The first time I traveled without checking a bag, I was going to Hawaii, and the prospect of spending a week in 100-percent humidity without my favorite hair products was beyond stressful. Fast forward five years later, and I can successfully pack for a 10-day trip to Italy in only a carry-on -- but it takes some meticulous planning. TSA rules don't make jet-setting easy for those of us who think "packing light" means shampoo, conditioner, hair serum, face wash, moisturizer, eye cream … you get the idea.
Fortunately, TSA regulations have spawned an entire industry of 3-ounce products. There's even a website -- 3FLOZ.com -- dedicated to nothing but your favorites in miniature.
So instead of syphoning your beauty products into tiny unmarked bottles, I recommend picking up one of these travel-sized kits or a selection of minis. From frizz-fighters to glamorous body washes, I promise you'll find everything you need -- no checking required.
Air Repair products were developed by esthetician Denise Spanek to address what happens to your skin when you travel -- things like flight fatigue and reactions to changes in climate, which can prematurely age skin. This set features five of Air Repair's essential products that keep skin feeling fresh even when you're trapped in a moisture-sucking airplane cabin. The face wash, moisturizer and eye cream are incredibly hydrating, while the facial mist refreshes and the skin salve can be used anywhere on the body. Best of all: The products are gentle enough for all skin types (even sensitive!) and are free of petroleum, parabens and mineral oil.
My hair behaves completely differently when I'm home in California versus when I go to Oregon to visit family. That's why I love this kit from Oribe -- it comes with seven dual packets of shampoo, conditioner and masques that cater to every hair concern, so I can choose what my hair needs depending on its mood. And the packets eliminate bulky, plastic containers, which is helpful when you're trying to shove all your liquids in a quart-sized bag.
Some people like to forego makeup when on vacation … and then there's the rest of us. Sonia Kashuk Deluxe Travel Brush Set comes with eight soft, essential brushes -- a powder brush, foundation brush, brow groomer, lip brush and four different eye shadow brushes -- so you can create virtually any look you want, from smoky eyes to natural makeup. The hard case consolidates the brushes into one small space (more room for shoes!) and protects them from getting squished so they retain their shape.
Increased oxygen in the plane cabin doesn't just leave your skin dried out -- it also sucks the moisture out of your hair, leaving it brittle and frizzy. That's why I always pack a travel-size shampoo specially formulated to give your hair an extra boost of moisture. The Nexxus Therappe Luxurious Moisturizing Shampoo Humectress Ultimate Moisturizing Conditioner come in TSA-approved sizes, but there's enough product to get you through a long trip. The combo will keep your hair soft, shiny and healthy, wherever your travels take you.
