Meghan Markle reveals her favourite products and travel beauty tips.

Most of us know Meghan Markle as Rachel Zane, a law student and summer associate, on the popular USA Network series Suits. (Editor's update: This was originally posted in 2015, before she met her prince.) When she's not engaged in rapid-fire dialogue with her co-actors, Markle is an avid traveller who launched a lifestyle website in 2014. The Tig is where she documents (among other things) her trips around the world, such as her recent adventures in Istanbul and Malta.


The traveller has now partnered with Birchbox to bring subscribers a "travel-adventure" box filled with some of her favourite beauty products from Parlor by Jeff Chastain, Skyn Iceland and Naobay. Check out the box above for an example of products that could be included in your box (depending on your needs and preference) if you sign up by June 15, then read on for a glimpse into Markle's suitcase.

What's the most memorable place you've ever travelled?
Afghanistan. I was there last winter on a USO tour and beyond, doing a "combat takeoff and landing" into Bagram. The experience of being in a war zone was both sobering and illuminating. It made me feel endlessly grateful for how fortunate we are to have such blessed lives here.

What is your idea of the perfect summer vacation?
Being a California girl, I do love the beach—feet in the sand, swimming in the sea. But I will say, after this many years working in Toronto, I am becoming a cottage-country convert. I love Georgian Bay and Algonquin Provincial Park, where I stayed at the Budman's Roots cottage last summer. It's all so blissful and serene, and I'm not opposed to a couple of drinks on the dock. Can we call them docktails? I feel like that should be a thing!

How do you keep your skin looking clear and fresh when you're travelling?
I drink loads of water and consistently wash off my makeup before bed—even when I'm exhausted after a long shoot. I also use tea tree oil if I feel any blemishes may be rearing their heads and I do a face mask weekly; my favourites are GlamGlow (amazing!!!) and La Mer The Intensive Revitalizing Mask.

What's your number one beauty travel essential?
Tatcha Polished Classic Rice Enzyme Powder. It's unbelievable. And because it's a powder that you add water to when washing your face, you never have to worry about checking a bag when travelling. It exfoliates and cleanses at the same time—love it!

Are there any other products that you're sure to pack in your bag?
I never leave home without wearing fragrance or having a small vial in my bag. My longtime favourite has been Bvlgari Blv II (which I associate with my character on Suits because I wear it when I'm filming), but of late, I am over the moon for Jo Malone (Wild Bluebell or Wood Sage & Sea Salt) because they make me feel like a lady.

Have you found anything abroad that you can't live without?
Oh, the best is sourcing new products on your travels. Beyond beauty products, medicinals are amazing: One is Emphysemal, which is a cough syrup from the Maoris in New Zealand that I swear by. And don't get me started on French Pharmacy finds for beauty. They have a kohl eyeliner that I recently mentioned on The Tig; it's perfect for evening eyes. It makes my eyes look so golden. A great find!

In terms of travel makeup, do you have a go-to look?
Mascara, concealer under the eyes, a sweep of blush and lip balm.

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