When it comes to toiletry bags, there’s a lot to keep in mind. You want a bag that’s easy to pack and unpack, keeps your things safe from moisture and odors, and helps you keep all of your belongings organized no matter how much or how little you bring with you.
To make your next trip that much more enjoyable, we’ve compiled a list of essential toiletry bags to help you stay prepared for any travel scenario. From a day at the beach to a weekend getaway, these bags have you covered with ample storage and smart compartments that make organizing your kit simple.
We’ve also included bags that are specifically designed to hold items like toothbrushes and contact cases so that you can abide by the TSA’s Liquid Rule without risking your expensive beauty products getting confiscated at security. You’ll find bags with a clear window that make it easy for security to scan your bag for liquids and other forbidden items, as well as those with handy elastic loops that can hold tall, thin bottles of lotion and hairspray upright, preventing spills.
One of our favorites, this hanging toiletry bag is both leak-proof and antimicrobial to ensure that even the most fragrant shampoos and conditioners won’t cause a disaster on your travels. Its multiple zipper pockets and a mesh pocket offer plenty of room for all of your toiletries, from makeup brushes to hair ties and scrunchies. It even includes a built-in brush holder to hold your favorite makeup brushes and other flat-laying miscellaneous items.
It’s no wonder that this bag was a hit with our testers. The pebbled leather is durable and sleek, but not so delicate that you have to worry about your toiletry bag being tossed around in your luggage or backpack. Plus, the interior lays flat to fit in most carry-ons, so it’ll take up less space than other toiletry bags that open vertically.
If you’re a fan of the Dopp Kit—the name that’s synonymous with a toiletry bag thanks to its origin as a canvas leather kit given to U.S. soldiers during World War II—this is an especially good choice. It’s a bit bigger than our other top pick, but it still opens flat for easy access to everything you need. The large zippered top pocket can easily fit all of your travel-size beauty necessities, and the bottom compartment has room for taller items like an electric shaver or contact solution.
The best thing about this toiletry bag is its ability to stand up on its own, making it easy to find what you’re looking for without slouching over or digging through your suitcase-sized bathroom vanity. Its multiple interior compartments, zippered pockets, and pouches are ideal for keeping clean and dirty items separate—especially important when you’re visiting a humid climate. And it even has a hook to hang damp swimwear or towels.