best travel size toiletry bottles

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Best in Class

• The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Women The 12 Very Best White T-shirts for Wome…
• The 6 Very Best Standing Desks The 6 Very Best Standing Desks
• The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags The 10 Very Best Weekend Bags
• 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles 16 of the Very Best Water Bottles
• The 18 Very Best Bath Towels The 18 Very Best Bath Towels
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles The 7 Very Best Baby Bottles
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women
• The Very Best Men’s Underwear The Very Best Men’s Underwear
• The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women The 10 Very Best Silk Pajamas for Women
• The 8 Very Best Panini Presses The 8 Very Best Panini Presses
• The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors The Best Kitchen Shears and Scissors
• The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows The 10 Very Best Cooling Pillows
• The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats The 15 Best Women’s Raincoats
• The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes The 10 Very Best Electric Toothbrushes
• The 13 Very Best Black Blazers for Women The 13 Very Best Black Blazers for Women
• The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers The 9 Very Best Plush Mattress Toppers
• The 12 Very Best Knife Sets The 12 Very Best Knife Sets
• The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps The 16 Very Best Desk Lamps
• The 10 Very Best Conditioners The 10 Very Best Conditioners
• The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Skin The 16 Very Best Body Lotions for Dry Sk…
• The 30 Very Best Mascaras The 30 Very Best Mascaras
• The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames The 9 Very Best Digital Picture Frames
• The 18 Very Best Quilts The 18 Very Best Quilts
• The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women The Very Best Workout Shoes for Women
• The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and Anti-perspirants The 15 Very Best Women’s Deodorants and…
• The 14 Very Best Rain Boots for Women The 14 Very Best Rain Boots for Women
• The 12 Very Best Natural Deodorants The 12 Very Best Natural Deodorants
• 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples 23 of the Very Best Sex Toys for Couples
• The 13 Very Best Pajamas for Women The 13 Very Best Pajamas for Women
• The 12 Very Best Lip Balms The 12 Very Best Lip Balms
• The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Luggage The 11 Very Best Pieces of Rolling Lugga…
• The 11 Very Best Electric Kettles The 11 Very Best Electric Kettles
• The 9 Best Pimple Patches The 9 Best Pimple Patches
• The Very Best Boxer Briefs The Very Best Boxer Briefs
• The 10 Very Best Rice Cookers The 10 Very Best Rice Cookers
• The 15 Very Best White Socks for Women The 15 Very Best White Socks for Women
• The 7 Very Best Alarm Clocks The 7 Very Best Alarm Clocks
• The 9 Very Best Memory-Foam Pillows The 9 Very Best Memory-Foam Pillows
• The 11 Very Best Travel Pillows The 11 Very Best Travel Pillows
• The 5 Very Best Cooling Weighted Blankets The 5 Very Best Cooling Weighted Blanket…
• The 8 Very Best Plus-Size Black Work Pants for Women The 8 Very Best Plus-Size Black Work Pan…
• The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs The 11 Very Best Fanny Packs
• The Very Best Gym Shorts for Men The Very Best Gym Shorts for Men
• The Very Best Body Washes for Dry Skin The Very Best Body Washes for Dry Skin
• The Very Best Linen Sheets The Very Best Linen Sheets
• The 11 Very Best Yoga Mats The 11 Very Best Yoga Mats
• The Very Best Women’s Razors The Very Best Women’s Razors
• The 11 Very Best Cooling Sheets The 11 Very Best Cooling Sheets
• The Best Lip Balms With SPF The Best Lip Balms With SPF

The Very Best Toiletry Bottles

To keep your travel-size liquids organized — and leakproof..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best classic
• Best flat pack
• Best silicone
• Best modular

Surrendering your favorite moisturizer at airport security is no way to begin a vacation. That’s where refillable toiletry bottles come in — not only are they under the TSA-approved 3.5 ounces, they’re leakproof with secure lids you can use over and over again. Of course, not all toiletry bottles are created equal, and if you’ve ever had a shampoo explosion in your carry-on thanks to a flimsy lid, you might be cautious. ( There are always minis , but when you already own full-size versions of your toiletries, that added cost feels redundant.) To find the best toiletry bottles for every kind of traveler, I spoke to frequent fliers and travel experts about the toiletry bottles that won’t lead to travel disasters, then tested out those recommendations for myself alongside my fellow Strategist staffers. While you’re here, we’ve also written guides to the best carry-on luggage and men’s Dopp kits .

What we’re looking for

Number of bottles.

I’ve made a clear note beneath each set of toiletry bottles, as the number of bottles included is different for each product on this list. The higher the number of bottles in a kit means more storage space but also a higher variety of bottle types, too. For example, if you’re someone with a complex skin-care routine , you’ll want a bigger kit with tubs, pump-top bottles, and classic bottles to house all your lotions and sprays. If you’re someone who packs lighter, a smaller kit should be more than enough.

Accessories

They’re designed to keep things clean , but sometimes decanting your products into toiletry bottles can get pretty messy. Luckily, lots of kits come with accessories to make the whole process a little simpler, from funnels for divvying up liquids to spatulas for scooping face cream from one bottle to another (and brushes for keeping your bottles clean). To keep things organized, some kits also come with a transparent bag to keep all of your bottles in one place (and save you from having to squeeze them into a flimsy plastic bag at security).

Maximum capacity

The size of the bottle you’ll want will depend on what you plan to decant into it and how long you’ll be traveling. I’ve included the maximum fluid capacity of each bottle (or of the biggest bottle in each set) so you know how big you can go.

