If you’re a budget traveler, you probably carry your own toiletries. After all, most budget hotels don’t provide those little travel size shampoos and mouthwash.  The challenge is making your toiletries last as long as possible, saving you money, time and travel weight.

One way to do that is to ignore the manufacturers recommended use. Have you ever read the instructions on shampoo? Some shampoos encourage you to wash, rinse and repeat, even if repeat is not necessary. And, have you noticed the picture on the toothpaste carton? Of course, the manufacturer would like you to squeeze a stream of toothpaste at least as long as the head of your toothbrush. I believe they call it planned consumption. The quicker you use their product, the sooner you’ll buy more.

Most toiletries can be just as effective using a fraction of the recommended amount. Try using a pearl size drop of toothpaste to brush your teeth, or use only half or a quarter the amount of shampoo that you normally use. Often, using less is just as effective as the recommended quantity. Concentrated products can also be beneficial, requiring even smaller portions for the same effectiveness. The longer you can make your toiletries last, the farther you can stretch your travel dollar.