The 5 Best Toiletry Bags of 2023 and the Essentials to Pack
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What Makes a Great Toiletry Bag or Dopp Kit?
The more you travel, the more particular you become about how items are packed. It doesn't take long to realize what's working and what falls short while you're on the road.
A great toiletry bag stores all your essentials in an organized and easy-to-access manner. Bonus points if the bag is attractive too! These and the points listed below are the criteria we used to evaluate each of our top picks.
Criteria
High-Quality Construction Busted zippers, torn seams, or ripped fabric just won't do. We need something that can handle the miles and all the memories.
Zippered Compartments Keep wet items separate and group your items by category or frequency of use. Having zippers ensures everything is in its place just as you packed it before 30 hours of jet lag, plane delays, or any other travel mishaps.
Compact Design easy to fit in luggage with other items and on small hotel or vanity counters that you're likely also sharing with travel companions.
Easy Access the last thing you want is to waste time digging around for the item you need in the dark deep abyss of your tiny toiletry bag. Ones that open wide and have lighter-colored liners are preferred
Our Top 5 Toiletry Bags of 2023
Personal Favorite:
Bopipa Hanging Toiletry Bag
Great dupe for the trendy State Bags Bensen Dopp Kit for a fraction of the price. The only downside is that this bag is only available in two colors. It has two large zipper pockets, one with mesh for air circulation and one enclosed.
There are also several pouches for additional items. It includes a hook to save counter space. One of my favorite features is the small clear pocket near the hanging hook, perfect for bobby pins, hair ties, and other smaller hair accessories.
I purchased this bag in 2018 and still use it almost daily. It's held up wonderfully on countless trips and has proven to be the perfect size for international vacations or weekend getaways.
TSA-Approved Pouches
Packism Clear Toiletry Bags
great for separating different items inside larger bags. These zippers are not 100% waterproof, so if you're looking for something to keep your leaky shampoo or other liquids contained, a reclosable zip-lock bag may still be your best bet.
However, if you like to have your makeup handy for touch-ups throughout the day, these are great because you can throw one of the clear bags with cosmetics into whichever purse or backpack you use that day.
Amazon Top Seller at time of publication
BAGSMART Toiletry Bag
This bag is great for the accessory queen, aka mom. You know, the one who usually packs for herself and everything everyone else forgot to pack....
We're not judging if you fill this bag up just for you. That's what it's for! My motto is better to have packed it and not needed it than needed it and not had it.
Especially when it comes to shoes. I may be known to stuff six pairs of shoes in my bag for a trip.
Did I mention we only pack carry-on luggage, even on fourteen-day trips internationally?
Over 10,000 Positive Reviews
Elviros Toiletry Bag
A classic PU leather option with plenty of compartments and easy accessibility. This bag comes in multiple colors, from rugged to refined.
This bag can be organized in various ways to hold all the essentials without too much clutter and with good separation.
A Hidden Gem
VCROMTY Large Capacity Tavel Cosmetic Bag
All the color options for this bag are stunning. I love the shape. It has a very elegant look to it.
This bag has a very simple and structured design. It would be ideal for someone who does not want their items to be easily squished compared to other softer-sided bags.
What essentials do you usually put in your toiletry bag?
How you pack your toiletry bag could vary depending on how long you'll be traveling, the season, where you're headed, or the occasion.
On longer trips overseas, I don't typically pack shampoo and use it as an excuse to try some new products abroad. Sometimes provided by the place we're staying, sometimes purchased. This can save a lot of luggage space and simplify getting through TSA and customs.
Nail care
Clippers
Cuticle trimmers
File
- opt for a small glass or foam cube option, so it does not present a concern to any security officials.
Skincare
Facial moisturizer
Body lotion
SPF
Deodorant
Razor
Cosmetics
Perfume
- a small sample spritzer or roller ball is always in my toiletry bag.
Tinted lip balm
Mascara
Concealer
Tweezers
Hair
Brush
Detangler
Accessories (hair ties, clips, pins etc.)
Shampoo & Conditioner
- optional for longer trips. If you can look for a two-in-one option to save space if you must pack it or invest in some refillable travel bottles to bring your favorite shampoo and conditioner set from home
Dry shampoo
- This is another item that never leaves my travel bag. Though I don't change my usual hygiene routine while traveling my hair always seems to get oily faster. Having dry shampoo is a must
First Aide
Ibuprofen
Eye drops
Bandaids
- too many sights to see to be in pain. Blisters always have a way of cropping up at the worst times.
Vitamins
Many travelers also experience stomach trouble while away, so you may want to consider adding antacids or other stomach medications.
Want an easier way to remember all your toiletry essentials?
Grab our FREE instant download digital toiletries checklist.
What are the best ways to pack quickly for a trip?
This bonus tip will ensure you're ready any time a spontaneous weekend getaway opportunity pops up, even if it just means sleeping over at a friend's or family's place.
Keep your toiletry bag stocked at all times and restock upon return from a trip. This way, it is ready to grab at a moment's notice. Depending on how much luggage you have, you might keep your toiletry bag stored in whatever piece of luggage you're most likely to use.
The Recap
Though the need to transport toiletry essentials hasn't changed over the years, our options have greatly improved. From small minimalist kits to maximalist accessory bundles, there are suitable options for every type of traveler.
A word to the wise would be to take your time and experiment with a few different styles of toiletry kits to find the one that works best for you. Once you've determined your preferred style, the sky is the limit for the level of luxury and expense that can be paid for your favorite toiletry bag.