Let’s face it – we all want to head out, have fun, tour, and forget the fact that we’ve lost almost two years to a pandemic that doesn’t seem to end. Right? However, for most men, it’s impossible to get everything right when going for a trip. And that’s understandable; bearing in mind the amount of planning that goes into it.
For a typical man, self-grooming is usually the most affected aspect of a trip. Why? Because it’s a multi-faceted process that involves various actions, tools, and products. That is why it’s very likely that you’ll forget to do or carry something. Obviously, the last thing you want is to look like a clown while holidaying, right? So, before you leave your home, here are a few WiseBarber tips you can use to check whether you’ve carried all your grooming essentials.
1. Hair & Beard Care Tools and Products
From the top, your hair and beard are some of your most visible features. Anyone seeing you for the first time will notice them first.
And that’s why it’s wise to make sure your haircut looks neat and well-trimmed. Not forgetting that your beard has to match your appearance; by that, I mean it should be well-oiled, styled, and combed.
Now, doing this while traveling can be quite a hassle. Especially, if you don’t have the necessary tools. And so, here’s what you’ll need for proper hair care during a trip.
a) Trimming Tools
Trimming is probably the best and easiest way to keep hair looking neat and well-shaped. And while this job is usually reserved for barbers, sometimes you may have to do it yourself. Therefore, you should consider packing a few trimming essentials. For example:
- A Lightweight Electric Trimmer. Nowadays, some of the best hair clippers for men are cordless and lightweight. Therefore, they’re easy to carry around. And will come in handy when you want to trim stray hairs, shape your beard, or polish your hairline
- A Razor or Electric Shaver. If you prefer clean shaves and bald haircuts, a razor or shaver always proves useful. Now, using an electric shaver is always much safer and more convenient. However, if you’re going completely off-grid with no access to electricity, consider carrying a razor
- Shears/Scissors. Lastly, having a pair of scissors or shears means that you can make quick and easy trims on your beard. Hence, allowing you to shape it nicely, just the way you like it
b) Styling Essentials
Obviously, hair maintenance isn’t just about trimming, you also need to style it, right? And that’s where styling essentials such as a comb, brush, and rubber bands come in.
Basically, a comb is the most important styling tool for men with long or short hair. It works great, is easy to use, and allows you to keep your hair/beard tangle-free. However, if you’re trying to develop or maintain waves, don’t forget to carry your brush.
Lastly, for men with long hair, rubber bands (or even a small, short thread) helps to control your hair or hold it in place. For example, you can tie a Man Bun when you want to go on a hike. You wouldn’t want your hair getting stuck in twig during the trek, right?
c) Hair Care Products
Here, it all depends on which styling products you use or what kind of hairstyle you want to maintain during the tour. Hair products range from pomades, clays, waxes, pastes, moisturizers, to putty and so much more.
Bottom line – don’t forget to carry hair styling products; especially, the ones you use most frequently. And that’s because taking your hair off its usual styling routine can have a few negative effects on its appearance.
2. Oral Hygiene Essentials
Oral hygiene is, arguably, one of the easiest aspects of personal grooming. Not to mention that it’s critical to keep your teeth and mouth clean. Doing so keeps Halitosis (Bad Breath) at bay. You wouldn’t want people avoiding your conversations because of irritating oral odor.
If so, all you need is:
- Some toothpaste
- A toothbrush
- And floss
Pro tip:
It’s recommended that you brush your teeth twice a day or once after every meal. And don’t forget to floss at least once a day.
3. Body & Skin Care Essentials
Your body and skin need a little TLC too. Remember, it’s important to keep your skin hydrated, protected, and clean during your trip. And that means carrying items like:
- Moisturizer
- Body lotion
- Sunscreen
- Cleanser
- Toiletries
- Wipes
- Deodorant/body spray
- Some aftershave (just in case you do some trimming)
I know carrying all these can be quite a hassle. So, I’d recommend you pack small amounts of each product into travel-size, reusable, well-labeled bottles/containers. You just need enough to cover your trip (plus, a day’s worth for emergencies and delays).
4. Other Essentials
Skin, body, hair, oral hygiene… check. Is that all? No! Don’t forget to carry other necessities like:
- A nail cutter/clipper (you might need it)
- Nose and ear trimmers (for long-duration trips)
- A portable, handheld mirror. Especially, for men going on a wild, outdoor adventure. This allows you to do personal grooming and styling even when you don’t have access to a big mirror
- Lip balm. It’s important to keep your lips healthy and well-moisturized
And that’s just about everything a typical man needs to stay well-groomed and looking neat during a trip. So, before you pick out your ultimate, post-lockdown gateway, make sure you have these essentials. Most of them are easy to carry and small enough to fit into a small travel pouch. At the end of the day, you’ll appreciate having fun while looking your best.
