Look your best on the plane and speed through airport security with these miniature kits in your hand luggage
1. Aesop
They say: A selection of unisex travel-sized products from the Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Skin Care range, essential hair and body care formulations and Aesop’s mouthwash, presented in an elegant black microfibre case.
We say: Containing eight hand-luggage-friendly pieces, all lovingly wrapped in a muslin cloth you’ll be reluctant to have to remove them from their snug compartment to a less stylish plastic bag. This is a set for those with a strict beauty regime, comprising a cleanser, toner and moisturiser for the face, cleanser and balm for the body, shampoo and conditioner for the hair, plus mouthwash — for the benefit of travelling companions. Highlights include: the aniseed-infused mouthwash, which is just the right side of nippy; the orange rind body balm,which awakens the senses for breakfast; and the parsley seed and white tea facial hydrator, which is satisfyingly thick yet non-greasy. Both the toner and facial hydrator have antioxidant qualities, perfect for relaunching the morning after the night before.
London Travel Set, £50, Aesop, aesop.com
2. REN
They say: Discover REN’s approach to skincare with a selection of our most popular products for face and body. This kit contains an airport security recommended bag (20cm x 20cm).
We say: This pack of REN’s most popular products comes in eight handy flight-safe bottles and contains everything you might need for a long-haul flight or weekend away. The grapeseed and jojoba extracts in the body wash and cream helps to hydrate and replenish travel-weary skin and smells floral and clean, while the gentle detergent-and soap-free cleanser ensures a fresh face. Keep the nourishing lip balm and moisturiser in your hand luggage to counteract the effects of in-flight air con and re-energise your skin.
Grab and Go kit, £20, REN, renskincare.com
3. Dr Hauschka
They say: Our limited edition kit is full of our four best-selling, everyday skincare favourites, in handy cabin-approved 30ml travel size versions and presented in a transparent reusable bag. Products were specially selected for practical daily skincare needs and includes a full size rose day cream 30ml along with travel sizes of our cleansing cream, facial toner and kydrating hand cream (all 30ml). So wherever you choose to travel you will have your Dr Hauschka products close to hand in carry on luggage or your overnight bag. The products in this kit are more suitable to those who have normal, dry and sensitive skin types.
We say: At 30ml, Dr Hauschka’s travel-size bottles are generous and, though small, don’t feel disposable. You’ll have more than enough for even a two-week trip. It’s a greatest hits of the range: a cleanser that gently exfoliates and smooths, a refreshing spritz-toner, rose day cream (this is a full size product, even better), hand cream and lip balm. Handily, this is also a skincare system in itself: the products are designed to work together and fill all the gaps in your routine, so you shouldn’t find yourself packing any extra skincare (apart from an eye cream, perhaps). And because of their rich, organic formulations, a little of each goes a long way. They’re perfect for sun, wind or plane-dried skin. In fact, it’s highly likely that these products will find their way out of your travel bag and into your daily regime when you’re home again.
Limited Edition Daily Skincare Travel Kit, £44, Dr Hauschka, dr.hauschka.com
4. Diptyque
They say: The Art of Body Care line takes you on a sensual, luxurious and elegant journey from the Mediterranean to the gates of the East . . . perfect for your next journey.
We say: This kit is the perfect top-up to the basics that hotels supply. It acts as a luxurious finishing pack rather than the whole shebang, with three moisturising lotions — the fresh body lotion, smoothing body polish and luxurious hand balm. There is also a wonderfully transportative shower gel which could easily double as a hand wash. Presented in the Diptyque house style, this pretty parcel would work just as well as a gift, or a set of handbag or desk essentials.
The Art of Body Collection, £40, Diptyque,diptyqueparis.co.uk
5. Aesop
They say: A selection of unisex travel-sized products from the Parsley Seed Anti-Oxidant Skin Care range, essential hair and body care formulations and Aesop’s mouthwash, presented in an elegant black microfibre case.
We say: Containing eight hand-luggage-friendly pieces, all lovingly wrapped in a muslin cloth you’ll be reluctant to have to remove them from their snug compartment to a less stylish plastic bag. This is a set for those with a strict beauty regime, comprising a cleanser, toner and moisturiser for the face, cleanser and balm for the body, shampoo and conditioner for the hair, plus mouthwash — for the benefit of travelling companions. Highlights include: the aniseed-infused mouthwash, which is just the right side of nippy; the orange rind body balm,which awakens the senses for breakfast; and the parsley seed and white tea facial hydrator, which is satisfyingly thick yet non-greasy. Both the toner and facial hydrator have antioxidant qualities, perfect for relaunching the morning after the night before.
London Travel Set, £50, Aesop, aesop.com
5. Ila
They say: Rich in the purest rose damascene otto and argan oil, they work together to fight wrinkles, help cells regenerate, and leave facial skin glowing with radiance. Comprising a selection of deluxe-sized samples, our little treat bags are tantalising gifts of natural and ethical goodness for face and body: the perfect introduction to the energy — and benefits — of Ila.
We say: Although the price tag is pretty steep for five travel-sized bottles, the potions inside will last longer than a two, or even three-week jaunt. The reason for the expense is the quality of essential oils used. There’s ethically-sourced argan and rose otto oil, green clay powder and aloe vera — the natural, unrefined smell of which will call to mind a luxurious Budapestian spa even if you are holidaying in Blighty. Be aware that essential oils can be harsh on sensitive skin and should be avoided during pregnancy, so buy with caution if you fall into either category. While the glowing oil feels like a real treat and can be used on top of make-up to highlight eyelids and cheeks, the day cream is the hero product. It’s lovely and thick, which feels nourishing on hot, suntanned skin, and sinks in quickly to provide a smooth base so you can forgo foundation.
Little Face Treats, £60, Ila, ila-spa.com
