subject: Be Eco Aware: Holiday Toiletry Tips [print this page] Be Eco Aware: Holiday Toiletry Tips Be Eco Aware: Holiday Toiletry Tips
Whether off on an August beach break or for action-packed winter sports madness, taking the right personal care items could mean the difference between a fun-filled comfortable holiday, and a grubby, unfamiliar experience.
Research
A little local knowledge can be a wonderful thing. Take into account to cleaning habits of a destination. For example, in Japan the norm is NOT to use anti-perspirant, but to blot excess sweat with scented tissues. Occasionally, international hotel toiletries include anti-perspirant, but for the most part it's impossible to track down. Check local tourist guides for information.
Taking Toiletries
The top reason for taking EVERYTHING that could possibly be needed in a toiletry emergency is the simple fear that a person won't be able to find something they REALLY need when abroad. Perhaps, before packing everything and the bathroom sink, it might be worth whittling down the essentials and then whittling down again.
For those true essentials, opt for re-usable, travel-size containers. Travelling on a budget? Leave empty containers (clean) in hostels for other guests to use.
Sourcing Locally
The fact is that most holiday destinations cater for the likes of hair washing, shaving, make-up and so on. The price of sourcing locally (including hotel toiletries) could mean sidestepping norms, but on a deserved break how much can that really matter?
For those on a budget, hotel and hostel bathroom vending machines are gold mines! Bathroom vending machines might be the absolute worst to some, but for those prepared to go down the easy, budget toiletry route they can be a godsend.
Essentials and Medicines
A couple of week's supply of contact lenses or medicines should be easy to stow efficiently. For those travelling over a longer period of time, having contact lenses posted to somewhere like a hostel periodically can be a great relief!
