Page 3 | I’ve got all these holiday toiletries but still somehow have nothing!

everylittlethingis · 2026-08-03T11:42:23+00:00

I go away in three weeks. I like to take everything away with me because the last thing I want to be doing is running to a pharmacy to grab paracetamol or something. I have somehow accumulated all of this during the last couple of months but also somehow have nothing. No meds or anything like that. Both airports have the 2L rule as opposed to the 100ml. AIBU to still feel entirely lost?!

Imightbeinthewronghere · 04/08/2026 10:43

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:30

Unlikely but not impossible. On my last solo trip I ended up with Covid and spent most of the week in bed - if id not had things like cold and flu tablets, electrolytes and the like I’d have been stuffed!

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In what way would you have been stuffed?

Imightbeinthewronghere · 04/08/2026 10:41

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:30

Unlikely but not impossible. On my last solo trip I ended up with Covid and spent most of the week in bed - if id not had things like cold and flu tablets, electrolytes and the like I’d have been stuffed!

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You do not need electrolytes!

The cold and flu tablets you're obsessed with do not cure anything, they alleviate the symptoms!

Justthethingsthatyoudointhisgarden · 04/08/2026 09:54

Wtaf?

Annocrates · 04/08/2026 09:24

iamnotalemon · 04/08/2026 04:07

Does the 100ml rule still apply? How did you fit all those liquids in one little bag?

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I flew from an airport with no 100ml restrictions but as I used most of the items up, the rest fit easily in the 100ml clear bag on the way back. The vast majority of what I packed was mini/travel size or half empty/running out products. All of this fit into two large cosmetic pouches that I ended up filling with Italian food on the way back 🤷‍♀️

Sakura7 · 04/08/2026 09:22

I don't know why people are arguing so much about medication, the basics don't take up much room at all and it's sensible to have something with you in case you have trouble getting to a pharmacy. I would always bring one sleeve of paracetamol, ibuprofen, an antihistamine, imodium and some rennies. That takes up very little space.

It's the big bottles of toiletries that are much more of an issue.

lebin · 04/08/2026 09:11

If I’m travelling in Europe I just take the basics. For medication I’d take a pack of paracetamol and immodium so I had them to hand but anything else is easy to get.

Ponoka7 · 04/08/2026 09:01

WineAndBridgerton3322 · 04/08/2026 08:56

You keep going on about not having anyone go get something for you. I feel you may have some strange ideas about women in couples. I'm a grown woman, I've never had to send DH to buy me tampons or paracetamol. There are pharmacies at every corner everywhere in Europe.

There were some strange opening times in some of the areas I was in, in Fuengirola. I think that's why so many posters hate 'holidays' they plan to shop and cook. I've never not been looked after, or not looked after my travelling companion, if unwell. Even if it's just leaving water and painkillers. If you travel with other women, there's stuff you can lend. My DD goes away in a group and they often pool what they take.

Ponoka7 · 04/08/2026 08:56

I don't take quite as much, but I love lists. Lists are for busy people, or people who can't be arsed to think (me). I list over months, so as I do my skin care/make up/hair etc routine, in my list my products go. My DD has to plan around colitis, so the meds lists are similar to on here. Lists help with anxiety. I have just had a very busy period, catering/party favours etc for three parties, caring responsibilities, lists kept me sane. I hope you've had the help you needed, there's been really good suggestions. I'm planning interrailing solo around Europe in my 65th year. Your plans sound amazing.

WineAndBridgerton3322 · 04/08/2026 08:56

You keep going on about not having anyone go get something for you. I feel you may have some strange ideas about women in couples. I'm a grown woman, I've never had to send DH to buy me tampons or paracetamol. There are pharmacies at every corner everywhere in Europe.

Thecows · 04/08/2026 08:55

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:30

Unlikely but not impossible. On my last solo trip I ended up with Covid and spent most of the week in bed - if id not had things like cold and flu tablets, electrolytes and the like I’d have been stuffed!

