe.

Essentials: Water treatment & earplugs

💧Safety first: Water filter tabs and Lifestraw

Considering the heat in Cuba, staying hydrated was my top priority, but I also wanted to avoid any GI issues with the minerals in the water. That's why I packed these Pristine water treatment tablets from Amazon. One tab is enough for one litre of water, and this $12 pack came with 50. The tablets are simple to use: just drop one into any tap water and it's safe to drink in minutes. I tested it — and it worked!

Amazon

Pristine Water Treatment Tabs

$12

Have safe drinking water anywhere.

$12 at Amazon

I also brought along the shopper-favourite LifeStraw, which can filter up to 4,000 litres of contaminated water to make it safe for drinking. With more than 89,000 reviews and 4.7 stars, it gave me some assurance I'd be able to hydrate wherever I went.

Amazon

LifeStraw Personal Water Filter

$28

It doesn't use iodine, chlorine, or other chemicals.

$28 at Amazon

🔈Earplugs

Flying to and from Cuba, I knew I'd want some peace and quiet — whether it's to rest up before a day of activities or decompress after the busy week. That's why I brought along these high-fidelity Loop earplugs. They're great at muting the persistent hum of the plane, which helps me fall asleep. I wouldn't board a plane without them, and they come with a compact portable case. For just $50 on Amazon, I also like how sleek they are.

Amazon

Loop Experience Earplugs

$50

They preserve sound quality but avoid noise pollution.

$50 at Amazon

Skin safety 101: Favourite sunscreens on Amazon

After speaking to multiple dermatologists lately on the dangers of sun damage, I was on a mission to protect my skin this trip. That's why I invested in some high SPF sunscreens that are compatible with sensitive skin.

My favourite face sunscreen is the La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Fluid Sunscreen. I love the tinted version because it doubles as the perfect base for makeup, but it also comes untinted for just $33.

Amazon

Anthelios Ultra-Fluid Face Sunscreen SPF 50

$39

It comes tinted and untinted — or in a stick. 

$39 at Amazon

The best-smelling body sunscreen by far is the Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch lotion at SPF 50. It rubs in smoothly without leaving a white cast, and instead leaves a dewy finish for healthy-looking skin. And it's now 11 per cent off with an additional $1.50 off at checkout.

Amazon

Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Sunscreen Lotion

$11$14Save $3

Non-greasy formula. 

$11 at Amazon

What's in my makeup bag: Sephora faves

I kept my makeup routine light and minimal for this trip — sticking to just concealer, blush, lashes, brows and a good gloss. The Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk makeup bag is the only makeup bag you'll need; an organizer and travel bag in one. With six compartments, it kept my things neat, then zipped up into a rectangular bag that's easy to fit into a compact suitcase.

Charlotte Tilbury

Pillow Talk Makeup Bag

$58

It keeps cosmetics organized. 

$58 at Charlotte Tilbury

Now, here are my makeup faves that I brought, and actually used, on my trip — all available on Sephora.

While lathering myself with sunscreen, I still wanted that sun-kissed glow. The Glow Recipe Sun Glow Serum hue drops are the perfect first step in my makeup routine. They make the skin look healthy and fresh, without looking cakey.

The Kosas Revealer Super Creamy + Brightening Concealer is the latest staple in my routine. It's medium coverage and melts into the skin.

My favourite blushes are the Charlotte Tilbury Matte Beauty Blush Wand, which has a deeper natural tone, and the Rare Beauty's Soft Pinch Luminous Powder Blush, that adds a shimmery glow with brighter pigment.

For the best summery, glossy lip combo, my go-tos are Charlotte Tilbury's Lip Cheat Lip Liner and the new Plumpgasm Plumping Lip Gloss. It has the ideal sheer tint and smooth texture.

For the perfect natural-looking eyebrows, I'm loyal to the Rare Beauty Brow Harmony Precision Eyebrow Pencil. It's soft, precise and blends into the skin.

Finally, I finish off my makeup look with the Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Mascara, my go-to for a natural look.

Must-have comfortable clothes: Best athleisure

When I wasn't at the beach, I basically lived in my Lululemon athleisure. Here are some faves that I fit into my Amazon packing cubes.

I don't go anywhere without my All Aligned Ribbed Midi Dress. Whether it's for a comfortable daytime walk, or a dressier dinner, this dress is a one-stop-shop. It's stretchy, light and flattering on anyone. And, it pairs perfectly with the classic Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag.

lululemon

All Aligned Ribbed Midi Dress

$128

It's a one-stop-shop dress.

$128 at lululemon

My daily go-tos for comfort were the Align Racerback tank tops — they look great with sporty or casual jean shorts and are very breathable.

Lululemon

Align Waist-Length Racerback Tank Top

$58

Buttery-soft fabric.

$58 at Lululemon

I also loved this GAP Modern Shell tank top for an effortless look.

GAP

Modern Shell Tank Top

$20$40Save $20

Now 50% off at checkout. 

$20 at GAP

I often paired those with the lululemon Dance Studio High-Rise Shorts, which are high-waisted and flattering. Despite the name, they don't look too sporty and are perfect for casual wear.

lululemon

Dance Studio High-Rise Short 3.5"

$68

Lightweight and comfortable.

$68 at lululemon

Comfortable socks for walking were a must-have. To prevent any blisters in the heat, these Closemate 7-pair cushioned ankle socks on Amazon were the perfect choice.

Amazon

Closemate 7 Pairs Ankle Athletic Running Socks

$26

Cushion socks with 85% cotton.

$26 at Amazon

Best shoes for a hot-weather trip

I only brought three pairs of shoes for my trip. Those were:

• GAP Basic Flip Flops: light and comfortable for beach days and lounging — now 50% off!

• ALDO Sanne heeled sandals: stylish and walkable, paired well with sundresses for date nights

• On Cloudmonster sneakers: perfect for walking, running and exploring Varadero

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