toiletries travel bag list

The Complete Travel Toiletries List – Pack Right Every Time!

Looking for a travel toiletries list to help you organise your packing? If you’re traveling soon, I’ve put together a helpful list of toiletries that work for any trip. As someone who travels very frequently, I’ve narrowed down exactly which toiletries for travel are actually essential. I also know of a few toiletry items that you might not have heard of before or thought you needed. This is the only toiletries packing list you’ll ever need! I’ve put together a printable toiletries list for travel that you can download as a PDF and print off at home to make packing easy every time.

I’m also going to share a few tips for packing toiletries , how to lighten your load and share some of the best travel toiletries I’ve come across over my years of packing toiletries for flying, cruising, road tripping or backpacking. You’ll know exactly what toiletries to pack for a trip by the end of this post!

What You'll Find in This Post

The Complete Travel Toiletries List

Essential toiletries.

These are your travel toiletry essentials. Most of this stuff will feature on everyone’s toiletry bag checklist. If there are any things on this list of toiletries items that you don’t use at home then they’re probably not essential travel toiletries for you. A few of these items are personal preference only like hand cream or cotton buds. For guys, this is basically you whole toiletries list for men.

Shampoo – Packed in GoToob Travel Bottles if you’re traveling less than 2 weeks or traveling carry on only.
Conditioner – Packed as above
Hair brush / comb
Soap / body wash
Toothpaste – Get a travel sized toothpaste if you’re traveling with carry on only
Toothbrush – Folding toothbrushes like this are great for travel
Dental floss – Pick a small travel size one
Deodorant – Make sure it’s under 3oz if you’re traveling carry on only
Facial wipes / cleanser – Wipes are easy and less messy than a liquid cleanser
Facial moisturiser – I use Rosehip oil as it’s small, easy to pack and lasts a long time but whatever you use at home is right for you
Body moisturiser – You can leave this out if you’re staying in hotels but bring it if you’re using Airbnb, cruising or prefer a specific brand
Hand cream – Great for the flight!
Lip balm – Great for the flight, sun or skiing
Coconut oil – One of my top essential toiletries for traveling! Packing in a GoToob , it is so useful for travel as a moisturiser, after sun, shaving gel, hair treatment, make up remover etc. If you plan on using this, you can omit other items on this list as necessary.
Razor – I use this small women’s travel razor
Shaving gel / oil – Shaving oil is more space efficient and is a an essential for a men’s toiletries list
Small mirror – I use this small magnifying mirror which has suction cups so you can use it on a hotel room window or mirror
Nail clippers
Cotton buds / cotton pads

Nice to Have / Trip Specific Toiletries for Vacation

These items are either things that are just nice to have or depend on the type of trip you’re taking. Here are some of the extra toiletries to take on vacation:

Sunscreen – This sunscreen smells amazing!
Insect repellent spray
After sun lotion / aloe vera – For sunburn or moisturising your skin after sun exposure, toiletry bag essentials if you’re at the beach!
Anti-chafe balm / powder – Get this anti-chafe balm if you’re traveling somewhere humid, doing a lot of activity or walking a lot.
Foot powder – Pick up a travel size foot powder if you’re doing lots of hiking or walking around cities, you can also use anti-chafe balm for this.
Tiger balm / Deep heat – If you’re on an active vacation like a ski trip this is great to have.
Hand santizer
Menstrual cup / Tampons / Sanitary pads – An essential part of any female toiletries list depending on what time of the month you’re traveling!
Personal lubricant
After shave / beard oil
Contact lenses and solution
Essential oils – If you need them, pack them in these small travel bottles for essential oils

Hair & Beauty Toiletries for Women

A lot of these are women’s toiletries. Mens travel toiletries are a little more simple so guys can skip this section almost entirely. Most of these are toiletries to pack for vacation, when you’re going on a cruise, to a nice resort or on a weekend city break. If you’re backpacking toiletries like this probably aren’t necessary.

Hair ties – Wrap your hair ties around the handle of your hairbrush and then slot your bobby pins in over the top!
Travel Flat iron – If you have hard to control hair, consider bringing a flat iron. Here’s my list of the best travel flat irons.
Travel hair dryer – Most hotels have a hair dryer in the room but bring your own if you’re staying in an Airbnb or at a friend’s house. Here’s my list of the best travel hair dryers on the market.
Dry shampoo – Get a travel size dry shampoo spray
Hair styling products – Travel size versions of hairspray and styling gel are easy to find or put your gel into a GoTubb
Shower cap – If you’re staying in a hotel, it’s not necessary but if you’re in an Airbnb or staying at a friend’s then it’s useful
Make up brushes
Make up remover
Eye cream – You can scoop some into a little pot like this for travel
Solid perfume – These are great for travel! The Pacifica brand has some lovely Hawaiian scents in their range.

First Aid Kit

A small first aid kit is a very useful addition to your travel toiletries list. I pack mine into a Ziploc sandwich bag and just tuck it away until I need any of the items. You don’t need to bring the whole box of Bandaids or rehydration sachets, just a few of each item is enough.

Bite / sting cream
Immodium – Anti-diaharreal tablets for any emergency situations!
Pain relief – Ibuprofen, panadol or asprin
Antacids – These are so useful if you’re going somewhere that has spicy food!
Rehydration salts – In case of any Delhi belly, important for kids.
Vitamin C sachets
Throat lozenges
Digital thermometer – This should definitely be on your toiletries travel bag list for any families traveling with small kids.

The 10 Best Travel Toiletries Items

Add these to your toiletries shopping list! After many years, I’ve worked out these are some of the best toiletries for travel . Pack your favorite items, of course, but give these items a try when putting together your toiletry kit list.

Folding toothbrush

One of my latest travel toiletries essentials is a folding toothbrush. Not only do they take up less space and fit into a Ziploc bag but they also protect your toothbrush bristles from germy surfaces or cross-contamination.

One of my favorite travel kit toiletries for packing light! These squeezey silicone tubes are perfect for shampoo, conditioner, coconut oil, body wash or any liquid you want to turn into travel mini toiletries. It’s easy to squeeze the liquid out and they don’t leak at all. They come in 2oz or 3oz sizes so are ideal for traveling carry on only.

The tub version of GoToobs, a GoTubb lets you put an thicker creams or gels into smaller containers for travel. Very useful for things like eye cream or hair gel. You can also use them for pills, vitamins or even snacks.

Coconut oil

One of the most useful toiletries to take travelling! You can use coconut for so many different purposes. It’s one of the toiletries travel bloggers most often recommend. It does just about anything! I use mine in lieu of eye make-up remover, body moisturiser, shaving gel, massage oil, hair oil and after sun cream.

Solid perfume

I love having a little pot of solid perfume to travel with because it’s such a nice pick me up when you’re feeling travel tired, smelly or just want to juzz yourself up for a night out. This Pacifica one comes in lots of great travel themed scents also!

Ziploc bags

Ziploc bags are so useful for packing toiletries for plane trips as they make it easy to pull your liquids out for security checks. If I’m traveling carry on only then my toiletries for air travel go into a Ziploc bag. You can also use Ziploc bags to tip vitamins into and leave your bulky bottles at home. Just write the contents and dosage on the outside of the bag.

Magnifying mirror

A small magnifying mirror like this one is so useful for travel because it has suction cups so you can stick it to a hotel window or mirror when you’re doing your eye make up or using your tweezers.

Small brush

A decent travel size hair brush saves a lot of space in your travel toiletry bag.

Menstrual cup

For all the ladies, if you haven’t tried out a menstrual cup then you should definitely give it a go as it’s so useful for travel. A menstrual cup is a reusable tampon alternative that gives you 12 hours of protection and can simply be rinsed and reused. This collapsible one saves a lot of space and comes in a neat little travel container.

Another one for the ladies, BB cream is for your travel make up kit! It gives light coverage which is great for wearing make up in hot climates and also contains a sunscreen. I love this Tarte BB cream because it is very light and dries to almost a soft powder. Plus it comes in a 1oz travel size so is perfect for traveling light.

Tips for Packing Toiletries

Using my travel tips packing toiletries is easy! Here are a few of my best tips for traveling with toiletries and avoiding spillage or overpacking.

Packing toiletries for flight – I always pack my flight toiletries in Ziploc bags in case of spillage as the air pressure of the plane can cause bottles to squeeze in and push the contents out, even if the lid is screwed shut! To avoid messy situations pack anything that might leak into a Ziploc bag and then put it inside your toiletry bag. You’ll notice that my toiletries list for air travel includes packing shampoo and conditioner into GoToobs. This is because these won’t leak. Still, be careful with any liquids.
Packing toiletries for international travel – Unless you’re going somewhere very remote or off the beaten path, you will be able to buy most essential toiletries for travel when you’re abroad. You might not be able to get certain brands you love so if you’re picky, bring them with you.
Packing toiletries for carry on luggage – When packing toiletries for air travel you need to adhere to the guidelines of items under 3oz or 100ml. It’s easy to purchase travel-size versions of most ladies toiletries and mens toiletries. Or you can decant your larger shampoo/conditioner bottles into GoToobs. Another alternative is to use a solid shampoo bar although I personally don’t like these and many of them require you to rinse your hair with vinegar afterwards anyway.
Pick the right toiletry bag – When picking a toiletry bag, look for one that has good waterproof/spill-proof fabric in case of any leakages. A hook for hanging is also really useful so you can hang up your toiletries when there isn’t a lot of counter space. I really like this eBags flat toiletry kit because all the items lay flat in one layer so it’s very easy to find what you’re looking for in your bag. Here’s my full review of the eBags Pack It Flat Toiletry Kit.

Printable Travel Toiletries Checklist

You download my complete toiletry items list here and print it out to pack for your trip. Now you can get organised and get all your toiletries to bring on vacation together. packing list toiletries

>>>>>Click here to download the printable PDF toiletries list for vacation here <<<<<

Any questions or comments on what toiletries to pack for vacation?

I hope you’ve found my list of toiletries for travel useful. As it’s written from my perspective it’s obviously more a women’s toiletries packing list, but guys can definitely adapt it to a list of travel toiletries for men by cutting off the hair and beauty items and all the fancy creams. For families, these travel essentials toiletries are all the same so you’ll just need to add in your kids’ toothbrushes and make sure you have child suitable pain relief and a digital thermometer.

Here’s a quick summary: When you travel pack toiletries that you use at home, go for mini versions or put them in GoToobs, bring any trip specific items as needed and then use the best way to pack toiletries for air travel by putting them in Ziploc bags or a great toiletry kit bag.

What’s on your toiletry bag list? Do you have any trips on what toiletries to take on holiday? I’d love to hear from you if you have any great products or ways of packing them.

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The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)

Toiletries , TOILETRIES

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Packing toiletries is like an art form. You want to pack the essentials, but you don’t want to overpack and weigh down your suitcase. Follow our ultimate guide to creating the perfect travel toiletries list and master the art of packing!

Toiletries are a serious struggle for many travelers. How do you take everything you need especially if you’re traveling carry on only?

Store-bought travel size toiletries are convenient but they’re not always the best option.

This article will help you plan what toiletries you should bring on your trip by giving you a step-by-step walk through of a suggested planning process.

It will also provide you with travel size toiletries examples, a printable checklist, answers to the most common questions, and will also show you how to downsize your favorite beauty products.

Photo Credit: E-bags Shop: eBags | Walmart

What is a toiletry item?

When I started traveling, someone took me by surprise when they asked me, “What are toiletries?” Before we get started, I want to quickly clarify what they are.

The toiletries definition from Cambridge Dictionary is: “articles used in washing and taking care of one’s body, such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste”.

To be as helpful and efficient as possible, we’re including a variety of items in our toiletries list including grooming items, beauty products, and other essentials.

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

What toiletries can I take on a plane?

One of the most important things to know before you start planning for your trip is what you are allowed to bring in your suitcase. The toiletries you can take on a plane depend on whether or not you are checking your luggage.

Image Source: US Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

For cabin or carryon toiletries: airlines require that liquid products be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and all bottles must fit in a clear quart size ziplock bag when traveling with a carry on. Products that need to be inside the quart size ziplock bag are liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. This is called the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule .

Clear Travel Toiletry Bag

For checked toiletries: items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters (regardless of amount ) should be in checked baggage. Visit this TSA page to find out exactly what items are allowed in a checked bag. It’s actually an interesting read!

These guidelines are for US-based airlines. However, these tend to be the general guidelines across all airlines. For specific items, always check the website of the airline or contact them and ask them directly.

Shop Sea To Summit Toiletry Bag: Amazon | Backcountry

What’s the best toiletry bag?

The two toiletry bags our readers love the most are the eBags Pack it Flat Toiletry Kit and the Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag.

For more suggestions, read our article rounding up the ten best toiletry bags and the best hanging toiletry bags .

Tip: Make sure that you keep the quart-size ziplock bag (storing your carryon toiletries) accessible when you get to the airport. Once you get through security, place them back into your toiletry bag.

How do you keep your liquids from leaking?

Here’s a tip I shared on Oprah to help you prevent liquids from leaking in luggage: remove the cap from the bottle, place a small square of plastic wrap over the opening, and replace the cap.

The reason your bottles leak or explode on a flight is due to changes in air pressure. As the plane goes up, the pressure causes the bottle to compress (as if you were squeezing it with your hand). The plastic wrap acts as a seal to prevent leaks.

YAMYONE Leakproof Travel Bottles

This is the reason why store bought travel size toiletries are never completely full. You need to allow a little bit of extra space so the liquids don’t get pushed out by the changes in pressure. (This is also the reason why your ears get plugged while flying.)

The solution: Don’t fill your bottles all the way to the top. Instead, only fill them by 2/3 or 75%.

How to Pack Toiletries for Travel

Follow the below step-by-step guide on how to pack toiletries to determine what you will and will not need to bring along with how to downsize items.

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

Step 2: eliminate, step 3: downsize, step 4: travel containers.

Start by laying out all the grooming and beauty products you use on a day to day basis. Which of these can you take on your trip and which will you need to leave behind? Choose anything and everything you think you may need.

Then, place each item into one of these categories:

Not required
Not applicable

Safehaven Products – 8 Piece Hygiene and Toiletry Set

There are certain things you might find non-negotiable such as your favorite brand shampoo or premium face moisturizer. You can save a lot of space and weight in your luggage by minimizing toiletries and eliminating certain items altogether.

Round Clear Jars

Would you be willing to use the shampoo and body moisturizer provided by your hotel for a few days? A few weeks? If not, don’t worry. There are tips in the next steps in the article that will provide a solution to this problem. (Hint: Reusable travel containers !)

If you’re unsure whether your accommodation provides complimentary travel size toiletries, check their website or better yet, send them an email. Want a faster response? Call them.

To help you determine the products you may or may not need, you’ll find a list of toiletries examples below:

Sample Travel Size Toiletries List:

(Click any item for product suggestions)

Conditioner
Body Wash/Soap/Oil
Face Wash/Scrub
Feminine Wash
Shaving Cream
Face Moisturizer
Body Moisturizer
Body Powder
Leave in Conditioner
Dry Shampoo
Anti-heat Spray
Styling Gel/Mousse
Hair Smoothing Cream
Hand Moisturizer
Hand Sanitizer
Nail Polish
Nail Polish Remover
Hair Removal Cream
Makeup Remover
Styling Brush/Styling Comb
Flat Iron/Straightener
Curling Iron

Are there any additional beauty products you use such as other shower essentials ? If so, add them to your initial list.

Printable Toiletries Checklist

You can write in an item’s weight (lighter items mean less overall baggage weight)
You can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
And most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item including suggested packing organizers like these

Read this post for a printable packing list that includes clothes, shoes, and more!

Now that you’ve gone through the entire list of every possible beauty product you own, create two piles: one for items you don’t need to take and one for items you absolutely do.

AmoVee 2 in 1 Flat Iron – Dual Voltage

For example:

Do you need five hair styling products or can you choose just one? Use something like this 2-in-1 curling/flat iron duo
Instead of razors and hair removal creams, how about a wax before your trip? I like no-heat strips like these
Can you leave behind your nail polish and get a gel manicure instead? Read this post on making your vacation nails last
Do you need several items to comb or brush your hair or can you use just one like this foldable wet brush with a mirror?

Is it possible to temporarily hold off on using any products? If so, do it!

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Find out if your accommodation offers products such as shampoo, shower gel, hair dryer, etc. Some hotels even have additional complimentary items at reception such as razors, toothpaste, and other small essentials. Just ask!

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps

One of the best ways to minimize toiletries is to choose multi-use products or items. Determine if there are any products you already own that can work double-duty. Choose between two products that serve the same purpose.

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps and Sea To Summit Wilderness Wash are two of the most popular travel all-in-one travel products.

Other items to consider:

Is it possible to pack 4-in-1 facial cloths like these instead of taking face wash, scrub, and makeup wipes?
Can you use a 2-in-1 shampoo plus conditioner like these ?
Would you consider a tinted moisturizer or BB cream? This one’s my fave.
Can you use your straightener as a curling iron? Better yet, choose a 2-in-1 curling/flat iron duo like this
Have you ever seen double ended makeup brushes? Save space with these

There are various multi-use products on the market, or you can use a few long-term travel hacks like I do, such as:

Baby powder as dry shampoo
Shampoo as shower gel (only for short periods of time)
Conditioner as shaving cream
Face scrub as body scrub
Body moisturizer to smooth hair flyaways

Nars Multiple | Eco Tools Brush Set

You’d be surprised at how many products can be used for multiple needs. Things like coconut oil or other natural oils can be used as a body moisturizer, shave gel, and split end treatment! Tip: The best coconut oil is cold-pressed, unrefined, and good enough to eat.

There are also various multi-use makeup products such as my all-time fave: Nars The Multiple !

Read these tips on how to minimize toiletry products for even more tips!

Have you ever paid attention to how much shampoo you use? I only wash my hair every other day, so a 3 oz. travel size can last me a week!

How long is your trip? Make note of how much product you use for the duration of that time. Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need.

Essentials such as shampoo, toothpaste, and moisturizers are particularly important. Don’t forget to test out bath, skincare, and makeup products. Make note so you can refer back when you’re ready to make the final plan.

Tip: avoid taking liquids in your carryon by replacing them with solid toiletries and travel wipes !

Editor’s Favorite Reusable Makeup Remover: Kiki & Josie

Once you have a better idea of what you actually need then consider other ways to downsize such as:

Instead of taking nail polish remover, can you take a few individual wipes like these instead?
Do you need an entire bottle of foundation or can you use a small container like this to take only what you will use?
Mini-nail polish bottles like these are a good choice, if you can’t stand chipped nails.
Read these travel makeup hacks for more ideas!

Skincare tends to be more personalized, but try not to bring more than three skincare items: a cleanser, treatment (for acne or wrinkles), and moisturizer. If you use a skincare system different from this one, try to cut it down to three products.

To downsize your makeup routine, read The Beauty Junkie’s Guide to Packing a Minimalist Makeup Kit and How to Create a Capsule Makeup Collection !

Empty Lip Gloss Balm Container

Choose appropriate travel containers. Many times, 3 oz bottles are too big for a one or two-week trip, so buy various sizes and take only the amount you will use.

Instead of immediately buying “travel-size” containers in 3oz or 100ml bottles, get a range of sizes including 1oz , 2oz , and smaller jars like these , too.

Tip: Replace glass containers with plastic to minimize weight and avoid breakage.

Read this post on the best travel containers for more info!

Do a test run to see if everything fits in your toiletry bag. If your belongings don’t fit, consider using multi-use products such as a shampoo/conditioner combo, using conditioner as shaving cream, or baby shampoo for your hair and body.

Travel Toiletries Comparison Chart

Watch this video for more tips on how to fit all your toiletries into a carryon:

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: For long-term trips, don’t pack full-size toiletries. Purchase travel-size products as you go. Some local drug store brands are common around the world. Here are more toiletry tips for long trips!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What items are a must have on your toiletries list? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on travel toiletries, please read:

10 Best Travel Toiletry Bags
The Ultimate Guide to Hair While Traveling
Ways to Fit All Your Toiletries into Your Carry-on
The Simple Guide to Essential Travel Beauty Products

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69 Comments

Probably the biggest impact on my packing has been the tips to reduce and decant toiletries. I have followed this website and FB page for several years and the first thing I realized was that my toiletry footprint in my suitcase can be much smaller. This, in turn, makes for more room in small bathrooms (I typically cruise). Thanks for all your great info!!!

This is a great post, very helpful for thos of us that think we need to bring it all with us. Thank you for helping us travel lighter!

Sort of in the toiletries category, if traveling to South East Asia, I highly recommend getting a small pack of toilet seat covers and travel toilet paper (or carry tissues). No guarantee that there will be any available in locations other than your hotels. Otherwise, there is a hose with a spray handle for you to use, and that’s it. :0

I struggle with packing toiletries and overpacking things. I really appreciate this step by step guide that holds my hand and walks me through every step of packing so I don’t get overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated trying to figure everything out.

This is the most helpful travel blog, as I have always struggled with my liquids leaking when I fly. Thx for posting your excellent resources!

I love the compass rose packing cubes and look forward to taking them to Paris and Amsterdam the end of October.

This article has been a lifesaver as my toiletry bag is out of control! I learned many new ways of pairing it down and found some great containers to make that happen. The tips will also help my clear liquids bag be more manageable! Thank you for the great ideas.

I love all of these suggestions! I now have the flat-it pack it from eBags and also the lip balm containers which are genius! Thank you!

Lots of good tips, but beware of local restrictions when traveling; e.g., many African countries are very restrictive about plastics. Plastic bags are bad for the animals… If the plastic bag could be a 1-use bag, it might be prohibited even though you plan to use it multiple times during your trip. Some countries prohibit the shopping bags from the duty-free shops. There could be fines and imprisonment. Just a reminder to check restrictions in your designation country.

Very good point, thanks for sharing Dot!

I find it very informative to see what everyone says about downsizing toiletries. Thanks for sharing a great post. And the comments!

So glad you found this guide helpful!

Minimizing my toiletries and my toiletry case is the challenge I must overcome. I just came back from a 16 day trip to Austria. Individual zipper pouches not only create more bulk but also more weight. Reading your well written articles will assist me in this challenge.

I used those round clear jars on my last trip, but I couldn’t really get a grip on the lid and base to separate the two 🙁 I’m going back to using old empty jars of product and decanting into them instead.

I just want to thank Travel Fashion Girl and everyone that is part of this community for the inspiration and know-how for successful travel when abroad and also when dreaming from home. Taming toiletries remains a challenge! Using multi-purpose (lips, cheeks, eyes) make-up helps minimize make up, and sample sizes (like tiny mascara) are helpful, as is repotting items into much smaller containers versus buying travel sizes. Thanks for all the tips!

Great tips. Toiletries are the most challenging for me.

Great info – toiletries are always a challenge for me!

I loce the tips and be learned from following TFG and pass it a long to friends often! Thanks for the tips

Unbelievably thorough! Thank you for these hugely helpful tips and examples. I’m so excited!

This is the most thorough and well-written toiletries packing article out there! Thank you 🙂

Suggestions for toner bottle? Everything pours out too fast!

Packing now for my first trip carry on only … and I am finding toiletries are the most challenging part! Thank you for all the info, tips, and tricks!

The empty lip gloss containers … life changing! Thank you!

Another great lesson from Alex at TFG! I have more toiletries and medicines than clothes to take on my 15 day trip to the UK. I leave Thursday and am still refining my packing. These toilette tips are sooo helpful! In fact, all of Alex’s blogs are so helpful! I’m so glad I found this group!!

We first started traveling internationally in 2013 and were determined to do carry-on only. I thought it was impossible until I discovered TFG. Toiletries were the most difficult for me to figure out. 9 years later I still use all the tips I’ve learned from here.

Thanks to your tips I was able to downsize my toiletries and pack in a carry on only for my recent 11 day trip to Europe. Never did I ever think I could make this happen!

I got so much helpful information! I never thought of downsizing from Travel size for my liquids. This has been a game changer for me when packing my toiletries! Thanks!

Such great information! Can’t get enough of TravelFashionGirl!

My first trip traveling with only a carry on suitcase was an epiphany! Easier to pack and unpack. I wear all the pieces during the trip and there is less stuff to deal with while traveling.

Great blog – so many tips (with links) to help pair down toiletries especially for carry-on only – especially buying different sizes to decanter products! Using these tips for trip next week – thanks!

These tips are great! Honestly, in past trips, I have done fine packing with limited clothes but my toiletries have taken up half my suitcase! Looking forward to using these tips to scale back and miniturize.

So many great tips for toiletries. I learned alot and will be applying these ideas on my next trip. Thanks for the great info.

Thanks for this great post. Details very helpful! And practical!

Great information. Used these tips on recent flight to Maine. Worked great!

These tips saved me on my recent trip to Italy! Thanks for all of the great advice.

A packing list! I will totally use this and hope to whittle down further. Thank you for another great resource!

I’m so scared to travel with a checked bag theses days and my toiletries are the thing that I was most concerned about fitting into a carry on. I love all the downsizing tips and can’t wait to use them for my next trip in October! Thanks Alex.

I like shopping the travel size section in my drug store and at Target. I find lots of different size containers there. I sometimes buy items just for the containers and then fill them with my products.

