I can't believe I wore the same underwear for a week.
But I did, because testing travel products is my job.
And guess what -- if you need to travel really light (backpackers and other outdoors adventurers), this product will work for you.
With the number of new travel products continuing to grow, it's time to sift through the assortment of items available. I'm going to help you decide what essentials you need .... and what you might want to avoid.
This column will address the world of travel accessories, everything from cool gadgets to eco-friendly merchandise. So whether you're a seasoned globetrotter, road-tripper or weekend warrior, this column is certain to make your time away from home a little easier. If you have any products or ideas that might be of interest, contact me at
linda.shepertycki@freepress.mb.ca
Give-N-Go Underwear
ExOfficio's advertising states "17 countries, 6 weeks and one pair of underwear." Really? One pair of underwear for six weeks? Are they kidding? Apparently not. This product is made of 94 per cent nylon and six per cent spandex, allowing it to dry quickly.
But seriously, who wants to wash undies while on vacation? Isn't it easier to just toss them in the corner of the suitcase?
Then again, if packing light is the ultimate challenge, then this item's for you. It also features the AEGIS Microbe Shield finish -- something that fights odour and bacteria, obviously necessary if you're going to wear one pair for six weeks. It is comfortable and functional but frankly, I can think of a hundred things I'd do before washing underwear every night and if you can afford to travel 17 countries in 6 weeks, I'm certain you can afford more than one pair. Available in men's and women's sizes and different styles.
Price: $23 - $31 at U N Luggage and Journeys Travel & Leisure SuperCentre.
Batiste Dry Shampoo
Arriving soon from England, this product promises to refresh and revitalize greasy, dull and lifeless hair between shampoos. Just spray on and use a natural hair bristle brush.
It works well depending on the length and texture of your hair. The waterless shampoo does clean and leaves hair smelling fresh, and it's especially great for removing that nasty cigarette smell from your tresses. But it doesn't help those of us who suffer from serious bed-head. Sadly, only water can combat that problem.
Batiste Dry Shampoo comes in two scents -- citrus and tropical.
Price: $8.99 at select Counterwise and CounterCare drug marts and pharmacies (see page 1022 of your MTS Winnipeg Yellow Pages directory).
Wrinkle Free
I hate ironing.
I rather clean a toilet than iron and I hate it even more when travelling. I'm still pining for Downy's Wrinkle Releaser that disappeared from store shelves years ago.
Fortunately, Wrinkle Free is the perfect replacement and a must for travellers who want to erase wrinkles and creases easily (in your clothes, that is). This three-ounce can is a valuable item, especially for those long, cramped airplane and car trips that leave you looking like you've slept in your clothes. Just spray it on and wait 10 seconds. It works on almost any fabric, except polyester. It's also great for eliminating static cling and removing odours too.
This stuff is gold but unfortunately just as pricey. So where can I buy a barrel of it?
Price: $4.95 to $7 at U N Luggage, CAA and Journeys Travel & Leisure SuperCentre.
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