Best toiletry bottles overall

Number of bottles : 17 | Accessories: Funnel, spatula, cleaning brush, plastic bag | Maximum capacity: Three ounces

This comprehensive travel-bottle set includes two 3-ounce silicone bottles, two 2-ounce silicone bottles, two 25-millimeter pump-top bottles, four plastic tubs, two toothbrush covers, a funnel, two spatulas, and a cleaning brush , all inside a transparent plastic case. My fellow Strategist writer Rachael Griffiths has taken it on 11 flights so far with great success. Inside the larger bottles, she’ll squeeze shampoo and conditioner ; cleanser and moisturizer goes inside the smaller bottles. The tubs are for a little smidgen of eye cream , she says, “and I’ll also pour some setting spray into the spray-pump bottles if I’m planning a big night out.” The caps screw on tight and have been consistently leak-free, and she likes how the bottles are made of a clear plastic, so you can easily see how much product you’ve gone through on your trip (and how much you’ve got left to last you). The set also comes recommended by frequent travelers like Simify director Mac Steer and River North Communication CEO Kelly Ferraro, who made the investment after tragically surrendering several luxury face creams to security and hasn’t looked back.

Best (less expensive) toiletry bottles

Number of bottles: 11 | Accessories: Funnel, stopper, spatula | Maximum capacity: 3.04 ounces

I like the price point of these bottles (the 11-piece kit is regularly on sale for less than $10) and that they’re dishwasher-safe. Brittany Allyn, the blogger behind Thirty Waves who documents her travels on TikTok, was initially drawn to them for aesthetic reasons but has found that they’re also “versatile for all my products: shampoo, conditioner, favorite hair product, serum, spray, and three small containers for my other skin-care products.” The kit comes with a mix of pouches, traditional bottles, and capsule-esque mini-jars as well as a funnel, spatula, and pipette to help you fill them up.

Best classic toiletry bottles

Number of bottles: Six | Accessories: Plastic bag | Maximum capacity: Three ounces

I am consistently impressed by Sea to Summit’s travel and outdoor products , which are typically more durable and cleverly designed than those of competing brands. So I wasn’t surprised when Andres Zuleta, the founder of Boutique Japan , recommended them. “I used to use the ones you can get anywhere, at Duane Reade or Target — like, the ones that are colorful and kind of squishy and have a flip-top lid,” Zuleta says. “Honestly, I had problems with those every time. One of them would always leak.” He hasn’t experienced any of that with Sea to Summit bottles. Zuleta describes them as mini Nalgene water bottles because of their tough exterior. “They are airtight,” he adds. “I’ve been using them for two years now and never had an issue.” The pack comes with three three-ounce bottles and three 1.3-ounce bottles, which Zuleta says is plenty. He fills his with hand sanitizer , lotion , jojoba oil, and shower gel and says he always comes home with his bottles at least partially full. He’s a fan of the actual bag it comes with, too. Instead of plastic, it’s made from TPU, a durable, abrasion-resistant material that is a reusable alternative to single-use plastic bags, according to the brand. It’s roomy enough that, in addition to the bottles, Zuleta can fit in some extras, such as his Malin+Goetz deodorant and a travel toothbrush.

Best flat-pack toiletry bottles

Number of bottles: Three | Accessories: None | Maximum capacity: Three ounces

When I asked travel blogger Jessica Ufuoma about good gifts for frequent fliers , she told me about these toiletry bottles from Matador. They’re nylon leakproof packs that can be filled up with all the liquids you’ll need for your trip. Each one holds three ounces, so they’re compliant with TSA requirements. The flat-pack design also makes them more compact than traditional bottles, allowing you to stuff even more into your toiletry bag. In addition to the functionality, Ufuoma likes the look of these pouches. “Their sleek and minimalist designs make for the perfect gift for stylish and savvy travelers,” she says.

Best silicone toiletry bottles

Number of bottles: Three | Accessories: None | Maximum capacity: 3.4 ounces

Even if you’re not flying, reusable toiletry bottles can come in handy. Emily Mandagie, one-half of the couple behind the outdoors-focused website the Mandagies , says she takes these Humangear squeeze bottles on nearly every overnight adventure and recommends them for backpacking and road trips. These silicone bottles come in 3.4-ounce, 2.5-ounce, and 1.7-ounce sizes, and Mandagie loves how versatile they are. “For example, on road trips we will fill them with things like face wash and dish soap, but on backpacking trips we’ll fill them with sunscreen or even condiments for a meal,” she says. They are FDA food safe, she says, so there’s no worries there, and they are also dishwasher safe, making them easy to clean. One trip’s sriracha container can be another’s shampoo bottle.

Best (less expensive) silicone bottles

Number of bottles: Six | Accessories: None | Maximum capacity: 3.04 ounces

Travel blogger Nina Ragusa (known as Where in the World Is Nina? ) has been all over the world with this more affordable silicone set, which she says outperforms Walmart’s own-brand options and is more space efficient, too. “So many other plastic bottles resulted in an explosion of liquid in my toiletry bag,” she says. “They crack and break.” Typically, a harder plastic toiletry bottle will maintain its shape, making it always the same size. “These bottles, though, smoosh down as you use them, eventually getting almost flat,” saving you space in your bag as your trip progresses. “And they quite simply won’t break.”

Best modular travel containers

Number of bottles: Sold individually or in sets of 6 and 12 | Accessories: None | Maximum capacity: 0.56 ounces

Cadence makes stylish, multiuse magnetic containers from ocean-bound plastic. Sold individually, they’re designed to cling to each other, creating what the company calls a “honeycomb.” The lids, each of which gets its own custom label, are also magnetic, which makes them more airtight. I was skeptical about these because of their high price point, but I’m sold after taking them on a couple of international trips last year. First of all, it is way easier to decant product into tubs as opposed to squeezable bottles — no more last-minute messing around with funnels before a flight. The capsules are also incredibly solid in their construction, to the extent that I feel comfortable tossing them into my backpack or suitcase wherever they fit, rather than storing them a separate leakproof toiletry bag that takes up valuable space. Briona Lamback, the founder of Buoyant, adds that they’re small but mighty: “I usually get enough cleanser and moisturizer for a sixish-day trip in each.”

