Pack light, groom right: Men’s travel essentials

Most men tend to fall into two categories when packing for a trip. Either they throw everything they own into an oversized suitcase for just a weekend getaway, or they pack the absolute bare minimum and gamble that their destination will have everything they may want or need when they arrive. Thankfully, there is a third option that allows for packing everything that may be needed without going completely overboard.

From go-to haircare products that give the perfect ‘just rolled out of bed’ look and good quality SPF sunscreen to protect the skin from the harsh afternoon sunshine to reliable beard trimmers that keep appearances groomed and polished, it’s not necessary to pack the entire bathroom cupboard to stay well-prepared while traveling.

Toothbrush & toothpaste

Toothbrushes and toothpaste are likely among the first items to be packed in a toiletry bag. Many people prefer the ease and effectiveness of an electric toothbrush, yet a regular manual option saves both space and weight and eliminates any concern of damage or breakage while traveling.

Instead of cramming a toothbrush into the bottom of a toiletry bag, where the bristles can catch various particles, it is advisable to purchase a travel-safe protective shell to keep the toothbrush sterile and clean between uses. Additionally, for the length of the trip, a complete family-size toothpaste may be somewhat excessive, hence opting for a travel-sized version is more practical.

Razor

If shaving is a regular part of one’s daily routine, a favorite razor is likely turned to time and time again. For most airlines, razor blades are not allowed within the cabin, so it’s important to factor this into packing and ensure all blades are stored in hold luggage.

However, for those traveling only with hand luggage, a cartridge razor with inbuilt blades is permitted. Regardless of the preferred travel accessories, packing extra blades is recommended to ensure a clean shave throughout the vacation, as well as any cleaning tools and charging cables or ports needed for electric razors and beard trimmers.

 

Shaving cream

 

When planning to travel light, pressurised shaving foam cans cannot be packed into hand luggage; instead, opting for a gel, soap, or cream alternative is advisable. Shaving brushes tend to apply products the best, ensuring the skin feels moisturised and protected, resulting in a smoother and softer shave. However, if one does not own a shaving brush or prefers to leave it at home, choosing a shaving gel specifically designed for sensitive skin is recommended. These gels typically contain ingredients that improve moisture and lubrication to soothe and protect travel-weary skin.

 

Multi-purpose moisturiser

 

When packing for a trip of any kind, finding ways to reduce the amount of products necessary to take along is the name of the game. Toiletries not only take up precious space but are usually quite heavy and quickly push the luggage over the allotted travel weight, especially for cabin luggage. The key is to select multi-purpose products, like high-quality moisturisers that double as effective aftershave balms. Choosing a lotion that is lightweight and quickly absorbed is advisable, providing plenty of much-needed hydration without leaving an unwanted, sticky residue on the skin.

Haircare

Even on the most relaxed holidays, bed hair is never a good look. But while the products at home may be enough to last for years to come, it is unnecessary to pack every product in the arsenal while traveling. Instead, selecting one or two products that are regularly turned to and looking for travel-size options to pack into a toiletry bag is advisable. Hair wax or gel and a decent hairbrush are often more than enough to carry through a trip.

Skincare

Individuals suffering from sensitive skin or adhering to a set skincare routine understand the risks of trying new and unfamiliar facial products while on vacation. To avoid inconvenience, packing a bottle of preferred face wash ensures the skin remains in top condition, especially when spending significant time outdoors in the sunshine, hiking through wilderness, swimming in oceans or lakes, or exploring big cities.

Furthermore, reliance on the holiday destination to provide necessary sunscreen to combat harmful UV rays and prevent sunburn is not advisable. Including a high-SPF, waterproof sunscreen that is suitable for both face and body is essential for skin protection while engaging in outdoor activities during the day.

Mess prevention

There are very few things worse than arriving at a vacation destination, opening luggage, and discovering that toiletries have exploded over everything inside. Taking a small amount of prevention regarding liquid products when packing a bag can make a world of difference.

All liquid bottles should be placed in small zip-lock bags, which will go a long way in managing any mess should the bottle break or leak at any point during travel. Alternatively, removing the lid, covering the opening with a piece of plastic wrap, and screwing the top back on creates a secure seal. However, this method will be difficult to replicate on the return trip unless the plastic wrap is salvaged for reuse.

Skipping the plastic altogether and instead using Teflon tape to wrap around the lid and other areas where liquid may escape while under pressure is another solution. Packing a small roll of tape in luggage allows for repeating the process before returning home.

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