A growing number of brands are releasing fine fragrances in travel-friendly sizes.

One wish consistently made by perfume devotees – the sort who need entire wardrobes to store their collections – is that more brands should release their wares in smaller bottles.

Historically, reasons related to economies of scale have caused fragrance houses to shy away from products below 50ml. But in recent years, thanks in part to hand-luggage restrictions, several companies have added compact formats to collections.

Nick Steward, founder of Gallivant, believes the trend ties into a more general move away from the notion of owning just one “signature” scent. “It’s a recognition that times have moved on – people want to experiment and have a small wardrobe of fragrances for different moods, different moments,” he says. “It does also make perfume a more appropriate gift – it lessens the risk.”

The result of this shift means that today’s travellers can choose from a substantial range of perfumes that don’t have to go into their hold luggage. What’s more, they aren’t too heavy to carry and won’t take up excessive space on the shelf of a hotel bathroom. Here are four travel-friendly recommendations.

FOUR BIJOU SCENTS

Acqua di Parma

Although most of the Italian brand’s scents are available in smaller formats, the Collezione set (£111) is worth singling out, as it contains three 30ml bottles of your choice from the bracing, outdoorsy Blu Mediterraneo range. With its contrast of sugary and citrus notes, a combo of Chinotto di Liguria, Arancia di Capri and the re-released Cipresso di Toscana would work very well. acquadiparma.com

Gallivant

In keeping with the London-based perfume-maker’s globetrotting
ethos, all of its fragrances come only in 30ml bottles (£65 each). Amsterdam is particularly evocative, mixing pepper and saffron with cedar and a curious, compelling tulip note. gallivant-perfumes.com

Wide Society

Designed specifically with travellers in mind, this new French brand offers an Escapade set of three 10ml bottles (€45) and a Weekender collection of six 10ml bottles (€90). Check out Up in the Air, an intoxicating concoction of rum, saffron and birch tar. widesociety.com

Nasomatto

Although this Amsterdam company’s compositions have always been released in relatively small bottles, they have recently emerged in an even more compact form – a set of three 4ml perfume oils (£138). It’s perhaps the most potent way yet in which to experience cult favourite Black Afgano – a distinctive take on smoky resins. nasomatto.com

Words by Persolaise