You have your perfect carry-on packed and you settle into your seat for a long-haul flight. You pass the time napping, or reading, listening to music or watching the in-flight film. Hours later, you arrive at your destination, looking a little worse for wear with disheveled and flat hair, next day breath and slightly greasy skin from the recycled air in the cabin.  The last thing you want is to take some photos when you arrive, but we all have that one friend who looks fresh, awake and pulled together. All you want is to get your luggage and get to your lodging for a hot shower. We’ve all been there!

You don’t have to be the ragamuffin of the bunch when you get off the plane! Here are a few things you can do and bring with you, to ensure that you look a little less traveled and a bit more refreshed!

Make-up removing/face/body cleansing wipes – Whatever brand you prefer, a package of these in your carry-on will allow you to clean off old make-up, grease and dirt. Gentlemen, this goes for you too! A cleansing wipe to refresh your skin and remove the dirt and grease is still important! Don’t forget your neck, chest and any other areas that could use some freshening up (underarms maybe?).

Travel toothbrush and toothpaste – I like to keep these tooth tabs from Lush on hand as they don’t count as a “liquid” in my carry-on. They also have mouthwash tabs!

Make-up – Just the essentials are necessary. For me, I stick to tinted moisturizer, eyebrow pencil, lip tint and mascara. Just enough to give me that freshened up look without a full face of make up. If you aren’t a make-up wearer, try just a little clear mascara and some tinted lip balm to “wake up” your face for that arrival photo!

Deodorant & Body spray – You don’t want to feel like you smell after being surrounded by sweaty people, packed in like sardines! A travel size deodorant and small spray bottle of body spray or perfume/cologne can make a huge difference.

Dry shampoo/hair tie/comb/hat- If you are one for dry shampoo, a small bottle (either 3oz spray or a powder) should do the trick to refresh your locks and avoid the flat, greasy look. Another option is to cleanse your hairline with your face wipe and then tame your tresses into a loose side braid or bun. If you have shorter hair you can always try a hat or a few bobby pins to pull some hair out of your face for a different, less limp look.

Another trick is to get a little shut-eye on the flight. Bring an eye mask, some earplugs and shut the world out for at least 30 minutes. It will refresh your body and mind. It is also a good idea to get up and stretch some. Every hour or two, be sure to stand and stretch your legs as well as your arms, neck and shoulders.

That’s it! Just a few small things to drop into your carry-on to keep you feeling refreshed and pulled together after a lung-haul flight!

“Keep your heart open, a suitcase packed and travel often for the world is wide and adventure awaits!” ~ Emylee