This post helped me so much when I was packing for my trip to France in April 2022. I think I was fairly successful in packing only the toiletries that I needed and was planning to check my bag, anyway. I also watched the video again when packing for a shorter trip to NY and was able to take even less toiletries on that trip! Thanks for all of your tips and tricks on safety too in the Paris 2022 Packing Guide!

It’s amazing how little I actually need when I travel—I use lots of products but a tiny amount goes a long way and helps so much with both volume and weight. I decant into a combination of the tiny “lip gloss” tubes and have the tiny deodorant sticks as well for solids (perfect for using up the end of a large stick that wouldn’t have come out anyway). Feels good to not purchase more throwaway plastic for travel sizes since I just refill when I get home and then I’m ready for the next trip! Also I highly recommend lotion bars.

Oh my goodness! This has helped me so much. Packing my liquids was my number one worry about consolidating to a carry on.

What a helpful post! I’m just going to be traveling stateside, but this gave me some great ideas as our space is limited. Thanks TFG!

I have learned so many great ideas for decanting makeup etc. I now have lip gloss tubes, contact lens cases and travel size. It makes traveling so much easier – thank you!

We all have such different needs and non-negotiables, but this article really takes us through the steps to figure out what works for us. Using these tips (and with some trial runs) I’ve been able to get down to a small Sea To Summit toiletry bag. Still refining with each trip….

Downsizing my toiletries is my biggest challenge! Thank you for these great tips.

Wow this information is so helpful. I will use many of these tips.

thank you for these tipps. I always feel very accomplished after I pack my clothes but than comes everything else, like toiletries and electronics and my backpack is bursting.

Your suggestions and tips have been so helpful when preparing for an adventure. Thank you!

Every article you write is helpful, but packing toiletries is my biggest struggle. So thank you for this one!

Using contact lens cases were a game changer on my recent Safari. We were limited to a soft -sided duffle and we wanted to carry on due to Heathrow so this was the way to go. It is amazing how much product fits in each case and how much product you actually use on a trip. I then used the cases on our recent road trip to Arizona. Never had a single spill either trip.

This is my all-time favorite post. Life -changing, making carry-on travel the only way to go now. Huge eye-opener!!!

This post is incredible. So much useful information! Thank you!

I have sliced up solid shampoo and conditioner bars into smaller pieces, to make ones the right size for a weeklong trip.

Thanks for the list!

There is now available shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, soap, laundry detergent in sheet form, and mouthwash and toothpaste as tablets, lotions in bar form,

Hi Vicki, thank you for sharing your great toiletries tip with us! ?

We love solid toiletries and have a range of options here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/solid-toiletries-for-travel/

One trick I found on the web that works great is to use contact lens cases. You can put a few days/week supply in them, mark them with a black sharpie, and put in your toiletry bag.

Hi Rick, thank you for sharing your great travel hack for packing your toiletries with us! Happy travels! ?

Someone on your blog had mentioned she uses plastic paint cups from Michaels to put her make up in. What a great idea! I just purchased (16) 1/6 oz cups for $2 ( with 50% off coupon) and put my eye cream, under eye concealer, blush…. in them. They are awesome! And they are airtight, so the product won’t dry out! Thank you, whoever you are!

Wow, that is amazing Barbara, so happy to hear it worked so well with packing your toiletries!! Thank you for sharing! Happy Travels!

I wear contacts and somehow have loads of extra contact cases. I use them for putting my face moisturizer, BB cream, salve (in case of cuts or infections) in for trips up to a week. I just use a sharpie to mark something on the outside of the case so I know what is inside.

Hi Jessica, thank you for sharing your great travel tip! 🙂

Love your tips! They have helped me to be a more confident traveler!

I do the same because I know how much I need for products compared to others.

Two products worth the money (and I’m a cheapo). Blinc mascara. Order online. It is water-proof and rub-proof. To remove, rub with fingers and warm water. No remover required.

ColoreScience sunblock, SP 50. It’s a powder, with the brush built in. No need to pack powder. And who re-applies gloppy lotion every 2 hours? My dermatologist says the best sunblock is the one you use.

Hi Kay, thank you so much for sharing your travel toiletries! 🙂

🙂 sounds great! Thanks.

I have found that some doctors offices have small and very small bottles that you can get for free, if you ask nicely. One example is eye doctors, who have these bottles for sample eyedrops. I’ve gotten 6 in this way….for free. And they are the perfect size for travel!

Hi Connie, thank you so much for sharing your great travel tip for toiletries! 🙂

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Luggage + Bags
Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 13 Best Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep all your beauty and grooming essentials in one place when you're on the road.

Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying
Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

There are a few things every traveler needs, no matter where in the world they're going — and a toiletry bag is one of them. The humble case might be an afterthought to some, but these helpful bags are crucial to keeping your travel essentials organized.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetic cases (and continue to do so for a period of at least six months) in order to bring to you the best of the best, evaluating capacity, design, portability, and value. We also considered the overall quality of the bags, as well as their ease of use on real trips.

Taking our test results into consideration, we've put together a list of the best toiletry bags across various categories; you’re sure to find one that suits your needs.

Best Overall

Away large toiletry bag.

Capacity 5 /5
Design 5 /5
Portability 5 /5

This bag holds more than you'd expect from just looking at it.

The limited edition colors often sell out fast.

You might be most familiar with Away for its selection of hardside luggage and weekender bags, but the brand carries travel accessories, too, including this large toiletry bag that earned high marks across the board during our tests.

Though we found the bag to be even roomier than expected, there are so many individual compartments including a clear cosmetic bag, a zippered pouch, two mesh linings, and an exterior pocket, to name a few. You won't be reaching into a bottomless pit, rummaging around for individual products here. We also love that the bag zips open wide enough for you to reach inside with ease. We packed it with both large and small items, from travel-size liquid bottles to makeup brushes, and there was still room for more.

We also noted the durability of the water-resistant nylon, which is lightweight without feeling cheap. The interior of the bag is coated with an easy-to-wipe material, allowing you to clean up any spills quickly. The bag comes in five color options (with limited edition colorways offered on occasion), as well as a smaller size option and a hanging version of the bag.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.7 x 5.9 inches | 8.8 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

Capacity 4 /5

It might be small, but it can still fit full-size makeup brushes.

The dividers take up valuable space.

If you're a toiletry minimalist, this is the case for you. The highly compact Dagne Dover Mila keeps all your products neat and organized in a tiny, plush drum made of water-resistant recycled poly. Unzip the lid and you'll see a grid created by a removable insert — use the insert to keep your products separated from one another, reducing their impact if the toiletry bag is jumbled around. There's also a zippered mesh pocket in the lid, as well as four elastic loops to hold items like makeup brushes and lip balm.

We did notice, however, that the insert takes up quite a bit of space in the bag, and you'd be able to squeeze quite a few more items inside if you remove it instead. Of course in that case, you wouldn't have much help in terms of organization. Ultimately, we love the flexibility — you can customize the bag to suit your needs.

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | 6 ounces | Material | Recycled poly

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Waterproof

Matador flatpak zipper toiletry case.

Back Country

Design 4 /5

It's extremely lightweight — just over an ounce.

There aren't any extra pockets or pouches for organization.

While many toiletry kits are water-resistant, this one is fully waterproof, and that makes all the difference if you're on an outdoor adventure like camping or a multi-day kayaking trip. It's made from a special nylon that has a secret superpower: "dry-through" technology, which allows moisture to escape from the bag without letting any in. That means your toiletries (like a wet toothbrush) can dry while they're in the bag.

We found this bag to be deceptively spacious, given that it looks like a simple pencil pouch at first glance. The bag expands at the bottom, allowing it to stand alone on a flat surface while giving you the space to fit larger items in with ease. That said, there aren't any useful organizational tools to keep your products in order — this is a fairly bare-bones bag.

The Details: 9.5 x 6.75 x 3.5 inches | 1.1 ounces | Nylon | Waterproof

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

The bag is lined with high-density foam for extra protection.

It's a fairly pricey bag.

When you have a large number of toiletries to bring with you on vacation, the best thing you can do is choose a toiletry bag that helps you keep everything organized. This is that bag! Though it appears small from the outside, the bag is so thoughtfully designed with organizational tools — we found that there's a pocket for just about everything. The main compartment is large enough to fit small bottles, while mesh pockets of various sizes line the walls. There's also a separate pocket for your toothbrush, which keeps it nice and clean.

Other highlights include a wide opening to access each pocket easily, and the ability to stand on its own thanks to the bag's layer of high-density foam that also helps protect the items inside. It also has a handy hanging hook if you'd prefer to keep some counter space clear.

The Details: 10.2 x 6 x 4.4 inches | 8.7 ounces | Nylon

Best Dopp Kit

Dare to roam steward dopp kit.

Dare to Roam

The material is antimicrobial and antibacterial.

Organization is limited to three pockets.

What are dopp kits, anyway? Though the term can be used interchangeably with "toiletry bag" today, the dopp kit was originally a durable toiletry bag devised by German leather maker Charles Doppelt that was popular with military personnel in the 20th century. It typically takes the silhouette seen here in this bag — a large main compartment, sometimes with side pockets.

What dopp kits are great for is space; we were amazed by how much could fit in this bag, especially because it's expandable with side clips and adjustable webbing straps. As such, it's ideal for longer trips where you'll need as much space as you can get. We also love that it's made from an antimicrobial and antibacterial nylon (yes, it's water-resistant), though we think it could use a little more organization beyond two interior pockets and one exterior one.

The Details: 4.5 x 8.7 x 4.7 inches | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best Small Hanging

Sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

Small and lightweight, it's perfectly portable.

It has to hang as it won't stand up on its own.

When it comes to hanging bags, this one is perfectly balanced. It's made from an ultra-thin, water-resistant nylon and takes the shape of a saddlebag, which is ideal for hanging. We found that no matter how many items we stuffed in there, the bag never really felt weighed down; all the products were perfectly situated and easy to access, thanks to a plethora of pockets.

This bag also comes with a detachable mirror, which makes it great for outdoor adventures when you don't have access to a vanity, as well as handles for easy transport. Ultimately, it is perfect for people limited on space and weight, whether they're on a multi-day trek that requires them to carry all their gear or traveling for an extended period of time with limited storage space. The toiletry bag comes in two sizes (we tested the smaller one) and four color options.

The Details: 10.2 x 3.9 x 8.9 inches | 0.3 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Best Large Hanging

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

This is an excellent value if you need to store full-size items.

The material is difficult to clean.

Bagsmart is known for making convenient travel products at affordable prices, and that's certainly true of its hanging toiletry bag. Before it's opened, the bag looks just like a little quilted briefcase; inside is an extraordinary amount of storage. Unzip the perimeter and the bag unfurls into four panels of hanging storage for your toiletries, which we found perfectly capable of storing just about every toiletry in the book save for full-size bottles of shampoo and body wash. While most of the storage compartments are variously sized zippered pockets, some actually have elastic bands to help hold your items in place.

The quilted material is made of polyester, which we found to be a little difficult to clean. It is water-resistant, though, and the texture adds a nice visual quality. Plus, it comes in ten colorways.

The Details: 12.6 x 9.1 x 4.3 inches | 15.2 ounces | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Cosmetics

Béis the cosmetic case.

The brush holder and mirror are removable.

The main compartment is pretty much just one big open space.

The clean, minimalist design that Béis is so loved for comes through in its cosmetic case: a sturdy bag with plenty of space for makeup aficionados. For starters, it's offered in eight elegant earth tone hues. But then there's the simple rectangular shape, which feels almost handbag-like in its sculptural form, as well as luxe hardware that adds to that handbag quality.

Though this bag can carry all types of toiletries, it's specifically designed with cosmetics in mind. That's evident from the removable mirror and brush holder, which has PVC material where the brush heads will go for easy cleaning. There are also a few slip pockets, which we found especially helpful for palettes. One thing to note, however, is that the main compartment of this toiletry bag is simply a vast space without any dividers to organize individual products. That said, we can report that nothing broke or spilled during evaluations.

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | 1.38 pounds | Polyester | Water-resistant

Best for Men

Bagsmart toiletry bag for men.

It opens wide with a double zipper.

It's made of canvas, which may be hard to clean but is water-resistant.

Fun fact: dopp kits were originally designed for men so it makes perfect sense why this one is designed to fit shaving and grooming products in particular. It's made of canvas for a rough-and-tumble look, and it's offered in seven colors (mostly neutrals, but also light pink) and two sizes. Though we consider it sturdy enough to stand on its own, we also found it flexible enough to be stuffed into a packed weekender.

As for storage capabilities, there's a main compartment that's accessible via a double zipper, which means the kit opens nice and wide for you to be able to access your items. That main compartment can fit bulkier items, while smaller items can fill the pockets along the sides. There are also two separate side pockets, one of which is designed to hold wet items.

The Details: 10.2 x 5.9 x 6.3 inches | 6.4 ounces | Canvas | Water-resistant

Best for Short Trips

Tumi response travel kit.

It opens like a clamshell.

It's not water-resistant.

Luxury brand Tumi doesn't only make high-end suitcases and travel bags — they also make high-end toiletry bags. Made from ballistic nylon (and offered in three colorways), this is one of the most durable toiletry bags out there, and it wouldn't be surprising if this bag lasted years, even with regular use.

Its best feature is the fact that it opens like a clamshell, with two distinct compartments in each half. That makes it easy to access everything in the bag, whether you're laying it flat on a countertop or you're hanging it via the attached hook. There are four pockets, including one water-resistant one, and two elastic loops to hold products like toothbrushes or razors. We think it’s a reasonably spacious bag, but only for travel-size products — that's why we recommend it for short trips rather than long ones.

The Details: 6.3 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches | 0.9 pounds | Ballistic nylon

Best Leather

Cuyana travel beauty case.

Portability 4.5 /5
Value 4.5 /5

This is a true luxury item with exquisite craftsmanship.

More care will need to be taken so spills don’t damage the leather.

Take one look at the Cuyana Travel Beauty Case, and it's clear that you're dealing with a luxury item. Made from Italian pebbled leather, this toiletry bag is extremely elegant in each of its three colors: ecru, soft rose, and black. We found that this is high-quality leather that's not so delicate you have to worry about damaging it when stuffing it in your backpack or weekender.

As for storage, there are two main compartments: one with an internal elastic pocket for storing larger items and another that has elastic straps to hold items like makeup brushes in place. They open like a clamshell, and between them is a detachable pouch for smaller items. The pouch is ideal for a few items that can be used to refresh your makeup on a travel day, but it can't hold enough products for a full face.

The Details: 6.2 x 10.2 x 3.1 inches | 1.6 pounds | Italian pebbled leather

MZ Wallace Mica Cosmetic Case

It's a no-nonsense bag — simply stash your stuff and go.

There's only one main compartment with a smaller zippered pocket.

The best thing about a pouch like this one is that it's very straightforward — all you have to do is toss in your items without giving much thought to organization. We loved this particular toiletry bag because it's more spacious than it seems at first glance. That's particularly true of the one zippered pocket inside: it was able to hold seven makeup brushes.

By the same token, the lack of organization might be frustrating to some. Depending on your preference, you might wish there were a few dividers or additional pockets to keep things a little tidier inside the bag. Still, the amount of space it has for items is impressive, and for some travelers, that might be just what they're looking for.

The Details: 9.49 x 4.02 x 5.98 inches | 0.23 pounds | REC Oxford

Best Budget

Wandf toiletry bag.

Portability 4 /5

It comes in nearly 20 colors.

The main compartment only has one zipper, which makes it a little tough to retrieve items.

As you're probably well aware by this point, toiletry bags can get quite expensive — but they don't have to be. This is a particularly budget-friendly model, yet it accomplishes just about everything you'd need a toiletry bag to do. For one, it has multiple compartments. And for another, it's a water-resistant case, which means it can handle being splashed on a bathroom counter.

The compartments are both the success and the downfall of this toiletry bag. We were beyond impressed with the amount of space inside the main compartment, as well as with the two side compartments with mesh pockets. But we found that the main compartment was almost too spacious and could benefit from another divider of some kind. Given its size, it could also benefit from a double zipper opening, which would allow you to access more items throughout the bag than the existing single zipper.

The Details: 10.24 x 4.72 x 5.91 inches | 3.53 ounces | Nylon | Water-resistant

Other Toiletry Bags We Liked

Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag : We love the soft, water-resistant neoprene material of this bag, as well as the two detached pouches for easy organization. (And did we mention the colors? Those are beautiful, too!) Unfortunately, we found it to be a tight fit to squeeze both of the detachable pouches into the main bag when all three had items in them.
State Bags Bensen Dopp Kit : This is a spacious bag with a detachable pouch for additional storage — there's not much to not like here. But we think it's a bit too expensive, and we found the hook to be too small to use in many cases. Because it's so spacious, it's best for longer trips, as we think it might take up a bit too much room in a carry-on bag.
L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Medium : A favorite for decades, this bag is the king when it comes to storage space and organization — there are pockets for just about everything. Some might find the sheer number of storage spaces to be overwhelming. But others, particularly those going on long trips or families who might be sharing a toiletry bag, will love the roominess.
Baggu Dopp Kit : This bag packs flat, which is great when you need to store it somewhere. But when you expand it, you'll find that it's large enough to carry all of your toiletries and then some. The only thing we worried about was the durability of the materials. Though it did not fail any of our rigorous tests, we suspect it may wear out over time.

We tested 52 toiletry bags and cosmetics cases in our lab to determine the best products.

Testing started with an analysis of the bag when it was empty; we examined the materials, the construction, and the overall design.

Then we packed the bags with common travel essentials like toiletry bottles, makeup, and dental products, among other items. We then re-evaluated the design of the bag, noting overall capacity; convenience and security of organizational compartments, pockets, and pouches; closure functionality (such as zippers, magnetic clasps, and Velcro tabs); and overall sturdiness and stability of the bag.

Next, we put the bags into weekenders, carry-on luggage, and backpacks to see how they'd fit. We also carried around the larger bags to evaluate the feel of the toiletry bags in them.

Finally, we rated each toiletry bag on its capacity, design, portability, and value, all the while considering extra characteristics like the material's water-resistance, ease of cleaning, and any extra features, such as hanging straps or built-in mirrors.

Testing of the toiletry kits then continues for a period of six months on our real-world trips, and we will continue to update this article based on the results.

When the bag was fully packed, we placed it inside a large weekender bag to get a sense of its weight by carrying it around our lab. We also checked how much space the bag took up inside the weekender bag to determine if there was ample room to store other items, such as clothing and accessories. We then determined whether the bag would be suitable for weekend trips and/or longer vacations.

After rating for all attributes, we checked each bag's price to rate the overall value.

Tips for Buying a Toiletry Bag

Look at the design of the bag.

Some toiletry bags are voids — they have one cavernous space to fit all your items. But others are separated into compartments with pockets and pouches to keep your items in place. Depending on what you're storing in your toiletry bag, you might prefer more organizational tools than a single open space. Also consider the material; more durable, water-resistant materials are ideal for toiletry bags, since they'll be getting quite a bit of use on the road.

Consider capacity and the items you pack

What do you plan on putting in a toiletry bag? If you're a minimalist who carries very few toiletries — say, just face wash and toothpaste — you might only need a small case But if you have an extensive skincare routine — including sunscreen and after-sun lotion — and you travel with all your makeup, you'll need a bag with enough space for everything.

Think about portability

If you plan on taking your toiletry bag in your carry-on, you'll want it to be as compact and lightweight as possible to save room for everything else in your bag. And if you're packing liquids, gels, or aerosols, make sure your items’ sizes comply with the TSA's 3-1-1 rule . If you're checking your toiletry bag, though, you might have more flexibility with size and weight.

While a clear bag is not explicitly stated on all sections of the TSA website , this is the common practice and can speed things up at the security checkpoint. Toiletry bags that don't hold any liquids, as well as toiletry bags that will be checked in your suitcase (regardless of their contents), do not need to be clear.

Since toiletry bags frequently come into contact with liquids — either from leaking products or from the bathroom counter — water-resistant or waterproof materials are best. Another factor to consider is durability. Toiletry bags are typically fairly heavily used when you travel, so it's best to look for tear-proof fabric that will hold up over time.

A TSA-approved toiletry bag is one that meets the TSA's requirements for the 3-1-1 rule regarding liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes packed in carry-ons. These products must be 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less, and they all must fit in " 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag ."

You can pack just about anything in a toiletry bag, from hair products to body washes to makeup. Depending on what you plan on putting in your toiletry bag, you may want to look for ones with special pockets — many toiletry bags have designated spots for items like makeup brushes or palettes to keep them secure.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Stefanie Waldek is a freelance travel writer with a decade of experience. For this article, she incorporated tester feedback and used her own experience with toiletry bags.

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The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Looking for a clear, easy-to-follow toiletries packing list? I’ve gotchu.

I’m not sure what it is about toiletries that makes them so easy to forget, but time and time again, even after 4 years of frequent travel, I frequently find myself in exotic locales without basic necessities like toothbrushes, combs and *shudder* deodorant.

So after brushing my teeth with my fingers for the umpteenth time, I’ve decided to plant my butt down and write a complete Toiletries Packing List, both for myself, and of course for you, the best looking readers on the planet.

In this post, I’ll also be including my favourite products/must-haves. I’m a pretty low-maintenance person with a penchant for packing light , but there are some things I couldn’t travel without. Here is the full list!

If you need a handy version of this printed out, I’ve got you. Click here to download it from my Resource Library!

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

Essential Items for Your Toiletries Packing List

Before we get started with the actual toiletries I pack, I want to introduce you to a few different products that can be re-used time and time again, and will make packing toiletries way easier in the long run. In my suitcase, I’m always sure to have…

Re-usable toiletry bottles

This helps you save both money and the environment, so double tick!

I always travel with my own re-usable toiletry bottles, which means I don’t need to use the mini toiletries at the hotel (which, while adorable, aren’t great for unnecessary plastic waste) and also I have easy access to my own favourite products all the time. Re-usable bottles are cheap and easy to find online! Here’s an example.

Of course, the best bottles for you depend on your needs. I have a full guide here that rounds up the best options for different functions, but here is a table summarizing some of the highest rated toiletry bottles you can buy online:

A reuseable toiletries bag

Forget using Ziplocks or the flimsy little bags provided at the airport. Get yourself a clear, TSA-approved toiletries bag instead and you’ll be able to reuse them over and over. Plus, they’re sturdier. Mine is similar to this one and I love it.

Depending on your needs though, you might want to look into investing in a more comprehensive toiletries bag. I have a full guide here that rounds up the best options, but here is a table summarizing some of the highest rated toiletry bags you can buy online:

A good travel towel

No lie, this travel towel is my favourite travel item in the whole wide world. It folds up super small, is amazingly absorbent, dries quickly and is perfect for the beach, hostels and pretty much anywhere you need to go. Best investment I ever made!

Check prices and reviews for this amazing travel towel

OPTIONAL: A hanging toiletries bag

A lot of travellers swear by these hanging toiletries bags, which allow you to easily prop up all your stuff for easy access (without having to put them on the grimy sink). I don’t think this is a total necessity, but a handy splurge if you need it! Plus, this one has pink flamingos on it, sooo…

Check prices and reviews for this cute flamingo organizer

Toiletries Packing List: Summary

If you just want a quick toiletries packing list to glance through, here it is! Obviously this is a very thorough list and you might not need all these things, but I’ve listed them anyway to remind you of them. You can scroll down below for a more detailed explanation and product recommendations.

Oral Hygiene:

Comb or hairbrush, shampoo & conditioner, hair elastics, hair straightener/curler, miscellaneous face & body care:, moisturizer, shaving cream, miscellaneous extras:, make up wipes, q-tips/cotton pads.

Eye care:

Contact Solution

Feminine hygiene products:, pantiliners, toiletries packing list: detailed explanation & recommendations.

A lot of the time, you guys ask for more specific recommendations about travel products, so if you need any further clarification or elaboration on the above list, here it is!

The #1 thing I forget, so I put it first!

One key consideration is to either get a toothbrush with a protective case , or remember to bring a protective case for it, otherwise your toothbrush will just be floating around in your bag with everything else, which is a little gross for something you regularly put in your mouth.

If you’re looking to get something new, I recommend buying a bamboo toothbrush. You can easily get packs online for SO cheap, plus they’re much better for the environment. For instance, this 6 pack comes with a carrying case and is less than $15.

Check prices and reviews for this set of bamboo toothbrushes

I’ll never understand why toothpaste isn’t usually included in hotel toiletry kits. I always manage to forget mine!

You can stock up here if you’re out.

If you’re looking for a non-liquid option, some folks make mouthwash tablets these days. Otherwise, I’d recommend just filling up your own reusable bottles rather than buying mini-versions.

Check prices and reviews for these mouthwash tablets

Another thing I always forget, so I’m gonna underline this multiple times for you. To save space, you can get very cute mini hairbrushes like this one .

I use a special blue shampoo because of my dyed hair, and I bring it with me everywhere using my own reusable bottles . This is more cost-effective in the long run and better for the environment too, so I highly recommend it! If you don’t mind it, a 2 in 1 might be a good idea if you want to cut down on your toiletries packing list.

Otherwise, solid shampoos are all the rage now. I have a strange hair type and I’ve never found them to work that well for me. That said, if you want to reduce liquids and get a product that will travel/keep well, my friends rage about the shampoo bars from Lush. There’s also a huge range of affordable options on Amazon.

