Travelling in style

It seems the travel restrictions on liquid products over 100ml still haven't sunk in, as the bins are full of dumped bottles of perfume and shampoo at airport security each time I fly. So if you're lucky enough to be off on a quick break sometime soon and don't want the hassle (and cost!) of checking in your luggage, here are some tips for how to pack your beauty products:

First, the rules: all liquids, gels and pastes must be packed into one clear, resealable bag with a volume of one litre or less, and each bottle must be 100ml or less (and this refers to the volume the bottle holds - if you have a 250ml bottle that's only half-full, it will still go into the bin at security). Theoretically this can include lip balm and mascara. These may not always be picked up on at security, but if you want to be sure, then put them in the bag.

As most of our beauty products like body lotions and shampoos come in bottles of 250mls, what choices do you have when travelling?

- The first place I always look is my trusty bag of samples. I have a huge collection of these and always pull it out when going away anywhere to see what I can bring with me. Small tubes of facial skincare can last ages and are brilliant for cutting down on baggage weight. Don't risk trying something brand new, however, if you fear you may have a reaction to it.

- Many companies also offer travel-sized versions of their products, usually in 75-100ml bottles. Boots carries a wide range of everything from shower gel to sunscreen from many brands and if you buy a mini version of something you use all the time, keep the bottle and refill it for your next holiday.

- If you can't find travel sized versions of your favourite products and don't want to risk trying something new, then get pick up some empty travel bottles and fill them up yourself. Muji does a brilliant range of containers, with everything from stackable jars to pump bottles and spray bottles in various sizes up to 100ml. The bottles are reasonably priced at around €2-3 each and can be washed out and re-used again and again.

Happy holidays!