Avis, P&G Replace Travelers' Toiletries
“Smile Packs” will be left on seats of rental cars at major airports starting this week.
Travelers who lost carry-on toiletries because of heightened airport security will find a consolation gift when they pick up Avis Rent A Car vehicles at 25 of the nation's major airports this week, The Associated Press reports.
In a quickly launched partnership with Avis, Procter & Gamble has donated 25,000 "smile packs" with its Crest toothpaste, mouthwash and floss that Avis will leave on the front seats of cars starting Wednesday, Avis spokeswoman Susan McGowan said.
She said the packs are full-size products, not travel sizes, worth a little more than a total $10 each at retail stores, not including P&G's costs for shipping them.
Some U.S. hotel chains also are offering more free toiletries to help soothe travelers, according to The Associated Press.
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