Best (less expensive) modular travel containers

Number of bottles: Sold individually | Accessories: None | Maximum capacity: 2.2 ounces (large petite tube), 1 ounce (large cream container)

If you want to build your own set of refillable toiletry bottles on a budget and can live without cute colors and magnets, I’m also a fan of Muji’s simple plastic travel containers and have used them on many trips. While I’d probably store them in a waterproof toiletry bag just to be safe, I’ve never had leakage issues with these, and there are a number of size options for different lengths of trips. Just note that they don’t come with any accessories for decanting, which can make transferring any particularly gloopy shampoos and conditioners a bit tricky.

Some other travel essentials we’ve written about:

Our experts:

• Brittany Allyn, the blogger behind Thirty Waves • Briona Lamback , the founder of Buoyant • Kelly Ferraro, CEO of River North Communications • Emily Mandagie , one-half of the couple behind the outdoors-focused website the Mandagies • Nina Ragusa , travel blogger • Mac Steer, the owner and director of Simify • Jessica Ufuoma , travel blogger • Andres Zuleta, the founder of Boutique Japan

Additional reporting by Rachael Griffiths .

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• best in class
• holiday travel guide
• packing and gear

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• It’s Your Last Chance to Shop the Strategist’s Two-Day Sale
• The 17 Very Best Work Bags for Women
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• All of the Best Mother’s Day Gift Ideas
• This $17 ‘Concrete’ Planter Is So Great I Bought 8 of Them
• The Very Best Men’s Underwear
• The 16 Very Best Eye Creams

Shop with Google

Pack Hacker is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more

11 Best Travel Size Bottles for Your Next Trip

Whether crossing the city or the continent, this list will help you find a set of travel size bottles to wrangle your toiletries for your next trip.

Whether you shower twice daily or have joined the no-poo movement, everyone needs travel size bottles for any trip longer than a day or two. However, there are a few designs to choose from and even more brands to dive into afterward. Don’t worry; we’re here to help!

We’ve seen a few materials most often—namely silicone and plastic. Some silicone models are food safe, which is a bonus if you want to use them for snacks. We’ve also seen metal and nylon models; however, those are few and far between. Every material was chosen for a reason, and we’ll dive into those as we go over each item.

Before you decide which travel containers suit you, you need to decide a few things. First, what are you going to stow inside the containers? Some liquids do better with flimsier materials, and some are too watery for specific caps. Then, where are you going to put them? Some offerings come with a toiletry bag , but you might need to find a Dopp kit to house others.

Briefly, let’s chat about airline security rules with liquids. You can take one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in the bag you bring on the plane. Each liquid is limited to a travel-sized container, which is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters.

Once you’ve determined what you’ll put inside your new travel size bottles and where you’ll stow them, you’re ready to rock! Let’s dive in.

• humangear GoToob+
• Gravel Soft 3oz Liquid Bottles
• Eagle Creek Silicone Bottle Set
• Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottle
• Cadence The Capsule
• GLOBEGEAR Travel Bottles Kit (GG1)
• Nalgene Medium Travel Bottle Kit
• AinDen Travel Bottles Set
• humangear GoTubb
• Matador Refillable Toothpaste Tubes
• D-LOTUS Perfume Atomizer

Best for: Full-time Travelers

Why We Like It: They’re food-safe and have a dynamic locking system.

What You Should Know: The caps can break if handled roughly.

Here at Pack Hacker, we’ve had GoToob containers on the mind for years. Starting with the original model and moving our way up to the GoToob+ a while back, we’ve had our fair share of experience with these travel size bottles. With a range of sizes available, these are the perfect size for getting you through airport security and short to moderate-length trips.

They’re crafted from food-grade silicone, utilize a LoopLock™ system to ensure your toiletries don’t leak, and include a labeling system so you can figure out what’s inside quickly. The caps are somewhat fragile, but if you aren’t rough with them, they’ll last a long time.

Whether you’re stowing shampoo, conditioner, body wash, or your mom’s homemade mayonnaise, these travel containers will do the job. After all, do they even have mayonnaise in Antarctica?!

Why We Like It: They slot together nicely like a puzzle.

What You Should Know: The interior can be hard to clean.

If you like everything to slot together perfectly inside your pack, from your travel size bottles to your packing cubes , look no further than the Gravel Soft 3oz Liquid Bottles. They’re designed to fit together like a puzzle to make packing more manageable, and you can stack groupings of two like legos. The harsh angles inside can be challenging to clean, but that’s par for the course as far as travel containers are concerned.

These travel size containers are crafted from silicone, and the lids are made of hard plastic. There are two colorways to choose from; however, they’re Speckled Clear and Speckled Grey, which aren’t that unique. The lid is two pieces—the washer and the cap, which creates a tight fit, so your toiletries don’t leak and squeeze out evenly.

These work well if you need an even number of travel containers for liquids. However, they don’t come in singles at the time of posting, so you may have an extra if you only need three bottles. You might as well load up on Aioli while you’re in France with the extra one!

Best for: Relaxed Travelers

Why We Like It: Two sizes come in each pack.

What You Should Know: The 3-1-1 bag lacks durability and is superfluous if you already own one.

We know what you might be thinking. Isn’t Eagle Creek a backpack company? Yes! However, they make other travel goodies, like their Eagle Creek Silicone Bottle Set. This includes everything you might need for a trip, so it’s a great shout if you’ve never purchased Travel size bottles before. You might look elsewhere if you’ve already got a 3-1-1 bag for travel security.

