Traveling is a dirty business. Whether you’re on the road trip stuck in the cramped quarters of your car or driving open the road in an 18-wheeler, it can be near impossible to stay fresh and clean. You don’t have to worry about finding the next rest stop to perform basic hygiene rituals. Here’s how to get clean without leaving your vehicle:
1.Hand Sanitizer
While it’s always recommended to use soap and hot water to clean your hands, hand sanitizer will do in a pinch. There are a variety of alcohol-based sanitizers on the market that can be easily tossed into a hygiene kit. If you want something that won’t leave you smelling too girly, look for Purell. If, on the other hand, you are a girl and want something that leaves a lingering fragrance, Bath & Body Works carries yummy-smelling scents.
2.Toothpaste
No sink, no worries. Colgate makes a refreshing product called “Wisps” for your teeth. These mini-toothbrushes require to water and, best of all, no spitting. Simply brush your teeth and swallow. You may be loath to swallow a mouthful of toothpaste, but Wisps deliver a teeth-cleaning liquid that is much easier going down.
If you aren’t so sure that you can stomach the thought of swallowing bacteria from your teeth, consider a product like Listerine PocketMist. Alternatively, you can eat a Granny Smith apple or swipe a slice of lemon across your teeth.
3.Face Wipes
If you’re traveling during the warmer months, you’re going to get sticky and sweaty. Basis is a natural company that offers facial cleansing cloths. These cloths come in a handy carrying case, don’t require any water, and wipe the day’s dirt away with little effort. Don’t forget to put sunblock on your face after you’ve wiped it clean.
4.Baby Wipes
Let’s face it: Sticky, grimy skin is not fun to deal with, especially if you’re in close quarters with other people. When you can’t make it to a shower to give yourself a complete scrub down, baby wipes are the next best thing. Two or three baby wipes can remove dirt and odor from your body. As an added bonus, baby wipes are fantastic for removing spilled foods and beverages from clothing and upholstery.
5.Powder and Deodorant
You can find travel-size deodorants and powders in the aisle of any big box store. Deodorant can keep your pits fresh and clean. Dusting yourself with powder, after you’ve cleaned up, is a great way to stay cool. Sprinkle powder liberally over every part of your body and rub it in just slightly. You’ll be amazed at how fresh you feel, no matter how long you’re forced to stay in the vehicle.
Don’t spend your road trip looking for the next bathroom. When you pack a hygiene kit, you won’t have to stop as often or wait to get clean. A plastic shoebox or fabric lunch tote makes excellent carriers for your hygiene supplies. Put your kit together today and you’ll stay fresh as a daisy on your next long haul.