Thanks to the FAA’s rules and regulations of 3 oz. liquids in carry-on’s many brands have jumped on the bandwagon of travel-sized products. Gone are the days of buying ugly plastic containers to fill with your larger stock at home. And while some drug-store brands still are reliable, your fave shampoo might not be Pantene or Herbal Essences.
Here are some of the best and most cost efficient picks:
Philosophy’s The Travel Agent comes in a clear plastic zippered bag complete with facial cleanser, moisturizer, a 2-in-1 shampoo/body wash, conditioner, and firming body lotion! Now that is for value for $35!
The Go-Smile Jet Set Travel pack claims, “Makes your white smile sparkle on the go. You won’t believe maintaining your pearly whites could be such a blissful sensory experience!” This $12 set comes with an AM and PM toothpaste that contains good-for-you, natural white cranberry extract to help fight gum disease, and of course, a travel toothbrush. Each toothpaste is unique to either refresh or calm you, depending on time of day.
You can rely on Oil of Olay for Daily Facials Express - All Skin Types cleansing cloths ($5 at most drug-stores) for a quick makeup removal or a refresher for when you land at your destination. Also, Jonathon Product Redo Freshen-Up Mist for Hair & Skin To-Go is only $8 at Sephora. “Revitalizing and conditioning Cucumber/Rose Essential Water refreshes slightly dirty, oily hair and vegetable enzyme neutralizes odors and leaves hair smelling clean. Natural extracts like white tea, almond, aloe, and pomegranate condition and add shine. Also can be used to refresh, hydrate, and condition skin. Product is 100 percent vegan and alcohol-free,” according to their packaging.
Face Secrets Makeup Artist’s 5-Piece Brush Kit comes in a sleek silver case which includes: small shading brush, eye contour brush, angled blusher brush, and brow groomer. This must-have kit is $15.99 at Sally Beauty Supply.
The Jilbere de ParisTM Tourmaline Mini Travel Dryer uses negative ions to eliminate frizz and close the cuticle to create smooth shiny hair. For $16.99 this compact dryer has all the amenities of a full-size dryer in a compact and convenient design. Silk Elements Hot N Silky Mini Flat ($22.99) is small but mighty. This flat-iron heats up to 410 degrees and is perfect for short hair, traveling, and quick touch-ups.
Chip your nail polish and need a quick touch-up? The Seche French Manicure Travel Kit is at your rescue. It contains Clear Crystal Clear Base Coat, Porcelain Nail Lacquer, Rose Nail Lacquer, Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat, a nail file, nail edge assist guides, and easy-to-follow trilingual instructions comes neatly packaged in a clear plastic bag. (All products in this kit are compatible for use with acrylics). All this for $12!
Some full-size items are just necessary when flying. It can be more expensive to buy makeup and perfume in smaller sizes. Most cosmetic counters will give samples of their full-size products. The next time you purchase your fave foundation or mascara simply ask if they are willing to give you a sample for when you travel. Some cosmetic counters are more generous than others! (Pssst: Sephora). Also, using smaller brushes/combs seems ridiculous. Please just go ahead and pack your full-size styling brush and comb.
Stay healthy tip for traveling- With flu season upon us, don’t forget some hand sanitizer and Airborne!
(Stephanie Sarto)








