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$8.86 (as of November 6, 2024 14:46 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)When it comes to traveling light, Rick Steves has got you covered with his ingenious method of packing toothpaste. Instead of purchasing new travel-sized tubes every time you hit the road, Steves has perfected a technique he calls “docking.” By squeezing toothpaste from a larger tube into a TSA-approved smaller one, you can avoid both the hassle and expense of constantly buying new tubes. Shared in a blog post, this clever hack has inspired many of his readers to come up with their own cost-saving tips and alternatives. From reusing the tube you get from your dentist to investing in refillable containers, there are plenty of frugal and eco-friendly ways to ensure you never run out of toothpaste while traveling. Have you ever found yourself frustrated by the persistent need to buy travel-sized toothpaste each time you pack for a trip? If so, you’ll be excited to learn about the ingenious method travel expert Rick Steves uses. Steves has uncovered a way to make traveling with toothpaste more efficient, economical, and environmentally friendly.
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Rick Steves’ Toothpaste Packing Hack
Toothpaste is one of those essential items that you can’t skip when packing for a trip, which unfortunately means spending extra money on travel-sized tubes that adhere to TSA guidelines. Renowned globetrotter Rick Steves, known for his expert packing tips, shares a remarkable way to avoid this repetitive purchasing cycle.
The Technique: Docking
Steves has coined a nifty method called “docking,” which involves transferring toothpaste from a larger tube into a smaller, TSA-approved tube. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Step 1: Hold the mouth of the smaller, travel-sized tube tightly against the mouth of a full-sized toothpaste tube.
- Step 2: Squeeze the larger tube to transfer its contents into the smaller tube.
- Step 3: Ensure that there’s no air trapped inside the travel-sized tube by squeezing out the air entirely before the transfer. This maximizes the amount of toothpaste you can fit in.
By following this simple process, you can re-use the same small tube over multiple trips, saving money and contributing to less plastic waste.
Reader Suggestions
Steves readers have eagerly participated in the dialogue and contributed additional tips. One even suggested opening the smaller tube and pressing out the air completely to make more room for the toothpaste. Others noted that depending on their toothpaste usage, it’s wise to bring around one travel-sized tube per week of travel.
Why Not Buy at Your Destination?
While buying essentials at your destination is always an option, Steves points out that not all accommodations supply toothpaste, making it a potentially risky bet. Moreover, purchasing items abroad can sometimes result in unforeseen costs or difficulties finding your preferred brand. By employing the docking technique, you travel prepared without the headache of last-minute shopping.
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Frugal Hacks for Packing Toothpaste
Steves’ readers also chimed in with their own cost-effective strategies for toothpaste packing.
Use Free Samples
A reader suggested keeping the toothpaste samples often given by dentists. These little tubes are already within TSA regulations and can be easily refilled using Steves’ docking method.
Dollar Store Finds
Another user pointed out that you can start with a budget-friendly travel-sized toothpaste from a dollar store. These tubes, often much cheaper than mainstream brands, can be refilled repeatedly.
Refillable Toothpaste Tubes
For those willing to invest a bit more, refillable toothpaste tubes are available on the market. These TSA-compliant tubes can be filled from the bottom and sealed with a tight clip. They offer various sizes so you can choose the one that best suits the length of your trip.
Alternatives: Toothpaste Tablets
If you really want to travel light, consider chewable toothpaste tablets. They’ve gained popularity for being eco-friendly, easy to pack, and lightweight. You simply chew on a tablet with a wet toothbrush, and brush as usual.
Other Toiletry Essentials in Steves’ List
Rick Steves never forgets to pack other essential toiletries. Here are a few must-haves for your travel bag:
- Toothbrush
- Floss
- Sunscreen
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush
- Facial Cleanser
- Razor
Summary Table: Travel Toothpaste Options
Here’s a quick table summarizing the methods and options available for packing toothpaste:
| Method | Description | Cost | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Docking Technique | Refilling a small tube from a larger one | Low (Cost of toothpaste) | High |
| Free Samples | Using toothpaste samples from the dentist | None | High |
| Dollar Store Tubes | Starting with a budget-friendly small tube | Very Low | High |
| Refillable Tubes | Purchased tubes meant for refilling | Medium | High |
| Toothpaste Tablets | Chewable and portable toothpaste alternative | Variable (Typically medium to high) | Very High |
Conclusion
Traveling shouldn’t require constant and unnecessary expenditure on essential items like toothpaste. Rick Steves’ clever docking technique not only saves money but also reduces waste, making it a valuable trick for any frequent traveler. Whether you choose to use his method, opt for refillable tubes, repurpose free samples, or go for toothpaste tablets, there are plenty of ways to efficiently pack for your travels.
Embrace these tips, and you’ll find yourself traveling smarter, lighter, and more economical. Bon voyage!
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