Cutting down on the number of bottles and cosmetics that spill is always important. Use a stick foundation instead of a liquid. The texture is light, and many of the new sticks are oil-free. Discount store brands are the same quality and much cheaper than popular brand names. The foundation can also double as a concealer and an eyeshadow base. Look for perfume in a solid form as well. The containers are small enough to fit in a purse, yet smell strong.

Kiss my Face makes a tremendous peach-scented shave lather in a tube that eliminates aerosol cans. Invest in a good lipstick palette with a variety of colors. The palettes are small, and give you a good variety of colors for all skin tones – and cut down on the number of bulky tubes. Victoria’s Secret has an excellent one which isn’t too expensive. (It is only available through mail order or online order.)

How does the woman traveler deal with the problems in Middle East countries? Strict moral codes make the lives of women travelers more difficult. East and West cultures have different perspectives and viewpoints on gender issues. For all of you women who haul around those heavy purses, but have valuable “stuff” in them, I’ve got a travel tip for you.

When you’re carrying your purse, be sure that you carry it diagonally so that when thieves try to steal it, they won’t be able to because of how you are wearing it. Instead of traveling with pads or tampons (or having to buy them) consider trying a reusable menstrual cup called The Keeper. A site full of information about this and other products is www.eco-logique.com.

They also have a line of funky washable pads called Lunapads. I’ve been using The Keeper (yes, yes the same one) for 7 years now, and I just love it. I highly recommend it. Nothing to pack, nothing to buy. If you are traveling alone and don’t want any company, there are certain things you can do to dissuade unwanted attention. If on a coach or train, sit on the outside seat, placing your handbag, coat, and jacket on the window seat.

If in a bar or restaurant, place your coat on the back of the seat opposite to make it look as if you have company. It may seem anti-social, but sometimes it’s the only way.Hermail.net is an international directory of women willing to help other women with travel information. For example: Travelling to Japan and not sure what to pack? Just log on to Hermail.

Net and request a connection with a woman in Japan who can offer you the info you need. Instantly, an e-mail message box pops up, you write your request, send it off, and the recipient answers you directly. Already 1,000’s women have made connections. Read their positive reviews on the site.

If you like to wear dresses, of significantly longer lengths, try wearing a pair of cotton bike shorts to which you have sewed pockets on the outer leg. They need to be large enough to hold your passport and extra documents or money. Secure the pocket with Velcro and you should have a safe place to keep your personal things. The same can be done with a camisole or regular slip.