Check prices and reviews for these shampoo bars

Always handy to have at least a few small ones in your bag for days when your hair just won’t cooperate. If you have thick hair like me, I highly recommend you get some higher quality ones to avoid mid travel day breakage. Here’s a cheap pack you can grab on Amazon.

Always, always handy to have a few of these. If you keep losing them like I do, you can buy them in bulk online for super cheap here.

I’m not usually high maintenance but one indulgence I always allow myself is my hair straightener ! I use it to curl my hair too, so it’s a double whammy.

Sure it’s a little heavy, but it’s worth it because otherwise my hair looks like a rat’s nest.

One thing I will say: don’t waste your time with mini travel straighteners… they don’t save THAT much space and in my experience, they don’t work nearly as well.

Check prices and reviews for this straightener (that also curls hair really well!)

I don’t usually bring it to be honest, but some people swear by it so I thought I would include it. Aerosol toiletries like these are okay in small amounts for carry-on baggage.

So, so crucial. I have a genuine fear of smelling bad, so I actually bring a little deodorant in my toiletries bag and also every purse. This Lady Speedstick 48h is my favourite of all time, so much that I stock up on it every time I’m back home because they don’t sell it in Germany!

Again, I really recommend you just get some reusable bottles and bring whatever body wash you use at home. It’s more cost-effective in the long run and better for the environment too.

This Nivea Purifying Facewash is my favourite. It works great on my oily skin and I just bottle it up in my reusable bottles and I’m good to go. Check prices and reviews for my favourite facewash

It’s so basic but I swear by my Cetaphil Lotion . It’s nothing fancy but it works wonders.

The most important consideration with your razor is that you have a case for it, otherwise it gets wet and goopy and weird to just throw in with the rest of your toiletries (razor and toothbrush touching? NOPE!!)

This mini travel razor from Venus is my fave – the case is really cute and handy. Otherwise, my friends have said great things about this Sphynx All in One which even comes with a shave bar.

I don’t use it. Is that blasphemy? Anyways, if you do, just don’t forget to pack it!

I always, always, always forget sunscreen. Don’t be me. This Neutrogena one is my favourite.

I don’t usually use these – facewash is sufficient for me!

A tiny bundle is always handy to have in your toiletries bag just in case! I’ve seen a cute hack where you can also store them in a little pill container. Cute!

If you need a good lip balm recommendation, Burt’s Bees is the bees knees.

No recommendations – sorry! I don’t usually include perfume in my toiletries packing list but some might 🙂

(All self explanatory, methinks, so I’ll spare you additional explanation)

Disclaimer: I’m not a fancy make-up girl. I’m just so bad at make-up that any expensive, high-end products would be lost on me… so these are basic products that I own and love.

This Loreal Liquid eyeliner is my favourite thing ever. I have very oily skin so finding eyeliner that doesn’t just rub off is a miracle. Plus, it’s cheap! I wear it everyday.

I used to avoid mascara like the plague because it would always rub off and give me panda eyes. This Covergirl Lashblast waterproof mascara is the only one I’ve found that stays put all day. I love it.

Lipstick/gloss

Okay, so I don’t normally gush about makeup products because I’m no makeup guru but I literally swear by this Maybelline Superstay 24h lip stuff .

It’s cheap, comes in a bajillion colours and is SO good for travelling because it lasts such a long time.

Trust me, if it can survive 6 hours of straight-drinking at Oktoberfest and still look flawless, it can survive any of your travel days, I promise!

Check prices and reviews for my favourite lip stuff

Foundation / Concealer

I find that the Loreal True Match line works great and lasts all day!

When I travel, I just use moisturizer but back in the day, I used to use this Smashbox one a lot.

Lastly, I wear eyeshadow on rare occasion but the Naked Mini Palettes are great – I have the Heat one and it’s super versatile.

These are pretty straight forward, no explanation necessary I think…

What NOT to Include in Your Toiletries Packing List

Full-sized anything

It’s not worth it! It’s heavy and also you won’t be able to bring it in your carry-on.

Flammable items

Again, not worth the risk and you probably won’t be able to bring it on.

Any “just in case” items

Sometimes, people panic and freak out and pack a million things just in case, like a full-on first aid kit.

I would like to remind you that you’ll most likely be travelling somewhere where there are pharmacies and stores for you to buy your stuff.

Don’t pack anything “just in case” because you’ll most likely not need it. Instead, just buy it when the “case” arises.

Grab Your Printable Toiletries Packing List

My go-to travel favourites:.

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

6 thoughts on “The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)”

Hey Christina! Just thought I’d give you a heads up that the ‘ultimate’ in your Pinnable image at the top of the post is missing the ‘t’ 🙂 – great post though, always love your writing!

haha d’oh! thanks so much for pointing that out – I would have never noticed. Running off to change it now <3

My suggestion for perfume is to use Sephora’s sample bottles and refill them with your perfume from home.

The only just in case item that I always throw in is a couple of sink packages of TIDE. They fit easily in the makeup bag and you just never know… The rest of your list is great! Thanks!

I would definitely add Tylenol or ibuprofen. Just get the little travel tube and refill as needed.

THE ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List: Hygiene Travel Essentials

Toiletry packing lists are a real pain in the patootie. Figuring out all your toiletry essentials and then compacting that down to a travel-ready state is nothing short of a gargantuan task!

Not too long ago, I was a young professional preparing for my very first backpacking trip. I scoured the internet in search of advice from nomads and wise travelers. And all the toiletry packing lists I found… well… they just didn’t cover my needs.

You can, of course, pick up some travel toiletries on the road, however, that’s really not the best call. The prices stack up quick and constantly going shopping for something you already have at home is really just a nuisance.

Plus… they might just not have your favorite brand!

So, I got to writing my own list of travel toiletry essentials. While this list is going to vary depending on your gender, hygiene maintenance, preference, and more, I’ve listed the most important travel-size items to add to your toiletries packing list.

At the end of the day, there is no magic one-size-fits-all list for the best toiletries for travel, but traveling with the essentials is key. As a woman, I’ll be including many woman-specific toiletries, but I’m also not ignorant to the needs of men since I live with one. So I’ve got you boys covered too. 😉

So let’s hop to it!. This is the ULTIMATE list of toiletry packing for travel for both genders and keeping Mama Nature in mind.

Woman washing with her packed toiletries

What are toiletries? (For the purpose of this packing list.)

Travel-size toiletries packing list – the essentials, other nice-to-have toiletries, women specific toiletries packing list, tips for packing less & better, faq about the best travel toiletries, final thoughts on my travel toiletries packing list.

Let’s call them ‘hygiene products’. Toiletries are anything used to maintain your hygiene: soap, toothpaste, hairbrush, nasal douche… (For the record, nasal douche is NOT on this toiletry packing list, but I just really wanted to say ‘nasal douche’.)

Generally, as a rule of thumb, if they make you cleaner or prettier than it’s a toiletry. The difference here is that this is a toiletry list primarily for backpackers . That means two things:

They need to be travel-size appropriate i.e. not too heavy, compact, and good for airport security.
Ideally, they need to be eco-friendly. Now, I know that doesn’t matter to everyone but it’s something we take seriously and we try to impart on the glorious globetrotting masses. Take care of Mother Nature: you only get one mom.

I feel that sums it up best. That’s the general view of what is considered toiletries and what items you’ll find on this packing list. Ready then? Let’s get clean!

Toiletries can be heavy and take up a ton of space, and it’s important to try to eliminate anything you won’t be using daily from your packing list . Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable, lightweight alternative toiletries designed for travel.

You should also be aware of how to pack for flying when it comes to liquids and powders, especially for carry-on luggage.

Below, I have listed the essential toiletries everyone should bring on their trip. Don’t forget these when you’re crafting your own personal toiletries packing list!

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Now, for just $30, get a lifetime membership that entitles you to 10% OFF on most items, access to their trade-in scheme and discount rentals .

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0

The above hanging toiletry bag is a good all-rounder; it’s not too expensive and does the job nicely. However, for those who do mess around with their toiletry packing, there can be only one toiletry bag: the Nomatic Toiletry Bag (2.0).

It’s a toletry bag so serious it got a second edition.

It still hangs from walls, but it also comes in two sizes, is made of incredibly durable and water-resistant material, and the interior pocket setups is supreme (top-notch organization is Nomatic’s homeboy). It even has a dedicated toothbrush pocket to keep your toothbrush separate. I’m so in love with this feature!

If you’re travelling with a Nomatic Travel Bag , the thing slots in like a dream. Really, the only caveat to this toiletry bag is the premium pricing, however, you get what you pay for. And in this case, that’s the best of the BEST! It’s size also make it ideal for packing light and one bag travel .

Travel-Size Silicone Bottles

Silicone travel-size bottles for toiletries

I suggest carrying your travel toiletries in your carry-on luggage for a couple of reasons. One, you may want to freshen up mid-flight or after you land. Two, exploding shampoo bottles tend to be a regular occurrence in check-in luggage.

For this reason, you’re going to want to invest in a few reusable travel-sized bottles. Buying one-time use travel-sized toiletries is a low-key waste of money and a waste of plastic .

Soap – Dr. Bronner’s

Dr Bronner's Soap - an eco-friendly toiletry essential

I never travel without Dr. Bronner’s. If I am checking in my luggage I make sure to bring a good-sized bottle because it can be used as non-toxic laundry detergent and dish soap too! Dudes, you can even use it as your shampoo as my boyfriend does.

Dr. Bronner’s is a godsend company doing good in this world. Their products are entirely bio-degradable, and their soaps smell and feel amazing! No more having to travel with multiple types of soaps or buying expensive ones on the road. Just use this all-in-one soap and go minimal.

You can also get their soap bar. I love traveling with bars because you don’t have to deal with liquid restrictions, and they last way longer for backpacking trips! You can still use the soap bar for those days you do your laundry at the hotel room.

Shampoo (+ Conditioner)

Shampoo bar for light travel toiletry packing

If you’re traveling for a few months, then I highly recommend a shampoo and conditioner bar! They last 3+ months and take up way less space. Plus, you don’t have to worry about liquid restrictions. If you go this route, invest in a soap bar container too.

Dental Health Toiletries

ALWAYS use a toothbrush cover to protect your toothbrush .

Toothpaste can be slightly annoying to pack as carry-on regulations are strict. You may have to get paste in a 3.5 oz bottle, though many times I’ve been able to carry-on my half-used paste.

Another suggestion is to try out “ Unpaste Zero Waste ” toothpaste! I haven’t used these tablets yet (because I just discovered them), but they sound like another solution to long-term travel + less plastic waste. A win-win and perfect for toiletries packing!

While not a toiletry essential, a small roll of floss and heck, even a tongue scraper fall onto this list since they barely weigh a thing.

You’ll want to go for the solid kind rather than the spray to avoid those liquid restrictions and spills! Generally, you never have to worry about running out, which your new friends will thank you for.

Travel Towel

In a nutshell, microfiber travel towels were created for backpackers and travelers. I typically travel with a large towel for drying off after a shower and a smaller face towel.

Facial Cleanser and Moisturizer

Having a facial cleanser and moisturizer is KEY, especially to refreshen after long layovers and flights. Don’t bother bringing your entire bathroom routine. Leave the toners, serums, and fancy kits behind as they take up way too much weight and space in your bag.

Hand Sanitizer Spray

While I’m not a germaphobe or crazy about it at home, hand sanitizer easily makes the list of necessary toiletries. There will be plenty of times you’ll come across soapless bathrooms, or less-than-hygienic bus and train stops. Trust me on this one.

Reef-Safe Sun Block

Dude surfing lathered in his sunscreen toiletries

If you’re going to be spending hours and hours in the sun, then you’re going to need protection. While I’m a fan of high-tech modern inventions, such as the hat, long sleeve shirt, and shade, I always bring sunblock in my toiletry bag.

Bear in mind, places like Hawaii, Key West, Florida, and Palau are banning many sunscreen brands because they harm and bleach coral reef and aquatic life.

Furthermore, there is a lot of research on endocrine disruptors and carcinogens found in sunscreen… YIKES! Generally, a Non-Nano Zinc Oxide is perfectly safe, effective, and doesn’t harm aquatic reefs, which is why I’m recommending Raw Elements.

Ear Plugs and Eye Mask

Sleep mask toiletry essential for a good night's rest

I always add a few extra pairs of earplugs and my favorite eye mask to my toiletry list for a vacation. You’ll use earplugs and your eye mask in noisy hostels, on flights, bus rides, getting shut-eye in cities, etc. I never leave home without them.

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Medication + First-Aid Kit

First Aid Kit and super necessary for any toiletry packing list

You need to check each country’s rules and regulations for traveling with medication. CBD might be federally legal in the US, but you would NOT want to end up in an Indonesian jail cell because of it. Get all the necessary Doctor notes and prescription refills you may need too!

Also, having a small first-aid kit is necessary for travel! You may only need to bring tape (an absolute necessity), moleskin if you’re hiking, a couple of gauze pads, alcohol wipes, a few band-aids, and Neosporin. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

If you have long hair, then this is probably a necessity for you. Consider grabbing a Tangle Teezer if you’re hair is manageable because they are so tiny. Remember, small and lightweight is the key!

Razor for travel and a semi-essential toiletry

Although not a necessary toiletry for all travelers (you may wax or just let it all hang out), for many, this is still essential toiletry packing for any trip. Grab some high-quality razors that’ll last several weeks while you travel. Or better yet, get a reusable razor like the Weishi for the closest shave you’ll ever get from a hand razor.

While you can find razors pretty much anywhere in the world, picking up disposable razors can be annoying. Another alternative is to bag yourself an Electric Travel Shaver .

Moving along to the next section; this part of the toiletries packing list aren’t strictly necessary items but they are creature comforts. Sometimes, when you’re on the road, all you need is your baby blanket!

Uhh, I mean favorite nail clippers.

Mosquito Repellent

This may be considered part of your first-aid kit, but since you put it on your skin, I’m including it in the toiletries list! Depending on where you are visiting, you are going to NEED repellent . Don’t forget to get a travel-size bottle for your carry-on!

Nail Clippers

Another multi-purpose item! And don’t worry – these are fine to carry in your carry-on.

Some people can’t live without chapstick, so this might be essential for you. If you’re going anywhere with extreme cold or hot weather, then it’s good to have.

Tooth Picks

Not a necessity, but it’s nice to have several and they don’t take up much space. I’m a fan of the tea tree oil and mint ones.

Same explanation as above: not a necessity, but it is easy to pack a few and they don’t take up much space.

Roll of Toilet Paper

Happy Frogs packing toilet paper with their toiletries list

Carrying toilet paper is a necessity if you’re backpacking… less so if you’re only staying in hotels. If you are traveling in places like Pakistan, Southeast Asia , and so on, you will come across bathrooms without TP. Pull out the cardboard roll if you want to save space.

TP is also great to have on hand to clean a quick spill, blow your nose, or for getting a campfire started. Tissue paper is obviously more plush and fancy.

Contacts and Prescription Glasses

If you need ’em, don’t leave them at home! That being said, daily contacts can take up a lot of space if you’re traveling for more than a month! I don’t like using monthly due to hygiene, so if I’m traveling for a long time, I just pick up contacts every couple of months with my prescription on hand.

Health Supplements

There are a few supplements I choose to travel with that help me on the road to keep my immune system in check! Vitamin supplements are also awesome toiletries packing for countries where you may be eating a more meagrely spread diet then you’re used to, however, generally in sountries like that, buying supplements can be super cheap.

For the ladies and the men packing for their ladies, this is the list of toiletries you’ll either definitely need (see below) or at least want to consider.

Feminine Care

Mestrual cup - toiletries packing for women

Stock up on your feminine care products before your trip because they can be hard to find in some countries.

Consider a Menstrual Cup . I used to travel with tampons because they are pretty difficult to track down in certain countries. I finally made the switch to the Diva cup a few years ago and never looked back. It’s WAY better for the environment and they take up way less space!

Honestly, my cosmetic bag has shrunk significantly over the years. If you’re on a long backpacking trip, I can guarantee you’ll stop wearing most of your make up.

When you’re traveling in humid countries, lounging on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or taking overnight buses, the last thing on your mind is blending your foundation.

That said, it’s nice to dress up once and a while, so feel free to add your go-to mascara and blush to your list of toiletries. Just remember that it will be difficult to replace your favorite brands on the road. It’s the perfect excuse to give your skin a break and go au natural .

Make-up Remover Pads

But if you do bring make-up you have even more toiletries to pack. My life changed when I realized I started to use carrier oils (like argan and coconut oil to remove my make-up.) Now, I just carry a couple of bamboo make-up remover pads (less waste, better for the environment), and use whatever oils I have on hand.

Now, you could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card! REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Extra Hair Ties

I guess this one goes out to you long-haired men too.

I tried to keep this list short and sweet. The toiletry essentials should cover most people’s bases, and then from there, you can add a few things depending on your type and length of the trip.

As someone who has packed for more trips than I can count, I am so happy that my toiletry bag has shrunk over the years. Toiletry packing truly takes up so much space and weight, and then you rarely end up using half of them when you’re on the go-go-go.

Here are my top tips for packing less!

Go through your daily routine and make note of each thing you use. Pack nothing else.
Always choose multi-purpose items. Dr. Bronner’s is a great example of this.
Girls, ditch the make-up and straighteners. I promise you won’t use any of these things (unless you are on a business trip or weekend out on the town).
Invest in a versatile toiletry bag to keep your things organized. If it doesn’t fit in this, it doesn’t come on your trip!
Use liquid containers for carry-on but also checked bags to save space and weight
Choose solid over liquid whenever possible. This includes soap and deodorant.
Plan accordingly!

What NOT to take in your toiletry bag

Unsealed Liquids
Bottles larger than 3.5 oz in your carry-on
Anything you don’t plan to use every day.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the most important toiletries to pack?

These toiletries should be in everyones bag: 1. Shampoo and Conditioner Soap 2. Travel Towel 3. Nail Clippers 4. ChapStick

What is something that should not be missing in your toiletry bag?

Very simple: Deodorant . It won’t just make you smell fresh and clean, but it’s also great for everyone around you. You don’t want to stand out due to a smelly body odor.

How do you store your travel toiletries?

A toiletry bag is the perfect way to store all of your bathroom essentials. The Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 is our favorite one.

Can you take all toiletries on an airplane?

Toiletries like liquids, nail clippers, scissors and other forbidden objects can be carried in a suitcase, but not in your carry-on luggage.

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I have covered all of the essentials you should include on your toiletries packing list and then some!

My main advice remains this: take a hard look at your daily routine and bring ONLY those items.

Furthermore, bring your favorite essentials with you, for the most part. Many areas may offer convenience and cheaper local prices where you can buy things on arrival. On the other hand, many destinations won’t carry your favorite brands, or pricing can be far higher.

For example, buying that sunscreen you forgot in an airport or a small island store will be more expensive!

Do a little bit of research before you go – which you’re doing right now (yay for you) – and pack your travel-size toiletry essentials in your toiletry bag. Heed my advice and you’re well on your way to traveling efficiently and comfortably!

Oh and one last tip for any toiletries packing list: write that sucker down!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

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The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Keep all your bathroom necessities together

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

After you've organized your suitcase or weekender, the next and possibly biggest challenge is to pack your toiletry bag. While this might seem an afterthought, it's a pretty important step, especially if you don't want to arrive at your destination and realize you forgot to pack your sunscreen or open your bag to spilled body wash. Whether you're more of a minimalist or carry your entire 10-step beauty routine with you, there's something for everyone.

To help you find the right one, we tested 27 toiletry bags, rating them for capacity, design, portability, and value.

Final Verdict

Product selection, how we tested, other toiletry bags we tested.

What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

Capacity 5 /5
Design 5 /5
Portability 5 /5

Designed for organization

Tough exterior

Plenty of thoughtful additions

Nothing yet

Sea to Summit's Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag impressed our testers, earning top marks across all categories. The Australian outdoor gear brand has been on a mission to build the lightest, most durable gear for more than three decades. Our testers loved how much space this lightweight toiletry bag has and its numerous pockets. "This is a great hanging bag because you can store different-size products inside without feeling like you're weighing the bag down," one tester noted.

The Travelling Light Bag, which weighs less than 5 ounces, is made from Cordura nylon. This material helps keep the weight down and offers stretch, allowing room for all the toiletries. Our testers liked the bag's convenient features, including a carrying handle and hanging hook. "There are tons of pockets, a mirror, hooks to hang the bag, and other unique features that are perfect for every trip," a tester concluded.

Size: 10 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 4.7 ounces | Material: Cordura nylon

TripSavvy / David Carr

Best Budget

Wandf toiletry bag.

Design 4 /5
Portability 4 /5

Generous amount of space

Very lightweight

Not very compact

The first thing to know about WANDF's Toiletry Bag is that it has a ton of capacity, so much so that our testers joked that it could double as an overnight bag. Jests aside, this was a popular bag because of how much it holds and how little it weighs (just 3.6 ounces). "This is a great buy for someone who wants to bring a lot of skincare or other products along with normal toiletries," one tester said.

The bag's water-resistant nylon is thin but durable. It has three pockets for good organization and a handle for easier transportation. Our testers did say that it might be hard to fit in a smaller bag, especially if you take advantage of the size and pack it to maximum capacity. If you're looking for a larger-capacity toiletry bag or simply a budget bag, this was our testers' top pick.

Size: 9.5 x 5.9 x 4.7 inches | Weight: 3.6 ounces | Material: Water-resistant nylon

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

Very spacious

Zippered mesh pockets are helpful

Sturdy yet compressible

Customer reviews complain about the color

This classic-looking toiletry bag impressed our testers with its durable materials, organization potential, and smart features, including a waterproof pocket. The large-capacity toiletry bag is made from water-resistant polyurethane leather, features double zippers in the main compartment, and has mesh holders to keep items like toothbrushes in place.

"The material is classic, zippers are easy to zip, and the compartment with the waterproof coating is very handy and will be easy to clean," one tester noted. "It's structured enough to keep organized but still flexible enough to fit easily in a weekender bag." Our testers said they'd pay more for this than the minimal list price. "It's a great price for something that feels durable and will last for a long time," one tester concluded.

Size: 10.25 x 6.25 x 5 inches | Weight: 0.62 pounds | Material: Polyurethane leather

Best Hanging

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

Durable design

Easy to pack

Water-resistant material

Not the easiest to clean

Once you arrive at your hotel or vacation rental, finding a place to stash your toiletry bag can be tricky, especially if counter space is limited. Luckily, this bag's hook makes the most of limited or nonexistent space. This is a great way to keep items visible but still out of your way as you get dressed. The interior mesh pockets also help with visibility. There's even a smaller, removable compartment you can hang up.

"This bag fit all of the toiletries and still had room to spare, but only for travel-sized products," one tester said about the bag's capacity. "The design of this hanging bag was pleasantly sturdy." Our testers also liked the spacious organizational components and how the bag folds, which gives it a slim briefcase look. They also loved how easily the slender profile fits into a weekender bag.

Size: 12.6 x 9.1 x 4.3 inches | Weight: 15.8 ounces | Material: Polyester

Best Splurge

Away large toiletry bag.

Made of recycled materials

Stores bulky items well

Lets you see everything at a glance

Limited colors

For fans of the iconic suitcase brand, the toiletry bag is another worthy addition to your Away collection. Like many of Away's bags, this thoughtfully designed bag keeps your toiletries organized and separated. The clamshell opening displays items perfectly through the mesh and clear plastic interior pockets. The nylon material is easy to clean should you ever have a spill. Bonus: The bag can even be monogrammed on the front or back.

Thanks to some unique features, our testers loved how roomy this bag was. "I packed mostly large items, such as makeup brushes, foundation, and a compact mirror, and there was still tons of room to insert more," one tester reported. "There are different types of pockets inside the bag—one for makeup brushes, one clear pocket for makeup products, and others for whatever you'd like to put in."

The bag helped with organization, and our testers liked the top handle. "The fact that it can fit so many items and still not take up so much space says a lot about the bag. It can also carry a lot of weight," a tester noted. Our testers weren't the biggest fans of the nylon material but noted that it is water-resistant. And while they said bags with similar features could be found at a lower cost, they would still recommend this one. "I'd love to purchase it if it wasn't so pricey for a toiletry bag, but if you need organization and travel often, then this bag is a must," a tester concluded.

Size: 10.2 x 3.7 x 5.9 inches | Weight: 8.8 ounces | Material: Nylon

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

Extra durable

Fits into other bags easily

Contains recycled materials

A bit on the pricey side

The first key to good organization is having plenty of room for all your toiletries. Peak Design's Wash Pouch offers exactly that, with our testers noting that they had plenty of room to fit all of their toiletries and then some. "I'd be able to put my skincare products in here along with several travel-sized toiletry bottles ," our tester said, noting that they loved the product's design. It also opens wide for easy packing and accessibility. "There were plenty of pockets and even a shallow zipper pocket to hold a toothbrush," our tester reported, also praising how it sits open upright on the counter on its own. Bonus: Despite the large size and roominess, it still packs down to a small size.

Size: 10.6 x 6 x 4.4 inches | Weight: 8.7 ounces | Material: Recycled, DWR-treated nylon

Best for Extended Trips

Dare to roam steward dopp kit.

