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Posted: 2023-09-25T09:45:01Z | Updated: 2023-09-25T09:45:01Z Natural Pools And Hot Springs To Inspire Your Next Vacation | HuffPost Life

Natural Pools And Hot Springs To Inspire Your Next Vacation

These wild wonders offer a breathtaking experience for travelers and locals alike.

People spend big sums of money to stay at hotels with epic swimming pools or to build their own at home. 

But too many travelers forget that there are stunning places to swim that aren’t man-made at all. And no, we’re not just talking about oceans and lakes. 

Below, we’ve rounded up 17 natural swimming holes from hot springs to waterfalls. While this list is by no means comprehensive, we hope it will inspire some future travels and spark a desire to connect more with nature. 

Seixal Natural Pools
Marco Bottigelli via Getty Images
Located on the northern coast of the Portuguese island of Madeira, the natural pools of Seixal are a breathtaking place to soak. Whether you're seeking a tranquil spot to relax or a dramatic swimming experience, this picturesque locale will have you covered with its juxtaposition of turquoise water against rugged cliffs.
Grotta della Poesia
Filippo Maria Bianchi via Getty Images
The famous Grotta della Poesia the Cave of Poetry is located in the Roca Vecchia archaeological site in the coastal region of Puglia in southern Italy. The natural rock formations surround a stunning pool with refreshing water that draws visitors from around the world who are looking to swim or simply marvel at the sight. As the name suggests, this enchanting place has inspired a sense of creativity and wonder in many.
Havasu Falls
Photograph by Arunsundar via Getty Images
Tucked within the Havasupai Indian Reservation in Arizona, Havasu Falls is a stunning natural wonder that stands out even in a state that's jam-packed with mesmerizing landscapes. The vibrant blue-green waters cascade over striking red rocks to create a perfect oasis. But reaching the waterfall is no easy feat, requiring a challenging hike or helicopter ride.
Laguna Dud
VW Pics via Getty Images
If you're looking to enjoy a piece of paradise in the Dominican Republic, look no further than Laguna Dud. This hidden gem in the municipality of Cabrera offers plenty of cave diving opportunities and lovely views with the lush tropical vegetation. Less adventurous visitors can also try out snorkeling and swimming in the lagoon system.
Chena Hot Springs
Walter Bibikow via Getty Images
Drive about 50 miles northeast of Fairbanks, Alaska, and you'll find Chena Hot Springs. The geothermal hot spring destination is known for its mineral-rich waters, which some believe have healing properties. For a unique, rejuvenating experience, visitors can relax and soak in the warm pools and take in the snow-capped mountain views and wilderness landscapes.
To Sua Ocean Trench
Meaghan Skinner Photography via Getty Images
To Sua Ocean Trench is an idyllic swimming hole in the South Pacific paradise of Samoa. Visitors can descend a steep ladder and immerse themselves in the clear salt water surrounded by lush tropical gardens and towering cliffs.
Giola Lagoon
photoman via Getty Images
Located on the Greek island of Thassos, Giola Lagoon provides a peaceful setting for nature lovers to take a dip. The shimmering waters are perfect for a relaxing and refreshing swim after a short hike visitors can take in the magical Mediterranean scenery as they soak amid the rugged rocks.
Umpqua Hot Springs
benedek via Getty Images
Nestled within the pristine forests of Oregon, Umpqua Hot Springs is a hidden haven of relaxation and natural beauty. The hot springs are comprised of a few terrace pools perfectly situated on the edge of a scenic hillside, so there are plenty of tree-filled panoramic views to take in.
The Fairy Pools
1111IESPDJ via Getty Images
The Fairy Pools, located in the Isle of Skye in Scotland, are a collection of enchanting natural pools that have become an increasingly popular tourist attraction in recent years. Vivid blue pools and cascading waterfalls create a surreal destination with a hint of fairy tale magic. Whether you want to walk along the water or take a frigid dip, this spot has you covered.
Travertine Hot Springs
Ropelato Photography; EarthScapes via Getty Images
The Eastern Sierra region of California is home to a grouping of geothermal springs known as the Travertine Hot Springs. There you'll find multiple pools of varying temperatures where you can soak and enjoy the mineral-rich waters and views of snow-capped mountains and rugged landscapes.
Cenote Ik Kil
Pola Damonte via Getty Images via Getty Images
No trip to the Yucatn Peninsula is complete without a visit to Mexico's stunning cenotes. These natural wonders offer an unforgettable experience, and one of the standouts is certainly Ik Kil. Located near the archeological ruins of Chichn Itz, it's 85 feet below ground level and surrounded by towering limestone walls, lush vegetation and hanging vines that create a truly mystical oasis.
Manby Hot Springs
Mona Makela Photography via Getty Images
New Mexico is home to the secluded Manby Hot Springs, which offer a unique retreat to those willing to make the short hike. The warm mineral-rich waters, desert landscape and general sense of serenity make for a nice escape along the Rio Grande.
Cascate del Mulino
REDA&CO via Getty Images
Another notable Italian swimming hole is the extraordinary Cascate del Mulino waterfall and hot springs. Again, you've got warm thermal waters and gorgeous landscapes in this Tuscan destination in the town of Saturnia. The place also is steeped in history and legend, with a mythical backstory involving the gods Jupiter and Saturn.
Banjar Hot Springs
Arterra via Getty Images
Locally known as Air Panas Banjar, Banjar Hot Springs is a sacred soaking place near the town of Lovina in Bali, Indonesia. The warm sulphuric water is thought to have healing properties. Whatever you believe, it's certainly a soothing destination where people can unwind and connect with nature in a breathtaking place.
Sliding Rock
UniversalImagesGroup via Getty Images
If you went to summer camp in North Carolina, you might have taken a field trip to Sliding Rock in Pisgah National Forest. The site is basically a natural mini water park, with its thrilling titular attraction: a geological formation featuring a smooth, sloping rock face that visitors can slide down for 60 feet and then plunge into a refreshing pool of mountain water.
Cummins Falls
Jeff Graham / 500px via Getty Images
Waterfall fans will also enjoy Cummins Falls State Park in Jackson County, Tennessee. Revel in the breathtaking might of the rushing water as it plunges into the gorge below after undergoing a scenic hike through lush forests. Then you can go for a refreshing dip, which will be no doubt needed after the long trek.
Piscinas Naturales Los Abrigos
Marcos del Mazo via Getty Images
Locals and tourists alike enjoy swimming and relaxing in the natural pools of Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands. The tidal swimming spots by the town of Los Abrigos are especially picturesque as the volcanic cliffs surround perfect pockets of seawater.

