by Kelly Knox

Tired of watching the airport security guard throw your precious beauty products in the trash? Always keep in mind the 3-1-1 rule. Airport regulations allow each passenger to carry on 3 bottles holding 4 ounces or less, 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic bag to hold your bottles and 1 plastic bag per passenger. As big of a bummer as this regulation may be, it is not going anywhere. Here’s how to make the best of it:

Buy travel-sized products at web sites such as Nordstrom.com or Sephora.com. Some really great companies with amazing product lines often carry travel-sized kits including all the essentials from face wash to body lotion to conditioners. For example, Philosophy has a handy kit that covers all the bases.

If you like the products you have but can’t find them in travel size, MYTAGALONGS clear, airless-pump, refillable bottles are the perfect solution for you. Not only do you fill these made-for-air-travel bottles with your own products, but they come with a color coded labeling system to remind you of which product is in each bottle. This will save you from washing your face with conditioner!

No time for ordering travel sizes of your favorite product? No problem. Samples from cosmetic counters at department stores are your new best friend. All counters offer samples in most products and they love to give them out to customers like you! If you have a favorite line, rush to their counter. Ask the rep for a sample of face wash, toner, moisturizer and any other product you’ve been dying to try. Don’t be afraid to mention that you’re traveling. Chances are they will take good care of you. This may also be an opportunity to try a line you have been interested in but haven’t had the time to sample. Make sure you consult the representative before choosing your samples. You want to avoid the risk of breakouts from new products on your vacation.

Also, don’t forget to downsize. Thinking smaller will help cut down on the weight of your bag and give you more room for other essential items. Also, if you do bring products with a tendency to leak or stain, like self-tanners, always double wrap them with plastic wrap. You can also put a film of plastic wrap over the opening of your shampoo and conditioner bottles, preventing them from leaking as well.

Most importantly, enjoy your vacation! Celebrate this wonderful time with your family and let beauty take the backseat for a week.

Traveling Healthy: The Essential Medical Kit for Families

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