A basic medical health kit is important no matter where you travel. Some medications may not always be readily available in other countries or may be different from those available in North America. A good list of items you absolutely need to take with you, the essential toiletries kit.
The Basics
Hair Cleanser and Conditioner: In other words, you need a shampoo and conditioner of sorts for your hair. If too many liquids make you worry, look into a solid shampoo bar. Dry shampoo might also be a good addition that can help you cut back on the amount of liquid shampoo you bring. Take just what you need in order to conserve space and weight.
Body Wash: We recommend going with a bar soap, like Dove, in order to clean that travel grime off from time to time — and to cut back on liquids. If space is a worry, try packing a normal sized bar in half instead of paying more for those special travel size bars in the shops.
Facial Moisturizer: Every lady needs a facial moisturizer of some kind. For extra bonus points, get one with SPF sun-screen built-in since you will more than likely be spending more time in the sun on your travels. Try to go with a moisturizer that you can use both day and night.
Face Wash: Bring along your favourite facial wash or acne cleanser. With new diets, changes in sleep patterns and more public transportation use, breakouts are sure to happen when you travel. Keep them at a minimum by keeping your face clean. Depending on your skin type, a facial wipe might be a good option.
Toothbrush: This is a no-brainer! If you want to go minimal, go for a brush that is travel sized, or one that folds in half.
Toothpaste: Just like the brush, paste keeps you fresh and clean. Go with travel size tubes, or try something different like toothpaste sachets or toothpaste tablets. Check its expired date! Toothpaste can be used for emergency Disinfect Wounds and Prevent Infection. Read more here >>
Floss: Floss is a must-pack. Not only is it vital to your oral health, it can also function as string in a pinch to sew up holes and tie bits and bobs together.
Razor or Shaving Machine: If you can handle going a few days without shaving, perhaps waiting to buy a disposable razor until you arrive is an option. Or, get a good wax before leaving home and ditch the razor if you can. Don’t forget the charger for shaving machine!
Deodorant: Go for the solid kind in order to cut back on your liquids. If you want something that lasts several months, the crystal deodorants will do the trick.
Q-tips and Cotton Pads: For cleaning your ears and removing makeup or dirt. Just put a handful in a ziplock bag before putting in your toiletries kit.
Baby Wipes: Take travel package of baby wipes, even if you don’t have a baby. Put in a Ziploc bag and take on a trip with you – they will stay wet in a sealed bag. Use it for:
- Remove makeup from hands
- Clean shoes
- Wipe dust
- Clean computer keyboard
- Emergency spills
- Clean windshield.
- Disinfect bathroom
- Use as a dishcloth
- Shine bathroom fixtures and wipe counters
- Freshen yourself up without leaving your airplane seat
The Extras
Hair Items: Leave-in conditioners, hair oils, hair sprays and dry shampoos.
Skin Items: Body lotions, cuticle creams and body sprays.