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28 Newer Travel Products To Grab If You Havent Taken A Trip In A While
A vacuum-free space-saving compression bag that truly works(01 of28)
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It's so easy to use that all you have to do is stick your clothes inside, zip up the bag, roll the bag and watch all the excess air get squished out of them until your clothes magically shrink!

I am obsessed with these. Despite all the rave reviews, I was definitely skeptical of space-saving bags that don't require a vacuum, and even as they were actively squishing my clothes into oblivion I still couldn't quite believe it. I had easily two suitcases worth of clothes I wanted to pack for a three-week trip to London, and I managed to neatly pack the entirety of my wardrobe in one roller carry-on bag. Truly, all I had to do was put my clothes in the bag, push them to the bottom, and then sit on it to get the air out before sealing it up. I had tons of extra bags and make a habit of taking them with me in case other people joining me on trips need them to be able to pack souvenirs on the way home. I'm never taking a long trip without these again these are worth every penny.
(credit:Emma Lord/BuzzFeed)
A folding pill organizer with convenient windows for easy access(02 of28)
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Promising review: "If you travel, I suggest buying several of these! They organize pills very well and always stay shut and are easy to pack. I also use one for my jewelry when I travel. They stay closed with a strong magnet and fit into a corner of your luggage very easily. I also used a label maker and labeled the individual spaces with the name of the supplement to help organize my partner!" Anna Zucker (credit:www.amazon.com)
A hands-free (rotating!) phone mount designed for use on all airlines(03 of28)
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Perilogics is a small business creating hyper-functional tool holsters and bags for carrying your stuff on the go. Not only can you mount this to the tray table of an airplane seat, but to the arm of a chair or any flat surface, so you'll be able to stream content easy as pie wherever you roam. Reviewers have used it on everything from their car dashboards to carry-on luggage handles to office desks and bedside tables.

Promising review: "I bought this nifty gadget about six months ago for a multi-leg, ultra long-haul trip and it more than held up the entire duration. I was able to finagle it to fit the tray tables on different planes and like others, I find the height just nice when clamped onto a stowed tray table. It also works on my roller carry-on handle during layovers." Earendil
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A fully waterproof tricked-out travel backpack complete with two laptop sleeves, a shoe compartment, a secret anti-theft pocket, a USB charging port, and a wet bag for sweaty clothes or liquids(04 of28)
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It's available in three sizes and 30 styles.

