So you’re jetting off on a holiday soon, are you? Lucky you. If you have any spare place in your bag for, say, a small beauty writer, please be sure to get in touch. I’m an excellent navigator and know when it’s time to relax and take it easy.
Sorry, back to your holiday. Whether you’re heading to a tropical destination, a winter wonderland, or just flying to see your family across the country, I have no doubt that you’ve formulated a game plan for the clothes you’ll be taking and how you’ll decant your toiletries (not to mention, picked your essential cosmetics).
But have you given a moment’s thought about your nails? I know, it seems like the most minute detail, but trust me, I’ve been caught one too many times staring at chipped, manky-looking nails to know that some thought should be put into your hands and nails when travelling.
DO
Get a gel manicure. There’s nothing more frustrating then getting your nails painted to have them chip after four days when you really can’t be bothered to redo them (plus, you’ll be too busy drinking mojitos and watching the sun set to be doing something as time-consuming as painting your nails).
A gel manicure will ensure that your nails look like pure perfection for up to two weeks.
Try: Rio UV 14 Day Nails
DON’T
Forget about your feet – especially if you’re heading to a sunny destination where your toes will be on show. Cut those long, jagged toenails, buff and file them, and coat them in a glorious eye-catching shade of polish. Oh, and if you’re not into the gel polish thing, don’t leave painting your toenails until just before you whack on your socks for your flight. You will regret it.
Try: Revlon Beauty Tools Heavy Duty Toenail Clipper
DO
Take a mini nail care kit. You may think you don’t need your nail scissors or emery board, but one tiny snag and you’ll be kicking yourself. The beauty of a mini kit is that you’ll have the tools you need in case of an emergency without worrying about the extra weight in your bag. Just remember: scissors and clippers are a no-no in your carry-on.
Try: Manicare 5 Piece Manicure Set
DON’T
Forget your flip-flops. If you’re heading somewhere with communal showers or a public pool, you’ll want to walk around in a handy pair of rubber thongs. Why? Because lots of barefoot people + moisture = a recipe for toenail fungus. And that’s definitely not the souvenir you want to be bringing back from your vacay.
Try: havaianas, from $19.99, www.havaianasaustralia.com.au
Do you worry about your nails when travelling? What’s your must-have nail item when you’re on holiday?