Each set has two larger (3-ounce) and two smaller (2-ounce) bottles, so you can load the goop you need more of into the larger ones. They’re crafted from silicone and have an anti-spill gasket to ensure your toiletries don’t leak all over one another. In addition to the bottles, you get a clear 3-1-1 bag. It’s a simple offering crafted from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), but it’s an upgrade if you use a plastic bag. It has a gusset on the bottom so the bottles can stand up inside.

These travel size bottles get the job done and are an excellent option for those using them for the first time.

Why We Like It: Gets smaller as you use it, which saves space.

What You Should Know: Small holes can develop near the cap.

When some folks pack for a trip, keeping their pack size and weight down is one of the most important things. If you fit into that category, the Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottle is one of the best travel containers on the market. It doesn’t feel as strong as the silicone options on this list, but the CORDURA® Nylon construction isn’t anything to scoff at.

A traditional set of travel size bottles is the same size when it’s empty as when it’s full. The FlatPak Toiletry Bottle gets smaller and lighter as you use it, so your toiletry bag will be lighter and easier to pack as the trip goes on. The flexible form makes packing more straightforward than its bulky silicone competitors, even when fully loaded.

If you’re going on a rugged backpacking journey, you might opt for something heavier, as one of the containers we tested developed small holes near the cap with enough wear and tear. However, if you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb and take care when grabbing and replacing it before and after using it, this is one of the best travel containers for toiletries out there!

Why We Like It: Magnets are satisfying to use and keep toiletries together.

What You Should Know: A tad heavy and not good for storing large quantities.

Magnets. That’s it. Magnets!

Confused? We were, too, when we first got our hands on The Capsule from Cadence. These little travel containers are made of metal and plastic and have magnets inside, so they stick together to form a honeycomb design inside your toiletry container. They aren’t large enough to stow a week’s worth of shampoo (even if you use it ultra sparingly), but they’re ideal for makeup and short trips that don’t require as much goop.

Another highlight of this design over a classic set of silicone travel size bottles is that they’re easy to clean. There’s no bottleneck—just rinse it out. No more special cleaning brushes or trying to reach your finger far enough to get to every corner!

The magnets work well in transit—everything sticks together and is easily located in one place. However, if you’re trying to separate your gear once you arrive, the magnets make that challenging. They clack back together if they’re within a short distance of each other. This isn’t an issue on large counters, but if real estate is scarce, they’ll probably be in formation.

This might be one of the more out-there travel bottles for toiletries, but it will work wonders in certain situations!

Best for: Frugal Travelers

Why We Like It: Budget-friendly and has a variety of bottle designs.

What You Should Know: You may not have a use for every bottle design.

If you’re looking for a budget set of travel size bottles, look no further than the GLOBEGEAR Travel Bottles. Coming in at under $20, you get a lot of bang for your buck with this set. In addition to a 3-1-1 bag to get you through airport security, there are a few toiletry tools to work with here.

First, there’s a pump-top container. This one works well for the products you want to conserve because you can limit yourself to a single pump, and it even comes with a clip to prevent it from getting pumped on accident in transit. Next, there’s a spray bottle, which works for perfumes and other liquids. Then there are two standard plastic bottles for shampoos and other shower gels. We’re not done yet—there’s another silicone bottle and two small containers.

On top of everything listed, it comes with tools to help you fill every bottle, so loading isn’t an issue. We dig how many options there are, but you might not need everything listed, which is wasteful if you don’t use it. However, these travel size containers are an excellent shout for someone who likes to bring a little bit of everything!

Why We Like It: Durable, tough plastic construction.

What You Should Know: The largest sizes are too big for airplane security.

If silicone isn’t your thing, but you like the form factor presented by other travel bottles for toiletries, the Nalgene Medium Travel Bottle Kit may be a worthy addition to your travel backpack . They’re crafted from HDPE plastic, which is durable, hard plastic similar to a water bottle. The tops screw on, which is more secure than attaching a cap to silicone. However, writing on them is difficult, so you might mix up what is what.

There are several sizes and colors in the set, which we dig. Some of the larger offerings are too big for air travel, so those will have to stay at home. However, those that are TSA-friendly make for a rugged travel companion. Plus, they’re budget-friendly.

The material can get a little slippery in the shower, but they’re small enough to hold onto with just one hand. If you want a set of travel shampoo bottles that won’t break the bank and isn’t silicone, these are the travel containers for you!

Why We Like It: Comes in one unified package of bottles.

What You Should Know: You can’t add more bottles to the set-up.

There aren’t a ton of designs for travel size bottles out there. However, there are a few companies that do things differently. AinDen’s Travel Size Toiletries Travel Bottles are self-contained in a hard plastic shell, so you have everything you need in one container. However, they pop out of their case when it’s time to use something. This combination makes it easier to get from point A to point B without a spill but doesn’t hinder usage.

The materials aren’t the most durable, but if you treat the container with care, there shouldn’t be any issues with spills or cracks. Plus, the plastic is easy to stow somewhere safe in your pack or toiletry bag.

Because of the configuration, you can’t add more bottles to your set-up. You might want to look elsewhere if you need more than four travel containers for liquids. However, AinDen’s design is unique and worth considering if you want a compact set of four travel size bottles.

Best for: Sustainable Travelers

Why We Like It: You can stow everything from medication to macaroni and cheese inside.

What You Should Know: Thin hard plastic breaks easier than silicone.

The GoTubb from humangear, the same company that brought you the GoToob+, can be used for everything from thick lotions to snacks for the plane. The design resembles a contact case, but the materials are durable enough to last years. There are three sizes to choose from at the time of posting—small, medium, and large—and five color combinations. Whether you want to organize your medication, bring along a liquid too dense for a standard set of travel sized bottles, or want a way to bring delicate snacks on the plane, the humangear GoTubb has you covered.

