SINGAPORE AIRLINES
AVAILABILITY First class (Singapore Airlines doesn't provide kits for business class)
GENDER-SPECIFIC KIT? Male version (female version also available)
CASE Singapore Airlines continues to partner with Salvatore Ferragamo on its premium-cabin amenity kits, although the latest design seems to have taken a step down. The classy black case from 2015 has been replaced by a more subdued grey covering for 2016. Another downside is that the non-waterproof light-grey canvas material stains easily if splashed with water, which rather destroys the impression of a luxe wash bag.
CONTENTS Inside the male-kit, first class passengers will find the same assortment of Acqua Essenziale by Salvatore Ferragamo-branded products as last year’s kit. This includes a rather meagre selection consisting of a cleansing towel, lip balm and after-shave balm (although socks and flip-flops are provided separately, while dental kits are available in the bathroom). The saving grace of the kits is the near full-size (30ml) bottle of cologne, which delivers refreshing top notes of grapefruit, mint and lemon.
UNITED AIRLINES
AVAILABILITY Business First
GENDER-SPECIFIC KIT? Unisex
CASE Top marks go to United for this excellent soft-leather saddlebag case in a buttery caramel colour. The ergonomic design includes a hook on the inside to hang up the wash bag once it's unzipped, and provide easy access to all the products in a cramped environment.
CONTENTS United has always been generous with their amenity kit contents and this is no exception. Along with the standard dental kit, eye mask, and ear plugs, the leather pouch also comes with a pair of socks (with floor grips), facial tissues, a comb, hand sanitizer, mints and a pen – very handy for filling in all those tedious landing documents. Let’s not forget a separate pouch filled with Cowshed amenities, including the amusingly-titled "cow pat" moisturising hand cream and the "lippy cow" lip balm, plus a chamomile towelette.
QANTAS
AVAILABILITY Premium economy
GENDER-SPECIFIC KIT? Unisex
CASE Qantas' premium economy offering is a simple, successful design. The nifty pouch sports a stylish gingham print, in partnership with Aussie lifestyle brand Country Road, and is small enough to tuck into a jacket pocket.
CONTENTS For a small purse, Qantas manages to pack a fair amount in, particularly for a premium economy offering. The contents include a dental kit, pair of socks, and a black and white gingham-printed eye mask as well, to make sure you look stylish as you sleep.
AIR CANADA
AVAILABILITY Business class
GENDER-SPECIFIC KIT Unisex
CASE Air Canada has opted for a woolen, grey herringbone pattern on the outside of its case, which contrasts nicely with the shock or bright red on the interior lining. A hidden magnet makes it very easy to open and close.
CONTENTS Inside, the kit contains a selection of Escents aromatherapy-branded products, including a lime and peppermint flavoured lip balm, hand lotion and a cleansing cloth. Other staples such as a dental kit (with floss), eye mask, socks and earplugs are also contained, along with a mint to keep any morning breath at bay!
Tamsin Cocks