mesh bag travel clothes

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Products
• Luggage + Bags
• Organizers + Accessories

The 13 Best Travel Laundry Bags of 2024

Our favorite picks include everything from breathable mesh bags to waterproof options.

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 / Alli Waataja

When it comes to the gamut of travel essentials, a laundry bag often goes unnoticed until it’s needed (usually at the point in the trip when your soiled clothing items begin to outnumber your clean ones.) However, the right travel laundry bag can transform your journey from a cluttered mess to an organized adventure. 

Whether you're backpacking through Europe, embarking on a business trip, or simply taking a weekend getaway, these travel laundry bags ensure that your clothes stay clean and odor-free, and that your dirty items are kept separate until the next time they reach the washing machine. From breathable mesh bags to waterproof options, there's a travel laundry bag suited to every traveler's needs.

Best Overall

Eagle creek isolate clean/dirty cube.

Isolated compartments make it easy to separate your laundry based on clothing type and level of soil.

The zipper closure doesn’t go all the way around the bag.

This innovative bag features a dual-compartment design that allows for the separation of clean and dirty clothes, ensuring your garments stay fresh and orderly throughout your journey. The clean side provides a dedicated space for neatly folded clothing, while the dirty side accommodates used garments, keeping them isolated and contained to prevent odor transfer to clean items. This dual functionality eliminates the hassle of rummaging through luggage to find specific items and simplifies the packing and unpacking process. It’s a total game-changer for travelers. 

Another detail that sets the Eagle Creek Cube apart is its premium construction: crafted from high-quality, durable materials, this bag is built to withstand the rigors of travel, ensuring reliability trip after trip. Its lightweight design adds minimal bulk to luggage, maximizing packing space without compromising on functionality. We love that the Cube's breathable fabric on one side promotes air circulation, helping to prevent mildew buildup, while the opposite side is sturdier to lock in odor or moisture. This pack is also super versatile — whether embarking on a weekend getaway or an extended adventure, it effortlessly adapts to different packing needs. Keep in mind, though, that the more you pack into the side with clean clothes, the less room you will have for dirty clothes that accumulate (especially if you also brought another pack or suitcase). 

The Details: 10 x 14.25 x 4.5 inches | 100 percent polyester ripstop | 2.7 ounces

Best Organization

Travelon set of 7 packing envelopes.

A variety of seven different sizes makes it easy to find the right place for all your soiled items.

The plastic construction of these bags makes them sturdy rather than flexible.

Rather than one larger pack, this set by Travelon includes seven envelopes of ascending size. Each envelope is crafted to accommodate different types of clothing or travel essentials, from wet bathing suits or underwear to hiking shoes or sweatshirts, ensuring an organized approach to packing your belongings big and small. Whether separating clean clothes from dirty ones or categorizing items by type or usage, these envelopes provide an easy solution for travelers trying to keep track of their belongings on the go. The durable construction of these packing envelopes also ensures longevity throughout countless journeys — crafted from clear printed mesh PVC, they’re great for protecting clothing and accessories. The transparent design of the envelopes allows for easy identification of contents, so you don’t waste time rummaging. 

The Details: 6.5 x 5 inches (small), 13.25 x 9.5 inches (large) | Clear printed mesh PVC | 0.63 pounds

Best Water-Resistant

Alo keep it dry fitness bag.

It’s perfect for keeping wet swimsuits or sweaty fitness gear contained.

Its medium size makes it better for quick journeys.

Crafted with durable Tyvek and featuring a top buckle snap enclosure, this bag by Alo ensures that your laundry remains protected from moisture and water damage, making it perfect for travelers who frequently encounter wet or humid environments. Its water-resistant exterior shields your clothes from rain, spills, or accidental splashes, providing peace of mind during your adventures. Its lightweight, easy-to-carry design offers an easy solution if you need to bring your soiled linens to the laundry while traveling — perfect for after a big day of adventuring. Adaptable and stylish, it also works for trekking through rainforests or on your way back from yoga class.

The Details: Tyvek | Water-resistant

Best Compression

Gonex compression packing cubes.

These compression cubes ensure your soiled clothing doesn’t take up the bulk of your luggage space.

Be careful not to clamp your clothing with the zipper, or it could get stuck.

This set of four expandable packing organizers by Gonex allows you to maximize space in your luggage by compressing clothing, reducing bulk, and optimizing the storage capacity in your suitcase or duffel. The compression feature not only saves valuable space. but also helps to keep belongings neatly organized and odor free throughout the journey. They also prevent clothes from shifting and becoming wrinkled during transit. Crafted from premium nylon material, these packing cubes ensure long-lasting performance trip after trip, and each feature a handy top handle that makes them easy to individually carry. The set includes four cubes of ascending sizes, helping with the separation of various types of soiled linens. Since dirty clothes tend to take up tons of space as a trip goes on, these compression pouches ensure that they stay tidy and unobstructed. 

The Details: 4 bags | 17.3 x 13 x 3.54 inches (extra-large), 14.5 x 10.6 x 3.54 inches (large), 11.8 x 8.9 x 3.54 inches (medium), 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.54 inches (small) | Ripstop nylon | 0.75 pounds

Best Odor Blocking

Stnky wash bag.

Crafted with health workers in mind, this bag keeps your soiled linens (and their odors) from interacting with your clean ones.

While it has a small carrying loop, there is no larger handle.

This unique laundry bag by STNKY incorporates both an inner mesh bag and an outer layer made from odor-resistant polyester material. The clever design ensures that travelers never have to touch their soiled clothing, since dirty laundry is cradled by the inner layer, attached at the top of the bag’s interior. The inner mesh bag is made with zippers at both the top and bottom, so when travelers arrive home from a trip or pay a visit to the laundromat during their travels, they can simply unzip the bottom zipper and then unattach it from the outer. The entire mesh pouch can be thrown in the wash and in the dryer. It makes sense that the bag is favored by health care professionals such as nurses, doctors and EMTs who rely on the bag to keep themselves and their loved ones safe when bringing home scrubs. For those on the go, it means never having to come in contact with used airport outfits (or their odors) until they are fresh out of the wash. 

The Details: 16 x 14 x 0.3 inches | Polyester | 0.26 pounds

Best Durable

Thule clean/dirty packing cube.

Crafted from ultra rugged materials, this travel laundry container was designed with durability in mind.

Some might wish it could fit more inside, due to its dual compartments.

Crafted with high-quality materials, this packing cube by Thule ensures longevity and reliability for travelers entering even the most rugged of conditions. Its durable construction, featuring waterproof 100D ripstop nylon, YKK zippers and reinforced stitching, withstands the rigors of constant travel, ensuring that it remains intact trip after trip. Whether tossed into a suitcase, backpack, or carry-on, the Thule Clean/Dirty Packing Cube maintains its structural integrity, safeguarding your garments throughout your journey. Separate compartments meant for clean and dirty laundry allow for effortless organization while on the go, and the waterproof lining in the dirty clothing compartment locks in odor and moisture. 

The Details: 7.87 x 9.45 x 13.39 inches | Nylon | 0.4 pounds

Best Large Capacity

Aurflo jumbo mesh laundry bag - set of 2.

This dual set of extra large laundry bags is perfect for a longer trip.

There is no outer layer, so it might not be best for wet items.

With its spacious design and breathable-yet-tough material, this duo of laundry bags offers ample room to accommodate tons of dirty clothing, making it perfect for extended trips or family vacations. Since there are two that come with your order, it’s also easy for a couple to separate their soiled linens, or to separate dark and light colors. The latter is especially helpful as these are machine washable, so pre-sorted laundry post-trip becomes a breeze. Once in the washer and dryer, the bags help to protect your clothing as well. It’s also a plus that the mesh material not only provides breathability to prevent odors but also allows for easy identification of contents, ensuring efficient sorting. The inclusion of a sturdy drawstring closure and a loop for hanging or carrying adds to its versatility and usability while on the go. 

