MAKEUP KITS

Makeup kits provide a wonderful way for the female traveler to scale back on toiletries.  Unfortunately they are not always obtainable. Most cruise ships carry them and they are usually available at department stores during the Christmas holidays.  I now use my Clinique kit everyday.  It comes with 5 lipsticks, 4 eye shadows, black mascara, blush and powder. With a small size of my favorite liquid foundation (3 oz or less), eye liner and makeup remover pads, I’m ready to go.  Lancome makes a good kit, too.  I find their lipstick a little on the weak side but they include an eye pencil.  Many of the major makeup companies have these wonderful travel packs so check them out at your favorite department stores or online. Amazon.com lists the Shany Deluxe Makeup Kit for $25.00 with favorable reviews. Regardless of where you find them, makeup kits are well worth it.   

PACK A HAT

When packing light you don't want to forget to pack a hat. Protecting your head and face from the elements has become a major health and beauty precaution today. My mother packs about eight or nine hats when she travels, but that's another issue all together. She really could get away with one hat, especially if that hat happens to be a reversible one like the one above (the opposite side is black). With a couple of scarfs or ribbons, a few silk flowers and some safety pins, she could have a variety of different looks. If you happen to choose a hat that could get smashed in your suitcase, don't pack it, wear it.  That's what it is meant for anyway!