Promising review:
"I recently took a cross-country flight with my three kids. I really didn't want to worry about checked bags getting lost so maximizing our carry-ons was a priority. This backpack fit an unfathomable amount of stuff! Lots of zippers and compartments for everything from shoes to laptops/iPads, easy access compartments for cell phones and boarding passes, I fit tons of neatly folded clothes. The best part was that fully loaded it easily slid under the seat." Kindle Customer
(credit:www.amazon.com)
Alleyoop's portable travel razor, a travel GODSEND that comes with two triple-blade razors, a moisturizing balm and a water spray bottle all in one ergonomic compact case(05 of28)
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Alleyoop is a woman-owned small business that specializes in functional makeup products.

Promising review: "I love this product. I took it on a recent vacation and it really is a time saver. The moisturizer bar it comes with is sooo nice. I usually get a little itchy after shaving but the fact that you can rub in the excess product on the shaved area has helped with itch and ingrown hairs. Now that I'm not on vacation I use it right before I go the pool, I seriously take this thing everywhere." Karlie Hanson
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An extremely nifty, oh-so-portable AI-powered smartphone stabilizer to give you the most seamless, cinematic shots of all the beautiful sights you're beholding(06 of28)
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Promising review: "The Insta 360 is small and compact and works well with the app. Its intuitive and easy to handle, not bulky or heavy. Perfect size and takes all movement out of videos while walking or moving. Love this item." Thomas (credit:www.amazon.com)
A three-in-one foldable magnetic wireless charger you'll honestly be mad you didn't know about before now(07 of28)
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Check out a TikTok of the foldable 3-in-1 charger in action. It folds out from a small square into a rectangular charging pad with a spot for your iPhone, AirPods and Apple Watch to charge all at the same time. It'll save so much space in your bag. It's available in six colors.

Promising review: "I use this product to charge my iPhone 13, AirPods, and Apple Watch. Prior to this 3-in-1 compact purchase, I have purchased three different kinds of 3-in-1 chargers. I frequently travel between school and home with carry-on bags on airlines and all of the previous stand version chargers doesn't fit well in my bags or I am always worried I would break. This is compact and folds so well that I can fit in my carry-on or in any zipper pockets without having to worry about breaking anything. Charger works really well and it is the best compact one you can find in market. Love it and been using it for two months now and no issues!!" SBREDDY
(credit:www.amazon.com)
An easy adhesive phone card holder to keep all your credit cards and cash on your person, because if there's ONE thing you know you'll never lose, it's your phone(08 of28)
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Wallaroo Wallets is a small business that specializes in uniquely-designed minimalist wallets. I've used these wallets for four years now, and they are worth every penny! Mine last about six months at a time before they get dingy enough to replace, and easily hold three cards and a five dollar bill. I've never had any issues with them un-sticking off the phone case, and they're super easy to pull off. It makes my life so much easier not to carry a wallet around, plus I never lose my ID! It's available in 14 colors.

Promising review: "The Wallaroo phone wallet is a must have for any cell phone owner. The quality of the leather and design of the wallet is superb. I recently went on vacation and purchased my Walleroo before my trip. It was so convenient to carry my ID, credit card and hotel key and not have to carry my actual wallet. This is a great product that I highly recommend." Todd Smithson
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A reusable, delightfully portable gel lint roller for quick lil' touch-ups both at-home and abroad(09 of28)
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Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok a bunch of times and finally decided to get it. I hate the paper lint rollers, they never seem to work that well and I hate that I have to throw them away. This is awesome because it fits right in my bag, and Im able to reuse it over and over. Its super sticky and works great!" Ella (credit:www.amazon.com)
A four-pack of LeakLocks Toiletry Skins to keep things from going "kaboom!!" in your carry-on(10 of28)
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Rinseroo is a small business specializing in problem-solving cleaning, pet, and travel products. These extend to fit both full-size and travel-size toiletries like shampoo, sunscreen, foundation, or any other liquids you'd rather not find spilled all over your socks and underwear post-flight.

Promising review: "These covered various sizes of products hair care, body wash, etc. Nothing leaked out of these whatsoever, even after a lid popped open during a flight. These prevented it from leaking out on the other contents of my luggage. Easy to use. Not flimsy. Very flexible. LOVE THESE!" TAG
(credit:www.amazon.com)
A set of portable blackout curtain shades perfect for parents who use them for nap time or anyone staying in a brightly-lit area(11 of28)
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They're available in 10 styles and two-packs, and stick to windows with suction cups.

