Before embarking on a journey abroad, I always ensure to pack a few essential items, with one particular necessity that I find indispensable. Although I assumed it was a common practice, not everyone follows suit, and I can attest that it truly makes a significant difference in feeling rejuvenated after a flight.
Preparing my carry-on bag for a flight or any excursion has developed into a customary routine for me. I meticulously lay out all my items on the bed, distinguishing between essentials and non-essentials to save space. I mentally check off each item on my list before neatly packing them into my bag.
Among my must-have items like noise-cancelling headphones, an eye mask, a reusable water bottle, hydration tablets, and skincare products, my toothbrush and toothpaste hold a special place. Without fail, after every flight, I make it a point to brush my teeth, whether onboard or in the airport restroom, as it is a game-changer for feeling revitalized post-flight. Forgetting to pack it leaves me feeling somewhat off-kilter.
In addition to a basic skincare routine to combat dryness, I firmly believe that brushing your teeth before landing can make you feel like a whole new person. If concerns arise about using tap water on a plane, opting for bottled water in the restroom can easily solve that issue.
While it may not be the most glamorous or sophisticated method of feeling refreshed, this simple act of brushing your teeth can work wonders. It is unsettling to worry about bad breath, especially after a long flight filled with indulgences like G&Ts or red wines, when chewing gum falls short.
Moreover, a compact travel toothbrush takes up minimal space in your carry-on, with convenient options available on platforms like Amazon. Instead of carrying an electric toothbrush, which may be excessive for a flight, a portable bamboo toothbrush that folds into a case is a practical choice, reducing its size by half.
Not only does this design ensure hygiene by keeping the toothbrush clean, but it also transforms into a standard-sized toothbrush by attaching the head to the case. Additionally, the use of bamboo instead of plastic is environmentally friendly.
You can purchase a pack of two portable bamboo toothbrushes from Amazon for £5.99, making them around £3 each. These travel toothbrushes are versatile for various trips, whether it’s a festival, a weekend getaway, or simply having a spare on hand for freshening up. Boots also offers bamboo toothbrushes starting from £3.
To complement the travel toothbrush, I always include a mini tube of toothpaste to save space. While I usually obtain these from my local dentist, they are readily available in many stores, making it effortless to stay refreshed after your flight.