As you all know, I am a huge proponent of Carry-on Travel. And part of my success with that involves coming up with creative ways to pack smaller travel-sized products into your luggage while adhering to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid’s rule.
In the past, I have written about using products that can do double-duty and given you things to ditch from your luggage.
Today I wanted to share with you a some places to score travel-sized products. Here are a few of my favorites.
1. Drug stores. The most well-known place, both on-line and in-store, are drug stores with aisles dedicated to just travel-sized products. Hair care, dental care, shaving cream, mini deodorants – the works. My personal favorite is Harmon– they have great prices and really kick travel products up a notch with their selection. You can also try Drugstore.com.
2. Ebay. From truck tires to Jesus-shaped toast, Ebay has it all! Sample and travel products are no exception. If you are a frequent traveler, it may even make sense to buy by the ‘lot’, which is a large collection of products. This can be very cost-effective; just make sure you don’t overbid and watch those shipping charges!
3. Save your samples. Next time you place an on-line order for a full-size product, ask if the company has a sample size to throw in. Some companies, like Sephora and Beautyhabit, let you choose free samples with every order. These samples are worth saving for travel – even if it isn’t a brand or item you usually use. It might even be fun to encourage your family and friends to save theirs as well and organize a fun sample swap.
4. Travel-size only websites. Did you know there are several websites that are dedicated to just travel-sized products? AllTravelSizes.com and CheapTravelSizes.com are two popular options. You can find a wide selection of travel basics and more unique offerings like organic travel products, self-tanning towelettes, baby powder and mini first-aid kits. And if you don’t mind shelling out a pretty penny (or ten), check the new luxury travel-sized product website TravelBeauty.com
5. Beauty counters and hair salons. Pop over to a department store beauty counter next time you’re in the mall. They are a treasure trove of samples, just ask to try what’s new. Also ask your hairdresser for samples. It’s highly likely you’ll score a few if your salon actually sells products, which most do these days.
Interested in switching to carry-on travel, but overwhelmed with how to make it happen? Click here to see how I can help you convert!