Pack small size toiletries
Obey the new security restrictions
There are restrictions on the quantity of liquids that can be taken through security control and these include all liquids and creams so apply to most toiletries.
Passengers may carry small quantities of liquids, but only within separate containers each of which have a capacity not greater than 100ml. These containers must be brought to the airport contained in a single, transparent, re-sealable plastic bag, which itself must not exceed 1 litre in capacity (approximately 20cm x 20cm). The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the bag must be sealed. Each passenger may carry only one such bag of liquids. Any containers larger than 100ml (excluding essential medicines) will NOT be allowed through the security search point.
Seriously, start by buying or keeping small containers. If you are travelling light, don’t carry more than you need for the trip anyway so decant that favourite shampoo into a bottle that holds about enough for this trip and no more. If you are staying in reasonable hotels, do consider using the toiletries provided – most hotels now provide at least shampoo and soap. OK, I know that I prefer my own brand of shampoo, so I keep one of the small bottles provided by the hotel and refill it from that large bottle at home. As a minimum do buy the smallest size that you can for taking with you (this applies especially to toothpaste – I know I buy the largest tube for home use but I also buy the smallest tube for travelling). Many stores often do small sizes of their products and make-up counters sometimes offer samples in small containers.
My minimum kit includes a small bottle of shampoo, folding hair brush, miniature bottles of cleanser and moisturiser (samples from a makeup counter now refilled) or cleansing pads, small tube of toothpaste and folding toothbrush, a small stick deodorant (not liquid) and a small bottle of shower gel. For hot climates I also need small bottles of talc and sun cream. Insect repellent etc. is listed under first aid below.
If you have to take your own towel, consider getting one of the high absorbency travel towels. It’s the only size suitable for fitting in a carry-on if you want to pack clothes as well.