The tubs are BPA-free, PC-free, and Phthalate-free. Plus, they’re FDA food safe, so you can also eat out of them. The top screws on and is easy to remove when you’re ready to access whatever you’ve got stowed inside.

The hard plastic exterior is easier to break than silicone, especially if heavy gear is loaded inside your daypack . However, we haven’t had any issues with these travel containers breaking. Even if you aren’t sure what you’ll stow inside, the GoTubb almost always comes in handy once on a trip!

Why We Like It: No more wasteful toothpaste minis.

What You Should Know: Not much use outside of toothpaste.

There are a ton of travel size bottles and travel containers out there, but we haven’t found nearly as many that work for toothpaste. Matador’s reputation for filling the gaps of available travel products continues, enabling you to refill your toothpaste without as much environmental impact.

The Matador Refillable Toothpaste Tubes are designed with toothpaste in mind, so it works as well as one of the mini ones you get at the dentist’s office. However, when it’s empty, you refill it from the larger toothpaste container you have at home instead of buying another mini for your next trip. This keeps excess plastic out of landfills and is cheaper because mini toothpaste containers cost more per ounce. Think about what you can do with all of that toothpaste money!

Whereas most of Matador’s gear can be used for numerous things, there isn’t much use for their Toothpaste Tubes outside of dental hygiene. However, you use it twice daily, so we think it’s worth splurging on.

Best for: Professional Travelers

Why We Like It: Makes it easy to bring fragrances across the globe.

What You Should Know: Cap may leak over time.

Finding a set of travel size bottles for your shampoo, conditioner, and other goops isn’t very difficult. However, finding something that will work for your perfume or cologne is another story. Most bottles you have at home are too large to take on a plane, but the D-LOTUS Refillable Perfume Atomizer is TSA-sized and enables you to smell good all trip long.

Bringing some cologne or perfume shouldn’t be a fuss, whether going to a fancy event or struggling with body odors when you can’t shower as regularly. With the D-LOTUS Atomizer, you can use the exact product you use at home, so there are no issues with skin irritation from using a new travel-sized fragrance. The interior container is easy to fill and dump, making packing easy.

Some users report issues with leaking after a few months of use; however, like any other travel container, if you ensure it doesn’t get bumped or knocked too much in transit, you should be all set.

So there you have it! Some travel size bottles that will keep you clean on your next trip, whether you’re washing up at the Ritz Carlton or in the river. Regardless of the trip, one of these travel containers will work for you!

April 4, 2023

Author: Eric Hergenreder

Eric has been across the globe, but his favorite place to explore is his home state of Michigan. His love for photography has taken him all around the Great Lake State, often writing about his travels so that others can enjoy them, too. Eric loves messing around with analog photography, watching soccer, and searching for the world’s best burger in his spare time.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products

The 19 Best Travel Toiletries of 2024

These are our picks for more convenient, streamlined travel necessities.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• 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 / Kristin Kempa

Anyone who’s adventure-bound — whether headed on a weekend camping excursion or a month-long beach stay — will need to make smart and strategic packing decisions, especially when it comes to toiletries. The best travel toiletries are portable, multi-functioning, and convenient, to help you maintain an effective grooming routine with fewer, smaller items than what you’re used to using at home. 

From compact skincare products to versatile hygiene essentials, we’ve culled the best travel toiletries in every category. And, keeping the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on luggage in mind, we’ve swapped some traditionally liquid items for solid alternatives to make packing even easier. 

Best Face Wash

Evolvetogether face wash.

Evolvetogether 

It’s lightweight, convenient, and sustainable.

It may not be as effective at removing makeup as other solutions.

Whether you’re trying to cut down on liquid toiletries for your carry-on luggage or you’re just trying to avoid potential spills in your bag, non-liquid products are very convenient for travel. This tried-and-true powder face wash comes in 100 percent biodegradable individual-use packets, so it’s easy to pack the exact amount you need for your trip.

Plus, they’re slimmer and more lightweight than even a miniature bottle of liquid. The water-activated unscented face wash turns into a foam with an ultra-fine sandy texture that cleanses, exfoliates, and moisturizes your skin. 

The Details: 30 packets, 2 x 3.5 inches each

Best Face Moisturizer

Elizabeth arden eight hour cream.

It delivers long-lasting hydration in a travel-friendly tube.

Some skin types may be sensitive to salicylic acid. 

Between the dry air in plane cabins and climate changes in a new environment, traveling can be taxing on your skin. This small but mighty tube of petroleum-based face cream delivers eight hours of hydration to help keep your skin soothed, dewy, and moisturized. Meanwhile, it’s formulated with vitamin E to repair damage caused to the skin barrier and salicylic acid to promote gentle cell turnover for healthier, smoother-looking skin. A bonus: this purse-friendly product doubles as a balm for cracked and chapped lips.

The Details: 1.7 ounces

Best Lotion

La roche-posay lipikar ap+m triple repair body cream.

The multi-tasking formula eliminates the need for multiple creams.

Be sure to layer SPF on top.

When you travel, multi-tasking products are your best friend as they allow you to lug fewer items overall. That’s why we love this prebiotic moisturizer, which can be used on your body, hands, and face. It’s packed with a combination of shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide to replenish lost moisture and soothe dry skin. The non-greasy, non-sticky formula is non-comedogenic and safe for sensitive skin. 

The Details: 2.5, 6.8, or 13.52 ounces

Best Body Wash

Glossier milky jelly cleansing bar.

It won’t count against the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons.

It’s pricey.

