Keep a Travel Toiletry/Cosmetics Bag Packed, Just in Case

It's a good idea to keep a bag packed with toiletry essentials, to minimize packing time, especially if you travel frequently or anticipate you might have to spend a night or two away from home. Replenish the bag with trial-sizes (single-use pouches) of products whenever you get free samples. Store it in your overnight bag or the "family essentials back-pack" everyone is supposed to have in the closet near the front door in case of emergency evacuation. Include:

• Pre-moistened towelettes in a recloseable packet (I like Ponds, for both cleansing & make-up removal)
• antiperspirant
• Q-tips
• travel toothbrush/toothpaste/floss/retainer or denture cleansing tab
• hand sanitizer 30 ml size
• sunscreen
• moisturizer
• lip balm
• razor/shave cream
• band-aids
• sample-sized packets of moisturizer/cleanser/shampoo/conditioner
• sanitary supplies (tampon, pad)
• medicine you frequently use (e.g. acetaminophen/allergy meds/pepto-bismol)
• nail file/clippers
• make-up basics (optional): trial-sized mascara, eyeliner, lipgloss
• Swiss army knife
• an energy or fruit bar