What’s in your travel toiletry bag? A recent peek inside one frequent flyer’s bag revealed a sad-looking toothbrush, a huge can of shaving foam, a razor, shampoo, conditioner and soap (courtesy of a recent hotel stay), a shoe polishing kit (the hotel again) and an aftershave balm that was a Christmas present in 2002. This devil-may-care attitude to grooming on the move may be low-maintenance, but it’s not going to make you look good or even feel good. In fact it is more “worn-out traveller” than “stylish business traveller”. And yet an essential travel kit doesn’t have to be complicated or heavy to haul around. All it takes is some smart mini-versions of quality products, plus a selection of travel extras that can deliver great results. Here we present Business Traveller’s top 10 must-haves while on the move.
1. The high-spec moisturiser
Lab Series Daily Moisture Defense Lotion SPF15, 50ml
A lightweight skin-conditioning lotion with solar-activated protection from UV rays, smoke and pollution. Instantly makes your skin feel fresher and healthier.
Price £25.
Stockists +44 (0)870 034 2566, mankind.co.uk.
2. Shave with care
Liz Earle Naturally Active Sensitive Shave Cream, 100ml
Botanical extracts such as shave grass — traditionally used on wounds to stop bleeding — and essential oils give a close shave with no irritation, even for the most sensitive skin.
Price £9.50.
Stockists +44 (0)1983 813 913, naturallyactive.co.uk.
3. The multi-tasker
Charles Worthington Results for Men Hair & Body Wash, 250ml
Hair and skin attract and react to dirt in a similar way, so a dual-purpose product is ideal when travelling. This cleanses and leaves a fresh, invigorating fragrance.
Price £4.49.
Stockists +44 (0)845 070 8090, boots.com, charlesworthington.com, Boots stores nationwide.
4. One great eau de toilette
L’Occitane en Provence Eau de Baux, 100ml
Unusual and really quite fabulous, with top notes of baies roses and cardamom, built around Provencal cypress, incense and warm vanilla. Lingering and very moreish.
Price £26.
Stockists +44 (0)20 7907 0301, loccitane.co.uk.
5. A little freshness
Nivea Deodorant Deo Compact, 20ml
Clever, space-saving mini-spray of anti-perspirant deodorant. Two squirts under each arm and you’re set for 24-hour protection. Subtle masculine scent.
Price £2.59.
Stockists Stocked in all good chemists and supermarkets nationwide, or visit nivea.com.
6. Something to help you de-stress
Origins Sensory Therapy Peace of Mind On-the-Spot Relief
A blend of basil, peppermint and eucalyptus, which you dab on pulse points such as your wrists and temples, or massage over your neck. Breathe deeply and feel the pressure ease.
Price £10.
Stockists +44 (0)800 731 4039, origins.co.uk.
7. A well-earned treat
Molton Brown Thermal Salts Muscle Soak, 300g
Mineral-rich salts and linden tree extract help to relax the nervous system, soothe away the pressures of the day and aid sleep. Dissolve in a warm bath.
Price £15.
Stockists +44 (0)808 178 1188, moltonbrown.co.uk.
8. Emergency eye lift
Estée Lauder Perfectionist Power Correcting Patch for Deeper Eye Lines/Wrinkles
Both men and women will feel the benefit of this brilliant eye mask. It emits a small micro-current, which releases the active ingredients that stimulate the skin’s natural collagen production. Gives visible results in 20 minutes.
Price £38 for three pairs.
Stockists +44 (0)870 034 2566, esteelauder.co.uk.
9. Emergency skin soother
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, 50ml
Dry lips, chafed skin, cracked hardened heels, rough cuticles, red, itchy patches of skin — this works wonders on the lot. Use a tiny amount and see the benefits.
Price £19.
Stockists +44 (0)20 7574 2722.
10. Healthy socks
Scholl Flight Socks
As a regular traveller you’ll be aware of the risks of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) — these socks are proven to help prevent DVT, so keep a pair in your holdall — just remember to slip them on when you step on board a flight.
Price £12.99.
Stockists +44 (0)800 074 2040, schollflightsocks.co.uk.
