Toiletries
My toiletry bag isn’t huge, but it’s doing the most, just like me. I’ve slowly swapped out as many single-use items as possible for things that are refillable, reusable, or lower-waste. It’s taken time to find what works for me, and I’m still testing new things all the time.
Bamboo Basics:
I use a bamboo toothbrush and matching case (souvenir from Japan), plus recyclable toothpaste from David’s in a metal tube. Still haven’t found a toothpaste tablet I love, open to recommendations!
Bars Over Bottles:
Most of my routine is solid now: shampoo bar, conditioner bar, shave soap, and soap soap. I keep them all in repurposed tins (from gifts, old electronics, even tea) so nothing gets soggy or gross. Still keep a couple small bottles around for things like hair oil, but I try to keep it minimal.
Skin & Scent Staples:
Deodorant in a paper tube
Reef-safe sunscreen (yes, it leaves a little white cast, but I deal)
Moisturizer (small jar or reusable container)
Bug bite balm & lip balm in tins
Travel-size perfume I refill from a full bottle (I love Dossier for this)
Makeup Situation:
Super minimal: just mascara, eyeliner, and concealer. I’ve been using the same glass tube of foundation forever (thanks Mom). When it runs out, I refill or replace selectively, same with my eyeshadow palettes. I also reuse mascara brushes for my brows. No sustainable holy grail items yet, but I’m hunting.
On-the-Go Refreshers:
Non-alcoholic antibacterial wipes
Bamboo oil blotting sheets
Lip scrub in a tiny tin (makes me feel human after long flights)
Brushes:
Wooden everything—hair, nails, makeup. I’ve had most of them for years. Still going strong.
I’m not perfect, and I’m not trying to be. I just like finding things that work for me, for the planet, and for my sanity when I’m trying to zip a carry-on shut. Some of these swaps took years to stick, some were easy wins, and some I’m still figuring out. But I share them so you can skip the trial-and-error part (or at least complain about it with someone who gets it). Try what fits, ditch what doesn’t, and let me know if you’ve found your own holy grail products. Sharing is caring, even if it’s just about something as simple as a swap for moisturizer.