The Details: 24 x 20 x 0.5 inches | Polyester blend | 0.3 pounds

Veken 8 Set Packing Cubes

This travel organization set will not only keep your dirty laundry sorted, but your entire suitcase.

The laundry bag itself is not machine washable.

For travelers looking to hit eight birds with one stone, this complete set includes not only a laundry bag, but also four packing cubes, a shoe bag, a toiletry bag, and a small pouch. The packing cubes come in various sizes, allowing you to efficiently utilize every inch of your luggage space. A classic drawstring laundry bag can be used for all dirty clothes on short trips, or can function as the bag for storing your smelliest items. The other cubes in the set can be set aside for sorting other types of soiled linens. 

The Details: 20 x 14 inches (laundry bag) | Polyester | 1.26 pounds

Best Machine Washable

Grove co. laundry bag set.

This machine washable set will also protect your delicates when not traveling.

They may not be spacious enough for longer trips.

This duo of delicates bags is great for use at home and while traveling, providing you with a way to sort and protect your laundry all year round. Crafted from sustainably sourced machine washable mesh, they’re created by Grove Collaborative, which specializes in green household and personal care products. The machine washable mesh material makes it easy to see what’s inside, but contrasting colorful zippers also make it easy to identify which bag is which, in addition to their different sizes. While traveling, the bags are a great way to sort your dark and light-colored clothing, keeping them separate from your clean clothes and from one another before popping each into the wash. The bags are also dryer-friendly, which makes wash day much more seamless. 

The Details: 16 x 18.25 inches (large), 11.5 x 14.5 inches (medium)  | Polyester mesh | 0.16 pounds

Best Collapsible

Honoma sturdy mesh laundry hamper basket.

It’s not only super portable, but incredibly affordable.

It can take up a lot of room if overstuffed.

Affordable, light and collapsible, this laundry bag provides some major bang for your buck without taking up virtually any room when empty. It’s constructed from thick mesh with sturdy side paneling, and can be purchased in a horizontal or vertical configuration. Its large capacity means it can hold tons of soiled laundry, making it a good option if you plan on staying in one accommodation for an extended period of time, and doing your laundry while traveling. An additional side pocket is perfect for stowing a travel-sized laundry detergent, and sturdy carrying straps make it easy to take it from point A to point B. The sturdy nature of this laundry bag might not make it the best option for shorter journeys or those where you might be moving around frequently, as you won’t be able to easily pop it into a suitcase when full. 

The Details: 23 x 14  x 14 inches | Polyester | 0.5 pounds

Quiet Town Re:Canvas Laundry Bag Pine

It is both colorful and well-constructed.

There is only one large compartment, which doesn’t allow for sectioning laundry.

Crafted from durable, heavyweight cotton canvas, this bag by Brooklyn-based brand Quiet Town exudes playful elegance with its minimalist design and bold colors. The thoughtful inclusion of sturdy bright blue backpack straps ensures easy portability, so locals will be none the wiser that you’re toting dirty laundry around. The spacious interior provides ample room for stowing away your unlaundered garments, but be aware that there is only one large compartment. There is a small compartment on the front of the bag for laundry detergent, though, and a smaller one at the top of the interior compartment that would be perfect for coins or dryer sheets. Its collapsible design allows for effortless storage in your bags when not in use, making it an ideal choice for space-conscious travelers, and its attractive design means you can even use it as a normal backpack when the laundry is all done. 

The Details: 31 x 15 inches | Cotton canvas | 2 pounds

Dagne Dover Rae Roll-Top Dry Bag

Dagne Dover

This small travel bag is perfect for transporting a wet swimsuit or sweaty garments.

It won't fit more than a few garments.

This compact laundry bag features a roll-top design that not only maximizes space, but also ensures a secure closure, keeping odors and moisture at bay. Constructed from durable waterproof nylon with a roll and clip closure, it’s perfect to pop into your backpack before traveling to the beach or lake, or for use after a strenuous, sweat-inducing hike. Despite its petite size, the Rae Roll-Top Dry Bag boasts just enough room for storing dirty garments, making it ideal for short trips or as a supplemental laundry solution in larger luggage. A wipeable interior also means you can get multiple uses from it on one trip — if you aren’t using it for laundry at any one time, it can also store snacks for a hike or produce picked up from the local market.

The Details: 5.25 x 1”x 11 inches | Nylon | 0.21 pounds

Best for At Home and On the Go

Crate & barrel white canvas hamper liner.

Crate & Barrel

This simple but effective laundry bag easily works for both home and travel use.

It’s not waterproof.

For those who don’t have the storage space for multiple laundry bags, or simply want one that can do double duty, this classic laundry bag from Crate & Barrel is a great option. Made to fit inside of a hamper, it has drawstrings at the top and a sturdy carrying strap that also makes it easy to tote your laundry from the hamper to the wash, or to the laundromat while you’re traveling. Crafted from cotton canvas, it’s also machine washable, and can pack up tightly to fit into your suitcase or duffel bag. 

The Details: 15.5  x 15.5  x 27.5 inches | 100 percent cotton

Tips for Buying a Travel Laundry Bag

Prioritize materials the suit your needs.

When shopping for a travel laundry bag, it's crucial to pick one crafted from a material that aligns with your specific needs and travel style. Firstly, consider the durability of the bag. Opt for high-quality materials like ripstop nylon or polyester that can withstand frequent use and potential rough handling during travels. A durable laundry bag ensures longevity and reliability, preventing unexpected tears or damage that could compromise its functionality mid-journey. Additionally, prioritize water-resistant or waterproof materials if you anticipate exposure to moisture or inclement weather. This feature helps safeguard your clean clothes from accidental spills, rain showers, or damp environments, ensuring they stay dry and odor-free until laundry day. For those not anticipating rugged travels, and or anyone who prefers to prioritize washability, look for breathable mesh.

Consider the bag’s features

Each type of material presents an advantage. Polyester and nylon are both lightweight synthetic fibers that are designed to endure wear and tear. Polyester will repel water while nylon will absorb water. Neither are breathable, but natural fibers such as cotton are. Pay attention to what material best suits your needs and style of travel.

Those who travel with delicate garments will likely want a breathable, protective bag that can fold or hang. Others who travel under intense weather conditions should look for a durable, waterproof option. Adventure enthusiasts will likely want a laundry bag that allows clothing to breathe and prevents bacterial growth between adrenaline-pumping activities. You'll also want a bag that has a secure closure that's easy to use and won't break even if you fully stuff the bag with dirty items.

After investing in an excellent travel laundry bag, the last thing you want is to buy another one due to a defect or a short return period. Check the company policies to ensure you can get a refund should you need to exchange the laundry bag for a different option that better suits you. It is always worth noting the warranty as well as learning about free replacements and the corresponding time frame of availability.

Using a laundry bag while traveling is helpful for several reasons. First, it helps to keep your clean clothes separate from the dirty ones, maintaining organization and hygiene in your luggage. It also prevents odors and stains from spreading to other items, preserving the freshness of your garments throughout your trip. Many travelers find that using a laundry bag facilitates efficient unpacking, and it also helps speed up your wash if you have opted to use machine-washable, color-sorted bags.

Most mesh laundry bags can be thrown directly into the washer and dryer, solving the problem of washing the bag itself. Nylon and polyester laundry bags can usually be wiped clean with a wet cloth and mild soap. Before washing your travel laundry bag, make sure to double check the manufacturer's care instructions.