Another convenient multi-tasker, this nourishing cleansing bar can be used both on your body and face. And feel free to toss this ergonomically-designed soap bar in your carry-on luggage since it won’t count against the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. The fragrance-free vegan cleanser is safe to use on sensitive skin, and it’ll leave your epidermis feeling hydrated and never stripped. It uses chamomile extract to help balance and even your complexion. 

The Details: 3.85 ounces

Best Face Sunscreen

Summer fridays shadedrops spf 30 mineral milk sunscreen.

It’s enriched with vitamins, antioxidants, and soothing chamomile.

If you’re prone to sunburns, you may prefer a higher SPF value. 

Whether you’re headed beachside or hitting the ski slopes, dermatologists agree it’s imperative to protect your skin from the sun with SPF 30 or higher whenever you’re spending time outdoors. This sunscreen is formulated like a lightweight serum, so it has none of that greasy, sticky feeling of traditional sunscreen, nor will it leave a white cast on your skin. It’s formulated with zinc oxide (which is safe for sensitive skin), smoothing and plumping squalane, and a vitamin E-based antioxidant complex that helps protect skin against free-radical damage.

Best Body Sunscreen

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

It has a comfortable, lightweight formula.

 There is a faint mineral smell.

When we tested 20 different travel-sized sunscreens , this nourishing, non-greasy SPF 50 formula stood out above the rest. We particularly loved the lightweight, liquid formula, which felt more like a lotion than a sunscreen and was not as heavy or sticky as old-school sunblock tends to be.

Plus, we were able to get plenty of use out of just a small dollop of the zinc oxide-based product, making the 3-ounce a better value for the price. It offers 80 minutes of water-resistance, so it’s a great pick for beach or pool trips. Plant-based ingredients including shea butter help moisturize and soothe skin.

The Details: 3 ounces

Best Shampoo

J.r. liggett's all-natural shampoo bar.

The long-lasting bar is equal to approximately 24 ounces of liquid shampoo.

The rose, lavender, and spearmint scent may not be for everyone.  

Not only are shampoo bars more environmentally friendly (due to lack of plastic packaging) and more cost-effective (since you typically get more washes out of a bar than a bottle) than their liquid counterparts, but they’re also a mess-free, TSA-friendly option for travel.

We especially love this all-natural pick because it can also be used as a body soap, a lubricant for shaving, or for hand washing clothing items such as socks and underwear. The 100 percent vegetable oil formulation doesn’t strip the natural oils from your hair and naturally conditions it, so many people find they don’t need to use an additional conditioner after shampooing (and can therefore pack one less item).

The Details: 3.5 ounces

Best Conditioner

Pureology hydrate conditioner.

It softens and moisturizes hair while controlling frizz.

It's expensive.

When subjecting your hair to new environments while traveling, it can easily get dried out. This creamy and luxurious conditioner deeply softens and nourishes stressed hair and works to restore moisture. It’s formulated with moisturizing jojoba, health-promoting green tea, and sage, which supports hair follicles. Just a small amount of this color-safe conditioner goes a long way, making it an effective choice for travel (and it helps to balance out the hefty price tag). 

The Details: 1.7, 9, and 33.8 ounces

Best Hair Serum

Christophe robin regenerating serum.

This all-in-one hair serum hydrates dry hair and protects against heat damage.

Be sure to travel with the lid so the press pump doesn't get bumped accidentally.

This regenerating serum is the only hair care item you'll need to pack in your toiletry bag (besides shampoo and conditioner, of course). It's designed to hydrate and replenish dry hair while acting as a heat protectant for up to 440 degrees Fahrenheit. The main ingredients all have specific purposes, too, including strengthening prickly pear seed oil, nourishing tucuma butter, and castor oil to provide a healthy shine that won't leave your hair looking or feeling greasy. You only need to use a small amount so the tiny bottle takes up very little room and lasts a long time.

Best Hair Brush

Putysuun travel comb brush combo.

This compact item includes two styling tools in one.

It may feel a bit flimsy.

A hair brush can be a tricky item to pack due to its awkward shape and bristles, which can get caught on and damage vulnerable items such as knit sweaters. This combination tool includes a hair brush and a fine toothed comb in one, so you can address all your hair styling needs with a single item. The best part is that it folds up into a compact tool that won’t risk snagging other items in your luggage. When folded, it becomes a pocket-friendly size that’s easy to stash.

Best Hairspray

Sexyhair spray & play volumizing hairspray.

It protects hairstyles against humidity.

It can make your hair feel a little crunchy.

When you’re traveling, it’s impractical to pack various hairsprays, gels, and styling creams for a variety of hairstyles. Instead, rely on a single product which has numerous uses. This small but mighty hairspray has plenty of hold to keep your tresses securely in place no matter your activity.

The volumizing spray provides fullness, lift, hold, and shine, and it’s suitable for use on all hair types. If you’re headed to a hot or humid location, rest assured that the product’s humidity protection will help keep your strands from frizzing for up to 72 hours. 

The Details: 1.5, 10, or 16 ounces

Best Hand Sanitizer

Touchland hand sanitizer.

It’s formulated with moisturizing aloe vera.

The scents are strong. 

Whether you’re boarding a long-haul flight or trekking through terrain where you won’t encounter a sink for quite a while, hand sanitizer will help keep your hands clean. This flat container is extra convenient because it slides nicely into a pant or purse pocket — or you can clip it to a key ring or lanyard. The aloe vera-based formula is moisturizing, and each bottle contains 500 sprays. Choose from delicious scents like lemon-lime spritz, frosted mint, and citrus grove.

The Details: 1 ounce

Best Travel Razor

Gillette venus comfortglide white tea blades.

Courtesy of Amazon

It comes with a travel case for safe packing.

The short handle may be tougher to maneuver than a larger one. 

