I'm doing an outdoor shoot and I'm trying to figure out how to do it in the most comfortable and professional way possible for the models.

There's no access to someone's home and we can't clog up the place's bathroom because they run tours around the location and I don't want to get us kicked out. There's going to be several makeup changes throughout the shoot so we can't do it simply before we head to the location.

I was thinking I could set up a chair and small table in the parking lot and work out of my car but I would love suggestions from people who have more experience working outside.

Ahh I remember doing makeup and hair on the fly.  Be as portable you can.  I have done many a makeup in the car.  On the beach, in a park.  On a street corner.  Depending on the job and time you can't be fancy so don't try.  You may have to cut a few corners.  Make sure your kit can do double duty.  I have a makeup kit that you can sit on.  Carry things in a fanny pack or something like it.  Bring water for your self.  Or make sure there is some on set.  I find I am always more dehydrated when I'm outside scrambling.  R-

A fanny pack and water is a really good suggestion, I didn't think of that. Thanks for the tips!

I've done makeup in the most awkward of places: bars, benches...basketball courts!

My best advice would be to invest in what is commonly called a 'set kit'. Which is really just a fancy word for a medium sized tote bag. I use this one from Monda:
http://www.mondastudio.com/shoulder%20a … p-123.html

It was only $18 and holds everything I could need from a gig. I can easily carry 4 palettes, 8 foundations, setting spray, lashes, primers, lipsticks, etc etc...and still have room. I love this tote so much that I take it to all of my gigs. People are often very impressed by how light I pack, when in all reality I have everything I need just over my shoulder. I really utilize small traveling cases for tiny things like lip balms, eye pencils, etc.

The only other thing that I need to bring is my brush belt, which I usually stock full with obvious extras like powder, tissues, lash glue, etc...for touch ups on set. I am almost always able to find somewhere to work/lay things out: stairs, a bench, etc. However if you're at a total loss I'd just recommend having the model perch or lean against a wall while you work out of your bag.

I'd also say invest in a metal foundation palette for mixing/working off of. Worst case there is always the back of your hand too.

I also agree that water is a must and even a snack or two. I know I get pretty tired when I'm standing up for long periods/outside doing makeup.

Hope that helps! Good luck.

The Monda studio site is pretty great.  Thanks for the share..... R-