Some laundry bags can go in the dryer, but it depends on the material they're made of. Mesh or fabric laundry bags are generally safe for dryer use, but it's essential to check the care instructions first. Some laundry bags may be more prone to shrinking or melting in high heat, so it's crucial to follow the recommended drying settings to avoid damaging the bag. Additionally, if the bag contains any plastic components like zippers or drawstrings, it's usually best to air dry them.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L contributor Austa Somvichian-Clausen is a travel writer and published author living in New York City. She has been covering travel and lifestyle content since 2017, and travels frequently for work, often for long periods of time. Her irregular travel schedule makes it necessary for her to organize and clean her clothes on-the-go. To find the best travel laundry bags, she also relied on research, gear tests, and more.

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

• Change Location
• Contact & FAQ
• Dealer Locator

Garment Mesh Bag

• Size S S M M L L
• Color Spicy Orange Spicy Orange Spicy Orange Atoll Blue Atoll Blue High Rise Grey High Rise Grey

SIZE GUIDE: Underwear, socks and/or small garments

DIMENSIONS: 9.8 x 7.5 x 3.5 in | 25 x 19 x 9 cm

WEIGHT: 2.1 oz | 60 g

Our Garment Mesh Bags are ideal for fast, compartmentalized packing organization. These lightweight, travel bags keep your clothes neat, organized and crease-free. They come in three different sizes for all your travel needs.

Features Read more Product Details Learn more .desc-feat { margin-bottom: 30px; } .desc-feat ul { margin: 0px; padding: 0px; } .desc-feat ul li { line-height: 200%; } document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', function() { let $el = $('#accordion1 ul').first().clone(); $('.desc-feat').append($el); }) Find Locally Product Locator by Locally Pair it with Hydraulic Packing Cube Hydraulic Packing Cube

Hydraulic Packing Cube Set

Description

• Super-light, strong and water-resistant Ultra-Sil fabric made with CORDURA® Nylon yarn.
• Ultra lightweight and packs flat when empty.
• Durable zippers and hypalon grab tags for easy, secure opening and closing.
• Large: fits multiple shirts, sweaters and/or trousers
• Medium: fits multiple shirts, tee-shirts and/or shorts
• Small: fits underwear, socks and/or small garments

Technical Features

An incredibly lightweight yet durable fabric used in a large number of Sea to Summit products. The 30 denier bluesign Approved nylon is made with CORDURA® yarns for strength. A Non-PFC DWR finish on the outer face helps to shed water.

 The inside is polyurethane-coated – in dry bags, the seams are seam-taped.

 The hydrostatic head is greater than 2000mm – more than adequately waterproof for the types of environments Ultra-Sil dry bags, stuff sacks and compression sacks are intended for.

Cordura® is a special type of nylon yarn used for its strength. These yarns form the heart of the siliconized Ultra-Sil™ fabric, used in:

• Storage products: Ultra-Sil™ Dry Bags, Ultra-Sil™ Stuff Sacks, Ultra-Sil™ Compression Sacks
• Camping/Backpacking Accessories: Ultra-Sil™ Pack Covers, Ultra-Sil™ Folding Bucket and Kitchen Sink
• Travel products: Garment Mesh Bags, Toiletry Bags etc
• Travel Essentials: Ultra-Sil™ Daypack, Ultra-Sil™ Dry Daypack, Ultra-Sil™ Shopping Bag
• Best Use Travel
• Material(s) Ultra-Sil nylon
• Waterproof Water-Resistant
• Zip Options Durable zips

Frequently Asked questions

Is it easy to use.

Definitely. The rectangular shape of the bags have enough structure for packing and they unzip completely to get clothes in and out easily.

Is it water-resistant?

The material of the main compartment is water-resistant, but the top of the garment back is made of mesh and will let water and moisture inside.

Is it worth the added weight and cost?

We think so! These bags offer protection and organization to keep your travel less complicated. Once you've experienced modular packing with ultralight, easy to pack, mesh bags, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.

Our warehouse is actively shipping orders from 8am to 1pm MST Monday through Friday. Most orders ship in one business day, but the transit time can take up to 7 days, depending on your distance from Boulder, Colorado. 2nd Day and Next Day Air orders will ship same day if placed by 1pm MST, Monday-Friday (except holidays). All orders are eligible for fast and easy returns within 60 days of purchase. For more details, please check out our Help Center

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

You've qualified for free shipping

Shipping & tax calculated at checkout. US & CA shipping only.

We ship to the following countries

• Other Country in the Region

Are you sure?

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

The 7 Best Travel Laundry Bags in 2024 [Mesh, Canvas, Nylon]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

777 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

32 Published Articles 3126 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Travel Laundry Bag Considerations

1. best for big loads of laundry, 2. wash your own clothes on the go, 3. a stylish and discreet laundry bag for fashionable travelers, 4. an extra-large laundry bag for even bigger adventures, 5. perfect for use both at home and away, 6. the perfect 2-piece travel laundry bag set, 7. protect your delicate items in the wash, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Nothing spoils a suitcase full of fresh, clean clothes quicker than a pile of dirty laundry. Keep your clean clothes away from unwanted odors or find ways to wash your small items on the go with a specially-designed travel laundry bag for your next big adventure.

Being able to wash your dirty clothes while you are away helps to cut down on the amount of luggage you need to pack and keeps you feeling fresh and clean on the go.

Whether you choose to use your hotel’s laundry facilities or save your washing until you get back, using a laundry bag will keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones.

Most travel laundry bags are compact and pretty basic and will fold up small when not in use for ease of transport. While you are away, use these bags to help separate your dirty clothing from your clean ones, and when you find a laundromat, simply take your laundry bag with you and leave the rest of your wardrobe back at the base.

Material and Hygiene

Made from lightweight, washable, and breathable materials, travel laundry bags can also be washed to help prevent the build-up of grimy odors.

This is especially important if you are heading somewhere warm and humid, as damp, dirty clothing can soon become moldy if left in cramped conditions in material that doesn’t breathe. To prevent this from happening, look for a bag made from mesh, cotton, or water-resistant fabrics .

If you have a lot of laundry to take to the cleaners, consider investing in a bag made from heavy-duty fabrics that will be able to cope with the additional weight of damp and dirty clothing, or consider taking more than 1 laundry bag with you if you want to keep stinky gym gear away from wet bathing suits, and all of your dirty clothes separated from your clean ones.

You should also pay attention to the way in which your laundry bag closes. While both drawstring and zipper closures do essentially the same thing, a drawstring can double up as a carry handle for trips to the laundry.

Hot Tip: If you are traveling as a couple or a family, you may want to consider buying a set of bags so that you can have 1 each or more to easily separate different types of laundry on the go.

The 7 Best Travel Laundry Bags

Whether you hand them to the hotel porter, hit the laundromat, or wash and wipe with drinking water, keeping your clothes clean on the go makes for lighter luggage . There is a huge variety of laundry bags to choose from, but these are some of our favorites.

HOMEST 2 Pack XL Wash Me Travel Laundry Bag

Strong and durable while still being compact and easy to carry with you, this 2-pack of extra-large laundry bags has double-stitched and superstrong seams to prevent tears or ripping while in use. Measuring a spacious 28 x 40 inches each, these bags can easily hold 3 to 4 loads of laundry , making them just as useful at home or college as they are on the road.

With a drawstring closure that provides an easy-to-access opening, this bag can handle lots of dirty clothing, yet still fold up incredibly small when it is empty. Perfect for camping trips, backpacking , and hiking, these are also an excellent choice if you want to keep your towels and pillows clean while you are away.