Promising review
: "I got this set to black out rooms when we travel with our baby. They work well, stay up the whole trip, it's easy to customize to the size of the window. Glad we got them, baby slept better while away because we had them." Bri
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A collapsible leakproof water bottle(12 of28)
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Promising review: "I just bought this bottle and Im already obsessed. I even ordered four more to bring with me on vacation and share with my family. I love how easily it folds back up and it doesnt leak at all. I just wish it came in more colors and cant wait to show everyone my cool new bottle!" Brittany (credit:www.amazon.com)
A digital luggage scale perfect for anyone who likes to play chicken with the weight limits on various airlines(13 of28)
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Check out BuzzFeeder Elizabeth Lilly's TikTok of the digital luggage scale in action.

Promising reviews: "This scale works and was accurate on four flights. First flight was a test at 46 pounds and Delta scales said it was 46 pounds. The next two flights were at 49 pounds and both United and Delta found it to be 49 pounds. The bag on the fourth flight weighed 49 but the United scale found it to be 48 pounds. Four different airports and scales proved that this scale is a good, low-cost, must-have item for air travel." Robert
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A machine-washable Airplane Pocket tray cover designed to slide seamlessly over an airplane tray to create an instant, deeply convenient hub(14 of28)
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Check out a TikTok of the Airplane Pockets tray table cover in action. Airplane Pockets is a small business that specializes in sanitary, portable travel organization products.

Promising review: "I used it last week and it was terrific. It fit everything: magazine, iPad, tissues, gum, glasses, phone, earplugs and water bottle. It stretched easily but tightly over the tray and both the flight attendant and my seat mates complimented me on it. I plan to use it every time I fly. It would be perfect for children, too. Highly recommend it." Sue G.
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A ridiculously beloved, "Shark Tank"-featured Click & Carry grocery bag carrier to help you lift bulky, heavy bags while you're traveling(15 of28)
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Click & Carry is a "Shark Tank" and QVC-featured small business that specializes in easy carry accessories.

Promising review: "TikTok made me buy it. This is great when you have a few bags and a box for example, if you balance the bags, you can throw it over your shoulder and walk inside and have two free hands to carry the box, which is great. Product seems well built, and is comfortable on your shoulder or hand because of the padding." Hung
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A hybrid hair tools travel bag/heat-resistant mat with lots of space for all your curling and straightening needs, plus a flap closure you can rest them on(16 of28)
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Promising review: "I thought this bag was just going to be something heat proof for my curling iron, but it is so much more all the little pouches and zippered areas and extra compartments! Everything I need for hair is going to be encompassed in this one bag. Im so glad I bought it." Karen Lynn Smith (credit:www.amazon.com)
A Snooz Go sleeper that's a travel-friendly sound machine, Bluetooth speaker and night light all in one(17 of28)
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Promising review: "It has drastically improved my sleep (and drowned out noisy neighbors and dogs) over the past week. It's super compact and I love the option for different (and nonlooping) sounds. I use it every night in my bedroom, but I'm looking forward to bringing it on future vacations too!" Alex M. (credit:Goodful)
A set of silicone "EarPlanes" designed with a twist-on structure to help relieve pressure that hurts your ears during altitude changes during landing and takeoff(18 of28)
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Reviewers also swear by these for driving through altitude changes in the mountains and for helping with sinus pressure pain!

Promising review:
"This product has changed my life. I travel fairly frequently and always have issues with ear pressure on the plane. My ears will be clogged up, and it is painful to swallow for a day or two after short-distance flights. But now, I use these and fly incident-free. You are supposed to insert them before the plane takes off and then before landing. I have found that it works best if I leave them in the entire flight from before takeoff until landing, but they work almost as well if you take them out once you reach cruising altitude." Thomasina
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A 60-pack of chewable toothpaste tablets so you have one less thing to worry about going "kaboom!!" in your carry-on(19 of28)
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Promising review: "I took these on a three-week trip to Europe. Didn't have to put them in my liquids bag. You chew them (don't swallow), then brush. It doesn't seem like they'd work, but they did. My teeth felt clean after using. Good purchase." Pattipeg S. Harjo (credit:Amazon)
A minimalist-style silicone makeup bag because this case is so easy to clean that you'll never have to replace it, not even when all of your liquid-based makeup leaks on the plane(20 of28)
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This also features a double magnetic closure to keep everything secure, and designed with a flat style for easier packing. It's available in 12 colors.