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I agree, you need meds, this whole ride it out through the night business is insane when you don't need to

Thecows · 04/08/2026 08:54

Imightbeinthewronghere · 03/08/2026 15:13

20,000 is a 2 hour walk.
Perfectly doable.

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Don't be so ridiculous and I say that as a pretty fast walker

Original poster

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:30

EverMissWicklowSometimes · 03/08/2026 22:27

I travel solo and have done for the last 20-odd years. I have never ever packed any medication other than painkillers, and plasters. And I have never needed to get any while away either. Your worst case scenarios are very unlikely to happen!

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Unlikely but not impossible. On my last solo trip I ended up with Covid and spent most of the week in bed - if id not had things like cold and flu tablets, electrolytes and the like I’d have been stuffed!

OP posts:

Original poster

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:29

MummyWillow1 · 03/08/2026 22:26

Also, even though you are travelling solo, unless you are travelling to the middle of nowhere most places have a version of Uber Eats so you can order stuff and they will bring it to you - or if you are in dire need the hotel reception will help you and arrange medical attention.

I’m not staying in a hotel.

OP posts:

Original poster

everylittlethingis · 04/08/2026 08:28

canklesmctacotits · 03/08/2026 23:27

Are you traveling solo, OP, or with someone who can go and get tablets for you if you need them?

As I’ve said multiple times. I’m travelling solo. If I need anything and I’m too poorly to get it, I’m screwed.

OP posts:

Imightbeinthewronghere · 04/08/2026 08:13

Thecows · 04/08/2026 07:18

I'm totally stunned at this list! How on earth did you get that in hand luggage??

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And for 8 days!

AgileMentor · 04/08/2026 07:53

I always take
shampoo
shower gel
sun cream
after sun
deodorant
small antibac wipes
plasters
calpol
paracetamol/ibuprofen

Thecows · 04/08/2026 07:18

Annocrates · 03/08/2026 13:20

Op, I've returned from 8 days in Italy last week and here's my list (that I managed to fit into hand luggage only and used several items up leaving space for souvenirs).
Bodycare
Shower Gel
Body Sun Cream
Aloe Vera After Sun Cream
Hand Cream
Feet Balm
Body Moisturizer
Body Shimmer Moisturizer
Body Spray
Perfume
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Mouthwash
Floss
Contact Lenses
Contact Lense Solution
Sanitary Products
Loofah
Razor
Foot File
Nail File
Nail Clippers
Tweezers
Haircare
Shampoo
Conditioner
Hair UV Protection Leave-In Spray
Hair Oil
Hair Mousse
Hair Brush
Hair Scrunchie
Hair Claw
Hair Elastic
Hair Straighteners
Skincare
Face Sun Cream
Face Mist
Face Moisturizer
Face Serum
Eye Cream
SPF Lip Balm
Face Cleanser
Micellar Water
Face Mask
Under Eye Patches
Cotton Pads
Cotton Buds
Make Up
Make Up Brushes
Beauty Blender
CC Cream
Concealer
Setting Spray
Face Powder
Bronzer
Blusher
Highlighter
Mascara
Eyeliner
Eye Pencil
Eyebrow Gel
Lip Gloss
Lipstick
Cosmetic Cotton Buds
Healthcare
Vitamins
Plasters
Antiseptic Wipes
Paracetamol
Lemsip Sachets
Beechams
Imodium
Antihistamine Tablets
Kwells Motion Sickness Tablets
Antihistamine Cream
Burns Cream
Eye Drops
Bug Spray
Miscellaneous
Antibac Gel
Tissues
Antibacterial Wipes
Blotting Papers
Chewing Gum
Sewing Kit
Scissors
Pen
Magic Leaves Laundry Sheets
Tide Pen
Laundry Pegs
Sandwich Bags
Bag Clips
Clingfilm

I have it saved in my notes app and reuse every year. I hope it helps.