Dare to Roam

Impressive capacity

Eco-friendly

Less likely to harbor microbes

Bulkier than other options

There's much to like about the Dare to Roam Steward Dopp Kit. It features responsibly sourced materials and ethically made construction. It uses antimicrobial and water-resistant materials—features we'd like to see in many more toiletry bags, considering the amount of liquid and moisture these containers are exposed to.

What our testers loved most about this particular toiletry bag was the amount of space available, making it ideal for extended trips. The main compartment has a ton of room and a two-way zipper entry. It also features side clips and adjustable webbing straps, making the bag expandable on both sides. Our testers had no problem fitting all their toiletries into the bag and then some. "This bag is designed well and is built to really hold up," a tester reported. "The handles and lightweight feel of the bag make it perfectly portable."

While this bag did take up a lot of space when packed in another bag, it's best used for extended trips on which travelers are likely to use larger luggage anyway.

Size: 4.5 x 8.7 x 4.7 inches | Weight: Not listed | Material: Polyester, nylon

Best for Camping

Matador flatpak zipper toiletry case.

Back Country

Capacity 4 /5

Stripped-down but serviceable

Built to last

One large pocket

May be too simplistic for some

Toiletry bags aren't only handy for traveling. They're also helpful when backpacking and camping. For that usage, we love Matador's FlatPak Toiletry Case. The FlatPak checks off three key boxes when looking for a camping- or backpacking-focused toiletry bag. It's super lightweight (1.1 ounces), it's fully waterproof, and it has one main compartment for easy access to all items. Simply put: It's a no-frills yet incredibly practical bag.

Our testers were impressed with the bag's capacity—it fits all toiletries without getting overly bulky. They also loved its durability, waterproof material, and how the bottom of the bag expands. "For someone who goes on lots of camping or rugged outdoor trips, this bag is a great value," one tester concluded.

Size: 9.5 x 6.75 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 1.1 ounces | Material: 30-denier Cordura nylon

Best Eco-Friendly

Cotopaxi nido accessory bag.

Portability 4.5 /5
Value 4.5 /5

Nice internal organization

Not ideal for extended trips

Cotopaxi's marketing slogan is "Gear for Good." This dopp kit, which features 100 percent recycled materials, definitely falls into that category, but besides being a responsibly created toiletry bag, it's simply a good toiletry bag. The bag has three compartments to separate different items, fits a reasonable amount of toiletries, and has a convenient side carry handle. Another huge step toward planet friendliness is the longevity and durability of the product. We love that this toiletry bag is constructed to last many years and maybe decades.

Size: 9 x 6 x 5 inches | Weight: 6.5 ounces | Material: Recycled nylon with a TPU coating

Hitting it out of the park and claiming a perfect score on all our tests for capacity, design, portability, and value, the Sea to Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag is hard to beat. Another favorite of our testers for its generous capacity and reasonable price tag, the WANDF Toiletry Bag is light and comes in a range of bright and neutral colors.

To determine the products to include in this test, we researched the top-rated products on the market from multiple retailers, considered popular and traveler-loved brands, and relied on the knowledge of our travel editors and their experience with a variety of toiletry bags. We also aimed to include a variety of sizes, price points, and intended uses.

We tested all 27 toiletry bags in our New York City lab space. Bags were rated on a five-point scale and evaluated for capacity, design, portability, and overall value. We averaged scores across individual categories to give an overall score. Testers packed each bag with the types and quantities of toiletries that would last for a long weekend trip. Once the toiletry bags were packed, our testers took notes on how full the bags were and any unique organizational or structural features. Lastly, they placed the toiletry bags in weekender bags and carried them around to get a sense of how heavy the toiletry bags felt and how easily they could be packed into other pieces of luggage.

BÉIS Cosmetic Case : This case is sturdily built with a couple of thoughtful extras like a standing mirror and a separate sleeve for makeup brushes. With its generous capacity comes a larger footprint, which may be problematic in smaller carry-ons or weekenders. Finally, we felt the price was too high for the quality of the materials.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case : Another spacious pick, our tester could appreciate the capacity of this bag with its convenient carrying handle, though it needs to be packed full to keep the contents from jostling around wildly. The design and internal organization were OK but not as good as some others.

Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag : Overall, we liked the Hunter Bag. The soft neoprene exterior felt durable and easy to clean. The interior features a few pockets and two removable zipper pouches, which our tester said they would probably leave out to make better use of the space.

Everlane ReNew Catch-All Case : True to its name, the Catch-All is a roomy yet simple option with both internal and external pockets. It isn't particularly structured, so it would slip nicely into any other bag, but we worry the contents could easily be damaged or crushed.

State Bags Benson Dopp Kit : The Benson Dopp Kit is a hanging bag with a solid capacity and a well-designed interior. Because of its size, this isn't the ideal option for short trips, and we found similar models that just edged out this pick in terms of the quality of materials and design.

Tumi Response Travel Kit : Our testers were hard-pressed to find anything negative about this bag. It features a clamshell opening for easy packing, is roomy but remains a good choice for weekend getaways, and offers enough structure to protect your toiletries. The real downside is the luxury price, which we found hard to swallow.

What to Look For in a Toiletry Bag

Whether you want something you can quickly toss products into or a hyper-organized toiletry bag with ample pocket space is up to you, but it’s important to think about how organized you usually are. Our advice? Look at how your purse or backpack is organized (i.e., is it a massive tote you throw everything into, or is everything organized in its own little pocket or bag?) to figure out how you naturally travel.

TSA Requirements

If you're carrying your luggage on a flight with you, be sure your items meet TSA requirements —one quart-sized bag of containers holding liquids in quantities of no more than 3.4 ounces. If you are checking your luggage, some of the large-capacity bags on this list can come in handy for packing larger liquids. However, rather than putting all your products into a flimsy plastic bag, opt for a reusable zippered bag instead.

Hanging Capability

Sometimes, the hotel you're staying at won't have enough counter space for a toiletry bag, especially if you're traveling with others. If you want to ensure that things don’t get too cluttered, consider a bag that can hang from the towel hooks on the back of the bathroom door. Bonus: You can use it to free up space at home, too.

Because they are frequently in wet and humid surroundings, most toiletry bags are pretty easy to clean thanks to the functional materials used to make them. Simply wipe down the interior, usually made of nylon with a water-resistant coating. Toiletry bags that are made of faux or genuine leather or polyester can be spot-cleaned.

If you plan to fly and take your liquids onboard with you, make sure to follow the TSA requirements, which allow one quart-sized bag of containers up to 3.4 ounces each. While it's not required to have a clear toiletry bag, if your bag is pulled for further inspection, it might speed up the process if the security agent can easily see what you've packed.

To recommend the best toiletry bags out there, we tested 27 items across various brands and price points in our New York City lab space, scoring each on its capacity, durability, portability, and value.

The author of this article, Nathan Allen , is TripSavvy's Outdoor Gear Editor. He regularly takes toiletry bags on flights, road trips, and backpacking and camping trips. His go-to toiletry bag is the Cotopaxi Nido for its functionality, size, durability, and planet-friendliness.

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The 8 Best Travel Toiletry Bags Professional Travelers Recommend and Use Themselves

There are certain necessities that can make traveling a little easier: a suitcase , or if you’re packing light, a carry-on , and maybe even packing cubes if you want to maximize your luggage space. And whether you’re planning a spontaneous weekend trip or vacation , you’ll also want a travel toiletry bag to keep your beauty and personal-care items all in one place while preventing the risk of a toiletry explosion when in transit.

You don’t have to look very far to find a toiletry kit: There area lot of options to choose from, but to help you narrow down your choices, I spoke to well-traveled people for tips on selecting the best travel toiletry bag for every type of jet-setter. Below are eight toiletry bags that professional travelers recommend and use themselves when they’re on the move.

01 what to look for
02 best travel toiletry bags
Abigail A. , solo travel expert and travel blogger at The Lady Who Travels
Kesi Irvin , travel writer and blogger behind Kesi To and Fro
Kim Tate , travel writer and blogger behind Stuffed Suitcase
Nneya Richards , travel and lifestyle journalist
Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon , on-air travel host, journalist, and blogger at JetSetSarah

Best travel toiletry bags, at a glance

Best hanging: Nomatic, Toiletry Bag 2.0 , $55
Best with a hook: eBags, Pack-It-Flat Toiletry Kit , $18
Best pouch: Dagne Dover, Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag , $45
Best budget: Queboom, Travel Makeup Bag , $7
Best for makeup: Bagsmart, Toiletry Bag , $16
Best for personalization: The Daily Edit, Black Clear Travel Case , $50
Best size options: Truffle, Clarity Jetset Case , $98
Best splurge: Anya Hindmarch, In-Flight Case , $395

What to look for in a travel toiletry bag

Material: When looking for a travel toiletry bag, first think about the material. “A bag that’s easy to clean will last you a long longer,” says New York-based travel journalist Nneya Richards . Richards recommends materials like nylon or neoprene, which are water-resistant. Kim Tate , the Seattle-based travel writer and blogger behind Stuffed Suitcase , prefers options made from vinyl, a material that is durable and more often than not waterproof.

Size and weight: You’ll also want a travel toiletry bag with enough room for the toiletries you’re taking with you. A small toiletry bag will save you space, but if you’re packing larger toiletries or for a longer trip, you may want to opt for a larger kit—keeping in mind that it will take up more room in your bag. Size aside, select something lightweight; many of the options on this list are less than half a pound when empty.

Additional features: Finally, consider the additional features that’ll make traveling easier. For example, a toiletry bag with a hook or handle will allow you to hang it up and maximize counter space, while one with transparent panels can offer a clear view of your essentials for easy access. Some also offer organizational options, like compartments, pockets, or even separate pouches to keep your things in order.

Whatever your preference, there’s something for every type of traveler on this list. Scroll on for the eight best toiletry bags, as recommended by well-traveled experts.

Shop the best travel toiletry bags

Material: Not specified | Size: 10.5” L x 5” W x 1.7” H (Small) and 10.5” L x 5” W x 3.1” H (Standard) | Weight: 9.5 oz. (Small) and 11.3 oz. (Regular)

Nomatic is a favorite brand of Kesi Irvin , travel writer and owner of the online travel blog Kesi To and Fro , and its toiletry bag has the one thing she typically looks for in a kit—a hanging component. “If I’m moving around from place to place, I like having the option to hang my toiletry bag up so I can see all the products I have,” she shares. The bag boasts a convenient hanging strap to help you save counter space while on your trip and several zippered pockets to neatly store your items. Plus, its narrow profile will allow you to squeeze it into your suitcase without compromising packing space. While the manufacturer doesn’t specify the material of the bag, it’s designed to be water-resistant. It comes in two sizes, and, as an added bonus, a lifetime warranty.

Available colors: 1

Water-resistant material
Internal zip pockets
Lifetime warranty
Only one color option

Material: Nylon | Size: 14” L x 9.25” W x 2.2” H | Weight: 10 oz.

Tate has long relied on this toiletry bag on her travels. “It has a very slim profile that won’t take up much luggage space,” she explains. While unassuming in size and appearance, it has spacious internal compartments that can hold enough for shorter or longer excursions—something to which Tate can personally attest. “It has a zipper compartment on the left, where I would keep all my skincare products, a larger zipper compartment in the middle for my deodorant and larger items, and then two zipper compartments on the right to hold my toothpaste and eye-care products,” she says. To add to its functionality, it has a hook and removable pocket mirror.

Available colors: 4

Slim profile
Spacious internal compartments
Can’t stand upright on its own

Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag

Material: Neoprene | Size: 7.5” L x 4” W x 4.5” H (Small) and 9” L x 4.75” W x 5.5” H (Large) | Weight: 5 oz. (Small) and 7 oz. (Large)

I use and love this Dagne Dover toiletry bag. While I’m by no means a travel expert, it’s withstood years of long road trips and international journeys. The bag is made from water-resistant neoprene to contain spills, and it has a sturdy structure and multiple compartments to keep my things from jostling around. Plus, it zips open—and stays open—for easy access. I own the large version, which has enough space for all my beauty and personal-care products, with compartments to keep things like my razor and toothbrush from touching. A bonus: The large version comes with two additional pouches, while the smaller version includes one pouch, and both come in several stylish colors.

If anything, the bag neither has a hook nor a handle to hang it with—and if this is important to you, you might prefer the Seoul Dopp Kit , which has the stamp of approval from Richards. This particular product is made from water-resistant nylon, and it features a swivel hook and multiple storage compartments. You can shop it in two sizes and four colors, including black, gray, green, and pink.

Available colors: 9

Multiple interior compartments
Comes with additional pouches for storage
No hanging component

Material: Not specified | Size: 9” L x 6” W x 3.1”H (Standard) and 9.4” L x 7” W x 5.5” H (Large) | Weight: 5.3 oz.

If you’re looking for something more affordable, this travel-friendly toiletry bag offers some of the convenient features of pricier options at a lower cost. It also comes recommended by Abigail A. of the blog The Lady Who Travels . It’s made from a waterproof material, and it offers a considerable space for your beauty products and a separate compartment for makeup brushes. The kit comes in two sizes: a smaller, more travel-friendly design and a larger model with more storage space, or for a few more dollars, you can purchase it as a set of two. With 12 colors, you’re sure to find an option to match your personal style. The bag folds flat when not in use to conserve space, but it also lacks the structure and compartments of most options on this list—a tradeoff for the price.

Available colors: 12

Separate compartment for makeup brushes
Folds flat when not in use
Minimal organizational compartments

Material: Not specified | Size: 10.2” L x 4.3” W x 6.3” H (Basic), 11.8” L x 7” W x 7” H (Standard), 11.8” L x ” 5.9 x 7” H (Large) | Weight: 5.6 oz. (Basic), 10.2 (Standard), 11.7 oz. (Large)

Another recommendation from A. is this toiletry bag from Bagsmart. It’s made from a water-resistant material, and it comes in three sizes, with the standard- and large-size options boasting a separate compartment with elastic loops to hold smaller or more slender items, such as a toothbrush, razor, or makeup brushes. Each of the three options have interior mesh pockets, along with a large exterior zippered pocket lined with a waterproof layer that is great for breakable and spill-prone products. The bag is well-structured too, with a wide base that keeps it upright and prevents it from tipping over even when full. Shop it in four solid colors, including black, navy blue, pink, and gray.

Waterproof exterior pocket
Multiple organizational compartments
Limited colors

Originally $99, now $50

Material: PVC (with leather trim) | Size: 8.4” L x 3.3” W” x 3.3” H | Weight: Not specified

Travel journalist and TV host Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon of JetSetSarah recommends and uses this pick from The Daily Edit, which meets all her requirements of a good travel toiletry bag: it is transparent to offer a clear view of packed items; it has a zipper that runs all around the three sides of the bag for easy access; and it is durable to withstand repeated usage. “As an added bonus, you can personalize it,” she says, and you can have the letters of your choosing stamped onto the bag. The bag, constructed from PVC, opens up to two roomy compartments, one of which has an elastic strap to secure smaller items in place. The bag is finished with a black leather trim and gold hardware, and though it only comes in one size, Greaves-Gabbadon says is ideal for carry-on travel.

Water-resistant construction
Offers a clear view of contents
Personalizable
Only one size and color

Material: PVC (with leather or nylon trim) | Size: 2.5” L x 7.5” W x 2” H (Mini), 5.2” L x 7.5” W x 2” H (Standard), 6” L x 9” W x 2” H (Large), and 6” L x 9” W x 3.” 3.75” H (Jumbo) | Weight: Not specified

Truffle Co.’s toiletry bags come in four sizes, the most of our picks of the list—and they are recommended by Greaves-Gabbadon. Like the previous recommendation, the bag features transparent windows so you can instantly see what’s inside and a zipper that runs around three sides. Plus, the standard option is just the right size for liquids and gels that comply with the TSA 3-1-1 rules . Size aside, you can choose between a leather and nylon trim and several eye-catching colors for each of the available options. The biggest downside to this bag is the lack of compartments to keep items separate and in place, but if you typically pack light, it shouldn’t be much of an issue for you.

Available colors: 8

TSA-friendly design
Available in four sizes
No internal organization

Material: Plastic | Size: 3.1” L x 8.4” W x 4.5” H | Weight: Not specified

Anya Hindmarch is known for creating stylish, albeit pricey, storage systems. If money is no object and you’re looking to organize the contents of your carry-on, consider the In-Flight Case, which started Greaves-Gabbadon’s “lust” for travel toiletry bags. The water-resistant bag, made specifically for carry-on use, is fully transparent for easy visibility and features two roomy compartments with zippers that run along the three sides of the bag. According to Greaves-Gabbadon, each section is equivalent in size to a quart-size Ziploc bag to carry 3.4-ounce liquids and gels on board an airplane without risking confiscation by TSA. If you visit the brand’s website, you can also personalize the bag with a phrase or your name—it’ll just cost you a bit extra.

Available colors: 5

Water-proof material with waterproof fabric lining
Roomy interior

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Packing Tips

The Ultimate Toiletries Packing Guide

Three-ounce shampoo. Mini deodorant. Itty-bitty body wash. Travel toiletries can be super cute, and if you pack right, they'll also be super helpful, covering all your grooming and body care needs while you're jetsetting. But they’re trickier to pack than you might think. Pop quiz: Do you know the TSA's liquid restrictions? Is it the same for aerosol? Don't worry, our guide will help you navigate those hurdles and give you the ultimate toiletry packing strategy. We’ll also share the number-one most forgotten toiletry, so you don't leave it out, too. Let’s get packing!

See recent posts by Kate Reynolds

Toiletry Packing List

Our mission with this list: To keep you looking, feeling, and smelling great for anything from an overnight to a two-week trek. Keep in mind, this list doesn’t include makeup, but we’ve got you covered there, too.

1 Toiletry Bag
1 Toothbrush
1 Mini Toothpaste
1 Pack of Dental Floss
1 Facial Cleanser
1 Mini Sunscreen
1 M ini Moisturizer
1 Mini Deodorant
1 Hairbrush or Comb
1 Mini Shampoo and Conditioner
1 Mini Body Wash
1 Tube of Shaving Cream
1 Loofah (optional)
1 Pack of Bandages
10 Ibuprofen Capsules
1 4 Allergy Medication Capsules
1 of Bottle Buy Spray (optional)
1 Mini Contact-Lens Solution (optional)
1 Pair Contacts Plus Spare (optional)
1 Contacts Case (optional)
Tampons or Pads (optional)
Prescriptions and Birth Control (optional)
Vitamins (optional)

Should I Rely on Free Toiletries?

Free stuff is always good, right? Well, depends . Though your hotel or rental may have complimentary toiletries, the quality of those items can be a toss-up. Travelers with sensitive skin; curly, textured, or temperamental hair; or simply high standards shouldn’t rely on freebies. After a few nights of washing your face with a harsh, perfumed bar of soap, your skin may launch into red alert. The safest bet is to purchase some TSA-approved squeeze bottles and bring your own tried-and-true products. Or invest in buying travel-sized versions of your preferred brand. If you’re feeling frugal, you can always try to collect samples of your faves from various cosmetic counters or as a gift with purchase.

Where Should I Buy Toiletries?

We’ve all seen the travel section at the local drugstore. It’s a snooze. They carry the same basic brands. If you order items online, you can save yourself a trip to the store, save money, and shop a bigger range of brands. Here are our five favorite online retailers for toiletries with links to their toiletry sections.

Amazon.com – Best for Budget
Target.com – Best for Variety
Walmart.com – Best Bundles
Sephora.com – Best Luxury Brands
Ulta.com – Best for Makeup

How Do I Pack Liquid Toiletries?

The overlord of airport security (aka the TSA) sets limitations on flying with liquids. The rules are very specific and sometimes a bit hard to understand. No worries. We’ll break it down. Rules apply based on how you are handling your luggage, specifically if you’re checking a bag vs. carrying a bag on the plane.

Checked Bag

If your suitcase is checked, there are no limitations on liquids. Score! You can bring as many full-size or travel-sized liquid toiletries that will fit in your bag. This includes aerosol cans.

Carry-on Bag

For the carry-on-only crowd, you must adhere to TSA’s 3-1-1 rule ( 3.4 oz bottle or less; one quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; one bag per passenger). Translation: Stock up on those mini bottles, which can include aerosol cans, or decant your items in reusable bottles. Either way, keep them accessible in a plastic bag so you can show the security agent.

What’s the Best Toiletry Bag for Travel?

In the epic battle against disorganization, the right bag is the ultimate weapon. There are two types of bags that belong in every frequent-flier’s arsenal.

For Liquids: A Clear Bag

Keep your liquids organized in a clear, quart-sized (or smaller) bag and you’ll cruise through security. It doesn’t need to be fancy. Heck, you can even go with a basic kitchen Ziploc bag . If you go this route, be prepared to replace it every trip. These aren’t exactly made to last. The better option? Invest in a more durable, reusable clear bag from Amazon .

For Everything Else: A Multi-Compartment Bag

Transport your non-liquids in a colorful, cute multi-compartment bag. Once you’ve landed, you can keep your hotel bathroom pristine by storing products here when not in use. Our top pick is an under-$15 bag by Sleeko , available on Amazon. This bag is water resistant, has unique compartment customization, and it can hang on the back of a bathroom door, freeing up precious counter space. Our other favorite is an under-$20 bag by Mossio , also available on Amazon. It hangs; it has strong compartments; and it comes in a variety of fun prints.

What’s the Best Reusable Travel Container?

Get ready to BYOP: Bring Your Own Product. The alternative to buying travel-size products is bringing your own from home in TSA-approved containers. It’s cost-effective and eco-friendly since you can re-use these containers over and over again. WTP editors love the silicone squeeze containers by Oursunshine . What really sets these guys apart is their size variation. The largest bottles are great for shampoo and conditioner, while the small pots are great for more sparsely used products like eye cream. The bottles have a wide opening which makes it really easy to transfer product from bottle to bottle. Pro tip: If you’re working with especially difficult containers, you could invest in a small bottle funnel. Mini spatulas (made famous on “Shark Tank”) also come in handy if you’re trying to use up that last bit of product.

What About Toiletries Sold in a Bundle?

Convenience Kits International, Women's Deluxe 10 PC Travel Kit.

If using a funnel to transport your shampoo from one bottle to another sounds like a waking nightmare, read on. You can outsource all the toiletry shopping and packing by buying a bundle, a set of minis pre-packaged by a retailer. Think of it as a one-click solution. WTP editors are fans of Walmart’s bundle. For the price of a latte, you get a 10-piece kit . Though this bundle doesn’t tick off every item from our checklist, it does include the most critical items. There’s a men’s and a women’s version of this kit.

Is Dry Shampoo Really Worth It?

Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo.

Greasy hair strikes more often when you’re in transit. Keep it fresh by splurging on a luxe toiletry that’s worth the hype: dry shampoo . After a long flight or day of sightseeing, a quick spritz can keep your hair looking clean, dry, and voluminous. If you’re new to the dry-shampoo camp, here’s a little primer. Dry shampoo comes in a little hairspray-like can. Hold the can 12 inches from your head and spray onto your roots. After a few minutes, the spray will dry into a white powder, which looks a little wacky. Just tap the powder into your roots until it’s no longer visible, or brush it through with a hairbrush. You’ll notice immediate results as the powder soaks up grease and adds volume. Our pick is by Living Proof . This brand doesn’t have an offensive scent, it’s easy to use, and it comes in a TSA-friendly 1.8 oz can.

Should You Pre-Buy Sunscreen?

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Water Resistant.

If you’re heading to a tropical destination where there’s Coppertone and Banana Boat in every beachside kiosk, you could be thinking you’ll be A-OK picking up a bottle after you land. That would be a mistake. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends topping up your SPF everyday, not just when you’re beachside. And the sun’s rays are mega-strong when you’re flying, since you’re above the clouds. Do yourself a favor and keep your protection handy. Our picks? Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen , a non-gloopy that stays put, and the zinc-based EltaMD UV Clear , a one-time Allure Best of Beauty winner and dermatologist fave.

Should I Pack Over the Counter Medication?

Once you start doling out ibuprofen from plastic baggies, you’ll be dubbed “the mom” of your group. But stashing a few over-the-counter meds in your bag is absolutely worth it. When you’re in a new place, you don’t know how your body is going to react. If you do go down for the count with a headache or an allergy attack, you’ll be grateful to have painkillers or allergy relief handy (as will other folks). Nothing is worse than arriving in Paris with a drumming headache trying to remember the French word for “pharmacy.” (Talk about a romance killer.) And Ibuprofen is great for hangovers, just saying.

What’s the Most Forgotten Toiletry Item?

Crest 3D White Vivid Fluoride Anticavity Toothpaste.

Drumroll please…it’s toothpaste. According to a recent Reddit thread and annual Amazon order information, this is the one toiletry item that travelers forget the most. We can see why: People have full-sized toothpaste for their everyday use, so they check it off the packing list automatically. But full-size tubes don’t meet TSA regulations for carry-ons. And don’t bother transferring toothpaste into another container unless you want to clean winterfresh blobs off your sink. Just add a mini one to your cart. It’s a worthwhile buy that’ll last multiple trips.

