Health and hygiene checklist: what to pack in your travel toiletry bag

Skin and hand hygiene

An intensive facial moisturizer and nourishing lip balm in travel format help contain the water loss of skin due to dry cabin air; to stay within the rules, the 100 ml rule with a total of one liter per passenger still applies at most airports, although an increasing number of airports with CT scanners (among Italian ones Fiumicino, Linate, Malpensa T1, Bologna, and Turin) already allows larger quantities on dedicated lanes. A sanitizing gel and disinfecting wipes for the tray table and armrests complete the kit, useful because those surfaces are cleaned between flights often with very short times.

Mucous membranes, eyes, and breathing

A saline nasal spray helps prevent mucous membrane irritation due to low humidity, while eye drops are particularly useful for those who wear contact lenses or have eyes sensitive to dryness. A toothbrush and solid toothpaste to use after meals or before landing have an immediate effect on the sensation of freshness, even on a short flight.

Rest and sensory isolation

Silicone ear plugs and a sleep mask facilitate sleep even in crowded and noisy cabins, and weigh only a few grams in your beauty case. Keeping them together with other products in a dedicated clear case allows you to pass security more quickly and access them without having to reopen your entire carry-on.

The most effective gesture remains applying moisturizer and lip balm as soon as you board, before skin starts to dry out, rather than mid-flight when the effect of dry air is already evident.