What We Like

• Available in a range of colors

What We Don’t Like

• White writing can flake off the bag after washing

Scrubba Portable Wash Bag

This clever portable washing device allows you to scrub your clothes clean, even when you have limited access to water. With a flexible textured washboard hidden away on the inside , you can wash your clothes in an instant by simply adding water and detergent to the Scrubba wash bag, sealing it tight, and rubbing it for 3 minutes before rinsing with water.

Made from 100 percent synthetic material and weighing just over 5 ounces, this pocket-size washing machine is perfect for taking away with you and has been designed to keep underwear, socks, and smaller items of clothing clean on the go. The Scrubba portable wash bag is a great idea for adventurers who like to wander far from the beaten path.

• Saves expensive laundry bills in hotels or on cruise ships
• It only fits a few items at a time

Miamica Laundry Bag

This pretty laundry bag will keep your dirty items separate from your clean ones and offer extra storage space while you are away.

The subtle gray coloring with rose gold lettering offers an elegant take on traditional drawstring laundry bags , and if this colorway doesn’t suit your personal style, there are plenty of other designs and colors to choose from. Easy to zip out and fold up small again, this bag is made from a lightweight microfiber material that is also moisture- and tear-resistant.

With a drawstring closure for easy loading and unloading, this ladies’ laundry bag folds flat enough to be tucked away in your suitcase or carried on for the outward journey. The zipper closure will ensure that your dirty items stay safely separated from your clean ones on the way home.

• Folds up into a small portable bag
• Fabric is quite thin

Nylon Laundry Bag

Made from top-quality nylon fabric, this travel laundry bag is incredibly durable, with strong double-stitched seams to prevent rips and tears.

Large enough to fit several loads of washing in at 1 time, the bag also comes complete with a drawstring slider that closes neatly without the need for fiddly knots. Available in a wide range of colors, you can even choose a laundry bag that matches your luggage .

Compact enough to fold flat for your outward journey, you can use this as a standalone bag for trips to the laundromat while you are away, or simply use it to separate your dirty items from your clean ones until you get back home again.

• Fits a lot of clothing
• No handle for easy carrying

HOMEST 2 Pack Large Nylon Laundry Bag With Strap

With a supersize capacity in both bags, this 2 piece set is perfect for long vacations or family-sized trips away. Made from super-tough nylon fabric , these bags can more than handle being full to the brim with enough room to comfortably hold 3 to 4 loads of laundry every time.

The locking drawstring closure will ensure that your items stay safely separated from your clean clothes on the go, as and the wide shoulder strap provides a practical solution for trips to the laundromat or hotel laundry while you are away.

With each bag measuring 28 x 40 inches, these brilliant nylon laundry bags come in a wide range of colors and can even be used for storing pillows or bedding for camping trips, vacation rentals, or even back at home.

• Has a sturdy shoulder strap for easy carrying
• Too large for short trips

Cotton Craft 2-Pack Extra-Large Cotton Canvas Heavy-Duty Laundry Bags

Made from soft and breathable 100 percent cotton material, this set of 2 extra-large laundry bags is the perfect accessory for your next adventure. The heavy-duty material is lightweight but incredibly durable , and the drawstring cinch-top with cord lock offers super-easy and secure closing on the go.

Fold the clean bags flat for your outbound journey, then keep your dirty, smelly clothing separated from your clean items when you reach your destination. If you need to wash while you are away, these bags are perfect for hauling your dirties to the hotel laundry or simply filling them up, ready for washing when you get home.

• Drawstring cord for quick and easy access
• Can shrink after washing

Set of 5 Mesh Laundry Bags

Keep your laundry super-organized with this impressive set of 5 matching laundry bags. Containing 1 jumbo bag, 2 extra-large bags, and 2 medium bags, this set is perfect for short trips, family vacations, and longer stays.

Made from durable and breathable polyester material, these bags are designed to be used to keep your lingerie and delicates safe in the washing machine.

The see-through mesh design makes it easy to identify which items are in the bags , and these clever little storage bags can also be used to help organize your suitcase. Machine washable at 140 degrees and suitable for use in the tumble dryer, you can quickly throw your dirty laundry in the machine when you get home.

With snag-proof zippers, you can also be sure of a quiet and efficient wash that protects your delicates from tangling during the laundry process.

• Can be used to protect your delicates while washing
• Zippers are a bit fragile

Whether you choose to invest in a bag that will wash your clothes for you, even with just a touch of water, or just a simple cotton laundry bag to keep your dirties away from cleans, a laundry bag is a useful addition to your travel collection that you won’t want to be without.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you wash laundry in a bag.

Depending on the bag, you can wash your laundry in a bag. You should try and wash your laundry in a mesh bag, and it shouldn’t be too full either. This method of washing is particularly good for delicates as it protects them during the wash cycle.

What can I use instead of a laundry bag?

If you’re in a pinch, you can use a pillowcase instead of a laundry bag to wash delicates and underwear.

How do you wash a laundry bag?

You can wash a laundry bag at the same time as your regular laundry. If, however, there are strong odors, you can put it on a separate wash using heavy-duty detergent.

How do you separate dirty clothes in a suitcase?

There are 2 simple methods for separating dirty clothes in your suitcase. The first is to use a travel laundry bag, or you can use packing cubes with some dedicated to clean clothes and others for dirty ones.

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

How to Pack Dirty Laundry While Traveling

Packing , Packing Tips

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

The last thing we want to think about is traveling with dirty laundry. If you’d rather not take a trip to a laundromat, find out how to handle your dirty clothes on the road.

Traveling With Dirty Laundry

Table of contents.

Travel Fashion Girl help! A reader asks:

I’d like some input on how you handle dirty laundry. I usually put it in the top mesh pocket, but since I’m trying to pack more efficiently, I’m discovering that often this results in too much bulk. I’ve got a husband and two young sons so we generate a lot of dirty clothes when we travel that I’d really prefer to not handle as much as possible. Thanks in advance!

Traveling is supposed to be enjoyable and many of us want to avoid washing our clothes while on the road. However, when you forego washing, it usually means more bulk in your luggage, which makes minimalist traveling difficult.

While we recommend ways to do laundry while traveling for long trips so you don’t have to pack as much, you can usually get away without doing laundry for shorter trips where you can re-wear some of your items without them feeling dirty and keep them stored compactly in your bag once you’re done wearing them. Yet, sometimes doing laundry is necessary, even on a short trip! 

We’ve asked TFG readers to share their recommendations on how to handle dirty laundry while traveling, and this is what they had to say:

Compass Rose Packing Cubes

Bring an Extra Packing Cube for Your Laundry

If you’re using packing cubes for your clean clothing, why not your dirty laundry? Bring an extra packing cube and dedicate it to your dirty laundry. Use a different colored packing cube so you don’t mix clean items with unwashed clothes.

One reader says, “I find that bringing an additional packing cube is ideal. I have a certain one that is only ever used for laundry,” While another adds, “I use a large sized packing cube. When I do laundry, I dump the clothes and the packing cube into the washer and dryer. Everything gets a fresh start!”

Watch the packing tutorial on Youtube !

In 2017, I launched Compass Rose Travel Accessories and my very first product was a 4-Piece Set of Carryon Packing Cubes . These are the only packing cubes sized to fit the exact width of a carry-on suitcase and they also have a unique color-coded and numbered organization system —the only kind currently available anywhere on the market.

I put together a five-part YouTube series showing you the different methods to use packing cubes. If you use this specific packing strategy, they can also compress your belongings. This is the secret to traveling carry-on only!

Buy Compass Rose Packing Cubes here !

Handy Laundry Nylon Laundry Bag

Use a Dirty Laundry Bag

If you’re traveling as a family and think you’ll have a considerable amount of dirty laundry, a dirty clothes travel bag can be more efficient than Ziplocks. This nylon dirty laundry bag is compact, so it won’t add too much bulk to your luggage.