The Rundown: Our Top 10 Toiletry Packing Tips

Mari Kondo Minimalist Packing - Paring Down the Possibilites - Toiletries

Buy toiletries ahead of time. Not all products are easy or cheap to find once you’ve landed in your destination.
Look into a beauty/personal care subscription box for your everyday life. Companies like Ipsy and Birchbox send your curated samples each month. All those minis are great for travel.
Consider multipurpose products. For example: Many shampoo bars can be used as body wash and shampoo.
Take your toiletries for a test drive. Use your travel minis to get ready for the day before you leave. If you’re missing anything, you’ll have time to add it. Repeat with your nighttime routine.
Once they’re all gathered, divvy up your toiletries into two piles, required and nice-to-have. Pack the required pile first.
Tighten caps and lids on every item before packing. Store any items you think could leak in a standalone compartment or plastic bag.
If you’re ever unclear if an item is allowed on a plane or not, check the TSA’s site . Still don’t see the answer? Tweet at the TSA. They actively respond to inquiries there.
Compartmentalize your toiletries to stay organized. Consider taking multiple bags: one makeup bag, one toiletry bag, one clear quart-sized zip-lock bag for liquids from each.
If you’re checking a bag, keep a subset of your makeup and toiletries in your carry-on so that you’re not empty handed in the event that your luggage gets lost.

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

Women’s casual dress outfit for a warm vacation, shop the look.

Hot Lips Lipstick

Call Me Daisy Dress

Pavé Bar Bracelet

Metallic Calfskin Leather Crossbody Bag

Men’s Cool and Casual Outfit for a Trip

Striped Shirt

Slim Fit Jeans

Leather Strap Watch

Duck Bag Canvas Tote

Artur Sneaker

Women’s casual outfit to wear in new england.

Front Button Top

Cropped Skinny Jeans

10-pack Headbands

Pillow Saddle Bag

Ronnie Slide

Men’s comfy outfit for a flight or car ride.

Waffle Knit Shorts

Polarized Sunglasses

Moisture Control Crew Socks

Manila Women’s Nightlife Outfit

Graphic Print Dress

Wooden Hoops Earrings

Gold Bangle

Leather Crossbody Bag

Wedge Sandals

Manila men’s nightlife outfit.

Button-Up Shirt

Skinny Chinos

Leather Belt

RFID Wallet

Women’s prAna Swimsuit with Cover-up

One-piece Swimsuit

Waterproof Crayon Eyeliner

Men’s Outfit for Visiting Myrtle Beach Water Parks

Men's Long-Sleeve T-Shirt Hurley Quick Dry.

Quick Dry Long-Sleeve

Timothy Block Swim Short

Microfiber Towel

Floatable Waterproof Case

Adidas Outdoor Terrex CC Boat

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Essential Travel Toiletries Checklist for Your Carry-on

October 10, 2021 | Posted in: Travel gear reviews

Do you also hate to wait for your luggage once you've arrived and then having to drag it onto public transportation and to your hotel? Yeah, me too. That's why I often try to travel carry-on only and to show you how you can do the same, I put together this essential travel toiletries checklist.

It holds all of my essential travel toiletries and a few extras – you know, things that aren't absolutely essential but that are definitely nice to have with me.

At the bottom of this post, you'll also find a handy packing checklist to help you pack for your next carry-on only trip!

Lastly, I share some general tips that make packing toiletries for carry-on easier.

General tips for traveling with toiletries in a carry-on

1. buy solid toiletries.

So I don't.

Instead, I take solid forms of whatever toiletries I can find solid forms of. Solid shampoo bars, solid deodorant, solid toothpaste tabs… Not only do these solid toiletries not count toward the liquids limit, they also can't open up and run all over your other toiletries. Bonus point.

Don't know what toiletries for travel you can find solid versions of or where to get them? I'll share which ones I use a bit further down.

2. Buy mini toiletries or travel-size containers

On Amazon , you can find all kinds of 100 ml travel toiletry bottles, but also tubes and other types of travel containers for toiletries in different sizes. Think about what you usually pack before buying a set. I find bottles easiest for shampoo or body lotion, while tiny pots are handier for facial cream.

For facial and body care, some brands also sell travel pack toiletries. Usually, these are packs with three or so mini versions of their regular products. I don't recommend getting these as they're usually more expensive than just buying the normal versions of the products and pouring them over into mini travel bottles.

3. Use a clear toiletry bag or Ziploc bag to stow your toiletries for traveling

I prefer using a Ziploc bag because it takes up no extra space and I can just stuff it into my bigger toiletry bag after passing security.

Travel Toiletries Checklist

Below you can find a list of all toiletries I usually pack when traveling carry-on only. What I bring may vary a bit as I'll leave some things at home when I know that I'll be staying at a hotel that provides soap, shampoo etc.

If you'd like an easy-to-use and printable version of this toiletries packing list for yourself, scroll down to the bottom of this post, where it's waiting for you :-)

1. Basic body maintenance and medication

I don't bring solid soap because I usually won't finish it on one trip and then it gets all sticky in my toiletry bag.

2. Toothbrush: At home I use an electric Oral B toothbrush , but when I'm traveling it's just a regular one from the supermarket. I'm not loyal to a specific brand.

3. Toothy tabs: I love Lush's dry version of toothpaste . Sometimes I run out before I can get new ones, and then I'll just put some regular toothpaste in a mini container. Some dentist also offer travel size toothpaste samples, so try to stock up on those if you can :-)

4. Dental floss: I have very sensitive gum and so flossing is a must for me. I use floss from Oral B .

5. Solid shampoo: Also from Lush .

6. Solid deodorant: I use Lush's Aromaco and it works well, but it doesn't come in a container which means you have to find a container for it yourself. It lasts ages, but once I've finished it, I'll probably go for a travel size deodorant stick .

7. Razor: At home I use a Venus razor , but on the road, I usually take one of those small throw-away razors. Not the best for the environment, I know, but I have to admit also these often come from hotels.I never pack shaving cream but use soap if needed.

8. Travel size comb and brush

9. Diarrhea, nausea and headache/painkiller medicine

10. Bandages: I pack pre-sized bandages for sensitive skin and Compeed against blisters .

11. Condoms: I don't pack these myself as I've been with Boyfriend for 10+ years now, but if you're single, you better be safe!

12. Q-tips: Both for the ears and for makeup misdrawings :D

13. Tweezers

2. A little bit of luxury

2. Body lotion: Usually I pack travel size lotion bottles I got at a hotel as well, as these are the perfect size, just like the other toiletries you often get at hotels. Otherwise, I'm not loyal to a specific body lotion brand and will go with what's cheapest.

3.Facial cream: I always put a bit in a mini container. Not really loyal to a specific brand.

4. Travel-sized sunscreen: From whatever brand has a travel-sized version and is paraben-free .

5. Nail clippers or a travel size vile: I prefer iron-ish viles .

6. Cottons: I prefer flat round ones. They don't take up a lot of space.

2. Eye pencil: I'm not loyal to a particular brand.

3. Lipstick: I only travel with lipstick when I know I'll be attending a conference or another event for which I need to look a bit fancier. I love Rimmel's Provocalips . While these are liquid and thus not as suited for carry-on only travel as solid lipsticks, they really do stay on for 16-hours straight, even when you drink and eat as usual. It's magic.

4. Concealer stick: I use a stick instead of liquid concealer. It's a bit of a compromise as I do find liquid concealers usually work better. I usually go for one of the cheaper brands.

5. Mascara: I always buy mascara from Rimmel's Scandaleyes series. Usually the ExtremeMascara . It's good, it stays on and it's not expensive.

6. Facial wash and make-up remover: I used to buy Nivea, but now I switched to a cheaper store brand. I put these in small travel bottles for toiletries as well.

Custom stuff and other things

2. Case for glasses

3. Prescription medication

4. Menstrual cup : Obviously only when I'll be having my period while I'm traveling.

5. Earplugs: I don't like wax earplugs and have been buying these colored ones by Quies for years now.

Toiletry bags

1. Clear toiletry bag for liquids security check: Make sure this is big enough and zips shut. You can take 1000ml in total in your carry-on, so that's 10 travel-size toiletry bottles of 100ml. It would be a shame if they didn't all fit into your bag, wouldn't it? Now, I've seen people with two small bags as well, but I rather not risk it and just make sure everything fits into one Ziploc bag.

2. Main toiletry bag: This is where all your other stuff goes. I use a simple square one in which I stuff a small make-up bag as this combination is easiest to squeeze together and fits just about anywhere in my trolley or backpack. I've seen other people rave about hanging toiletry bags, though, so I might check those out sometime. Just don't get a hard case. It'll never completely fit around your stuff and will always take up more space than needed.

And that's it! I hope this post has given you an idea of how to pack toiletries for travel with a carry-on only. Have a top if your own? Share it in the comments!

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Essential Travel Toiletries Guide for Your Trip: Carry-On Approved

Guide for essential toiletry items for every traveller! Carry-on bag approved.

Hi! I am very excited to share another packing guide , this time focusing on essential travel toiletries!

Finding the perfect travel sized toiletries for a trip can be a challenge. There are so many to choose from and it can be difficult to know exactly what you need for a trip.

That’s where this guide comes in! In this guide you will find all of our favorite travel toiletry products and packing tips! These toiletries are essential for any trip, no matter the length, and won’t take up too much space in your suitcase.

As some of you may know, Kate and I almost always pack only in carry-ons, so most of the products mentioned below will be travel size (under 3.4 ounces) in order to comply with TSA regulations. However, if you are packing in a full size suitcase, I recommend bringing whatever size products you have in order to reduce waste and money spent purchasing new travel size ones.

Ready for your essential travel toiletry guide? Keep on reading!

Essential Travel Toiletries – Overview

Toiletry bag, reusable containers, moisturizer.

Facial Mist / Spray

Refreshing Wipes / Spray

Dry shampoo, chapstick / lip oil, storage + packing.

Per TSA regulations, airline passengers are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols. The easiest, and most common, way to accomplish this is by using a Ziploc or other brand of disposable plastic baggie.

A more sustainable way to travel is to purchase a clear toiletry or makeup bag. For some clear, TSA-approved makeup bags, check out this affordable 3-pack from Amazon !

If your products are too large to bring, consider investing in some reusable travel bottles ! This will help to reduce waste and allow you to bring all of your essential travel toiletries from home! Amazon has lots of great options with varying prices, sets, and sizes!

Skincare products are some of the most important items you can pack for a trip. When traveling, your skin can be exposed to different germs, climates, and water. In order to help your skin adjust, make sure to bring along the skincare products you use daily. Below are some of my favorites!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by CeraVe Skincare (@cerave)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Differin US (@differinus)

When packing for a trip, make sure to throw in your daily facial cleanser. My personal favorite brand of face wash is CeraVe . Their Hydrating Facial Cleanser is great for dry skin, while the Foaming Face Wash works wonders for oily and acne-prone skin. This cleanser is affordable and comes in full-size , travel-size , and eco-friendly bar options .

Facial moisturizer is an absolute must, especially when traveling. Personally, I use a lighter daytime option and a heavier cream for nighttime usage. That being said, when going on a trip, I often will only bring one moisturizer to keep my packing light.

For a light, oil-control moisturizer I highly recommend Glossier’s Priming Moisturizer Balance . This product looks great on its own, but it also allows for makeup to apply seamlessly on top.

For a more heavy-duty product, Differin’s Oil Absorbing Moisturizer with SPF 30 is a great option. Its versatility makes this product awesome for traveling. However, it is 4 ounces, meaning it is not TSA compliant for carry-ons. After a few weeks of using, I had used enough product to bring it through airport security in my backpack and had no issues. Additionally, you could always transfer to a reusable TSA-compliant toiletry container , such as the ones recommended above.

Sunscreen is arguably the most important product on this list. From anti-aging/wrinkle prevention to reducing your chances of sun-related illnesses, make sure to use sunscreen all over your body, including your face and neck. Check out our post on the best travel sunscreens here!

When choosing a sunscreen, make sure to check that it’s reef safe and eco-friendly !! This is essential for protecting and preserving our oceans.

Facial Mist

While I do not use a facial mist or spray daily, I do find them useful for traveling, especially when flying. Facial mists are great for refreshing your skin and leaving it glowing. Check out Vacation’s Super Spritzer calming and soothing mist that is made for use with water-resistant sunscreens! If you’re going on a tropical vacation, definitely check out Vacation’s full line of paraben, sulfate, cruelty free and reef-safe products!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vacation® (@vacationinc)

Personal Hygiene

Before any trip, be sure to pick up some multi-purpose wipes! Wet Ones Antibacterial Hand Wipes and Cottonelle’s Flushable Wipes are two of my recommendations. The latter also is great for traveling in countries that do not provide toilet paper in public restrooms, but be sure to know if flushing toilet paper/wipes is allowed.

For a pick-me-up, Love Beauty and Planet’s Showerless Cleansing Mist is perfect for traveling. Just spray this on to feel refreshed during a long travel day.

Dry shampoo is an absolute must when traveling! R+Co’s Dry Shampoo works wonders on second (or third) day hair. Plus, their travel size options are perfect to throw in a purse or backpack. Batiste is a tried and true dry shampoo, and it’s very affordable.

You never want to be caught with dry, chapped lips on vacation! Glossier’s Balm Dotcom is an essential universal salve – great for lips, hands, dry patches, and more. Plus, the flavors are to die for. And, of course, for a classic chapstick, Burts Bees is always a great choice.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Glossier (@glossier)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Burt’s Bees (@burtsbees)

Additional Essentials

Hand Sanitizer
Toothbrush / Toothpaste (we recommend bamboo for a sustainable option)
Makeup Remover
Deodorant (Native is all natural and awesome!)
Razor + Shaving Products
Perfume / Body Spray

I hope you enjoyed my essential travel toiletries packing guide! As a disclaimer, the products I recommended are from personal opinion and experience. Before using any of these, check with a doctor or dermatologist, read the ingredients, and swatch test for allergies/sensitivities.

Let me know your essentials and favorite products in the comments below!

Guide with essential travel toiletries for all travelers and all trips! What you need to pack for your vacation.

This post also includes affiliate links. Read our disclosure here .

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24 comments.

Dry shampoo is a necessity! This is such an important list, I must refer to it on my next trip!

Great recommendations..esp about keeping skin hydrated… esp during summer months, my skin gets so dry when I don’t bring my favorite products with me.

Great list. I’ve always wondered what facial mists are actually for, but can imagine on a long haul flight that it could be nice on your skin.

Great idea on the TA approved makeup bags, I thought the plastic bags were a requirement, but it’s great to know a sustainable alternative is acceptable!

Packing your toiletries in a carry on always adds a lot more consideration. I have not yet tried a facial mist so might want to add that to my kit. And I am definitely on the search for a good dry shampoo.

Awesome list! We are slowly learning how NOT to overpack and travel just by carry-on. We have already invested in some smaller bottles for travel, as well as a small toiletries bag for carry-ons. But no matter what way you travel, this list is awesome.

I sometimes travel with a big toiletry bag that I check, but it is so much more convenient to carry on my luggage (and my husband appreciates not checking). It requires a lot more thought on my part for sure!

This is a great list of basic toiletries to always have with you while traveling. It took me years to decide to get the refillable bottles, but so glad I did – I now use them all the time!

This is such a great article, I always forget something so this is a great list to have! I’ve never thought about facial mist but it sounds like something I should get into when flying.

Chapstick is definitely a must when travelling, especially if you’re on a plane. I like the idea of carrying some dry shampoo around too.

Awesome! Thanks for putting these together! Reusable containers + a toiletry bag definitely help to keep everything well organized. I like the TSA-approved makeup bag — yay for sustainable options! :]

Awesome list! So many great sustainable products too, definitely going to purchase some of these when my current ones run out!

Will use this as a check list for my next trip! It’s so useful to have a list like that because we always forget something haha. Well done!

Great tips! I started using solid soap and shampoo for sustainability reasons but it has also made carry on luggage so much easier!

Love your suggestions. I have been thinking of switching to a bar shampoo and bar conditioner.i love the sustainability and decreasing my bulky liquids.

Great travel packing tips, and I love your choice of skin care products! (I’m a dermatology nurse). Our skin gets so dry when we travel, moisturizer and facial mists are key!! 🙂

Great list! I’ll be honest, I don’t use half of these. But I think refillable containers are for sure a must have

Such a great! it’s so expensive and hard to buy these things in other countries. Wipes is such a great idea for long flights too.

Great list! I always forget at least one thing on my list when I travel. And then going out and buying it is such a pain.

Great list! I’m annoyingly good at overpacking my luggage. I could share a medium luggage with my partner and his stuff will only take up 1/3 of the space while I use the remaining 2/3, a small hand carry luggage and a backpack. Will try out your list when I travel in May.

Great blog and so many helpful tips and links! Dry shampoo saves me every time when travelling!

What a great list! I’ve been looking for a decent sized travel dry shampoo, I’ll be sure to look into this one 🙂

I always tend to overpack but I love the idea of mini travel size EVERYTHING. Definitely going to use some of these recommendations for my next trip to Houston

I’m sure an amateur when it comes to packing toiletries. All of my skincare products leaked on our December trip. Thanks for these handy tips!

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Musings of a Traveling Soul

Packing Lists , Travel Tips & Packing , Uncategorized · January 31, 2023

Your Complete List of Travel Toiletries Essentials: Free Printable Included!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Read the full disclosure here .

Have you ever arrived at your destination only to realize that you forgot deodorant and a brush? This complete list of travel toiletries essentials is everything you will possibly need!

travel toiletry essentials with free printable

Gathering toiletries together for a trip can sometimes feel like an endless task. It’s no wonder when you break down how many little travel toiletries essentials there are!

Keeping a well organized and always-ready bag packed with your travel toiletries essentials speeds up the packing process considerably. Whether you are a minimalist packer or someone who brings everything with you wherever you go, this travel toiletries essentials list is for you!

This complete list of travel toiletries essentials covers all of the possible things you may want to bring on your travels. Grab travel sized versions of your favorites and get packing!

This post is all about travel toiletries essentials.

Travel Toiletries Essentials

**Products in my pictures and graphics are ones that I personally use and love**

Travel Toiletries Essentials: The Basics

Before jumping to the travel toiletries packing list or gathering all of your favorite products, there are a few things worth mentioning first.

Size Matters

Whether you are flying carry on only or have an entire car to fill, keeping your product sizes small saves a ton of space and makes your toiletry collection more manageable . If you do a lot of traveling, it may be worth trying a service like Ipsy , where you receive travel sized products monthly. I have found many new favorites through this!

Another recommendation is to purchase travel sized products or create your own by filling travel containers with your favorites. Personally, I do a combination of both.

RELATED: 10 Awesome Tips To Pack Like A Minimalist

Travel Containers

Ever have your face wash leak all over your toiletry bag? It’s a frothy mess! Not all travel containers are created equal. I’ve tried all sorts of these packable and refillable bottles, vials and packages from Amazon, Target, TjMaxx, the Dollar Store… when using containers for solids like medication, go for the inexpensive ones as long as they stay closed. But for liquids, just buy the name brand containers that everyone is trying to mimic.

The GoToob refillable silicone travel bottles by Humangear are the only non-leaking and non-cracking travel containers that I have found . The knockoff versions leaked and dried out my products over time. Other styles leaked also and cracked as I’ve tried getting product out. It’s better to buy 1 quality product than several others that will disappoint and need replacing.

Small containers are perfect for facial cleansers and lotions, as well as pills and small jewelry. This set proved itself leak prove in my checked luggage on a recent 11 hour flight. They come in several color combinations, too. Definitely worth the inexpensive price on Amazon !

Worth a mention are these travel sized pouches . I haven’t tried them myself, but they have great reviews. Unlike the GoToobs, the pouches can be fully flat when empty. If you are tight on space, every little bit matters!

Travel Toiletries Bag

I can’t even tell you how many different styles of toiletry bags I have tried over the years. Sound familiar? Finding one bag that can hold everything, including makeup, can be a challenge. I am currently using the Béis Hanging Cosmetic Case and loving it! It holds everything except my curling iron/straightener combo . A round brush does fit in it too, but I choose not to pack it in there.

RELATED: The Béis Hanging Cosmetic Case: Why You’ll Love It!

Whatever travel toiletry bag(s) you use, consider if it is important that it hangs, holds everything, has a removable section, is TSA friendly , etc. You want something that is easy to use while traveling , especially if you are staying in more than one location.

Travel Toiletries Essentials: Hair

Hair products.

Hair products to pack:

shampoo & conditioner
shine serum/conditioning cream
body builder/texturizer
dry shampoo

Hotel shampoo and conditioner is rarely as kind to your hair as what you regularly use. Bring your own if your hair tends to be dry, frizzy, high maintenance or color treated . Same reasons to remember a shine serum or leave in conditioning treatment.

Often forgotten are the styling products used to give your hair body, texture or enhanced curls . Keep a travel sized container of dry shampoo to extend the time between your hair washes. Be sure this is one you have tried before and that it actually works ! Same thing for hairspray. Best bet is a travel sized version of your favorite .

Hair tools to pack:

comb, brush, round brush
hair dryer (if prefer your own)*
curling iron/wand
straightener
hot rollers/velcro rollers

If you are one of the people who can’t travel without your Dyson hair dryer , pack it. But first make sure that it is * compatible with your destination’s electrical situation . Hotel hair dryers are really hit and miss, so it’s a personal judgment call if your hair dryer is worth the space it consumes.

Packing all of the hair tools will limit the space you have for other travel necessities (like shoes!). I highly recommend the L’ange Hair Duo Airflow Styler . It works as a curling iron and straightener, plus it has a slimmer profile than a curling iron. I’ve had mine for over two years, and I absolutely love it!

Hair Accessories

Hair accessories to pack:

hair ties/scrunchies
shower cap/hair wrap

When limited on packing space, choose hair accessories that can be mixed and matched with several outfits and that you know you will wear . A headband of some kind is needed to pull your hair back while washing your face, and a shower cap or hair wrap will preserve your hair while showering and/or sleeping.

Travel Toiletry Essentials: Body

Travel toiletry essentials for your body and heading out:

sunscreen (don’t forget your face!)
self tanner (if you use it)

Bringing sample sized perfumes is the easiest and most efficient way to pack perfume. I’ve tried the little refillable canisters and it was a leaky mess! It can be fun to try a different scent for each destination that reminds you of that trip. Decant your favorite lotions or self tanner into travel containers if you can’t find mini versions of them.

Body Maintenance

Toiletry essentials for body maintenance while traveling:

razor & shaving cream
nail clippers
feminine products

Bring feminine products, even if you are not anticipating the need for them. It’s always better to have something on you just in case, than to find yourself in a situation where it’s urgent. Unless you have electrolysized your entire body, bring tweezers. And if you have ever woken up in the night with a toenail catching on a sheet or a pedicure falling off, you already know to have nail clippers handy.

A travel sized razor can help save space, as will skipping the shaving cream for soap. Whatever you do, don’t forget to cover the blade so you don’t accidentally cut your fingers when reaching into your toiletry bag. And as any woman already knows, always carry panty liners .

RELATED: Travel Activities For Any Destination

Travel Toiletries Essentials: Face

Facial travel toiletry essentials:

face moisturizer
makeup remover
cotton pads

Many department store cosmetic brands have travel sized face wash, face moisturizer and eye cream . Sometimes they are even free as a gift with purchase. I only use one brand of facial care since my skin is so sensitive. This is where having really great, quality travel containers come in handy. If your skin doesn’t care what you use, then you are lucky enough to find travel facial care at any big box store .

Makeup remover should definitely not be overlooked when it comes to travel toiletry essentials. Stubborn mascara and eye liner needs its own treatment. Simple makeup wipes will do, or bring a liquid with cotton pads to wipe the eye makeup off.

Travel Toiletries Essentials: Oral Care

Travel toiletry essentials for oral care:

toothbrush & cover
retainer/mouthguard

These are all of the things you have probably already thought of, but it’s good to have them written down somewhere. Don’t forget a toothbrush cover that is breathable just in case you have to repack your toothbrush before it has time to fully dry.

Travel Toiletries Essentials: Makeup

The best advice, if you do a lot of traveling, is to keep a second set of makeup always packed . This may not be possible, especially if you wear pricier makeup, but it is incredibly helpful for getting out the door and not forgetting anything.

Pack travel sized versions of your products whenever possible. It’s also a good idea to use products that can double up, such as the Ilia Beauty Multi-Stick that can be used as a blush and a lip color. Blush compacts that contain a cheek color, a contouring shade and a highlighter can save space, too.

Using travel sized brushes can aid in reducing the amount of packing space your makeup takes up, and may also enable you to use a smaller cosmetic bag. Cosmetics can quickly overtake your toiletry packing space , so everything helps!

You may not need all of the travel toiletries essentials on this list, or maybe each trip will yield a different combination of products. Hopefully, you are more than prepared with your toiletry essentials for your next adventure!

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The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List - Essential Toiletries for Travel

Preparing essential toiletries for travel is a great way to save money. But what to include? Check out this article for everything you need to know about toiletries packing list for a trip.

Keeping your essentials neat and organised is a must when it comes to travelling. But imagine you are in a rush for a last-minute trip and you need to get your packing done as soon as possible. More than often, you are likely to forget one thing or another, even something as obvious as a toothbrush, razor, deodorant or cotton pads. Don’t worry. We have all been through that.

