Long time readers know that I've been a vocal opponent of the TSA's requirement that all carry-on liquids not exceed 3 fluid ounces and be placed in a quart-sized ZipLock bag. I strongly suspect that the only fans of this rule are the folks who manufacture those darn plastic bags. Yes, I appreciate the TSA's ongoing efforts to keep us safe but if they can't tell the difference between Chanel No. 5 and a weapon, we are in serious trouble - mascara is not the enemy!
In a travel era of exorbitant checked baggage fees and plastic baggies, deciding what toiletries to bring on a trip can pose a real dilemma for even the most seasoned traveler. Here are five products that deliver great results and won't take up any space in your ZipLock. Fly pretty!
Pacifica Wanderlust Collection Solid Perfume Trio ($15 at Sephora) - These snazzy solid fragrances are an affordable and practical way to bring scent with you on your journeys. Formulated from organic soy and coconut wax, the lush fragrances included in the Wanderlust Collection are Tuscan Blood Orange, Indian Coconut Nectar, and Tahitian Gardenia.
Oscar Blandi Pronto Dry Shampoo Powder ($11 at 3FlOZ.com) - Refresh your coif on a short trip with the dry shampoo that was voted "Best Dry Shampoo" and "Best Quick Fix" by Allure Magazine. No water or blow dryer necessary - just massage the powdery potion into your scalp, brush, and restyle. In just a few minutes your tresses will look freshly washed and have a lovely scent of lemon verbena.
PUR Minerals 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup Foundation with SPF 15 ($25 at PURMinerals.com) - I really have been trying to get on board with the loose mineral powder trend. While I do like some of the products, I find those little jars of powder messy and utterly inconvenient for touch-ups. Who wants to pull out a jar when you want to discreetly powder your nose? Every so often I cheat, but I find myself coming back to PUR. This very portable solid mineral powder is gentle on sensitive skin, offers AMAZING coverage (no extra concealer needed), has sunscreen, and seems much more expensive than $25. However, I do highly recommend investing in the Chisel Makeup Brush ($23) for a flawless application and using the enclosed facial sponge for touch-ups. I'm not the only one who loves PUR - it is an Allure Editor's Choice. Available in shades from Porcelain to Deepest.
Garnier Nutrioniste Nutri-Pure Detoxifying Wet Cleansing Towelettes ($6.49 at Drugstore.com) - I am crazy about these facial wipes. Enriched with Vitamins E & B5 and Green Leaf Extract, these freshly fragranced towelettes are non-comedogenic and thoroughly cleanse the skin. They are perfect for removing makeup or when you need a quick refresh on the road.
Caswell-Massey Cool Cucumber Eye Pads ($7 at CaswellMassey.com) - Nothing gives away a weary traveler like puffy eyes and dark circles. Pre-moistened with soothing cucumber juice, aloe vera, and green tea, these anti-oxidant rich pads are printed to look like real slices of cucumber. Founded in 1752 in Rhode Island, Caswell-Massey is older than the USA and the country's oldest operarating retailer - clearly they know what they are doing!
