We are from from neurotically paranoid about germs.  But the heinous state of the loos on the trains those of us at Beauty Bible frequently travel on - and the frequent lack of water to wash our hands with - has lately been bringing out our inner Howard Hughes. So L'Occitane Lavender Hand Purifying Gel is a timely find:  a bug-busting hand gel with a whisk-you-to-a-Provençale-field scent of lavender to it.  (Most others we've tried have a distinct eau de hospital about them.)  And - unlike most hand sanitizers - this lightweight gel doesn't leave your hands feeling tight and dry.  (On the contrary, it's quite soothing and hydrating.)

It's also inexpensive:  we're pretty sure each tube would last several return journeys on the Trans-Siberian Express or an Amtrak ride from New York to San Fran - never mind a First Great Western journey from Yeovil to Paddington.  Our new handbag must-have, for sure - and (a tip for new mums) ideal for slipping into a baby's changing bag, to keep hands clean (but not unpleasantly squeaky).

UK readers find it here/£6.50 at www.uk.loccitane.com US readers find it here/$7 at www.usa.loccitane.com