The best way to tackle this thorny matter is to get a small bag designed for toiletries essentials in advance and fill it with all the personal items that you need for your upcoming trip. It is probably incapable of solving all your problems, but it sure will help you avoid the hustle of overthinking and over packing. And to save more time for you, our CabinZero team has sorted out an ultimate toiletries packing list that gives you the ultimate checklist of everything you need to travel safely, smartly, and with style.

What is a toiletry item?

Toiletry is usually defined as self care items that are used for personal hygiene. In other words, it can be anything you use for cleaning or grooming yourself, such as toothpaste, toothbrush or shampoo. More than often, a simple travel bag of toiletries might include tiny bottles of shampoo, dental floss, deodorant, and soap.

But if you are travelling for a long-day trip, keep scrolling for our handy list of guidelines that are sure to keep things organised for your next journey.

Making a toiletries checklist is a must. Credit: @amend_raditya

Essential Toiletries Packing List

Once you know what to include in your travel toiletries list , everything will become less overwhelming and you will likely get the most amazing experience on your next journey.

Tip: Make sure the toiletries bags are travel size and are sufficient for any circumstance.

>> If you have plan for a honeymoon trip, check out the packing list for honeymoon trip .

Toiletries List for Ladies

Here is everything you absolutely can’t get by without bringing:

Conditioner
Lip balm - (this is a must for flight travel)
Cotton swabs
Soap or body wash
Moisturiser (this is a must for cold weather condition)
Perfume/Cologne (you are never fully dressed without perfume)
Sunscreen (must-have items for tropical weather)
Shaving cream

Whether it is a weekend getaway or just a short vacation, it is typical for us ladies to want to look our best while feeling great and comfortable. Our beauty checklist can help you remember essential toiletries items:

Makeup Remover
Facial wipes / cleanser – Wipes are easy and less messy than a liquid cleanser
Hair Straightener
Curling Iron
Hairbrush or comb
Hairstyling Products (if applicable)
Skincare products (only the essentials)
Lotion for body and face

Toiletries List for Gentlemen

Packing can be pretty much of a disheartening experience for us gentlemen. If you are still worried about what toiletries to bring on a trip , check out the list of indispensable items below as you pack for your next travel endeavour.

Solid Shampoo
Solid Conditioner
Shower Gel and/or Soap
Toothpaste - (get a travel sized one to save space)
Dental floss - (pick a small travel size one)
Lip Balm - (this is a must for flight travel)
Sunscreen (must-have items if you are travelling to tropical regions)
Nail Clippers & File
Hair gel, hair clay and comb
Razor, shaving cream and aftershave (must-have items for a men’s toiletries packing list)
Cotton buds / cotton pads
Hand sanitizer (must-have items to avoid getting sick, especially after the coronavirus pandemic)
Additional vitamins

>> May be you also like: Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane?

Tips for packing toiletries Item

You might think you only need to get yourself a simple toiletries bag, and toss all your essentials into it is enough to travel. However, if you want to make the most of your toiletries packing list while staying organised on the go, you will need even more. Here are some essential tips that our team has concluded for you to curb the packing problems once and for all.

Obvious as it might be, planning things in advance can be a great solution for those who are not regular travellers or have a tendency to forget things and end up hustling back and forth looking for some items. When you have in mind what to include in your holiday toiletries checklist already, you will save plenty of time for yourself and find the way to a stress-free vacation.

Categorise your essentials

Another thing to keep in mind is that no matter where you go, there will always be tons of things to remember whenever you are about to hit the road. That’s why it is advisable to separate your essential toiletries for travel into groups and choose a different coloured or different-sized bag for each group. This way, you will lessen the burden of thinking long and hard about what to include in your toiletries packing list while also ensuring an enjoyable experience for your next journey.

Do it right, and you will have everything at hand. Credit: @dannapena

Pack liquids in secure bags

Imagine tossing everything in your toiletries bag real quick for a last-minute trip only to find the liquid all over the place inside as you arrive at the destination. What a nightmarish scenario that is!

No matter how careful you are, toiletries that can leak will leak. A great way to avoid this is to keep these items placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Experienced travel experts even recommend cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in order to prevent any possible seepage.

Check the weather forecast while packing

Depending on where you are going, checking weather forecasts in advance can really do you good by giving you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. For example, if you are travelling to a tropical beach or island, you will need to bring big sized sunscreen not only for your face but for your body as well. Or if you are travelling to a place with cold weather conditions, items like moisturiser, lip balm or hand cream are all essential products to include in your toiletries packing list as winter can be an especially brutal time of the year for your lips, which often get chapped, dry and cracked.

In a nutshell, do a little bit of research on the weather forecast the day before you fly and pack accordingly to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience

Be prepared for extra holiday purchases

When travelling, you are likely to come back from almost every trip with new items such as perfume/cologne, some types of hair care products, cosmetics, or specialty goods as a souvenir to share with friends and family. Therefore, to save space in your luggage for the trip back home, we recommend keeping everything at a minimum number or amount, and using travel-size products so you can feel free to bring any extra holiday purchases when you are about to go back home.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials

Double-checks are never enough!

Your packing list won't be of any use if you don't check it before you leave! So check your toiletries packing list many times to make sure you have everything you need for travel.

CabinZero Packing Cubes - Best choice for packing Toiletries Item

Travelling can be a life-altering experience and certain elements are required for a smooth and comfortable journey. That being said, it is important to pick the suitable backpack so you won’t have to feel like it is weighing you down. But how can you pick the right one when there are tons of options out there? Don’t worry. We are here to help.

Here is our breakdown of questions to ask yourself first when it comes to baggage selection:

How long is your trip going to be?
Which form of transport are you taking?
How much do you pack?
If you are travelling by plane, what are the expected carry-on bag dimensions?

Here at CabinZero, it is our priority to advocate for our clients with our versatile, minimalist and lightweight packing cubes . We are proud to claim that these products will stay on top of all the point strategies, exclusive offers & pivotal news in the travel industry - and they will definitely lock in huge savings along the way. So keep scrolling and check out one of our best-seller products - The Classic Cabin Cube.

Style and colour

Our products have a number of different styles available, and most of them follow a minimalist, versatile and old school look. The most popular choice is the Absolute Black, but if you opt for something else, the range for another brighter shade is also available.

Size and Dimension

These packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags. Each cube has a nylon outer and is fully lined. A convenient grab handle outside the bag is included to make it easier for carrying around.

Volume: 5.5L (Medium), 11L (Large)
Weight: 100 grams (approx)(Medium), 150 grams (approx)(Large)
Dimensions: 25cm x 17.5cm x 8cm (Medium), 25cm x 35cm x 8cm (Large)
Composition, Outer: Nylon Lining: Polyester

Additional Details

Another additional benefit of these products is that each packing cube includes a built-in global luggage tracker, powered by Okoban. So like all our other bags, if you misplace these packing cubes, there is a fair chance you'll find them again within a few days.

What is more, you can also organise your clothes neatly and efficiently using our large packing cube. And if you are travelling by plane, you won’t have to worry so much as our CabinZero luggage is also specifically designed to fit the carry on luggage requirements for the vast majority of airlines.

With such high quality and convenience, we truly think they are the best packing cubes you will find in the market. Invest in these items for a simpler and easier journey so you never have to worry about whether your bag is good to go for any and every situation. Organising the essential toiletries for travel has never been easier!

Got a question? We are here to answer!

Here are some of the top questions that we get asked the most from our beloved followers about travel toiletries list. If you don’t see your question here, let us know in the comments and we’ll answer from our own experience.

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes is not the panacea to all of your problems, but they do assist you in staying organised when packing, and our recommended toiletries checklist is sure to help cross out the major packing headache off the list for you. Once you know what toiletries to pack for your trip, you'll always have everything you need at your fingertips.

Should I include a first aid kit in my toiletries?

It depends. A compact first aid pack would be a great addition to your toiletries packing list. You can put it in a Ziploc bag and store it until you need one of the items, but keep in mind this one thing: only pack as much as you’ll need for your trip and nothing more. It is not necessary to carry the entire box of bandaids or rehydration sachets; just a handful of each item is more than enough. Here is the list of thing you need to include:

Bite / sting cream
Imodium – Anti-diarrheal tablets for any emergency situations!
Pain relief – Ibuprofen, panadol or asprin
Antacids – Great for those who are big fans of spicy food!
Rehydration salts
Vitamin C sachets
Throat lozenges
Digital thermometer

>> May be you also like: B usiness Trip Packing List

What should I not bring?

Unsealed bottles of liquids

The last thing you want is to open up your toiletry bag or carry-on only to find a sunscreen or moisturiser all over the place inside! So make sure you tape each bottle closed (may be with a plastic wrap), and then toss your liquids into a waterproof ziplock bag to prevent them from further seepage.

Bottles that are larger than 3 oz

If you are travelling by plane, keep in mind that the TSA has some pretty strict regulations! Make sure you follow all the liquid rules while packing in attempts to get through the check-in procedures smoothly without throwing anything out.

Flammable items

As mentioned above, TSA rules had quite plenty of requirements for what to include in carry-on bags. So make sure you leave out anything that is flammable from your toiletries bag to avoid unpleasant experiences. Seriously, it is just really a bad idea in general to bring flammable liquids on an aeroplane.

A whole collection of beauty products

Let’s be honest. You don’t need that many products even if you are staying there for months. Be selective about what you are going to bring, pack only essential items according to the weather conditions and definitely leave the “just in case” items at home.

Tip: Go through your daily routine in your head and make use of items that have dual or triple purposes.

Is it better to bring everything I need or to buy toiletries at my destination?

It can be a yes or no, depending on your destination.

In several regions or countries, the convenience and low local costs for items is much more worth-it than just bringing your own. However, most of the tourist attractions nowadays tend to charge items far higher there than usual, and sometimes you’ll find that you can’t even get what you need easily. So do a little bit of research before your trip if possible. However, our CabinZero team thinks it is best to just pack most of your own stuff in the toiletries bag beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.

Phuong Nguyen

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23 Best Toiletry Bags to Keep Your Beauty and Skincare Products Organized

By Teddy Minford and Paris Wilson

23 Best Womens Toiletry Bags Dopp Kits for Travel in 2023

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Packing your bathroom essentials can be a hassle. It's tempting to take all those tiny toiletries, throw them into a plastic bag, and call it a day. But with the right toiletry bag, you can avoid spills, simplify your packing routine , and stay organized—no more digging around to find what you need. Even better, Dopp kits make it less likely that you'll forget any of the essentials at home.

While toiletry bags come in numerous categories, shapes, and sizes, the ones that work best for Traveler editors and our readers are water-resistant, roomy, and suitcase-friendly. Below, find 23 of the best toiletry bags and Dopp kits for women, with a mix of new brands and resounding favorites from Away , Monos , Everlane , and Calpak , starting with the ones our editors travel with regularly. They'll keep your bathroom essentials organized on the go, whether you’re packing for a weekend trip or headed on a multi-week expedition.

Editor favorites

Amazon bestsellers.

More recommendations

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Used by: Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

How long I’ve been using it: Since 2019; I use this one when I'm traveling with just a carry-on.

Why I like it : The Peak Design bag is water-resistant, making it easy to clean up any spills, and I like that there is a specific compartment for my toothbrush and another for my razor. Inside, there are a ton of small pouches to keep items organized. It’s my go-to for a long weekend trip.

3 products you’ll always find inside : Cadence Capsules , my Quip toothbrush , and contact solution .

How long I’ve been using it: Nine months; it is the one I use when I'm checking a bag.

Why I like it : If I’m traveling for a week or more, I’ll bring Calpak’s clear cosmetic case in the large size. I’ll admit, I was overwhelmed by the size when it first arrived, but it does fit absolutely everything—toiletries, skincare, make-up, even my hairbrush, vitamins, and full-size contact solutions—and it’s nice to have everything in one place. Plus, the clear design means I can double-check that everything’s there at a glance.

Used by: Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

How long I’ve been using it: Eight months

Why I like it : This floral toiletry bag is so functional and versatile: it works just as well to organize makeup products and tech accessories as it does toiletry essentials. I recently brought it with me on a weekend trip and I was so impressed with how much I could fit inside this seemingly small bag. I was able to keep my travel-size face wash and moisturizer laying flat inside, along with other must-haves like sunscreen and deodorant. I used the two elastic slip pockets to keep Q-tips and my contact lenses separate from everything else. I also utilized the thin slip pockets on the top of the bag for my go-to lip balm and lip liner. The bag is compact enough that it didn’t take up much room in my weekender bag, but still tall enough that some products can stand up straight inside, like my contact solution and small Vaseline tub. Bonus: It’s made of water-resistant fabric and features a top handle to easily carry it around.

3 products you’ll always find inside : I never travel without my Supergoop! Unseen sunscreen , Vaseline , and a travel-size CeraVe hydrating face wash .

Used by: Talia Abbas , senior commerce editor at Glamour

How long I’ve been using it: A year and a half

Why I like it: There’s something about Ceremonia 's colorful "market" pouch that puts me in instant vacation mode. It’s more of a makeup bag than a traditional Dopp kit, with a single main zippered compartment and no internal pockets, but that’s why I love it. Well, that and the fact that it’s also very cute and handmade from upcycled materials. It has a spill-proof lining—ideal for throwing greasy sunscreen bottles and my smudgy Marvis toothpaste in—and can fit about a weekend’s worth of product, which is really all I need and tend to use anyway (even on longer trips). Did I mention it’s also a great beach bag companion?

3 products you’ll always find inside: Victoria Beckham's Future Lash , which gives the prettiest natural lift and rinses off with warm water; the fragrance oil I wear every day; and extra slip silk scrunchies , because you never know when one will vanish into the void.

Used by: Paris Wilson , commerce producer

How long I’ve been using it: 10 months

Why I like it: The space inside surprised me the most. I travel very light, and that applies not only to my carry-on but my toiletries as well. I take only the necessities. The toiletry case comes with five individual pockets that line the interior which is surprisingly roomy; if that’s not enough, then I can always stack my toiletries on top of one another in the center. I’ll often worry about my toiletry bottles becoming loose and leaking onto my clothes, but the one time I did have a mishap my anxiety was quelled once I saw the bag kept it contained.

3 products you’ll always find inside: Sol de Janiero Brazilian Bum Bum Cream , La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair UV SPF Moisturizer, and the Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Parfum in the travel-size bottle.

This toiletry bag has four separate compartments and a metal hook inside, providing ample storage space for your items and an easy way to keep it off the hotel bathroom counter. With two main compartments and two foldable side panels, you'll be able to store bulkier items inside while using the side panel pockets for smaller essentials.

Pros -Optimal space for longterm travel -Top handles make it easy to carry -4.8 stars

Cons -The space inside is very compact

The Telena toiletry bag is made of a durable, waterproof polyurethane leather. The quick-drying material is easy to clean and can survive any humid bathrooms or shower areas. It has one main compartment with four smaller pockets inside. Thanks to the double zipper and button design, you can have peace of mind that your items won't tumble out.

Pros -Waterproof and abrasion-resistant PU leather -Easy to clean -4.8 stars

Cons -Limited pocket space so some items will lay on top of each other

If you're looking for a more reliable replacement to plastic bags, look no further. These clear, TSA-approved toiletry bags come in a pack of two and are a much sturdier clear bag option—they have metal zippers and plastic framing to keep the case's shape.

Pros -Water-repellent -Easy to clean -4.6 stars

Cons -Very small at 5.9" H x 7.7" W -Only one compartment

These color-blocked kits are a must-have for spontaneous trips. When you find yourself in a rush and shoving things in your weekender , you'll want to have this small toiletry bag that will easily slide in to your last corner of space. The Topo Dopp kit has a simple design of one main compartment and a zipper on the front panel. The triangular shape helps everything to stay upright while sitting on the bathroom sink or in transit, without the bulkiness of other options.

Pros -Easy to clean -4.1 stars

Cons -Has a water-resistant lining but isn't completely waterproof

With six colors and patterns to choose from, you'll find a perfect match to go with the rest of your luggage. The toiletry kit features multiple exterior compartments, including a small front pocket and two zippered pockets on the side. Inside, you'll find a hanging hook as well as nylon latches that can hold slender, rounded items such as toiletry bottles, makeup brushes, and your toothbrush.

Pros -Easy to clean -Multiple storage compartments -4.1 stars

Cons -It's wide and not ideal for those with limited packing space

More Dopp kits we recommend

“I don’t own this bag yet, but I think I need to. I spotted it on Instagram, and it’s the exact type of Dopp kit I’ve been looking for. With toothbrush and razor holders, an interior mesh pocket, a side pocket, and even elastic straps to stick in Chapstick, mascara, or whatever, it feels like a super smart organizing system (especially in contrast to my current method of throwing everything haphazardly into a roomy Baggu pouch ). I love that it’s water-resistant, and the squared-off shape makes so much sense among my packing cubes. I also think the Terra collection this bag is a part of, which includes earth-toned, rugged-ready bags with tons of straps and compartments, is what might finally get me into Calpak luggage —this Dopp kit feels like Patagonia and Baboon to the Moon got together and decided to make a toiletry set for women who like a “gear” look but also want to organize their skin care products.” — Megan Spurrell , senior editor

Inside this neutral-hued pouch you’ll find a large zippered mesh pouch that can fit makeup essentials, dental care items, or skincare products. The top of the Lululemon kit has a zippered pocket that can store flat, slim items (like a comb or toothbrush) for easy access. Made from 100 percent recycled polyester, it's easy to spot-clean on the go.

Pros -Water-repellent fabric -5-liter storage capacity

Cons -Only two compartments

Away has long been one of Traveler editors' go-to brands for luggage and travel accessories. Away is now offering its Large Toiletry bag in a smaller, more compact version. The newer version is still made out of the same water-resistant, durable nylon. Although compact, the bag is fitted with two interior compartments; one of mesh and the other a clear, plastic. This is the ideal toiletry bag for those traveling light and only toting a carry-on.

Pros -Under warranty -Water-resistant fabric -An additional pocket on the backside for slim items

Cons -Things tend to rattle on the mesh side

This durable Monos Metro toiletry bag comes in nylon and vegan leather; spills and smudges won’t be an issue as both materials are water-resistant. Both are fitted with three internal pockets that can fit your favorite hand creams , lip balms, and a set of Q-tips. The center compartment will easily keep your skincare routine upright and side by side, no matter the path ahead.

Pros -Choices in color and material -Easy to clean -Scratch-resistant fabric

Cons -Not much room in the interior pockets -Non-flexible fabric, so no wiggle room for items

Pink will definitely be your color when it comes to this Dopp kit from State Bags . Not only does it incorporate three compartments for you to store everything from medicine to makeup, but it also has a collapsible hanger that adds to the locations where it can be stored.

Pros -Detachable interior pouch -Very roomy -Has a handle for easy carrying

Cons -The hanger is small so there may be racks it won't be able to hang from

Dagne Dover's Mila toiletry organizer takes the Dopp kit to another level with a vertical design that gives you a bird's-eye view of your essentials. The clever design of this recycled polyester zip case makes it easy to see everything at once, so there’s no digging around for what you need. The case comes with a removable padded divider to keep items upright and protected and has convenient interior elastic pockets. Aside from the main compartment, a zippered mesh pocket on the lid is perfect for storing contact lenses, tweezers, medicine, and other small necessities.

Pros -With the divider there are over five compartments to place items -Easy to clean -Upright design

Cons -Bulky

A sleek design makes Lojel's travel case perfect for minimalists. The case—which comes in gray or black—is made from water-repellent polyester and has a leak-proof base. Budget friendly and durable, this is the ideal case for travel pros only carrying the essentials, or everything you might need for a weekend trip. Four interior pockets will help keep you organized, too.

Pros -Lightweight -Has a handle for carrying and hanging -Four pockets

Cons -The large shape (11.8" × 7.3" × 4.2") isn't quite carry-on friendly

The Go Pouch bag set from Baggu brings a fun and playful design to the basic travel kit. These roomy recycled nylon pouches fit much more than you'd expect, creating an easy way to organize toiletries (or electronics, or accessories) while traveling. Great for those traveling with kids , the best part of these lightweight and packable cases is that they’re machine washable—no need to worry about spills.

Pros -Lightweight and foldable -Machine washable -Multi-purpose uses

Cons -No structure, so certain items can create a bulkiness to the bag -Not water-resistant, so spills can leak through

Though pricey, this timeless leather toiletry bag from jewelry brand Miansai might be the last toiletry bag you ever need to buy. Crafted from premium Italian leather, it's the perfect accessory for travelers who value both form and function. Three interior pockets keep your bathroom accessories organized, while the cowhide exterior looks better with every use.

Pros -Durable -Under warranty -Has a handle for carrying

Cons -Non-flexible fabric, so no wiggle room for items -Pricey

REI's shower roll is the most practical way to organize your toiletries on the go, whether you’re camping , road tripping, or hotel hopping. The roll design and hanging apparatus makes all of your bathroom accessories available at once—without taking up precious counter space. Made of light and durable ripstop nylon, the hanging toiletry bag has three zippered pockets and a mirror, creating a convenient vanity, no matter where you are.

Pros -Comes with a mirror -Three large pockets -Easy to store

For travelers who value a streamlined airport security experience, Stasher is the bag for you—this set of infinitely reusable silicone storage bags won't hold you up at TSA checkpoints. The clear pastel pouches are big enough to hold everything you need, from shower essentials to makeup to medications and more.

Pros -Easy to clean and can be put in the dishwasher -Water-resistant -Sealable design

Cons -Slightly less storage space overall

Image may contain: Cushion, and Furniture

This leather travel case set from Cuyana perfectly embodies the brand’s ethos of fewer, better things. The right size for makeup, shower items like shampoo and conditioner, and toiletries, the cases are also great for electronics and can even be used as a clutch or wallet . Available in 16 colors, Cuyana's cases are handmade in Argentina from premium leather.

Pros -Customizable -Comes with a large and small option for versatility -Easy to clean the exterior

Cons -Liquid in the interior can wear down the fabric and decrease longevity, so extra thought will have to be put into the travel bottles used

This embossed croc wash bag from Ted Baker brings some luxe glamour to your travel accessories. The fully lined case has a zip closure and comes in red (as shown), black , nude , or light blue . Bonus points: It could double as an evening bag in a pinch.

Pros -Small and packable -Choices in colors -Versatile

Cons -Non-flexible fabric, so no wiggle room for items

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Complete Packing List of Travel Toiletries

It’s taken me years to feel like I’ve mastered a well-stocked toiletry bag. I plan carefully to ensure I have everything I need to look and feel my best on a trip, from my favorite skincare and makeup to essential medicines and first aid items. Here’s a packing list of travel toiletries you may find handy for your next trip.

If you travel often, you can buy seconds of all of your favorite items and keep your toiletry bag packed and ready to throw into your suitcase. I’m not that organized… but that concept has always appealed to me 😀

A reader asked a few weeks ago how I bring all my hair and skin products since I only travel with carry-on luggage. The trick is using travel-sized items because the TSA’s rules on liquids just limit the volume in each bottle, not how many tiny bottles, so I bring small containers.

Essential Travel Toiletries for Women

Shower toiletries.

It’s easy to bring your favorite shampoo, conditioner, and body wash with you by transferring them into these TSA-approved containers.
A mini razor (or you can bring your regular-sized one!)
Shaving cream

Laundry Essentials

To keep my clothes neat and tidy while in the airport, on the airplane, or exploring a new city, I make sure that I keep a mini lint roller or my preferred travel gleener and Tide To Go on me.
Wash clothes on the go no matter your amenities – sink, bathtub, or washer – using these Sink Suds packets. They have been a life-saver a couple of times to quickly wash and hang dry items. Tide also makes a version that you can use as well!
Prevent wardrobe malfunctions by placing one of these mini tins of fashion tape in your toiletry bag. I go nowhere without these little miracle workers and even keep a tin in my car.
Portable Clothes Steamer
Portable Fabric Shaver

Skincare, Hair, and Nail Toiletries

Hairdryer: Most hotels supply them, but to be safe, you can pack a mini and put it in a bag like this .
Curling Iron or Flat Iron: Make sure if you are traveling internationally that you have one that’s dual voltage.
Hairspray: I shared in this post all about how I take care of my thinning hair and the products that I use.
Moisturizer
Lip Balm : While you can usually pick this up when you’re traveling, it’s always when you need it the most that you don’t have it.
Serums, toners, etc., that you use
Manicure Set
If my nail polish chips while I’m on a trip, I use these wipes to remove the polish!