One reader says, “I bring a lightweight laundry bag that I hang in the bathroom.” Another adds, “I take the same type of bag and have one for each member of the family.”

Take a look these easy ways on how to do laundry while traveling!

Foldable Cloth Storage Box

Organize With Suitcase Compartments or Separators

For those who love to keep their items organized, take advantage of luggage that has multiple compartments, or add your own separators. You can easily see everything you have with foldable storage boxes as shown above.

One reader says, “My suitcase is divided, so the shoes and laundry go in a separate compartment,” while another says, “I try and keep my laundry to one side of my carry-on if possible.”

Check out more tips on how to save space in your carryon !

Travel Space Saver Bags

Compress Your Dirty Laundry With Compression Bags

If you’re tight on space, travel compression bags can save the day. They work like a Ziplock bag but remove the air so the bag packs flat. One reader says, “I put laundry in a compression bag. Works like a charm.”

Another reader shares, “I use plastic compression travel bags. You seal the zipper then roll to remove air. You can also lay on top them for a few seconds to remove the air. I found that is easiest.”

Check out the best packing organizers that will allow you to travel carry-on only!

Ziploc Jumbo Big Bags

Utilize Ziplocks for a Dirty Clothes Bag

Sometimes the easiest solution is right in your kitchen. Several readers recommended relying on Ziplocks as a dirty clothes bag. Since Ziplock bags seal, you can prevent any smells from penetrating your clean clothing.

One reader says, “I use gallon Ziplock bags . They compress pretty flat! I actually take Ziplock bags, large and small, when I travel. They come in handy for lots of uses!” 

Another reader adds, “I keep my dirty clothing separate in the other half of my bag in Ziplocks or plastic grocery bags.”

You can also use ziplock to store some of your toiletries !

Febreze Air Freshener

Spritz Dirty Laundry With Febreze

Depending on where you’re traveling and what activities you’re doing, some clothes may just need a little refreshing. This is where a fabric spray comes in handy. Febreze keeps away odors so you can wear your clothing several times during your trip.

One reader says, “I always take a travel size Febreze spray bottle and spray away!” The travel size bottle is perfect for carry-on travel. You likely don’t even need a full three ounces. We recommend decanting it into a smaller one-ounce bottle.

Here are six dirty little secrets travelers use on how to make clothes smell fresh on the go!

Best Dirty Laundry Travel Bag

One of the best ways to keep your unwashed clothes separate from your clean ones is to use bags for dirty clothes. With that in mind, we’ve gathered a collection of the best ones for you!

Bagail Mesh Laundry Bags

Mesh Dirty Clothes Bag for Travel

If you fancy yourself a color coordinating fanatic, then Bagail Mesh Laundry Bags are for you. You can use this travel dirty clothes bag system to store and separate your clothes—there is a black bag for your dark clothes and four white bags for light colored clothes. 

Being able to see through the mesh makes it easy to tell what is where, and the breathable fabric means your clothes will protect your delicates. Plus, you can throw the bags right into the washing machine!

Use a capsule wardrobe to pack light but create many outfits. Learn more in my guide !

Scrubba Wash Bag

Portable Laundry Bag for Travel

The Scrubba Wash Bag is not only one of the best laundry bags for travel, but it also washes clothes! It’s perfect for those longer trips where you don’t want to pack a whole ton of clothes but still need something to wear.

You can use this clean dirty laundry travel bag to ensure that you never run out of clothes by doing your laundry using a quick-and-easy method. Just add soap!

Learn how to hand wash clothing while traveling. We talk about using the Scrubba Wash Bag, too!

Allurette Scrubba Wash Bag

Laundry Bag for Delicates 

For travelers with delicate clothing, the lightweight  Allurette Scrubba Wash Bag is perfect. While the original Scrubba works brilliantly for to clean your regular and technical clothing, the Allurette will gently wash all your delicates including bras and underwear. You can also use it to store dirty clothing when on the move!

Check out these picks for the best travel laundry soap according to TFG readers!

Mimica Laundry Bag

Compact Dirty Clothes Bag for Travel

Cute and compact, this travel dirty clothes bag is ideal to toss in your suitcase and use while you’re on the road for your dirty laundry. The Miamica is a lightweight, microfibre bag that conveniently separates the dirty from the clean.

It’s expandable for when you have clothes that need to be washed to put inside it and closes with a drawstring. Plus, it’s both tear and moisture resistant.

Prefer to launder on the go? Take a look at these portable travel clothes lines that are all very packable!

BeeGreen Laundry Backpack

Backpack Dirty Laundry Bag

Built with jet setting in mind, the BeeGreen Laundry Backpack  is a good solution for storing your dirty laundry while you’re traveling. 

You can hang this bag for dirty clothes on the back of the bathroom door (or any door) of your accommodations and put in your dirty laundry. Once you’re ready to head back home, simply pack the bag in your suitcase and voila! Laundry is taken care of.

Mziart Collapsible Laundry Hamper

Laundry Bag Travel Hamper

If you need to take care of your dirty clothes, packing a dirty laundry bag hamper in your bag can make it much easier to store your bulky, unclean clothes. 

The Mziart Collapsible Laundry Hamper  is awesome because it can hold a ton of clothes—but be careful not to store too much or you’ll end up not fitting it all in your bag when you head home!

Product Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”145″ class=”center-table-align”]

What are your tips on how to handle dirty clothes while traveling? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on packing clothes for travel, please read:

• How to Pack More Efficiently
• How to Organize like a Pro
• The Best Packing Organizers
• How to Make Clothes Smell Fresh on the Go

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

I hope you liked these tips on how to handle dirty laundry while traveling. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Great post! It’s important to hang clothing to air out between wearings, which can be enough to freshen the piece to wear again. A quick spritz with vodka or isopropyl alcohol will make an even bigger impact for freshness. Both of these steps can help reduce the funk and keep the entire suitcase fresh. Always try to pack items that are completely dry.

Great tips, thanks for sharing Diane!

Are your Compass Rose Packing Cubes no longer available (april 2022)

Thank you for reaching out and for your interest. Unfortunately at this moment in time we are not sure when we are going to begin making our compass rose products again.

We do have other suggestions for packing cubes based on our readers recommendations here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/packing-cubes/

And for anti-theft products: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-money-belts-and-anti-theft-travel-accessories/

Sorry I could not have been of more help.

DIY Febreeze: 2/3 vodka or hand sanitizer, 1/3 water, a few drops of lavender and tea tree oil in a spray bottle.

Hi Melissa, thank you so much for sharing your travel tips for dealing with dirty laundry!! 🙂

Submit a Comment 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.

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Gear » The Best Wash Travel Bags – Laundry Bags For Travel

The Best Wash Travel Bags – Laundry Bags For Travel

There are two types of backpackers in this world: organized packers and disorganized packers. When all you have is a backpack to store all your travel belongings, it’s safe to say you won’t be traveling with an extensive wardrobe.

Simply put, travel is dirty work, and without stable accommodation, a personal laundry machine, or a daily routine, laundry might just be one of your biggest problems on the road. Traveling with only the essential clothing combined with daily hikes and adventures, you’re bound to charge through your clean clothes quicker than you can say ‘washbag.’

Lucky for you, modern adventurers have designed a nifty bag device that makes it easy to wash your clothing on the go. Lightweight, small, and easy to pack with you in your backpack, there is no excuse to wear your dirty clothing over and over (and we could not be more thankful).

To clear things up, a wash bag is by no means a toiletry bag to hold your toothbrush and hair products. Nope, these are different products with their own article. Instead, I’m talking about a bag that makes it possible to wash your clothing on the go.