I'm totally stunned at this list! How on earth did you get that in hand luggage??

iamnotalemon · 04/08/2026 04:07

Annocrates · 03/08/2026 13:20

Op, I've returned from 8 days in Italy last week and here's my list (that I managed to fit into hand luggage only and used several items up leaving space for souvenirs).
Bodycare
Shower Gel
Body Sun Cream
Aloe Vera After Sun Cream
Hand Cream
Feet Balm
Body Moisturizer
Body Shimmer Moisturizer
Body Spray
Perfume
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Mouthwash
Floss
Contact Lenses
Contact Lense Solution
Sanitary Products
Loofah
Razor
Foot File
Nail File
Nail Clippers
Tweezers
Haircare
Shampoo
Conditioner
Hair UV Protection Leave-In Spray
Hair Oil
Hair Mousse
Hair Brush
Hair Scrunchie
Hair Claw
Hair Elastic
Hair Straighteners
Skincare
Face Sun Cream
Face Mist
Face Moisturizer
Face Serum
Eye Cream
SPF Lip Balm
Face Cleanser
Micellar Water
Face Mask
Under Eye Patches
Cotton Pads
Cotton Buds
Make Up
Make Up Brushes
Beauty Blender
CC Cream
Concealer
Setting Spray
Face Powder
Bronzer
Blusher
Highlighter
Mascara
Eyeliner
Eye Pencil
Eyebrow Gel
Lip Gloss
Lipstick
Cosmetic Cotton Buds
Healthcare
Vitamins
Plasters
Antiseptic Wipes
Paracetamol
Lemsip Sachets
Beechams
Imodium
Antihistamine Tablets
Kwells Motion Sickness Tablets
Antihistamine Cream
Burns Cream
Eye Drops
Bug Spray
Miscellaneous
Antibac Gel
Tissues
Antibacterial Wipes
Blotting Papers
Chewing Gum
Sewing Kit
Scissors
Pen
Magic Leaves Laundry Sheets
Tide Pen
Laundry Pegs
Sandwich Bags
Bag Clips
Clingfilm

I have it saved in my notes app and reuse every year. I hope it helps.

Does the 100ml rule still apply? How did you fit all those liquids in one little bag?

supercrone · 04/08/2026 03:57

I'm completely astonished at the lists of stuff people bring with them. This explains all those threads about holiday anxiety.

WhatToWearMilan · 03/08/2026 23:54

Wow! Some of these lists 😮
I travel to Europe several times a year. Was on 3rd trip to Italy this year in early July for 10 days

I travel with 10kg & handbag in cabin & don't do beach holidays so need my regular clothes etc

I am very allergic to mosquito bites so always travel prepared for that.

For 10 days involving more than 1 city & 4 hour train journeys i brought

1 travel size Kevin Murphy shampoo & conditioner
1 travel size l'occitane shower gel
1 mini l'occitane bar of soap

Travel size cleanser, wash & moisturiser

Roll on deodorant

Mini toothpaste & mouth wash

Korean facial spf 50
1 x small bottle boots factor 50 (dh had same)

Perfume

Jungle fornula deet
Antihistimines
Neurofen
Plasters (regular & blister)
Prescription med
Antiseptic cream

We used the shampoos / shower gel / soap / toothpaste etc so dumped as leaving creating more space on way home

I don"t bring constipation / indigestion etc meds as don't need them

We travelled in & out of airports that have the new scanners so no restrictions on size of products but still brought smaller ones. I did bring regular perfumes as i like choice

Because we travel a lot i always have my travel toiletries bag stocked & ready to go

Truthfully i would cope apart from deet & antihistimines - everything else i'd get there if i had to.

It was 37 degrees some of the days we were in italy. We did not need ectrolytes but we stayed in during hottest hours

canklesmctacotits · 03/08/2026 23:27

Are you traveling solo, OP, or with someone who can go and get tablets for you if you need them?