With a mini handle and a nifty travel case, this razor is easy and safe to toss in your toiletry bag and won’t take up too much space. The pivoting head gets into tough-to-reach areas for a smooth, close shave. The three-blade razor is surrounded by water-activated gel bars that release a rich body butter lather, guarding your skin against nicks, cuts, and irritation as you shave — and eliminating the need for an additional shaving cream.

Best Mini Deodorant

Lume whole body deodorant.

It can also be used on your feet, thighs, and anywhere else you sweat.

The roll up mechanism can stick and become defective.  

When you’re traveling, it’s helpful to pack multi-functioning products that allow you to tote fewer items overall. This full-body antiperspirant helps keep your pits, feet, and any other area where you tend to sweat feeling and smelling fresh for up to 72 hours. Powerful yet gentle, the aluminum-, paraben-, and baking soda-free formula is safe for sensitive skin. 

The Details: 2.2 ounces

Best Travel First Aid Kit

Protect life small first aid kit.

It helps ease the stress of mini emergencies.

 It doesn’t include pain medication. 

It’s always a good idea to carry first aid essentials in case of small emergencies like scrapes or splinters. Don’t let the small size of this health kit fool you: it contains 100 pieces, including numerous bandages, gauze pads, an emergency blanket, a CPR mask, tweezers, a tape roll, and more. Pack the 7.5 x 5.2 x 1.5-inch container in your backpack or purse to address minor injuries on the go without having to stop at the drugstore. 

Best Travel Toiletry Containers

Liquisnugs premium leak-proof silicone travel bottles.

The TSA-approved bottles come in two different sizes.

You may need to purchase multiple sets to accommodate all your travel liquids. 

Some of your favorite toiletries may not be available in travel-friendly sizes. That’s where these nifty refillable containers come in. Available in 2- and 3-ounce sizes (use the larger containers for liquids you use more frequently), the silicone bottles are super simple to fill with your lotions, body washes, shampoos, and more thanks to a larger opening at the top. In our testing , each individual bottle held up well and there wasn’t any spillage or damage after we tossed, turned, and dropped them in our simulations. 

The Details: 2 and 3 ounces

Best Toothbrush

Kulusion dental travel kit.

It holds your toothpaste, too.

It’ll count as a liquid if you fill it with toothpaste.  

Here’s another useful tool that can replace multiple items. This travel-sized toothbrush comes with a built-in, refillable toothpaste container, which easily releases your preferred toothpaste with the touch of a button. When shut, the contraption keeps the soft toothbrush head clean and protected. 

Best Bug Spray

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

It doesn’t have any off-putting chemical smells.

It doesn’t come in a container larger than 4 ounces.

When T+L put 16 different bug sprays to the test , this OFF! pick rose to the top of our list. What we love: the highly effective 5 percent picaridin formula has a very light scent and doesn't feel sticky at all, you may even forget you have it on. Plus, the non-leak bottle is easy to use and it disperses a fine, even mist onto skin. The 2.5-ounce size can be tossed in your carry-on luggage or it can fit in your pocket for day trips.  

The Details: 2.5 and 4 ounces

Best Dry Shampoo

Living proof perfect hair day dry shampoo.

Your hair will smell fresh and clean in between washes. 

It’s not cheap. 

The less time you spend shampooing your hair on vacation, the more time you’ll get back to enjoy your trip. On days between hair washes, you can use a dry shampoo to freshen up your tresses and say goodbye to greasy strands. Living Proof’s cult favorite version goes a step further by actually cleansing your hair, so it looks, feels, and is clean. The fragrance is nice and not overtly floral or chemical. 

The Details: 1.8, 5.5, or 9.5 ounces

Tips for Buying Travel Toiletries

Know which items you truly need.

When you pack for a trip, know you won’t necessarily need to have all the comforts of home with you. Prioritize your daily essentials including toothpaste, soap, and deodorant. Consider which items you’ll realistically use, and which ones you can do without (for instance, you may want hairspray for a trip to Paris but not for a camping excursion). If you’re staying at a hotel, think about items you may not be picky about (such as shampoo and body wash) that may be provided by the facility free of charge. 

Invest in reusable containers

You may find miniature versions of your favorite products adorable to look at, but they’re not the most sustainable or cost-effective option. Plus, your favorite brands may not even have travel-size picks available. Consider investing in reusable containers in TSA-friendly sizes. That way, you can fill them with the full-sized toiletries you already buy and you can take just as much as you need for the length of your trip. 

Use a clear, ziplock bag to store your liquids and prevent leaks. This also makes it easier to see what you have and comply with airport security regulations. Try to stock up on multi-tasking products (for instance, a lotion that can be used both on your face and body) so you’ll have to pack fewer items. Use reusable travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less for any larger items that you want to pack in a carry-on.  

Pay attention to TSA travel restrictions and make sure all your carry-on items comply with the official 3-1-1 liquids rule , which states that you can bring containers equal to or smaller than 3.4 ounces that fit in a single quart-size resealable bag. When possible, try subbing in solid alternatives to liquid toiletries (for example, a bar of soap over a liquid body wash), which are not subject to liquid restrictions and take up less space.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Talia Ergas used her experience as a beauty editor and avid traveler to research the best toiletries in every category. She also selected top-rated items from various product tests conducted by Travel + Leisure whenever possible, to ensure the highest quality selections.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Top 5 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles: Your Ultimate Packing Companions

We use affiliate links, and receive a small commission if you make purchases through them. Find out more here .

Unlock the Ultimate Guide to Airline Luggage Allowances

Don’t get caught off guard by unexpected baggage fees! With this comprehensive eBook, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

Traveling is not just about the destination; it’s about the journey and how effortlessly you can make it. Packing is an art , and with the right tools, you become the artist. Enter the realm of the best travel toiletry bottles – an essential tool in the kit of any savvy traveler.