Don’t let some smelly t-shirts ruin your buzz. Take your pick from these ten best travel wash bags on the market today, and get your order in quick:

These Are The Best Travel Wash Bags

How to keep clothes clean when traveling, what to look for in a wash bag for travel, the best travel laundry bags, final thoughts on laundry bags for travel.

REI Co-op Laundry Pack

• Size > 22 x 13 x 6 inches
• Weight > 6.5 ounces
• Capacity > 35 liters
• Price > $29.95

Scrubba Wash Bag

• Size > 54 x 32 cm
• Weight > 5.3 ounces
• Capacity > 3 gallons
• Price > $54.95

GUPPYFRIEND Washing Bag

• Size > 50 x 74 cm
• Weight > 79 grams (2.8 ounces)
• Price > $34.95

Scrubba Wash Bag 2.0

• Size > 15.2 x 40.6 x 15.2 cm
• Weight > 141 grams
• Capacity > 150 grams
• Price > £45 ($55)

Scrubba Mini Wash Bag – Ultra Compact

• Size > 12 x 12 x 2.5 cm
• Weight > 0.08 kg
• Capacity > 85 grams
• Price > £35 ($43)

Patagonia Black Hole Cube

• Size > 12.25 x 6.75 x 4.5 inches
• Weight > 7 ounces
• Capacity > 6L
• Price > $45

Osprey Ultralight Packing Cube Set (US)

• Size > 9 x 7 x 6 inches
• Weight > 2,08 ounces
• Capacity > 1, 2, and 3 liters
• Price > $39.99 – $66

Mammut Travel Washbag

• Size > 10 x 3 x 21 cm / 18 x 3 x 26
• Weight > 66 g (small) or 165 g (large)
• Price > £17 – £36 ($21 – $44)

Osprey Ultralight Washbag

• Size > 15.24 x 12.7 x 20.32 cm
• Weight > 376 grams
• Capacity > 2 liters
• Price > $30

Go Travel Laundry Bag

• Size > 40 x 60 x 0.8 cm
• Weight > 71 grams
• Capacity > 15 liter
• Price > £9.99 ($12.20)

Whether you’re exploring a new European city on foot at ten miles a day, hiking a bucket-list volcano in New Zealand, or partying the night away in Thailand , clothing gets dirty especially fast, when we’re on the road. 

There are various ways to keep your clothing clean while traveling:

Firstly, you could make use of hotel and hostel laundry services. However convenient, with hotels charging per piece of clothing, this service adds up fast. I don’t know about you, but I’d much rather spend my vacation savings on street food and adventures than the convenience of clean clothing. 

A slightly cheaper option would be to outsource laundry services. There are plenty of laundromats in backpacker hubs that charge a smaller fee per piece of clothing. That said, I’ve had countless items lost by laundry services before. And the worst part is, you’ll only notice you’re missing something when it’s too late. Self-service laundromats are another option, but sitting around and waiting hours for your clothing to wash and dry is an absolute no-no. 

One of my favorite ways to keep clothing clean is to wash it in the hostel shower and leave it to dry overnight. This is easy and convenient with things like travel underwear, swimwear, and light t-shirts, but it won’t cut it for heavy clothing. If you have the energy to scrub away at a pair of jeans, chances are they will not dry fast enough and will end up smelling even worse than they did before you washed them – no, thank you.

One thing you can do to keep your bag organized and your clean clothes clean is to keep your dirty clothing separate from your clean clothing. For basic hygiene reasons that I shouldn’t have to explain, this is where the iconic travel laundry bag comes into play. Not only are they useful for separating clothing, but they’re also necessary when it comes to transporting your dirty goods to get cleaned.

Space is tight; I get it. So, the first thing you’re going to want to look at in a wash bag is its size and weight. Sure, the smaller, the better, but you’ll also want to consider the volume each bag holds and how much washing you can do per load. Of course, you’ll also want to look for a bag that is easy to use and uncomplicated to clean.

Second, if you’re using your wash bag in the bush, outback, or mountains, you’re going to want to find a bag that helps reduce microplastics in each load. Microplastic-minimizing bags can also be used in washing machines since they catch most of the microplastics that are released from any synthetic materials before they end up floating in your local river. 

Going one step further, I would also recommend purchasing a bag made from eco-friendly materials that don’t lose fibers and microplastics themselves.

Do You Want to Travel FOREVER??

Pop your email in below to get a FREE copy of ‘How to Travel the World on $10 a Day!’.

Mostly used by hikers, trekkers, backpackers, and eco-warriors, there are more travel wash bags out on the market than you might expect. Sure, you might have to hit the right shops and scour the web to find the best ones. But they are out there, keeping travelers fresh and reducing microplastics, one bag at a time.

To make your search for the perfect wash bag easier, we’ve put together a list of ten products that we have tried and tested. As always, these are the best of the best wash and laundry bags for travel:

• Size: 22 x 13 x 6 inches
• Weight: 6.5 ounces
• Capacity: 35 liters
• Price: $29.95

Ah, the classic laundry pack. Whether you’re an overly organized packer or a clean freak like me, a laundry pack is an essential accessory for outdoor enthusiasts or backpackers looking to maintain organization during their adventures.

Empty, the REI Co-op Laundry Pack is as lightweight as it gets. Designed with mesh sides and thin material, you’ll hardly notice its weight at all. Packed full, it can fit up to 35 liters of dirty laundry (or clean clothes). Made from durable ripstop nylon and mesh sides for breathability, you can stuff in your dirty laundry without worrying about breaking the bag. Close it up with the easy-to-use drawstring, and you’re good to go.

My favorite thing about this bag is that it doubles as a little travel backpack . It features webbing straps to allow you to carry it like a backpack to and from the wash. Heck, you could even use it as a day-pack and double its usage. I can’t promise you it’s the most comfortable backpack, as the product prioritizes being practical and lightweight over comfort, but it sure does do the job!

It’s also easy to wash. I put it on a gentle machine wash, and it worked wonders (but maybe check the inside label before following my lead). Best of all, it’s super affordable, selling for around $30.

• Size: 54 x 32 cm
• Weight: 5.3 ounces
• Capacity: 3 gallons
• Price: $54.95

Useful for backpacking adventures, hikes, and camping trips, and even to use at home, the Scrubba Wash Bag is one of the world’s lightest and most affordable wash bags for travel. This small bag is designed to wash your clothing – yes, I mean restoring your dirty clothing to clean – without the use of electricity or the heavy machinery you may be used to.

In just three to five minutes and using between three and six liters of water, you can wash a small load of laundry on the go. It’s also priced at just $55, affordable enough for just about all travelers and campers can pack less bulky clothing and survive on just the essentials on an adventure. 

Sound too good to be true? Convenient, light, and pocket-sized, this little companion really will help you save money, water, and time while remaining fresh as a daisy. The modern take on the good old-fashioned washing machine, the undyed and unbleached bag, uses a washboard mechanism that allows you to wash clothing without electricity. 

Aside from how lightweight and convenient it is to use, it’s an incredible product to use in places where water is scarce. AND it’s more hygienic than a dirty hostel sink.

• Size: 50 x 74 cm
• Weight: 79 grams (2.8 ounces)
• Price: $34.95

Weighing less than three ounces, the GUPPYFRIEND Washing Bag is one of the lightest and most compact washing bags on the market. It’s also one of the most effective solutions against microplastics.

If you weren’t already aware, synthetic fabrics like nylon, polyester, and acrylic are made from microplastic materials , of which tiny pieces are lost every time you wash your clothing. Microplastics? In my clothing? Yup! Especially when washed in a rough washing machine, these tiny particles eventually make their way into rivers and oceans, and we all know how the rest of that story goes.