BarbieKew · 03/08/2026 23:13

Blimey some of you are high maintenance! I take shampoo & conditioner, sunscreen, my make up, and any moisturisers/hand creams that need using up, which I use all over before starting a fresh bottle of aftersun. I finished and chucked about ten products on holiday this year.

First aid is paracetamol, antihistamines and plasters, anything else can be bought in a shop or pharmacy in the unlikely event I need it.

However, I’ll screenshot some of the ridiculously long lists in case I ever find myself trekking across Mongolia.

MyMiniMetro · 03/08/2026 23:09

Bjorkdidit · 03/08/2026 17:17

I'm more puzzled by the people who won't put their bag in the hold because they think you'll wait ages to pick it up again.

Also the people who think all AI hotels are in the middle of nowhere so you can't leave the hotel without driving for ages.

Neither are true in my experience.

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I’ve been on the other side of this. Inviting friends to a villa in out in the sticks, and having them genuinely surprised the nearest super market was miles and miles away and a proper chemist even further still.

I think they genuinely believed all Spain was like Benidorm and its equivalents. They didn’t pack accordingly.

LizzieSiddal · 03/08/2026 23:03

Annocrates · 03/08/2026 13:20

Op, I've returned from 8 days in Italy last week and here's my list (that I managed to fit into hand luggage only and used several items up leaving space for souvenirs).
Bodycare
Shower Gel
Body Sun Cream
Aloe Vera After Sun Cream
Hand Cream
Feet Balm
Body Moisturizer
Body Shimmer Moisturizer
Body Spray
Perfume
Deodorant
Toothpaste
Toothbrush
Mouthwash
Floss
Contact Lenses
Contact Lense Solution
Sanitary Products
Loofah
Razor
Foot File
Nail File
Nail Clippers
Tweezers
Haircare
Shampoo
Conditioner
Hair UV Protection Leave-In Spray
Hair Oil
Hair Mousse
Hair Brush
Hair Scrunchie
Hair Claw
Hair Elastic
Hair Straighteners
Skincare
Face Sun Cream
Face Mist
Face Moisturizer
Face Serum
Eye Cream
SPF Lip Balm
Face Cleanser
Micellar Water
Face Mask
Under Eye Patches
Cotton Pads
Cotton Buds
Make Up
Make Up Brushes
Beauty Blender
CC Cream
Concealer
Setting Spray
Face Powder
Bronzer
Blusher
Highlighter
Mascara
Eyeliner
Eye Pencil
Eyebrow Gel
Lip Gloss
Lipstick
Cosmetic Cotton Buds
Healthcare
Vitamins
Plasters
Antiseptic Wipes
Paracetamol
Lemsip Sachets
Beechams
Imodium
Antihistamine Tablets
Kwells Motion Sickness Tablets
Antihistamine Cream
Burns Cream
Eye Drops
Bug Spray
Miscellaneous
Antibac Gel
Tissues
Antibacterial Wipes
Blotting Papers
Chewing Gum
Sewing Kit
Scissors
Pen
Magic Leaves Laundry Sheets
Tide Pen
Laundry Pegs
Sandwich Bags
Bag Clips
Clingfilm

I have it saved in my notes app and reuse every year. I hope it helps.

What the actual, that’s more like a full list of all products sold in Boots The Chemist 😂

MyMiniMetro · 03/08/2026 22:55

EverMissWicklowSometimes · 03/08/2026 22:27

I travel solo and have done for the last 20-odd years. I have never ever packed any medication other than painkillers, and plasters. And I have never needed to get any while away either. Your worst case scenarios are very unlikely to happen!

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Savlon and anti-histamines are the two things I never travel without and they can be surprisingly hard to get hold of.

Allergic reactions can happen with the most random of things (it’s happened a few times) and the smallest scratch can easily become infected if left without a rinse in clean water and some antiseptic cream.