I’m pretty good at packing my entire life into a carry-on bag, but there’s always one thing that stumps me: my fragrance collection. I’m a die-hard fragrance lover, and my day-to-day life consists of choosing one of my many fragrances and spritzing it on with ease.
When it comes to travelling, I never know how to pack my fragrances. Sometimes, I seriously consider springing for a checked bag just to bring a full-size fragrance bottle or two. But that never seems like the most sensible, or cost-effective, solution, does it? Luckily, over the years, I’ve worked on growing my rollerball perfume collection.
Rollerballs are the best perfumes to travel with. Not only are they almost always under 100ml, but their unique applicator is virtually mess-free, so you won’t have to worry about a Gypsy Water–scented explosion happening in your suitcase. (Although, I think we can all agree that wouldn’t be the worst thing.)
Below, find my favourite rollerball perfumes to take on a plane, throw in your shoulder bag, or just keep in your bathroom drawer. Plus, rollerballs are also a great way to score a high-end fragrance for a lot less money—you’re welcome.
Key fragrance notes: bergamot, lemon, pepper, juniper berries, incense, pine needles, orris, amber, vanilla, sandalwood. I’d be remiss not to start this roundup with a Byredo rollerball. The iconic fragrance house offers rollerballs of some of its most popular fragrances, including Gypsy Water. One whiff of this intoxicating blend evokes roaring campfires, forests, and wind in your hair.
Key fragrance notes: ylang-ylang, Damascus rose, jasmine. This floral-heavy perfume isn’t your average flowery scent. The blend of flowers is heady and mysterious, making anyone who smells it do a double take.
Key fragrance notes: bergamot, plum, anise, leather, rum, vanilla, amber, patchouli . The perfect pick for both winter and summer, this long lasting scent is as unique as it is beautiful. Just be prepared for people asking what you’re wearing again and again…
Key fragrance notes: sandalwood, cedar wood, Haitian vetiver oil. Perfect for anyone who prefers their fragrances to be earthy and woodsy, this perfume oil is a skin scent that lasts all day.
Key fragrance notes: citrus, gardenia flower, palo santo. Harnessing the power of palo santo – a sacred botanical oil believed by ancient shamans to have therapeutic benefits – this is a go-to for an instant mood-boost.
Key fragrance notes: earl grey tea, lemon, nutmeg. Earl grey lovers, rejoice! This is the fragrant equivalent of the early morning mist rolling over shrubs at a tea plantation. Think fresh, crisp and utterly addictive.
Key fragrance notes: red and dark berries, jasmine, amber. London in a bottle. Wear with Doc Martens and a mug of Earl Grey tea.
Key fragrance notes: violet, blackcurrant, Bulgarian rose, peach, freesia, amber, white tea . A modern take on rose. If you’re a lover of floral fragrances, look no further.
Key fragrance notes: pear, rose, vanilla. This gourmand scent smells like a freshly baked fruit tart, warm and rich with just the right amount of sweetness.
Key fragrance notes: amber, musk, labdanum. This woody fragrance is a particular favourite of mine in the winter months.
A Bloom rollerball paired with an iconic Gucci lipstick. What’s not to love?
A fragrance brand that prides itself on sustainably sourcing clean ingredients.
This set has a fragrance combination to suit every mood and every season.
Take a trip through Italy with three sparkling scents.
