Tiny toiletries seem unavoidable, especially since enforcing the 3-ounce liquids rule. That said, they’re often a huge waste of plastic.
• Just pack your full-sized items. Years ago, I decided I was over decanting my products into tiny little containers—especially if I was checking my bag anyhow.
• Decant your full-sized items. If you really don’t want to make room for larger items, invest in travel-sized, leak-proof containers.
• Rethink your toothpaste. You really can’t put toothpaste back in the tube, and the travel-sized option’s ratio of toothpaste to plastic is abysmal. If you’re not keen on bringing your full-sized paste, would you consider zero-waste toothpaste tablets? Simply chew them up, then brush like normal. Since they aren’t liquid, you can pack ‘em in your carry-on.
• Biodegradable toothbrushes. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they’re stylish to boot!
• Up your makeup remover game. Single-use wipes and cotton rounds make Mother Earth cry off her mascara. Try reusable bamboo makeup remover pads, which can be washed with your laundry. Good for travel or at home.
• Peace out, plastic deodorant container. Not only is Meow Meow Tweet’s adorable deodorant a healthier choice (vegan and no aluminum), but it comes in a biodegradable package.
• Get yourself a shampoo bar. I can barely think of those tiny hotel shampoos and conditioners without cringing at all the plastic (luckily, this is changing!). That’s why I love Lush Cosmetics’ shampoo and conditioner bars. They’re like bars of soap, but for your hair (and are good for 80 washes!). Buy a reusable tin to house it in, and voila! Clean hair and conscience. Bonus: since they’re solid, they don’t count against your carry-on liquids!