TL;DR: The Essentials of Travel Toiletry Bottles

• Compact and TSA-Compliant : Crucial for hassle-free air travel.
• Leak-Proof Design : Keeps your luggage safe and dry.
• Variety in Size and Shape : Catering to different needs and liquids.
• Durability and Usability : Long-lasting and easy to refill.
• Eco-Friendly Options : Better for the environment and travel-friendly.

4 Pack Travel Bottles 3oz Leak Proof Travel Accessories Containers Toiletries | Best for Short Trips

The 4 Pack Travel Bottles are a solid choice for short trips and air travel, offering a fuss-free solution to your toiletry packing needs. Their simplicity and efficiency make them an excellent choice for those who value straightforward functionality.

Depoza 16 Pack Travel Bottles Set | Best Variety Pack

The Depoza 16 Pack is perfect for those who seek variety and organization in their travel essentials. Its extensive range covers almost every need, making it an excellent choice for meticulous packers.

Muslish 21 Pack Leak Proof Silicone Travel Bottles Set | Best Eco-Friendly Design

For travelers who want an all-encompassing, stylish, and sustainable option, the Muslish 21 Pack is an unbeatable choice. Its blend of functionality and design aesthetics makes it stand out.

4 Pcs Travel Size Bottles for Toiletries | Best Budget Pick

These 4 Pcs Travel Size Bottles offer a practical and economical solution for travelers prioritizing simplicity and functionality over style. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers .

Higomai Travel Bottles for Toiletries | Best for Practical Use

The Higomai Travel Bottles strike a balance between functionality and practical design, making them suitable for those who prefer straightforward, reliable toiletry solutions.

What Exactly Are the Best Travel Toiletry Bottles?

Travel toiletry bottles are small, portable containers designed for carrying liquids and gels during travel. They range from simple plastic bottles to more sophisticated silicone options, each with unique features like squeezability, leak-proof caps, and ease of refilling. The subcategories include spray bottles , pump bottles, and standard screw-top bottles.

The Top 8 Brands in the Realm of Travel Toiletry Bottles

• Nalgene – Known for durability and a wide range of sizes.
• GoToob – Popular for their silicone body and leak-proof cap.
• Muji – Stylish, minimalistic design coupled with functionality.
• Sea to Summit – Great for rugged travel, known for their resilience.
• Matador – Innovative flat-pack design for space-saving.
• eBags – Offers a variety of kits with assorted sizes.
• Dot&Dot – Flexible and easy-to-squeeze silicone tubes.
• Oursunshine – Cost-effective and reliable for short trips.

Each brand presents its unique set of features, from eco-friendliness to ergonomic designs, catering to different travel needs.

7 Key Buying Criteria for Travel Toiletry Bottles

• Size and Capacity : Must comply with TSA standards.
• Material Quality : Look for BPA-free plastics or silicone.
• Leak-Proof Design : Essential to prevent spillage.
• Ease of Use : Should be easy to fill, clean, and dispense.
• Durability : Should withstand the rigors of travel.
• Aesthetics and Design : Choose a style that suits your taste.
• Eco-Friendliness : Consider the environmental impact.

Relevant Content in Context

• Statistics : Statista reports that 26% of U.S. travelers purchased travel-sized toiletries in 2020, underscoring their popularity.
• Fact : TSA’s rule allows 3.4-ounce bottles in carry-on luggage, making travel toiletry bottles a necessity.
• Quote : Travel guru Rick Steves remarks, “I pack light with mini-toiletries… I have my own little plastic bottles,” highlighting the significance of these items in travel.

Potential Weaknesses and Issues

• Leakage : Check for secure, tight-fitting caps.
• Material Degradation : Look for signs of wear in silicone or plastic.
• Inconvenient Design : Ensure ease of filling and cleaning.

5 Quality Tests for Travel Toiletry Bottles

• Leak Test : Fill with water and place under pressure.
• Durability Test : Squeeze and twist to check resilience.
• Ease of Cleaning : Try washing and drying them.
• Refill Test : Assess how easy it is to refill.
• Compatibility Test : Check with different types of liquids.

Buyer Avatars: Identifying Your Needs

• The Eco-Conscious Traveler : Focus on sustainable materials.
• The Frequent Flyer : Prioritize TSA-compliance and durability.
• The Budget Backpacker : Look for value and versatility.

FAQs: Your Travel Toiletry Bottle Queries Answered

• Q: What is the ideal size for a travel toiletry bottle? A: The ideal size is under 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters to comply with TSA rules.
• Q: Are silicone bottles better than plastic? A: Silicone bottles are often more flexible and durable, but the choice depends on personal preference.
• Q: How do I prevent my travel bottles from leaking? A: Choose bottles with a reliable, leak-proof design, and always test them before traveling.
• Q: Can I bring multiple travel toiletry bottles on a plane? A: Yes, as long as each bottle is under the TSA limit and they all fit in a single quart-sized bag.
• Q: Are there eco-friendly travel toiletry bottles? A: Yes, look for options made from recycled materials or biodegradable plastics.
• Q: How often should I replace my travel toiletry bottles? A: Replace them if you notice any signs of wear or if they start to leak.
• Q: Can I carry alcohol-based products in these bottles? A: Yes, but ensure the bottle material is compatible with alcohol-based liquids.
• Q: Are travel toiletry bottles expensive? A: They vary in price, but there are affordable options with good quality.

This post is also available in: English

You Might Also Enjoy

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Featured in

GET CONNECTED

Follow Clever Journey on social media for travel tips, packing hacks, and latest updates!

SUB TO NEWSLETTER

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest travel tips, packing hacks, gear reviews, and bargain deals straight to your inbox. We hate spam, so we’ll send only the most important stuff.