But with a GUPPYFRIEND laundry bag for travel, you won’t have to worry about your micro-footprint. Not only does the bag reduce synthetic fibers from shedding during washing, but it also filters any microplastics out before they make it into the water. 

The bag is made from high-tech recycled polyamide materials that don’t lose fibers themselves, all while protecting your clothing and reducing pilling. It’s as easy to use as any washing bag. All you need to do is pack it with synthetic clothing and throw it in the washing machine. Clean the filter and dispose of the microfibers correctly, and you get a big old thumbs up from Mother Nature.

Unlike the product above, you’ll still need a washing machine to wash your clothes. So, it might not be as water and electricity (and therefore budget-friendly) as we could hope.

• Size: 15.2 x 40.6 x 15.2 cm
• Weight: 141 grams
• Capacity: 150 grams
• Price: £45 ($55)

Would you ever believe that you can hold a manual washing machine in the palm of your hand?

Built on the concept of the original Scrubba Wash Bag, the 2.0 is an upgraded product that allows you to wash your clothing on a patented washboard mechanism from just about anywhere in the world. On top of a mountain? In the snowy Alps? On a boat trip? No problem! This lightweight and small eco-friendly wash bag is a hiking and camping essential.

It is so small and light that the flexible washboard bends and folds into a compact, pocket-sized device and takes up almost no space in your backpack. This wash bag for travel is also super easy to use, with simple instructions showing you how to wash your clothing in just six steps. 

The best thing about it is its eco-friendly commitment. With just three to six liters of water and a bit of arm power, you’re stinky clothes will be as fresh as new. It’s also super convenient for backpacking trips where space is limited. Instead of packing multiple options of clean clothing, you can pack less and wash clothing along the journey.

Sure, it might not be as effective for bulky jerseys and heavy jeans, but the product can efficiently wash small to medium loads of t-shirts, underwear, delicates, and gym clothing. 

I also love that with the correct eco-friendly detergent , you can even wash your clothing with salty water and dispose of the dirty water without worry.

Scrubba Mini Wash Bag – Ultra Compact

• Size: 12 x 12 x 2.5 cm
• Weight: 0.08 kg
• Capacity: 85 grams
• Price: £35 ($43)

The smallest and lightest washing machine on the market, the Scrubba Mini Wash Bag is the compact version of the original Scrubba Wash Bag. The difference? It’s 50% lighter than its big sister, weighing less than 2.5 ounces, and only uses between one and two liters of water per load.

Of course, it doesn’t fit as much into one load and is more convenient for washing socks and underwear than larger pieces of clothing. Perfect for those on the go, staying in hostels, dorms, or camping, the patented washboard-in-a-bag design allows you to give the effectiveness of a machine wash in under five minutes. 

How does it work? Well, you simply fill it with water and a small amount of eco-friendly detergent (not included in the price), seal it like a dry bag, and deflate the excess air, rubbing your clothes against the washboard for under three minutes. It really is as easy as one, two, three.

Designed for the ultra-light packing hiker, this travel wash bag can fit a few pairs of underwear and socks into one load or one t-shirt. Between washes, you can even use it as a mini dry bag or to store your dirty laundry. Heck, I even used it as a pillow once – oh, how we love a good multi-functional product!

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. 😉

• Size: 12.25 x 6.75 x 4.5 inches
• Weight: 7 ounces
• Capacity: 6L

It’s hard to beat the style and elegance of a Patagonia product, and the same can be said for the Black Hole Cube. Whether using it to help you fit what you need into a small bag or suitcase, as storage in the back of your RV, or even to store clothing at home, the medium-sized Patagonia Black Hole Cube fits six liters worth of clothing in it, making it one of the most convenient packing devices on the market – and ill say it again, it’s damn good looking too,

It comes in a variety of color combos, from plain black to perennial purple and classic navy blue. Following Patagonia’s commendable commitment to the environment, the bag is made using recycled materials and fabrics. 

With a simple zip mechanism, it’s easy to get into the main compartment, which is then divided into equal halves with inner zip pockets. This shallow-pack design makes it easy to access your clothing without digging and disturbing your beautifully folded on-the-go wardrobe. Use it to store clean clothing and dirty clothing or to separate your clean from your clothing in each side of the bag.

This was my first time using a packing cube, and now that I have, I don’t know how I ever traveled without them! The convenience is unparalleled and makes packing up and moving a breeze. 

I find the exterior daisy chain design super convenient for connecting it to bags with a clip. The durable, water-repellent exterior finish is so weather-resistant that you could secure it onto the outside of a bag. It also has a large handle that makes the travel wash bag easy to grab on the go. 

• Size: 9 x 7 x 6 inches
• Weight: 2,08 ounces
• Capacity: 1, 2, and 3 liters
• Price: $39.99 – $66

Osprey makes great gear and has wowed the packing cube market with its Ultralight packing cube set, which features three different-sized cubes designed to make your packing experience as convenient as possible. Easy to use when packing a backpack, a suitcase, or just storing things at home, the cubes come in three colors (grey, blue, and white), are super lightweight, and fit one, two, and three liters worth of clothing in them, respectively.

As a matter of fact, don’t limit the bags to pure clothing storage. They can be used to store and keep anything organized on the road, from your electronics to your dirty laundry to your toiletries.

Osprey prides itself on innovation and quality, which is exactly what these packing cubes are. Their perfect rectangular design allows them to be packed together, wasting no space or time. 

The cubes may look small, but they really do fit a lot in them. I love that these products are made from a super lightweight yet durable material, which allows you to pack them as full as possible without them losing their shape too much. What’s the point of a packing cube if it morphs into a blob when packed full, right?

• Size: 10 x 3 x 21 cm / 18 x 3 x 26
• Weight: 66 g (small) or 165 g (large)
• Price: £17 – £36 ($21 – $44)

It might be small in size, but this doesn’t mean the Mammut Travel Washbag doesn’t pack a punch when it comes to convenient storage. Available in two different sizes and color options, this polyester wash bag for travel will become your best friend on the road.

The larger bag has three foldable sections and comes with a mirror and a metal hook for hanging up. It’s the most practical toiletry bag on the market, with two zippers and mesh compartments creating considerable storage space for your toothbrush, hair products, and sunscreen. The small bag is more compact yet has the same features of a hanging hook, mirror, and zipper compartments.

Perfect for a hiking trip or to store your essentials in the cabinet of your car, the bag weighs between 66 and 165 grams (depending on its size). I use it as advertised, to store toiletries, which I decant into small travel bottles. The bottles sit neat and upright and are always kept dry because of the mesh pocket storage. 

I like that the fixtures are made of a solid-feeling metal. The mesh also makes it super easy to see what is what and who is who in the zoo of your toiletries! One worry was that the elastic pocket tops might not last forever- especially with so much versatile outdoor use.

• Size: 15.24 x 12.7 x 20.32 cm
• Weight: 376 grams
• Capacity: 2 liters

And Osprey is at it again with a highly convenient padded washbag. Let’s get one thing straight: this bag won’t wash your clothing for you. Rather, it’s a toiletry bag that makes it easy to pack all your products and essentials into one small and organized space. 

The bag comes in one size and is made from a ripstop nylon fabric. The ultralight fabric is padded on the inside to make sure your products are well protected (super useful if traveling with small glass bottles, I must say). 

The Osprey travel wash bag has a rectangular form and is closed with a zip. It features multiple pockets and a dedicated space for certain items. One of my favorite features is the straightjacket compression system, which allows you to compress the bag to get rid of any space that isn’t being used. 

No doubt a handy bag for a camping trip or as your general medicine or toiletry bag, I found it really easy to find my things and keep everything well organized and in its place. Once wet, the bag dries fast, which is convenient when camping in all weather conditions. 

