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Tablets for tooth brushing

In the world of travelling there is one great equalizer: the toothbrush.

Whether roughing it with a rucksack or lounging in the oceanview penthouse suite, globetrotters of all incomes must care for their chompers. But the perils associated with packing toothpaste (namely paste-covered, minty-fresh clothing) lead even the most orally hygienic to consider simple baking soda. Thankfully, Lush's solid toothpaste replacement Toothy Tabs can ease these worries.

The pill-sized tabs are carry-on safe and simple to use: Just bite down and brush with a wet toothbrush.

The tablet immediately dissolves into an impressive gritty and frothy lather. Available in five flavours, including Sparkle and Breath of God, the vegan product leaves pearly whites feeling fresh and clean.

Loose tea for your travels

Are you someone that can't imagine life without Dragon Moon, Angel's Dream or Monk's Blend?

No, these are not the titles of the newest medieval teen-angst vampire trilogy. Any caffeine connoisseur will recognize these names as some of the most popular, most aromatic looseleaf teas. These are the same diehard tea fans that cringe at boxed Tetley.

But toting a tea press and loose leaves is not always practical, even for the most devoted. Thankfully, the Blomus Tea Stick offers some relief for brew buffs who pack light. The sleek and small cylinder plops into hot water and packs just enough tea for a single, sultry cup.

Whether in the break room, at a roadside diner, or cosy around a campfire, you'll never have to endure a sadly steeped packaged pekoe again. $24.50 at Chapters

Moleskine luggage tags

Moleskine notebooks have long had an enthusiastic following.

The brand's association with creative minds has made it the Apple computer of the notebook world: It has diehard groupies with cult-like devotion to the name and classic style. If you are one such fan (or long to be one) you'll be pleased to hear that the Moleskine name has grown to include luggage tags.

Constructed with the same esthetic as the time-honoured scribblers -- hard cover, rounded corners and elastic closure -- the baggage identifiers are sold in several vibrant colours, as well as inscribed with the brand's signature phrase, 'In case of loss, please return to ...'

The unique and stylish luggage tag will likely draw looks of envy from the notebook connoisseurs in your life, so be prepared to spend as much time safeguarding the identifying tag as you do the baggage it's on.

Indulge in safe suds

Campsuds is a biodegradable, multipurpose cleaner that is environmentally safe, helping you respect and appreciate nature without contributing to its destruction, or having to forgo personal hygiene. Made from natural vegetable-derived ingredients, just a few drops in warm, cold, or even salt water is good for a thorough scrubbing of dishes, clothes, body and hair.

On the market since the '60s, Campsuds is a tried and true choice for wilderness explorers, space-conscious jet setters and frugal backpackers. $3.75 at Mountain Equipment Co-op.

Chicmoney belt

Being safe shouldn't prevent you from being stylish. Magellan's offers a range of chic men's and women's belts that do more than just keep your pants on, they give you panache and peace of mind by secretly stashing your cash while freeing you from the faux-pas fanny pack.

Each belt has a hidden, zippered compartment that keeps your credit cards, important documents or room key from potential pickpockets or purse plunderers. Made of leather for men and a shimmery nylon polyester for women, they're trendy enough to become a travel wardrobe staple, regardless of the useful compartment.

$29.95 to $30 at magellans.com

-- Postmedia News

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition April 28, 2012 D2