You’ve booked the trip and can’t wait to go. The part you’re dreading? Packing.
Deciding what to bring on your travels is never easy, but choosing what to leave behind can be even tougher. And when it comes to your toiletry kit, things can get even more complicated given the limited space and risk for potential messes.
Thankfully, hotels and vacation rentals typically provide most toiletry basics. And, depending on your travel needs, it can make sense to wait and buy certain products at the airport or your destination.
So, before tossing too many toiletries in a bag, consult this list of items. Chances are, you don’t really need most of them.
In this article
1. Full-Size Over-the-Counter Meds
Bottles of ibuprofen, Pepto-Bismol, and antacids take up valuable space in your dopp kit. Instead, sort a few of each essential into a compact pill organizer before you leave. You'll have everything you need without sacrificing half your bag to bulky bottles. You can do the same with your Rx meds, but it's a good idea to keep copies of your prescriptions with you just in case, especially if you're traveling by air.
2. Your Usual Deodorant
Standard stick deodorant is bulkier than it seems, and full-size versions are tough to fit in a small kit. Try a cream-based formula instead. Travel sizes are roughly the footprint of a mini toothpaste and take up much less space than even a travel-sized stick. Brands like Lume, AKT, and Dove all make cream options that are easy to find on Amazon. If you're not ready to commit to switching your everyday routine, just keep a travel-size cream version dedicated to your kit so it's always ready to go.
3. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must. But, depending on the nature of your trip, you may not need to pack it. Many resorts, for example, offer sunscreen dispensers by the pool or beach entrance. Just make sure to confirm before you travel. The same goes with rental properties, though you may want to check that any sunscreen they provide hasn’t expired.
If neither of these perks are offered, or you’re traveling for a long period of time, another way to free up space is to wait and buy a small sunscreen bottle at the airport or your destination. You can then choose to bring it home or leave it behind for the next guest.
4. Cotton Pads and Buds
Another staple at most vacation rentals and hotels are cotton pads and buds. They’re just not worth stuffing into your toiletry bag.
If they’re not offered at your accommodation, consider whether you really need these items before making a pharmacy run. One beauty pro I know forgoes cotton pads in her skincare routine whether she’s at home or away, and instead gently pats toner into her face with her hands to avoid wasting product. You could also skip a Q-Tip and use a finger, tissue, or makeup brush, to achieve a smokey eye before your night out.
5. Electric Toothbrush
I love my electric toothbrush, but I never bring it on my travels. A standard toothbrush is much less hassle. There’s no bulky case or annoying charging cable to pack. And if you’re flying, a manual toothbrush won’t take up as much space in your carry-on if you feel like freshening up.
If you’ll really miss that deeper clean of an electric toothbrush consider getting a compact, battery-powered version for travel (I’d recommend the Philips One by Sonicare, which I keep in my toiletry kit). These won’t require a case or charging cord—just don’t forget a few backup batteries in your carry-on.
The Shortcut
When packing for a trip, deciding what to leave behind is often the toughest part.
Hotels and vacation rentals typically provide essential toiletries. Other items can be purchased at your destination.
Besides the obvious hotel standards, like shampoo, conditioner, and lotion, this list can help you decide what’s worth taking off your packing list.
