Mid-year escape

As I look out the window at the cold and grey weather, its hard to ignore the Last Minute and Scoop On deals in my email screaming ‘Book me! Book me!’. Because right now I wouldn’t mind jetting off to lie on a beach somewhere instead of stuck inside with nothing but a hot shower to look forward to.

But for you lucky lads and lasses who have planned a mid-year escape this winter, I do have some wisdom to bestow on you before you depart. I am a packing perfectionist, who majors in toiletries. So grab a pen and sit up straight because you’re about to be get a crash course in pre-departure prep and packing.

Fake tan

If you’re about to trade in your trackies for tank tops, some serious tanning needs to be tended to. Unless of course you enjoy being mistaken as a Twilight character. I like to tan twice during the week before departure to achieve a natural ready-for-the-beach glow. St Tropez Foaming Mouse is perfect for quick and easy application with a non-streaky finish. Pack this one in your bag for touch-ups if you plan on staying sun safe too.

Sunscreen

Speaking of sun safe, don’t forget to pack the sunscreen! There’s nothing like red sore sunburn to ruin a day at the beach or the snow. The Cancer Council SPF 50 + Sport Sunscreen is perfect to slap on before that bike ride across the pier or an early morning ski. If you like staying active and making the most of your holiday this sunscreen is the one for you.

Dry shampoo

Let’s face it, washing your hair isn’t on the top of the priority list when you’re overseas. You probably have much better things to do, like visiting the Eiffel Tower or drinking Guinness with the locals in Ireland. Dry shampoo is a lifesaver when you’re stuck on a 20-hour flight or the hot water in the hostel isn’t working. There’s nothing worse than looking back at your travel photos and you’re nothing but a grease ball. Batiste Dry Shampoo will keep your hair looking fresh and clean with minimal effort, not to mention it also comes in a handy travel size. More room for shopping!

Shower essentials

Dry shampoo and swimming in the ocean may be enough to get you through a few days but eventually you’re going to have to shower. Instead of taking up unnecessary room in your suitcase with full size shampoo bottles (which you only end up using half of anyway), opt for handy mini sized ones. Sanctum travel essentials pack ($5.95, http://www.sanctumaustralia.com/pure-products/essential-packs/travel-essentials.html) contains a mini shampoo, conditioner and body spa and at only 30ml each, you can even take them in your carry on.

Skin

It’s so easy to forget about your skin when you’re on holiday and there’s white sand, cocktails and topless foreign men running around distracting… where was I again? Oh right, skin! It’s just as important overseas as it is at home, but instead of packing your entire medicine cabinet full of products you may want to swap them for a smaller, handier pack. ASAP travel pack contains a daily exfoliating facial scrub, facial cleanser and SPF moisturiser to keep your face fresh and free of blemishes while you frolic around France.

Facial cleansing wipes

Usually reserved for removing make-up when you’re too lazy to cleanse, facial wipes are my hero when travelling overseas. They’re great for refreshing your face after a long flight or when going straight from the beach to dinner. I find that my skin tends to become oilier in a humid climate so they’re also great for a quick cleanse during the day. I prefer to use unscented wipes and Swisspers Unscented Facial Cleansing Wipes are great value and gentle on my skin. They’ll also take up minimal room in your suitcase, although these babies usually have a prime spot in my carry on because they’re one toiletry that doesn’t count as a liquid, win!

Are you about to embark on a mid year escape? What are you travel must-haves?