Makeup Products

This is going to vary from woman to woman, depending on how complex your routine is. My routine is the same whether home or away…it’s just a habit, so I always pack the same things. These are my current favorites you’ll find in my travel makeup bag:

Foundation- I love this Oxygenetix and have been using it for years…I wear “opal”
Concealer – I just ordered this Illia concealer to try after I had to replace my eye makeup
Blush- this Merit blush goes on beautifully…I use “cheeky”
Lipstick- I bring several lipsticks and always include one of the Jane Iredale lip stain s
Eyebrow Pencil- I always use Anastasia…this brow definer in taupe is my current fav
Eyeliner- loving this Charlotte Tilbury soft pencil in smokey grey
Eyeshadow – I rebought this Naked 2 Basics palette after my eye infection because it is simply perfect for me
Mascara- loving this Pillow Talk mascara by Charlotte Tilbury
Makeup Brush travel kit , I love how soft these are

Hygiene and Medicine Essentials

Personal First Aid Kit : I love that this portable 10 piece first aid kit comes in a small pack. Throw one in your car, your purse, your suitcase. You never know when you will need one.
Bandaids: While your standard bandaids come in the pack above, I would suggest buying the blister bandaids just in case. They make a world of difference with the extra cushion.
Underarm Deodorant Wipes : These can be a lifesaver to have in your purse and refresh with after a long flight.
Toothbrush and toothbrush protector
Hand Sanitizer Spray or my favorite Wipes
Disinfectant Spray
Bug Spray or wipes…I use these natural Deet-free wipes
Sunscreen: You can read this post with all of my favorite sunscreens here .
Daily Medicines
Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc: In case of a headache, toothache, sore back, you will be glad you have a pain reliever with you.
Antihistamines: Especially if you suffer from seasonal or food allergies.
I always bring anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medicines because nothing is worse than battling an upset stomach on an airplane or a long car ride.
Poo-Pourri Spray : You may not need this, but I guarantee it will get used if you leave it in the bathroom.

Well-Designed Toiletry Bags

This bag looks ingenious and may need to be mine . Hanging toiletry bags are just so convenient and keep the bathroom countertop clear while you’re getting ready. This one has room for all of my essentials. If you’re going on a shorter trip and don’t need as much storage space, this one is great.

The two side compartments are perfect for storing items you need to grab quickly, like hand sanitizer, pain medicine, band-aids, and other things you may need to grab to use while you’re still en route to your destination whether it’s at the airport or on the road. I like to place those items in small clear bags like these .

More Travel Toiletries for Women:

What are some of your “must take” items when you travel?

67 Comments

Wonderful and thorough post! I’m sure I’ll be referring back to it many times. When I saw the toiletry bag, it reminded me of hanging garment bags, and from time to time you ask what you can help with. I need to store away a number of winter coats and jackets and I don’t have lots of extra space for them. Any suggestion would be welcome. I don’t know if that would be of general interest, but just an idea.

I hang mine in garment bags in our guest room closet.

As a firm believer that you should never carry on unless you can lift it into and out of the overhead bin yourself, alas, I’m now relegated to checking my bag.

Jennifer, do you have a printable available for this list?

I’m sorry I don’t but that’s a great idea!

Jennifer – It was spooky when I opened your email today. We are flying to Texas for our grandson’s 7th birthday soon, and for the 1st time I am trying to go carry on bag only, and this morning had begun researching and planning how to get the toiletries I need ready. Voila! You had a post about this very thing. You are a treasure, and I thank you for all the time and effort you put into helping others.

Have a fabulous trip!!

Great list of travel essentials. Liked the manicure set but the scissors will need to be removed and placed in your checked baggage as TSA will confiscate scissors when your carry-on items are screened. Learned this the hard way; wanted to cry while I watched my favorite small pair of Henckels scissors confiscated and thrown in the trash.

I carry scissors all of the time-knitting and embroidery. Have TSA rules changed ?(again)

I bring tiny scissors all the time in my carry-on. I think it depends on who is doing the screening.

A big shout out for Compeed, which you have pictured at the bottom of the post, saved many a vacation for me. They are gel pads that will stick to your skin. I had a blister on the sole of my foot in Italy and these saved the day! The pads, if carefully applied, will stay on for several days. I always have them when I travel and my medicine cupboard at home. First discovered them in Italy, they are available in many European countries.

Like some other readers, I am very curious about how much all the things on your list would weigh.

Unless I’m traveling for a formal event I go personal size only. We always stay places with laundry facilities. I buy health and beauty aids at a dollar store at my destination. I can go a week or two without my “gear”. I’m very low maintenance.

I use single dose shampoo and conditioner discs that I love. I bought them for traveling, but now use them regularly. They are called Gemz at shopgemz.com. I cut them in half, as a whole one is too much for my hair (Jennifer’s length and thick).

They sound brilliant!

Jennifer,do you take an adapter for the clothes steamer,for countries that don’t have 120V outlets. Thanks for all the great travel info,I have already ordered from some of the links! I have a daughter that lives in Brussels, Belgium,so when we go to visit her,these items will come in handy!

I do not, but I haven’t taken mine overseas. I think it’s a very good idea to bring one when traveling internationally.

Thanks for this post; I do use a eco friendly and moisturizing hand sanitizer on every trip because I use it to spray other things. I get it from Germstar.com online. Save the planet!

Brilliant post! I leave in a week for a river cruise, and am already packing! One clarification is that all of 3 oz bottles of liquid have to fit in your quart size TSA clear bag, so you are “limited” to about nine.

Yes, mine all fit in a quart bad. Tiny bottles are the answer.

I now subscribe to sheets laundry club. No liquid or powder to travel with. They are the same size of dryer sheets just thicker. I throw them in a ziploc bag and I don’t have to worry about spillage. When we all had to wear masks and travel ( I am a Travel Agent) I could easily tear off a portion of the sheet and wash my face mask in the sink.

I’ve never heard of those. What a great idea. Thanks for sharing them.

I love those too. They take up so little room in my laundry cabinet too and seem better for the environment!! XOXO Jodie

I always travel carry-on only plus one personal item bag. I wear minimal makeup anyway, so usually only bring a pressed powder, eyebrow product, blush and lip gloss. I do have to bring a 10x mirror so I can see to apply these though. I also make sure to bring a microfiber cloth to clean my eyeglasses. Skincare products are the ones I use daily, just decanted to smaller containers. I’m becoming less high maintenance the older I get!

I forgot to add the magnifying mirror. I go nowhere without one now 🤣

Oh my, this post is terrific! And great timing since we’re traveling May 1 for the first time in 4 years. I can’t go ‘carry on’ only because we’ll be gone several weeks but at my age I can’t lug around a 50 lb suitcase either so I’m determined to streamline my packing and your tips are a great help. Thank you so much!

I hear you. It’s so much easier to check a bag. Have a wonderful trip, Isabelle.

I dispense my cream foundation and blush into contact lens cases. I don’t wear much foundation but find these work well and are leak proof! Anything that I use only a bit of goes in one of those. They’re tiny enough to get a lot of them in that TSA bag. I love to shop for cosmetics when overseas, so I generally buy lip balm, moisturizer, etc while I’m there, not big sizes. I carry adaptor plugs, two or three of them. My curling iron is mini size. Almost everyone has hairdryers now, so I don’t carry one. We share toothpaste and floss between my husband and me, as well as hair brushes, tweezers, first aid stuff. I never travel without a few OTC drugs. Pharmacists are more than happy to assist you in Europe (it’s been my experience as have gotten sick a couple times in France). Most places we rent (apartments) have washer and dryers too. I use a sheet detergent with fabric softener in it. Works well. Looking forward to the next trip. I always travel to the destination carryon only even for two weeks. However, I also pack a large duffel to check for purchases while there. I’ve only had to wait for for luggage to arrive one time and it was fine.

The contact lens case is brilliant! Stealing that idea.

I put OTC drugs in a daily pill organize. I label each section with a sharpie as to what is in it.

Love your columns, Jennifer. I always pack a small bottle of aloe vera gel…for the bug bite or sudden breakout…

Great idea!

I love this topic! I could write a book on minimalist packing. As a long-time frequent traveller due to family geography and before we retired, business trips, I’ve learned that every trip needs are different so I have lists” for all types of scenarios. Our eldest lives in Australia and our youngest now in Montana (and before that Germany). My husband’s family is in India and in Sweden so how’s that for a contrast in packing needs? That being said, I start out by thinking what would I absolutely need in the middle of the night and couldn’t get to a pharmacy or store or wouldn’t want to wake up my host to ask for it. So I pack a lot of the essentials you’ve listed, but in the smallest quantity I can. You don’t need multiples of so many of these “just in case” items. Also on longer trips when I want or have to do carry on only, I pack for a day or two of supplies, and then hit a pharmacy or grocery store for whatever I may need on the rest of our trip. We went to Sicily for a month with our best friends and because of the small trunk situation with the rental car, the 4 of us had to bring only the smallest carry-ons and 1 tote each. The day after we landed, we hit the open air market in Palermo and bought our shampoos, conditioners, SPF, soaps, etc. It was fun, cheap and we could leave whatever we didn’t need or want by the end of our trip. I also have the perfect travel make-up routine. Chanel CC Cream with SPF 50 that does double duty, a Bobbi Brown or Laura Mercier eyeshadow stick, a wind-up eyeliner and lip liner, brow gel, mascara, 1 lipgloss, 1 lipstick, my Hourglass palette that has blush, bronzer and finishing powder, plus a few retractable brushes I’ve collected over the years. It all fits in one small pouch. I’ve found that unless we’re traveling to attend a very special event, I like a fast and easy make-up routine. I do keep a stash of the foil samples you get from Sephora and other beauty counters, but tend use them for overnights or very short trips. I have TSA approved scissors for those because sometimes tearing them open is a challenge! Sorry to be so long here, but it’s a topic I can totally relate to. Have a wonderful weekend.

Brilliant ideas, thank you for sharing, Suzanne! Please share your TSA scissors. I don’t have a pair and need them.

Susan, Your last sentence had me laughing. I totally agree with you!

My response was to the Susan who mentioned packing her pillow and sheets and maybe she should just stay home.

This is really helpful info! I try to keep certain things in my travel bag and then just add travel size for other items. I have more meds then anything and those have to be carried on no matter what!

I agree. My meds never ever leave my side. Including my supplements which get packed with my meds.

Jennifer, I recommend to anyone (over 65) travelling overseas to take with them Paxlovid and antibiotics. Europe is packed to the gills with tourists, very few, if anyone is a wearing a mask. I was extremely careful during my month away, sanitising and wore a mask on planes, trains and inside venues, but still caught noravirus in Italy and was bedridden for 4 days. One day after returning home, I became ill with Covid. Thankfully, because I had my box of Paxlovid, I could start them immediately. I believe anti virals are not easy to obtain in Europe – but is anyone still taking Covid seriously?

I see some people wearing masks but not many. No one wore them in Mexico but we wore ours in close quarters while in the airport and on the plane. I’m sorry you got so sick. Great suggestion to have Paxlovid.

This is a great post full of many good suggestions and ideas. I would love to see how all of these items get packed (arranged) into your cosmetic bag and how much it weighs when full. Also it would be great to see how you pack your carry-on suitcase and the weight of that when full. Are you able to lift it into the overhead bin on the airplane unassisted? I am a frequent traveler by plane, train and automobile. Always striving to be as efficient with my packing as possible. Love all your suggestions.

I am able to lift it but always appreciate when a neighboring traveler assists. They always seem to lately. Both men and younger people. It must be the silvering hair 🤣

I add portable travel waterpik, portable travel electric toothbrush, tiny free perfume samples. I transfer all makeup into tiny containers, or use sample size mascara, travel shower cap, tiny sewing kit with mini scissors, safety pins, earplugs! Eye mask for sleeping. Small packable nylon grocery bag for Europe grocery pick up. Wash cloth, European rentals don’t include wash cloths.

Great tips!

Thanks for this. I’m packing for a trip now and don’t want to forget my first aid kit or sani wipes. BTW, a waving out a lit match is much easier than a poo spray.

Matches are hard to come by these days. Safe travels!

Thanks! Any hardware or grocery store has matches — at least in New England. I’m a luddite who lights candles the old fashioned way LOL

But I don’t want to minimize the difficulty of traveling with matches!

Hi Jennifer, I don’t usually make comments but I always enjoy your posts. I just read your new post about comfortable shoes. I also have foot issues and have one pair of sneakers I wear with orthotics all of the time and with every outfit. It sure would be nice to some different looks. I also have a narrow foot and most of what is made is medium with some wide. How about passing along to Easy Spirit and other shoe contacts that we with narrow feet buy shoes too. Thanks. Kris

If only brands listened to us!! I wish they did. I’ll keep my eye out for narrow shoes too for you.

Easy Spirits has several styles in narrow

Great list, Jennifer. I’m always envious of people who can travel with only a carryon.

One of my “must take” items when I’m staying in a hotel is a small spray bottle of Lysol, for disinfecting the bathroom floor and tub before I take my shoes off, as I have a lifelong repulsion at the thought of catching athlete’s foot.

Happy Passover.

Interesting idea! I wear the hotel slippers if they have them. I hate walking on rugs or floors barefoot. Happy Passover, Kelly. We’ve been invited to attend a Seder this evening and are looking forward to it.

Good morning Jennifer, great post today 🙂🙂 Happy Easter💐

Happy Easter, Pat 🌷

This is a great post, thank you. Susan, I am with you and wish we could travel lighter but as we aged, my husband and I have a bag for medications alone. I do envy those that pack light. Road trips make it easier to bring what we need or may need 🙂. It’s ridiculous what we pack and a challenge to improve for future trips. Happy travels!

Happy Easter Jennifer. Keep up the good work with your helpful,posts

I am confused, even with the small container size, all our liquids have to fit into a quart sized clear bag. That includes makeup as well. I had a friend travelling with me who had some of her things taken because she was using a clear makeup bag, and then had to move it all into a bag that was supplied by the airport. You have the option to put it in your checked baggage, but if you are only carry on then it goes in the garbage. I did lose a small face mist this way. They told me I could take it back out to my car… ha, as if I would leave the line. When I take a checked bag, I can take all my favorite things and the sunscreens alone are worth it. As mentioned already, the 5 pound carry on limit makes it impossible to go that way for me. Even purse size was limited last flight. Remember the good old days. I do still enjoy dressing nicely to travel though.

I transfer my foundation to a tiny sample container like they give you at makeup counters. I never include my makeup in the plastic quart size bag. I had a serum taken once, but it was over the size limit. Some airports are stricter than others. I agree, I miss the old days.

Such great tips and ideas Jennifer! I have done a lot of traveling and recently have gone to a carry on only! This is challenging for me as I tend to pack heavy and I have many products I use that have to come with me! Thank you for all the ideas on travel size products and also the makeup ideas!

I envy those who can do ‘carry on’ only. My toiletries and medications alone on my recent 4 week overseas holiday weighed 4 kgs and as hand luggage has a weight limit of 7kgs, I had to check on my bags (except medications). My ‘must have’ items are just about everything I use on a regular basis and have come to realize, as I packed my pillow (and a top sheet, in case the hotel didn’t use 100% cotton bed linen), I should really stay home.

I’ve sure thought of bringing my pillow too. I hear you Susan.

Jennifer, this is one of the best curated and most helpful blog posts I have ever read! For us travelers, these suggestions are priceless. Thank you for sharing with us.

I’m glad it’s helpful, Nicole.

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What’s In My Toiletry Bag? The Ultimate Checklist

Packing gives many people a headache. I get it. It’s tough to remember everything you need to bring with you and the last thing you want to do is forget something super important and be somewhere that you can’t buy it. On top of that, deciding what’s necessary to bring and what’s not can be tough too. I’ve done a post before on how to avoid your luggage being overweight , however this post is focused on your toiletry bag which can be one of the most important things you pack. I put together a list of the things that are always in my toiletry bag when I travel to help you make sure you don’t forget anything at home. Check it out, print it, and use it when you’re packing for your next trip!

The Necessities:

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Hair brush and/or comb
Shampoo and/or conditioner
Soap or body wash
Bug spray (only if traveling in jungles, forests, or anywhere bugs might be or malaria may be present)
Moisturizer and/or aloe (travel can dry your skin right out)

For Your Purse:

Hand sanitizer
Toilet paper or Kleenex (especially in countries that aren’t known to have this in their restrooms)
Eye drops (for those long haul flights)
Face wipes (whether you’re sweaty, dirty or traveling for hours it’s always nice to wipe off the scum from your face)

Medications:

Gravol (drowsy and non-drowsy)
Immodium and/or Pepto-Bismol
Antibiotics (your travel or family doctor can prescribe this for you just in case)
Prescribed medications (birth control, migraine medication and anything you can’t live without)

For Some of You:

Eyewear (glasses, contact lenses, contact lens solution and case if applicable)
Makeup (remember you don’t need all your makeup, only the necessities)
Hair styling products (try to skip the hair straightener and curling iron if you can)
Face wash and moisturizer (for some people face wipes and soap is enough)
Feminine hygiene products

Do you have anything you can’t live without in your toiletry bag? Share below in the comments!

Other packing tips:

Keep Calm & Carry-On: What’s In My Carry-On

How to Avoid Your Luggage Being Overweight

H ow to Pack for 1.5 Weeks in Colombia

My Favourite Travel Sites (and app)

My Top Ten Travel Tips

15 comments.

Hi! I’m wondering where you found the whole blends travel size bottles. I’ve been looking for a while and can’t seem to find them anywhere. Thanks!

Oh boy. I can’t remember. I think just in my local Shopper’s Drug Mart or Rexall though.

I found them at Walmart

Hi just wanted to let you know they are available at dunelm and sometimes on Amazon but they go out of stock quickly

Aline Bussard

Thanks, this list was really useful!

Glad you found it helpful 🙂

I like to carry cortisol cream for itchy big bites or an eczema flare up

I found this list great as I am going to Nant BH this year

Have a great trip!

Thank for this info, my family and I are traveling to Tennessee

This was really useful because in a few days I’m going on camp to Canberra with my class

I love this list! In six years me and my friends might go on a trip around the US and this really helped my with my packing

Happy you found it helpful 🙂

Chandra Bdr Gurung

Useful infos…

The ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List

Looking for the ULTIMATE toiletries packing list that works for hot and cold weather destinations? Then you have come to the right place.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

We have split our ULTIMATE toiletries packing list out into sections – the toiletries that should be packed no matter the destination, travel toiletries for women, toiletry essentials for men and those that a specific to weather conditions.

But before we get into our toiletries packing list we will first turn our attention to how to pack toiletries for travel.

Table of Contents

How to Pack Toiletries for Travel

How to pack toiletries for travel will depend on how whether you are packing toiletries in carry on or if you want to pack toiletries in checked luggage.

How to pack toiletries in carry on

If you want to pack toiletries in carry on the most important thing to remember is that in most airports around the world the amount of liquids you can carry with you is limited. For instance the TSA in the USA restricts liquids to travel-sized containers that amount to no more than 100ml / 3.4ounces for each item. And they are to be stored in a quart-sized bag.

Therefore when packing toiletries it is important to buy travel sized toiletries, or better in my opinion, decant your existing toiletries into your TSA approved travel toiletries bottles. We use the ones pictured below.

And when you are traveling through security they will ask that your liquids are placed inside a clear bag. For this I tend to use a clear ziplock bag.

However I also have a clear toiletries bag that only holds TSA approved sized bottles. This will greatly speed up your airport security process.

Click here to shop quart sized toiletry bags.

How to Pack Toiletries in Checked Luggage

The benefit of packing your toiletries in your checked luggage vs hand luggage is that you aren’t restricted in terms of volume of liquid. However we recommend that you try to avoid overpacking .

Just be sure your toiletries are closed well so don’t leak and are stored within a separate waterproof bag or ziplock. This way if there is a leak or burst you won’t find your whole suitcase covered in shampoo etc.

Personally I like to travel with my toiletries in checked luggage in ziplock bags when I am worried about spills, in a hangable toiletries bag.

Hangable toiletry bags help reduce the space your toiletries take up in your case and is easy to access when unfolded at your destination.

Click here to shop hanging toiletry bags for travel.

ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List

Note : it is always worth considering whether you want to pack your toiletries or if you want to purchase them on arrival. If I am traveling to a Western City i.e. any of the European cities or bay US, Australian or Canadian cities I will often buy my toiletries on arrival. That is because they will be readily and cheaply available.

However I always pack a full toiletry kit when traveling to more remote destinations, safaris or to all-inclusives or on cruise ships . These places usually don’t have a great selection to choose from and in all these places you will pay a high premium for toiletries.

Best Toiletries to Pack no matter the destination

Shampoo and conditioner.

Although many luxury hotel rooms and cruise ships will provide some shampoo and conditioner, it is not necessarily the type most suited to your hair or the best quality.

For this reason I will usually pack some shampoo and conditioner. I recommend packing whatever shampoo and conditioner you use at home as you know it suits your hair type.

However for places I am going where I know that I will be doing a lot of swimming, in salt water and in the sun I will normally pack products that can protect my hair. Also I like to look for reef safe products where possible. One product that I love for hot weather destinations is the sun bum hair products.

Click here to shop sun bum shampoo.

Top Tip: if you are traveling carry on only or are worried about spills in your luggage we recommend traveling with shampoo bars and conditioner bars. These won’t spill in your suitcase and dry shampoo is not counted as a liquid if you are traveling with carry on only. And even better, these shampoo and conditioner bars are better for the environment by reducing single use plastics.

Click here to shop shampoo and conditioner bars.

Goes without saying really. Spray or roll on varieties are entirely down to personal preference.

Like with shampoo, I don’t always like the hotel soap or shower gel. For this reason I always travel with a soap bar. I travel with a bar of soap as opposed to shower gel as it reduces the risk of a spill in your bag.

Lip Balm

If I don’t use lip balm on a long-haul flights I am guaranteed to get chapped lips. Therefore lip balm is always on my essential travel toiletries list.

If I am just planning to use the lip balm on the flight I tend to opt for a generic brand.

However if I am travelling to a sunny destination then I will pack one that has SPF. One of my favorite brands is Sun Bum.

Click here to shop travel lip balms.

Along with dry lips, I also get dry hands on long flights. Therefore I will always have a small container of hand cream with me.

Hand Sanitizer

I have always carried hand sanitizer with me but it is especially important today.

TSA Approved Perfume Bottles

I love traveling with perfume, but don’t like to take my large bottle in my checked bag and of course you have to meet TSA liquid allowances for carry on.

To get round this I decant my perfume into these TSA approved perfume bottles.

Click here to shop TSA Approved perfume bottles.

Note : these work just as well with aftershave as they do perfume so are completely unisex.

Perfume / Aftershave

As I use the above bottles I just decant my home perfume / aftershave.

Sun Screen with High SPF

Sun screen is an essential no matter the destination, no just as part of a beach packing list or hot weather vacation. However the type of sun screen we pack is dependent on the destination, season and the length of our itinerary.

Our favorite brand, especially for those thinking of doing snorkelling is the reef safe sun bum sun screen .

If it is Winter however you may be able to use a smaller stick sun screen as most of your skin will be covered by clothing in cold weathers.

Click here to shop sun screen sticks .

Brush / Comb

An essential for everyone. I tend to pack with a collapsible travel hair brush or a tangle teezer when I am going to a windy location such as Mykonos or plan on doing a lot of water based activities where hair can get very knotty.

I always travel with a toothbrush, travel sized toothpaste and some dental floss. I like to use a bamboo toothbrush as this reduces plastic waste.

And if you are worried about the toothpaste leaking or you have limited liquids you could pack toothpaste tablets instead.

A compact nail kit with a nail file and some nail clippers is another essential on my toiletry packing list. I hate getting a ragged nail and struggling to find something to cut it with. For this reason I am never without my travel nail kit in my carry-on bag.

Click here to shop nail kits for travel.

Travel First Aid Kit

I never travel anywhere without a travel first aid kit. Thankfully I have never had to use one on my travels but it is a comfort to have one with you especially in more remote locations such as when on safari or on a remote island.

Click here to shop travel first aid kits.

Wrinkle Release Spray

I hate wrinkled clothes so I always travel with wrinkle release spray especially when I travel with linen and when I am traveling to somewhere special such as a wedding .

Click here to shop wrinkle release spray.

Travel Toiletries Packing List Female Edition

I personally always have make-up with me when I travel but I think that one mistake many women make is to overpack on the make-up front.

For this reason I try to limit travel make-up. After perfecting my makeup bag packing over many trips my travel make up essentials tend to be:

Waterproof Mascara – especially useful for destinations where you will be doing lots of swimming and snorkelling or just rainy destinations.
Tinted Moisturiser with SPF
Eye Shadow Palette such as Nars and Charlotte Tilbury.
Make Up Remover Wipes.

But my favorite travel beauty product is the Nars Multiple .

Nars is one of my favorite cosmetic ranges no matter the situation but with the multiple you have one makeup stick that can be used beautifully on eyes, cheeks and lips which greatly reduces the amount you need to pack.

Of course you should add any of your favorite beauty products that we haven’t included i.e. lip liner etc.

Period Products

Even if I think my period isn’t due on my vacation I will always cary some period products with me. A menstrual cup is a great option for reducing the amount of products you have to take as well as being good for the environment.

However if you prefer towels or tampons or regularly use period pants then pack these instead.

Click here to shop the best period products for travel.

Travel Razor

I always have a compact travel razor with me no matter the destination but it is especially important for me when I know I will be swimming or sunbathing. Click here to buy travel razors.

A mix collection of hair ties are an essential especially if you have long hair.

If you have more space you could add any of your other hair accessories too.

Travel Hair Dryer

I have a collapsible travel hair dryer which I like because it is a larger hair dryer that folds up. However any travel hair dryer on the market is likely to be better than any hairdryer that you get in a hotel or airbnb.

Click here to shop travel hair dryers .

For more women’s travel essentials check out this post.