On the downside, some of the inner pockets are really small but are useful for things like earbuds or small containers. I would even recommend using it as a small electronics bag if the pocket sizes don’t suit your toiletries. I’m not entirely sure the top needs to be padded since most products and toiletries that one would camp with wouldn’t be too fragile in the first place. 

• Size: 40 x 60 x 0.8 cm
• Weight: 71 grams
• Capacity: 15 liter
• Price: £9.99 ($12.20)

It might look like a traditional dry bag, but the Go Travel Laundry Bag was designed for a different purpose. Its primary use is as a laundry bag, fitting as much as fifteen liters of clothing into the bag. Designed for all my clean-freak travelers who can’t stand dirty clothing rubbing shoulders with their clean clothing, the bag is designed to separate dirty from clean clothes.

Other than storing your dirty clothes in a breathable laundry bag for travel , the container has a buckled loop that makes it easy to hang on any hook or tree. The drawstring closure is great for sealing the dirty clothing inside the bag and protecting your clean clothing from contamination. 

When empty, the bag is lightweight and compact – so small you’ll hardly notice it in your bag. It’s also easy to wash and can be thrown in the same machine load as your dirty clothes. I can even recommend using it as a packing cube equivalent before you gather up the dirty clothing to fill it with. At the end of the day, it’s another bag that can help you stay organized on an adventure.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

Let’s be honest: general hygiene aside, there is not much worse than wearing dirty clothing. From personal experience, it dampens my entire mood and confidence. Paying hostels to wash your clothing is expensive, outsourcing laundry companies is risky, and washing clothing in the shower is just plain effort…

Instead, traveling with a lightweight and compact travel wash bag offers an easy, convenient, and affordable way to keep your clothes clean while on the road. Some of the bags on this list are specially designed to wash your clothing using minimal water and no electricity. Other bags are ideal for storing and packing your items in a systematic and organized manner. I even threw in a few toiletry bags to store either your toiletries or electronics. 

Conveniently, a bag is a bag, and storage space is always welcome when on the road. Whether you’re going on a camping trip, backpacking through a foreign country, or staying in well-to-do hotels, there are numerous ways to use the bags on this list on your next adventure. 

With bags designed to separate your laundry from your clean clothes and wash bags inspired by the good old washboard of our ancestors, you’ll never be left to wear the same stinky t-shirt three days in a row again. Phew!

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!

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

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.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• Vacation Rentals
• Restaurants
• Things to do
• Things to Do
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

"Horrible Baggage Damage, Transit via Moscow with Aeroflot" - Air Travel Forum

• Tripadvisor Forums    
• Air Travel Forums

"Horrible Baggage Damage, Transit via Moscow with Aeroflot"

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Air Travel forum

My boyfriend and I made a trip to Spain(Hong Kong-Madrid and Madrid- Hong Kong). We flied with Aeroflot and had both trips scaling in Moscow. Both going(30th Aug) and coming back(15th Sep), the luggages were spot checked as the suitcase locks were open when we got the luggages back (which we think by Russia Airport Authority as this has never happened since I have transited and been traveling around to any other countries). The going trip to Spain, both suitcase locks were open, broken lock for my boyfriend's case which he bought a new suitcase in Spain later. However, the real disaster was actually the coming back trip!!

When we picked up the luggage, we found out that both luggages were broken, there are also 2 breakage spots on my luggage itself, the luggage handle came off and the locks were totally forced broken(so my boyfriend lost totally 2 suitcases for this trip). I have locked them before check-in and my suitcase is the type that came with international lock that can be opened by international key in case the luggage would be spot checked by any airport authority so it should not be forced open in such manner!

That aside, when we got home, I opened the luggage just to find out that the things inside were totally flipped over in a big mess! The zipped compartment inside was open and the clothes are all messed up(as messy as a 80% sale basket in the shopping mall), the wrapped present was torn open, wrapping paper and the pieces of present scattered around everywhere in the luggage.

Furthermore, my boyfriend's mobile phone(old one with problem which we was thinking to get it fixed in China) and his suit (together with necktie and belt) were stolen! The box of mobile phone was left behind together with the torn open plastic suit bag but both of the items were no where to be found!

So this post is only an example and a warning for you guys to be careful and choose the airline wisely (we bought it because it was the cheapest flight ticket, an obviously resulted as an expensive lesson).

For us, this is the first and will be the last time we will ever fly with Aeroflot or transit via Russia. With what had happened, we would not hesitate to pay 100-200 EUR more to get a better flight that transit elsewhere!!!

Secondly, flying with a different carrier won't change anything, because it's not the airline staff, it's either security or baggage, the same guys will probably handle your case, whomever you fly with.

The airlines usually all say don't pack valuables in the hold, it genuinely never ceases to amaze me that people still do, there has been a lot of media focus on this in many countries.

Lastly, without wishing to start the old debate, I don't lock my bag and I use an old bag, I also don't pack anything of value, other than my clothes and shoes. The thought process is, even though I know it's not random usually and bags are scanned so they can see if valuables inside, but the thought process for me is that thieves will be more attracted to a locked bag, particularly a good one, on the suspicion something good in there to steal,,,as that could very well be why it's locked. Rather than wasting time on an old tatty unlocked one,,,

So far, fingers crossed and touch wood, I've encountered no issues.

The following day I brought my suitcase to one of the designated locations. I was told it would be repaired or replaced at their discretion. It was beautifully repaired. My point is, as a passenger I spent the time and made the effort to figure out how the process worked. I didn't wait until back in NY to post a rant.

I'm like froggy - never lock my suitcase. With all the trips I've done - nothing ever been stolen (I never pack expensive things in my suitcase, no damage (apart from normal wear and tear) and no "80% sale bin at the mall - hahahhaa

This post was determined to be inappropriate by the Tripadvisor community and has been removed.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

• Denied Boarding in Istanbul Despite Valid Residency: Seeking 3:57 pm
• Mobile Passport Control 3:38 pm
• London- Costa Rica Via Toronto: air canada 3:09 pm
• Chase Saphire travel protection is a scam. 2:34 pm
• Turkish airlines - connection in IST from AYT 2:33 pm
• Ryanair or air lingus 2:26 pm
• Check in on return Flight 2:01 pm
• New US DOT Rules for Refunds Have Been Announced 1:25 pm
• Etihad cancel coach - options? 1:15 pm
• Vayama? Scam or just Angry Reviewers? 12:55 pm
• Is Cheap Flights Fares Legit? 12:49 pm
• Still not received baggage in Thailand from Emirates flight 12:48 pm
• Added an additional letter 12:27 pm
• Tui airline change 11:31 am
• ++++ ESTA (USA) and eTA (Canada) requirements for visa-exempt foreign nationals ++++
• ++++ TIPS - PLANNING YOUR FLIGHTS +++++++
• Buy now or later? What's with these screwy ticket prices?
• Around-the-world (RTW) tickets
• All you need to know about OPEN JAW tickets
• Beware of cheap business class tickets (sold by 3rd parties)
• ++++ TIPS - PREPARING TO FLY +++++++++
• TIPS - How to prepare for Long Haul Flights
• TIPS - Being Prepared for Cancellations and Long Delays
• TIPS - How to survive being stuck at an airport
• Flights delays and cancellations resources
• How do I effectively communicate with an airline?
• Airline, Airport, and Travel Abbreviations
• Air Travel Queries: accessibility,wedding dresses,travelling with children.
• Connecting Flights at London Heathrow Airport
• TUI Airways (formerly Thomson) Dreamliner - Movies and Seating Information
• ++++ COVID-19 CORONAVIRUS INFORMATION ++++
• Covid-19 Coronavirus Information for Air Travel