Deborah Lippmann Smooth Operator Buffer File, $15, sephora.com

When to Start Using It: Believe it or not you don’t need a million tools to get a gorgeous manicure. After clipping to your desired length, a good buff and file is the ideal groundwork for your polish. We love that this tool does double-duty and is small enough to throw into your travel beauty bag, in case you run into any chips along the way. We suggest doing your nails the day before you leave, giving yourself plenty of time to shape, polish and dry (there’s nothing worse than rushing a manicure! trust us).