Travel Toiletries Packing List for Men

Although the men’s toiletry packing list for travel is largely similar to ladies, there are a couple of key additions. They are:

Shaving Kit

A shaving kit is an essential for keeping your yourself looking tidy. But a beard trimmer may be needed also.

Click here to shop shaving kits for men here.

Essential Toiletries for Hot Weather

Generally speaking our essential toiletries for hot weather is the same as our general essential toiletries packing list but with two key additions.

After Sun / Aloe Vera

Although no one wants to get burnt on vacation we recommend packing some after sun or aloe vera just in case.

Click here to shop after sun.

If you are traveling to a hot weather destination, particularly if you are plus size, chub rub can be a real life saver and can help prevent chaffing.

Click here to shop chub rub.

Essential Toiletries for Cold Weather

Generally speaking the Winter essential toiletries are the same as summer and the general list but with one addition that I would say is otherwise a nice to have. And that item is:

Body lotion / Body Moisturiser

As you will be out in the cold, and potentially the wind and rain and maybe even snow and ice it is worth adding some body lotion and moisturiser to your list. Winter weather can wreak havoc on your skin and moisturiser is a great salve for this.

Nice to have Toiletries for Travel

Travel toiletries in clear quart sized toiletry bag

So now you know what should be on your essential toiletries list, here is our list of nice to have toiletries to add to your toiletries check list.

Travel Curling Iron (optional)

You may want to get a compact travel curling iron if you like to style your hair further while traveling. Click here to shop travel curling irons.

Eye Mask

If you struggle to sleep when there is light then an eye mask can be useful for sleeping on planes and also for destinations that has sunlight late into the evening such as Norway and Europe in Summer.

Click here to shop eye masks.

Planes can be noisy places. I always have ear plugs with me.

Click here to shop ear plugs.

Note : if you are flying business class you can check if ear plugs or eye masks are provided as part of your amenities kit.

Toilet Paper

Although not needed in more developed locations having your own supply of toilet paper and cleansing wipes can be an essential in developing countries. When we did our safari in Uganda and Rwanda I never went anywhere without my own roll of toilet paper.

Facial cleanser

This is definitely not an essential for me, especially on shorter trips but for some skin types it is good to add a cleanser to the toiletries checklist.

Bobby pins are not something I use in everyday life but if you do then you will want a handful with you.

I don’t tend to be a hair spray person but if you are or if you plan on styling your hair for a nice restaurant meal or special even then you may want to add hairspray to the list.

And there you have it – our Ultimate toiletries packing list. Is there a toiletry essential for travel you think we have missed? If so let us know in the comments below and we can add it to our travel toiletries checklist.

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How To Pack A Toiletry Bag

If I can make sure you learn anything from my travel experiences, it’s to have a well-packed toiletry bag. When I used to be a sales rep and traveled every other week, I perfected my toiletry bag. It allowed me to be able to just grab it, toss it in my suitcase, and never had to question what was in it.

If you don’t travel that much, that may not be smart since things do expire. But, you can definitely reference this list and make sure you’re properly stocked and prepared for anything and everything while traveling.

A toiletry bag should not only be stocked with the everyday items that you need to get ready in the morning and nighttime routine. But it should also be a great resource for any sort of emergency that may come about while traveling. You can use this ultimate toiletry guide as a great packing list when filling up your toiletry bag with all of the things.

What To Keep In Your Toiletry Bag

There are definitely categories for a toiletry bag that you want to be sure to check off. And also other types of bags to include like your makeup bag. But let’s start with the essentials to pack so you can at least get yourself put together when traveling.

The Essential Toiletries List

I like to do my morning and nighttime routine the day before a trip and ensure all the things I’m using are IN THIS BAG. This is a great tip if you don’t stock your bag perpetually like I do and only pack it when you travel. It’s a simple step to ensure you don’t forget a thing.

Shower Essentials

Shampoo and Conditioner
Razor/Shaving Cream (I use baby oil since it also hydrates reducing my need for more moisturizer)

Skincare Essentials

I like to do my morning and nighttime routine and make sure those products are IN my toiletry bag. I like these small containers to store my skincare routine in as it also helps in preserving valuable space. Plus they don’t leak!

Moisturizer
Any serums, toners or anti-aging products you use
Body Moisturizer
Chapstick or Vaseline

Hygiene Essentials

Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Floss
Q-tips and cotton balls

Health Essentials

Any drugs you’ll need daily

Non-Essentials But Still ESSENTIAL

These may not be things you use all the time, but these are things I still like to always have in my toiletry bag. They’ve proven to be worth the space (and honestly don’t take up THAT much space). I’ve been so thankful I’ve had these items even if they don’t get used every single trip.

It’s those times you say “damn I wish I had XYZ” that you learn to just pack it just in case. Basically, everything you see below was from a bad experience where I made a note to include it in my bag the second I get home. Same with the medicine….

SPF – my daily moisturizer has SPF but I always keep a small regular sunscreen in my bag.
Bandaids – Thank me later! Blisters are inevitable on trips with all the walking
Rollerball Perfume – I always pack rollerball perfumes . It’s a fun way to try new scents without spending a ton of money.
Nail Polish Remover Wipes – Great if you paint your own nails. I’ve had to take nail polish off half way through a trip because it looked so awful.
Nail File and Nail Clippers – my biggest pet peeve is a nail that needs to be filed!
Mosquito Repellant Wipes – they take up no space at all and are easy to apply
More Medicine! – More on what I pack below.

Favorite Medicine To Have On Hand

Medicine is one of those things you hope you never have to use on a trip. But it’s that moment you realize oh shit, I’m going to be ill, that you’ll be happy you packed it. Here’s what I always have in case of an emergency.

Not to mention, I have used almost every single one either myself or a friend while traveling. This is especially helpful when traveling abroad as visiting a pharmacy can be very difficult.

PS I keep my most used items (like Pepto, Advil, Claritin) in this container in my personal bag or purse at all times. It’s the perfect pill container!

Anti-histamine – I bring both the pill and the cream since I blow up from bites
Anti-diarrhea
Anti-nausea
Dramamine/Sea Bands
Tylenol Cold
Advil or Tylenol (your preferred pain reliever)
Alka Seltzer (my go-to hangover cure)
Gatorade Packets/Pedialyte Packets – more great hangover cures and also just ideal for how dehydrated you can easily get while traveling. Makes it easy to turn your bottled water into something more powerful!
Sleeping Pills – great for long haul flights or fighting jet lag

Makeup Items

Your makeup bag is a no brainer. I won’t go into detail on the makeup I pack as it’s always dependent on the season and what I’m up to. However, I typically keep it to the essentials. No need to go crazy with a million things. I do, however, have to share a couple of tips in the makeup department as these two items live in my toiletry bag!

Makeup Remover Wipes
Makeup Remover – I still like a little liquid makeup remover with a Q-tip or cotton ball to get off eye makeup after a shower

TIP : No need to waste your money and packaging on travel makeup wipes. Just pull out a few from your favorite brand and place them in a Ziploc or Stasher bag. It reduces waste and is so much more affordable. Plus you can pack more with less bulk!

Packing a toiletry bag seems like a science to me. I’ve mastered it. I can get SO very much into mine and I am rarely finding myself on a trip saying “oh I need XYZ or I totally forget this one thing”. It took time for sure, but my toiletry bag is now packed perfectly. I did the hard work people, just copy today’s list!

Start With A Great Toiletry Bag

There are a few toiletry bags I love to use. My Barrington Gifts bag is the one I use the most. It’s very big, but in a pinch, it can also fit my makeup if I’m being minimal with it. I also really like this Vera Bradley one that I have used in the past and it’s a bit more affordable.

For my cosmetics, I also use this bag just for my makeup . You can check out this post on my favorite travel bags! I always pack my must-have jewelry travel case here as well.

Choose The Best Containers That Are TSA Approved & Sensible

I like to put my everyday skincare items in these nice little tubs from The Container Store. It’s the ideal size and allows you to save quite a bit of space. No one needs their full size moisturizer for 4 days even if it’s under 3.4 oz. Put a few pumps in the tub, and toss it in! I do this with serums, night creams and the like.

TSA Approved Containers

I like these 1 oz TSA approved containers as they’re great for face wash and moisturizers. For larger TSA approved containers for shampoo and conditioners, I also like these travel containers that fit the 3.4 oz regulation.

My #1 Tip For International Travel

For most international travel, you’ll also want to be well prepared for the quart-size bag rule if you’re doing carry on luggage. While going through security, you will need to have all your liquids and gels in a quart-size bag. No more, no less. I always plan this ahead of time and keep it ready to go.

TIP : Take the lids off of your toiletries when you need to go through security with your quart-size plastic bag. It’ll save tons of space and allow you to get more product in there. Leave the lids on until you’re heading through security so nothing spills, but preplan that bag!

For more travel tips, check out this travel tip destination page!

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July 16, 2019 at 10:09 am

Love a toiletry bag packing list….perfecting it is so satisfying. But FYI, a cold is caused by a virus which antibiotics don’t treat. They treat bacterial infections. Man I am a debbie downer : )

July 16, 2019 at 11:32 am

Such a great list!! Thanks for sharing – I‘m actually just packing my own for my vacation! But FYI: never ever use antibiotics on your own! It can cause resistances against antibiotics which can be very dangerous.

July 16, 2019 at 11:33 am

Such a great list!! Thanks for sharing – I‘m actually just packing my own for my vacation! > But FYI: never ever use antibiotics on your own! It can cause resistances against antibiotics which can be very dangerous.

Jessica says

July 16, 2019 at 12:33 pm

It’s definitely in case of an emergency only!

Rachel says

July 16, 2019 at 1:18 pm

I keep all of my travel sized items together in one of my bathroom drawers, but don’t have a toiletry bag for them (I always end up throwing them into my makeup bag or Ziploc bags!), but with a few trips coming up, I definitely need to get it together and just keep them all together in one bag to make it easier to grab and go. Also stocking up on some travel essentials this week! Thanks for the list!

Rachel http://www.hello-her.com

Lisa Autumn says

July 19, 2019 at 6:26 am

YESSS! I love a good organizing/packing post! Thank you

x Lisa | lisaautumn.com

July 19, 2019 at 9:40 am

Love a good list!!

Jamie Gilbert says

April 14, 2021 at 8:43 am

You should never have old antibiotics! If you’re prescribed antibiotics, you need to take the entire course, every time. This is where drug-resistant strains come from.

April 14, 2021 at 9:53 am

Yes very aware of that, this is really for absolute emergencies and I have a full prescription that was never used, not partially. Thanks for your concern though.

Gabriel Myers says

July 26, 2021 at 5:54 am

This information has been very helpful, thank you.

August 8, 2021 at 10:13 am

I didn’t see any information about brand, where to get it on the clear red trimmed pouch in your toiletry bag. I need that. Is it available? Love your site.

August 8, 2021 at 1:47 pm

It was an organizer insert from a travel case I had many years ago. Sadly I do not have a link to it.

February 17, 2022 at 10:31 am

Great tip about the Pedialyte packets! Ordering some now for my trip next week!

February 19, 2022 at 11:12 am

Gatorade also makes packets too, they make it so easy to stay hydrated while traveling!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

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How to Pack Toiletries for Travel Like a Pro

Toiletries may be a final packing detail, but there’s no doubt they are an imperative part of any trip, near or far . Yet when the drawers that contain your face and body essentials look like a cluttered apothecary from days gone by, it’s time for a lesson in how to pack your travel toiletries kit like a pro — you’ve got this.

What Are Toiletries?

Toiletries are those essential grooming items that keep you clean, groomed, and polished.

( Fun fact: Before there were what we call toiletry bags, there was the “Dopp kit,” which was created by a man named Jerome Harris, nephew of leather goods designer Charles Doppelt. The bags grew in popularity during the Second World War when the Army gave them out to the soldiers — sir, yes, sir!)

How to Pack Your Travel Toiletries

Choose the right sized toiletries bag.

If you’re only going on a weekend getaway, there’s no need to bring a large toiletries bag. Something like the Briggs & Riley Everyday Essentials Kit will do. If you are going on a longer journey, however, something like our Deluxe Hangable Kit allows you to pack more items in a smart, compacted fashion.

Think About Your Agenda

Not only do you want to think about your normal daily routine, but what is your agenda going to look like on your trip? For example, if you’re going skiing you may want to bring a stronger sunscreen and a protective face and lip balm for when you’re on the slopes. Camping? Then there’s no need to bring enough makeup for a photo shoot when you’re going to be chilling in the wilderness. Use common sense here. Also, consider which items you can leave behind because they will be supplied at your destination. We’re talking about shower gel, lotion, soap, Q-tips, and even shampoo and conditioner if you can part with your faves. Ditch those “just in case” items. If something comes up and you really need one of those things, you can always buy it later on.

How to Pack Your Toiletries Kit for Air Travel

Remember the tsa-rules.

If you’re bringing a carry-on remember the numbers 3-1-1. This means you can only pack toiletries with a volume no greater than 3.4 ounces and packed in a one-quart bag, one bag per person. Even if you’re checking a bag, don’t use that as an excuse to bring a huge can of hairspray, your full-sized cleanser, and a heavy glass jar of night cream, which leads us to our next point...

Transfer Products into Travel-Friendly Containers

Not only are refillable travel bottles good for the environment, but they prevent you from taking more product than you really need. Don’t forget to label them with a smear-proof marker or pen. Look for quality bottles that are leak-proof — because cleaning shampoo off your luggage , clothing, accessories is never fun. Alternatively, you can look for solid product options such as a cleansing balm, stick perfume, shampoo bar, etc. For products like deodorant, shaving gel, and toothpaste, purchase travel-friendly sizes.

Save Samples

Hold on to those perfume, cologne, hair, body, and skincare samples you get when you purchase something or are browsing through the store. They can minimize what you need to bring with adding virtually no extra weight.

Helpful Tips for Packing Toiletries

Double down.

While you may not be a fan of a shampoo and conditioner in one (and if you are, great), do consider taking along products with dual purposes so you don’t have to pack as much. For example, a lipstick and blush combo, an oil that can be used from head to toe (think argan oil), a BB cream that’s also an SPF, an overnight mask that doubles as a moisturizer, a cleansing cream that can also be used as a shaving balm, a hair and body wash in one — you get the gist.

Get Organized

Any of our toiletry bags can help you stay organized. Take advantage of the compartments and pack items in places that make sense. So, perhaps all of your skincare in one area, grooming in another, etc. This way it’s easier to find what you need when you need it.

Toiletries Packing List

Obviously, you’re going to cater this to your gender, where you’re traveling to, and for how long, but here’s a general packing list to help get you started. We’ve eliminated things like shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion and wash because if you really wanted to, you could use them at the hotel or a friend or family’s home. However, you may have dry, color-treated hair that will go haywire without your regular deep conditioner. Or perhaps you have eczema and you can’t live without your body cream. Again, use common sense here.

Cleanser/makeup remover
Moisturizer
Eye cream or gel
Shaving cream or gel
Bobby pins, hair ties, etc.
Brush or comb
Mini hair spray or gel
Contacts — only enough for the trip
1 multipurpose lipstick and blush
1 eyeshadow (or a small duo) — opt for a neutral hue that could double as a brow powder
1 foundation or BB/CC cream
Loose powder in a small travel container

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

Dress Shirts
Casual Shirts
Sweatshirts
Laundry Kit
Leisure Shoes
Hiking Boots
Dress Shoes
Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

Dental Floss
Conditioner
Styling Tools
Facial Cleanser
Face Lotion
Moisturizer
Contact Lenses
Contact Solution
Shaving Supplies
Makeup Remover
Menstrual Products
Birth Control/Medication
Nail Clippers
Hand Sanitizer
First-Aid Ointment
Insect Repellent
Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

Laptop/Tablet
Film/Memory Card
List of Medications
Banking Contacts/Information
Electronic Chargers
Emergency Contacts
Copy of Passport
Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

Books or E-Books
Travel Blanket
Travel Pillow
Disinfecting Wipes
Change of Clothes
Empty Water Bottle
In-Flight Medications
Passport/Visa/ID
Credit/ATM cards
Insurance Cards
Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

Close up of person reading the SmarterTravel Ultimate Packing List on their phone while packing a suitcase

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

The 5 Most Crowded National Parks (and Where to Go Instead)

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

The Best Ski Hotels in the US

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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IMAGES

The Complete Travel Toiletries List
Essential Travel Toiletries Checklist for Your Carry-on
Toiletry Packing List Printable
The 5 Best Men’s Toiletry Bags For Travel
Your Complete List of Travel Toiletries Essentials: Free Printable
The Complete Toiletry Packing List: with Printable PDF

COMMENTS

The Complete Travel Toiletries List
A few of these items are personal preference only like hand cream or cotton buds. For guys, this is basically you whole toiletries list for men. Shampoo - Packed in GoToob Travel Bottles if you're traveling less than 2 weeks or traveling carry on only. Conditioner - Packed as above. Hair brush / comb.
The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)
How to Pack Toiletries for Travel. Step 1: Planning and Preparation. Sample Travel Size Toiletries List: Printable Toiletries Checklist. Step 2: Eliminate. Step 3: Downsize. Step 4: Travel Containers. Travel Toiletries Comparison Chart. Toiletries are a serious struggle for many travelers.
The Comprehensive Toiletry Packing List for Trips: with PDF
Check to see if your accommodation provides this to pack lighter. Top Trip Tip: If packing toiletries in your carry-on hand luggage ensure each bottle is no larger than 100ml/3.4oz and placed together in a clear zip-lock bag. A few basic medical items you may like to include are: Sunscreen. Insect repellent.
The 13 Best Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best for Cosmetics: Béis The Cosmetic Case at Nordstrom ($68) Jump to Review. Best for Men: Bagsmart Toiletry Bag for Men at Amazon ($21) Jump to Review. Best for Short Trips: Tumi Response ...
The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)
7 ounces. Check Reviews & Prices. Premium Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag for Women and Men. $$. *Best overall hanging bag. 8.5 x 4.7 x 10 inches. 10.2 ounces. Check Reviews & Prices. Vetelli Hanging Toiletry Bag.
25 Best Travel Toiletries (for Your Next Trip in 2024)
The above hanging toiletry bag is a good all-rounder; it's not too expensive and does the job nicely. However, for those who do mess around with their toiletry packing, there can be only one toiletry bag: the Nomatic Toiletry Bag (2.0). It's a toletry bag so serious it got a second edition.
Travel Toiletries Packing List for Ladies
Second, look for solid alternatives to liquid makeup, so that you don't have to stuff liquid makeup in your one-quart toiletry bag. In this list, I've included a solid foundation as an example. Third, look for multi-taskers that will take up less space in your bag! This lip color doubles as a lip liner, and the foundation includes SPF.
The Ultimate Toiletries List for Travel: A ...
Toiletries List for Air Travel: Packing an Airport Toiletries Bag With the glamorous days of airplane travel far, far behind us, these days it's worth spending a bit of time and money to pack specific toiletries for air travel, to make your trip less miserable and a bit more luxurious.
The 9 Best Travel Toiletry Bags of 2024
WANDF Toiletry Bag. The first thing to know about WANDF's Toiletry Bag is that it has a ton of capacity, so much so that our testers joked that it could double as an overnight bag. Jests aside, this was a popular bag because of how much it holds and how little it weighs (just 3.6 ounces).
8 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, According to Pro Travelers in 2024
Material: Not specified | Size: 10.5" L x 5" W x 1.7" H (Small) and 10.5" L x 5" W x 3.1" H (Standard) | Weight: 9.5 oz. (Small) and 11.3 oz. (Regular) Nomatic is a favorite brand of ...
Essential Toiletries Packing List 2020
Our mission with this list: To keep you looking, feeling, and smelling great for anything from an overnight to a two-week trek. Keep in mind, this list doesn't include makeup, but we've got you covered there, too. 1 Toiletry Bag. 1 Toothbrush. 1 Mini Toothpaste.
Essential Travel Toiletries Checklist for Your Carry-on
3. Use a clear toiletry bag or Ziploc bag to stow your toiletries for traveling. You'll have to present all your carry-on liquids in a transparent bag when you go through the security check. Most people use Ziploc bags (or those kinds of bags from whatever brand), but you can also use a proper toiletry bag as long as it's transparent.
Essential Travel Toiletries Guide for Your Trip: Carry-On Approved
Per TSA regulations, airline passengers are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, gels, and aerosols. The easiest, and most common, way to accomplish this is by using a Ziploc or other brand of disposable plastic baggie. A more sustainable way to travel is to purchase a clear toiletry or makeup bag.
Your Complete List of Travel Toiletries Essentials: Free Printable
This complete list of travel toiletries essentials covers all of the possible things you may want to bring on your travels. Grab travel sized versions of your favorites and get packing! ... Whatever travel toiletry bag(s) you use, consider if it is important that it hangs, holds everything, has a removable section, is TSA friendly, etc.
The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List
Making a toiletries checklist is a must. Credit: @amend_raditya. Essential Toiletries Packing List Once you know what to include in your travel toiletries list, everything will become less overwhelming and you will likely get the most amazing experience on your next journey.. Tip: Make sure the toiletries bags are travel size and are sufficient for any circumstance.
The 20 best toiletry bags of 2023 for organized travel
Euow Barrel Makeup Bag. Amazon. This unique barrel-shaped bag stands upright and is another option that works well for travel-size toiletries and makeup brushes. Just tighten the drawstring on the ...
23 Best Women's Toiletry Bags & Dopp Kits for Travel in 2023
Below, find 23 of the best toiletry bags and Dopp kits for women, with a mix of new brands and resounding favorites from Away , Monos , Everlane, and Calpak, starting with the ones our editors ...
Complete Packing List of Travel Toiletries
Here's a packing list of travel toiletries you may find handy for your next trip. TRAVEL BELT BAG / SANITIZER WIPES / SANITIZER SPRAY. If you travel often, you can buy seconds of all of your favorite items and keep your toiletry bag packed and ready to throw into your suitcase. I'm not that organized… but that concept has always appealed ...
What's In My Toiletry Bag? The Ultimate Checklist
Toothbrush and toothpaste. Hair brush and/or comb. Shampoo and/or conditioner. Soap or body wash. Razor. Deodorant. Sunscreen. Bug spray (only if traveling in jungles, forests, or anywhere bugs might be or malaria may be present) Moisturizer and/or aloe (travel can dry your skin right out)
The ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List
Travel Toiletries Packing List for Men. Shaving Kit. Essential Toiletries for Hot Weather. After Sun / Aloe Vera. Chub Rub. Essential Toiletries for Cold Weather. Body lotion / Body Moisturiser. Nice to have Toiletries for Travel. Travel Curling Iron (optional)
How To Pack A Toiletry Bag & The Essential Toiletries List
TIP: Take the lids off of your toiletries when you need to go through security with your quart-size plastic bag. It'll save tons of space and allow you to get more product in there. Leave the lids on until you're heading through security so nothing spills, but preplan that bag!
How To Pack Toiletries
How to Pack Your Toiletries Kit for Air Travel Remember the TSA-Rules If you're bringing a carry-on remember the numbers 3-1-1. This means you can only pack toiletries with a volume no greater than 3.4 ounces and packed in a one-quart bag, one bag per person.
The Ultimate Packing List
Travel Motto: "Travel light, often, ... Shop Our Toiletries Packing List. ... In case you're separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID ...

The Complete Travel Toiletries List – Pack Right Every Time!

The Complete Travel Toiletries List

Nice to Have / Trip Specific Toiletries for Vacation

Hair & Beauty Toiletries for Women

First Aid Kit

The 10 Best Travel Toiletries Items

Tips for Packing Toiletries

Printable Travel Toiletries Checklist

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The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)

Table Of Contents

What is a toiletry item?

What toiletries can I take on a plane?

What’s the best toiletry bag?

How do you keep your liquids from leaking?

How to Pack Toiletries for Travel

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

Sample Travel Size Toiletries List:

Printable Toiletries Checklist

Travel Toiletries Comparison Chart

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The 13 Best Toiletry Bags of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

In This Article

Our Testing Process

Best Overall

Best Compact

Best Waterproof

Best Organization

Best Dopp Kit

Best Small Hanging

Best Large Hanging

Best for Cosmetics

Best for Men

Best for Short Trips

Best Leather

MZ Wallace Mica Cosmetic Case

Best Budget

Other Toiletry Bags We Liked

Tips for Buying a Toiletry Bag

Consider capacity and the items you pack

Think about portability

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)

Essential Items for Your Toiletries Packing List

Re-usable toiletry bottles

A reuseable toiletries bag

A good travel towel

OPTIONAL: A hanging toiletries bag

Toiletries Packing List: Summary

Oral Hygiene:

Contact Solution

Lipstick/gloss

Foundation / Concealer

What NOT to Include in Your Toiletries Packing List

Grab Your Printable Toiletries Packing List

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THE ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List: Hygiene Travel Essentials

What are toiletries? (For the purpose of this packing list.)

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0

Travel-Size Silicone Bottles

Soap – Dr. Bronner’s

Shampoo (+ Conditioner)

Dental Health Toiletries

Travel Towel

Facial Cleanser and Moisturizer

Hand Sanitizer Spray

Reef-Safe Sun Block

Ear Plugs and Eye Mask

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Medication + First-Aid Kit

Mosquito Repellent

Nail Clippers

Tooth Picks

Roll of Toilet Paper

Contacts and Prescription Glasses

Health Supplements