Promising review:
"Love this item. So versatile. You can use for makeup, a book at the beach, or an e-reader to protect from sand or water in your bag. Many uses." Amazon Customer
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A dry shampoo powder just as effective as the beloved aerosol ones that you might have trouble packing in a carry-on, if they're too big (not to mention these are much more environmentally friendly!)(21 of28)
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Hair Dance is a U.S.-based cruelty-free, vegan small business that specializes in haircare products.

Promising review: "I was a little unsure about this product but wanted it for vacation to limit aerosols or liquids. I am mind blown! It smells great, doesnt leave a residue and both volumizes and keeps my hair looking fresh. It also lasts for much longer than an aerosol if youre someone who uses this daily or every other day. The bottle is small enough to not take up space, but Ive had my first bottle for months and am barely through half. This will be my go-to from now on." E
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A two-in-one contacts and glasses case(22 of28)
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This includes a compartment for glasses as well as a separate one with space for your contacts, a tweezer and contact lens solution. It comes in 12 colors.

Promising review:
"Because of my job, I live out of a suitcase, and I am always worried if I need an extra set of contacts or a spare pair of eyeglasses. This is perfect, because I just put it in the bottom of my suitcase, and I am confident I have them both in one place. I got the pink case, and its very cute. Very happy with this purchase." N. Rivera
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A set of two TSA-friendly travel bottles with pumps(23 of28)
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Promising review: "I've traveled with this thing for about two years now doesnt leak whatsoever!!! Ive used so many travel sized bottles and most of them leak or break. Its good enough for a week or two vacay!" Rashai Kailiwai (credit:www.amazon.com)
A portable hair tie hub to make you the Hair Tie Hero you want to see in the world(24 of28)
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Hair Tie Hub is a small business that specializes in hair tie organizing keychains. Each carries three hair ties and easily attaches to gym bags, purses, keys and more! Get it one of three colors.

Promising review: "If you're anything like us, you are always forgetting a hair tie. Adding this to my keychain has been very useful. We are never having to scrounge around a purse or the car for one when we need it." Muhammad Wasiq Maskeen
(credit:Amazon)
A portable hanging luggage organizer for the ultimate lazy unpacker hack(25 of28)
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This works with your existing suitcase, unlike similar models that come pre-built into more expensive suitcases! All you have to do is pack your clothes in this, fold it into your suitcase, and then magically unfurl it in a hotel closet for access to all your stuff. Guess who's going to be the first one to the hotel pool after check in??? (You. It's you.) It's available in four colors and several sets.

Promising review: "I was able to pack seven outfits and have way more space in this organizer. I just packed the clothes in the organizer, closed it up, and placed it in my carry on. Once I got to the hotel, I just hung it in my closet. It would be perfect for cruises since their is never any drawer space and very little room to move around." jess
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A cult-favorite adjustable infinity pillow designed with 360-degree support to best cushion your neck(26 of28)
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The pillow is made with a breathable, super soft bamboo fabric and is fully machine-washable. It comes in 10 colors.

Promising review: "We got a few different types of travel pillows for a red-eye to Europe and this was overall our favorite due to its versatility. The loop actually allows you to have various self supporting positions, and this will contort all sorts of ways to be a pillow, neck rest, arm rest anything. Its actually just good for any type of travel in general and got a lot of use on the whole trip. The material is soft and comfortable." Tom Shaw
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A three-pack of storage scrunchies perfect for anyone who needs an extra pocket(27 of28)
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LokiStashed is a California-based small business that specializes in unique and practical hair accessories. These are handy enough to hold little items like lip balm and mini hand sanitizers, and are a great discreet way to hold cash when you're on the move.

Promising review: "I got these scrunchies so I could stash away money, lip balm, and car/house keys while enjoying a hike, at the beach, or going to festivals ... basically places where you don't want to be worried about carrying a lot or you don't want people to know where your stuff is. I have very long thick hair and the scrunchie will go around my hair twice while in a ponytail or bun and it is comfortable." Amazon Customer
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An intty-bitty travel face ice roller because taking a trip doesn't mean your face doesn't deserve the best part of its oh-so-soothing wakeup routine!(28 of28)
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Promising review: "I bought this because I wake up in the morning with very puffy eyes and my jaw is always sore from overnight grinding. Im not going to say this is a cure all, but it is extremely soothing to roll on the skin. It isnt excessively cold to where my skin burns when using it, and its small and slim enough to pop in luggage when traveling." Liz (credit:www.amazon.com)

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