There’s nothing more exciting and thrilling than being armed with a credit card, and multiple browser tabs all showing products on Cult Beauty, ASOS, Lululemon, JCrew, Banana Republic and possibly more (if you have tips, drop us a line and help a fellow online shopaholic sister out).
But, when it comes to online shopping, do you know what’s better than a credit card? It’s BIGPay. It’s not even my own testimony, it’s actually based on a conversation I had with Krishantini Palaraja, a lawyer who in fact, shops a lot online. After having tried and tested so many options out there, she settled for BIGPay.
She said… actually, in case you think I’m lying, here’s a screenshot:
So, why exactly is BIGPay ahead of the rest? Here’s the breakdown:
BIGPay: it is an e-wallet and accompanying prepaid card that is accepted anywhere a MasterCard is. Benefits include waivering of the 2% fee charge of overseas ATM withdrawal, foreign exchange remittances and free P2P payments. By the way, EVERYTHING that you pay for via the card collects points that go to your next AirAsia flight.
And with that in mind, if ever you consider testing out BigPay, feel free to download the app on Google Play or App Store. But first, let’s go through a fun checklist. Imagine a brand new travel bag.
Now, you’re going to have to fill this baby up with some our must-haves, such as…
1. SPF, SPF and more SPF
Note that this is the first on my list because it is the most important thing you could ever have in your bag (next to deodorant and toothbrush). It doesn’t matter whether you are going to a cold country, or a warm country or even some place in Alaska or Russia where you can’t really feel the sun. You. Need. SPF!
The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) explains SPF categories: low protection (SPF 6 to 14), medium protection (SPF 15 to 29), high protection (SPF 30 to 50) and very high protection (SPF 50 +). Our recommendations:
2. An all-in-one Facial Kit
Without any indication as to where it is you’re headed to, whether it is a summery or wintery destination, you’re going to need a face wash and other essentials that do what they’re supposed to do: clean, moisturise, tone, etc. Skip the ‘special’ kits this time around, and opt for a reliable, basic one, such as:
3. Tinted Moisturiser
You don’t really want to look like you’re all made-up and ready for the runway during the day (but you can, if you want, we’re not judging). But, what paints a perfect picture is glowing, radiant skin after letting go of some steam during the holidays. We recommend a lightweight, natural tinted moisturiser that’ll give you that well-rested, flawless yet happy glow.
4. Makeup Remover
Even though you’re going easy on the makeup during your holiday, you’re going to need to take it off. Side note: never, ever, ever go to bed without removing your makeup.
5. Dry Shampoo
While we know that most shampoos and conditioners will be provided (if they don’t, purchase a mini shampoo and conditioner set), it’s always handy to bring along some dry shampoo. On days that your hair doesn’t need washing but definitely needs some extra care and love, just give it a couple of spritzes and you’re good to go.
6. Hair Oil
If ever your hair becomes too frazzled and frizzy due to the travelling or even harsh weather, a hair oil will definitely be of use. Just apply some hair oil, let it seep into your hair and scalp, and you’re ready to shine!
7. Elastic Hair Ties
Speaking of hair — why is it that elastic hair ties always go missing when you need them the most? With that in mind, be sure to not carry just one, but a few on your trip. You never know when one’s going to go for a swim, and never come back, or get lost in the snow or sand.
8. Mini Makeup Set
We know, we know — you can’t bear to part with your extensive Huda Beauty collection, the Naked Palettes or your 1001 brushes. However, when it comes to travelling, you don’t want to have excess baggage because of your makeup. Opt for a simple, mini kit that would bring maximum payoff: multiple things in small sizes. Something like this:
9. Styling Tools
Despite the hair ties, you’re not going to want to keep your hair up in a bun all the time (although, that is tres chic). Who knows, you might just end up going on a fancy dinner date or even a night out with the girls? You’re going to need a hairdryer that’ll help you get your crown looking its best!
10. Body Shower Gel & Lotion Set
Again, like makeup and your face kit, body products should come in a set, and in mini sizes for your comfort (and ease of back when you’re carrying it throughout your travels). Opt for something that will solve several things in one, such as:
11. Shaving Kit
Travelling means you’d have no time to schedule a waxing appointment. However, if you do manage to do that, that’s fantastic. But for others who would prefer on-the-go maintenance, then these foldable tweezers as well as shaving oil would do wonders for your upkeep.
12. Lip Balm
Harsh weather, or even the fact that you haven’t been hydrating properly during your travels might get your lips cracked. Avoid the discomfort and pain by carrying a lip balm (note: not only during your travels, but all the time, actually).
13. Nail set
Things may just happen to your nails when you’re abroad and enjoying yourself. Hangnails, chipped nails or something that needs an actual manicure kit deserves to be on your travel must-have list.
14. Deodorant
Last but not least, take care of those underarms wherever you go. Some travels require hikes, heavy-duty sports or even intense sweating so you’re going to need the confidence that you will smell good no matter what!
15. Calming Products in case of allergy/irritation
You might eat a bunch of new dishes, or even come into contact with things that might just set of an allergy (God forbid!). But, just to be on the safe side, carry an all-rounder soothing gel or cream or product that can calm your skin down such as chamomile, aloe vera, or herbs that can do the trick. An example:
That’s it! You’re all set!
Yes, we understand that most of these products are not available back home but that’s the beauty of online shopping, and the convenience of BIGPay. What else could possibly reward you simply by spending on the things you love and need? Remember, the exchange rates are totally absorbed by BIGPay, and you also get to collect AirAsia BIG Points for your next trip!
Signing up for BigPay is FREE and only takes 3 minutes!
