5 perfume discovery sets that will transform the way you shop for fragrances
Ayesha Muttucumaru
Gifting
Reading time: 4 minutes
Want a fragrance fling or searching for ‘the one’? These genius mini fragrances are a more affordable way to find a new signature scent
Finding a signature scent is a little like dating, isn’t it? Ideally, we’d like to explore the full range of what’s on offer and have a little fun before we finally commit to something long-term. After all, what looks good on paper may not translate to real-life chemistry.
You might have thought you had already found ‘the one’. But even the most treasured of scents can get a little stale after a while. That’s when a spritz of inspiration can be needed to help spice things up. Feel like a change? Cue the perfume discovery set.
Our new favourite way to sample a variety of fragrances without breaking the bank, perfume discovery sets provide a budget-friendlier way to experiment with your scent profile, giving you the chance to try before you buy before splashing out on the full-size version. They help keep things light, playful and fresh and ensure you avoid the dreaded buyer’s regret.
So whether you’re looking for a new head-turner, a new daily go-to, a more portable alternative or the perfect gift for the fragrance lover in your life, scroll on for our pick of the best perfume discovery sets and travel scents.
What is a perfume discovery set?
In a nutshell, a perfume discovery set is a collection of mini fragrances that are smaller versions of a brand’s most well-known scents. Think of them as a fragrance capsule wardrobe that allows you to change up your perfume as often as you change your clothes to fit any occasion or mood.
Their smaller size also makes them pretty perfect for taking on holiday, ideal for saving on suitcase space as well as serving as the scent that’ll be forever connected with your time away. Whether spent lounging on golden beaches, urban cafe-hopping or just enjoying some well-earned staycation downtime, you’ll be reminded of your out-of-office bliss every time you spritz.
7 of the best perfume discovery sets & travel-friendly fragrances at Boots
Feeling inspired? Here are seven of our top fragrance discovery sets and travel-friendly mists to help you save money when searching for a new signature scent, save space when packing for a holiday, and save time when shopping for the fragrance fan in your life.
Shop more top discovery and perfume gift sets in our full range.
For fans of sweet fragrances
Try: Kayali Travel Essentials Set
• Contains 3 x 10ml scents
This set’s collection of warming eau de parfums exudes a delicious decadence. For something that’s dewy yet crisp, spritz Eden Juicy Apple. In the mood for something more cocooning? Try creamy Vanilla. For something a little experimental, mist on Lovefest Burning Cherry, which contains notes of sweet caramelised praline and earthy guaiac wood.
For a dose of luxury
Try: Estée Lauder Mini Wonders Perfume Gift Set
• Contains 8 x 2ml scents
With eight fragrances from Estée Lauder’s Luxury Collection to choose from, this perfume collection provides a mini serving of opulence. With names that span time (Tender Light to Dream Dusk and Sensuous Stars) and notes that span fragrance families (everything from citrus green to woody floral and amber spicy), there’s something for every nose.
For fans of summer scents
Try: Tom Ford Eau de Soleil Blanc Travel Spray
• Size: 10ml
• Fragrance family: citrus floral amber
Be reminded of long sunny days, clear skies and crystal blue sea all year round with this warming citrus floral amber eau de toilette from Tom Ford. With notes of bergamot, orange flower, ylang ylang, pistachio and coco de la mer, it’s endless summer, bottled.
For a special gift
Try: Estée Lauder Small Wonders Perfume Gift Set
• Contains 8 x 4ml scents
As well as a couple of extra mls compared to other discovery mini perfume sets, this fragrance wardrobe comes housed in a gorgeous presentation box. Containing eight eau de parfums from the brand’s Luxury Collection, it’s certain to take pride of place on anyone’s dressing table – or suitcase.
For fans of amber scents
Try: La Librairie Discovery Gift Set
• Contains 3 x 30ml scents
Ideal for handbags and holidays, this perfume set of medium-sized scents provides a great intro to the La Librairie range. Its trio of eau de parfums - Oud Poudre, Skin Rose and Iris Blanc – are perfect for helping you step outside your fragrance comfort zone. We like to take them to work to help us shift from day to night mode. Just watch out, your colleagues might try to sneak a cheeky spritz!
For fans of floral scents
Try: Momento Discovery Set
• Contains 4 x 6ml roll-ons
These handy roll-ons provide a stealthy dose of scent on the go. Simply apply to pulse points and let their energising cocktails of notes envelop you (without engulfing those around you). With names like Happy Skies, Duvet Days, About Last Night and Sunset Blvd, flit between its floral and amber blends to best suit your mood.
For a party fragrance
Try: Jimmy Choo Blossom Eau de Parfum
• Size: 40ml
• Fragrance family: floral fruity
This scent brings to mind happy hours, the clinking of glasses and the anticipation ahead of a big night out with friends. Bright, playful and bursting with notes like red berries, sweet pea, white musk and sandalwood, this smaller version of its 60ml big sister is made for overnight and weekend bags, ready to see the wearer through pre-drinks to the taxi home.
