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

By Teddy Minford and Paris Wilson

23 Best Womens Toiletry Bags  Dopp Kits for Travel in 2023

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

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

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

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

Used by: Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Used by: Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

best travel wash bag womens

How long I’ve been using it: Eight months

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

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

Used by: Talia Abbas , senior commerce editor at Glamour

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

Used by: Paris Wilson , commerce producer

best travel wash bag womens

How long I’ve been using it: 10 months

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Cons -The space inside is very compact

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

Pros -Easy to clean -4.1 stars

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

More Dopp kits we recommend

best travel wash bag womens

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Cons -Only two compartments

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Cons -Things tend to rattle on the mesh side

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Cons -Bulky

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

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

Cons -Slightly less storage space overall

Image may contain: Cushion, and Furniture

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

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

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

best travel wash bag womens

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

Pros -Small and packable -Choices in colors -Versatile

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

14 Toiletry Bags That Will Look Cute on Any Hotel Vanity

Travel packing made easy.

a group of green suitcases on a counter

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

If you ask us, a good toiletry bag should have room for everything, including your favorite skincare sets , staple hair shampoos and conditioners , and must-have makeup products . A major plus is a pouch equipped with several compartments, especially one large enough to house more oversized items like your makeup brushes and tools, different sections to help you organize your goods, and enough room to fit a seven-step skin routine. Yes, it’s quite a big ask, but they do exist. Once you find the right bag, it’ll be one less thing to worry about on your next vacation.

Top picks for the best toiletry bags in 2023

Medium Clear Cosmetics Case

Best Overall

Calpak medium clear cosmetics case.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Best for Backpacking

Sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

Small Clear Makeup Case

Best for Makeup Brushes

Beautypie small clear makeup case.

The Cosmetic Organizer

Best for Organization

Beis the cosmetic organizer.

XL Train Case

Best Multipurpose Pick

Leatherology xl train case.

The Beauty Bag

Best for Countertop Décor

Glossier the beauty bag.

The ReNew Catch-All Case

Best for Sectioning Products

Everlane the renew catch-all case.

Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

Best for Hanging

Bosidu hanging travel toiletry bag.

The Large Toiletry Bag

Best for Saving Space

Away the large toiletry bag.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Best for the Indecisive Packer

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

As vacation pros and beauty product hoarders, we tested the best toiletry bags based on the market, considering factors like size, fabric, organization, and perused online consumer reviews to find the best ones. Ahead are some of our personal favorite toiletry bags, plus the ones we scoured online (so you don’t have to).

Calpak’s new cosmetics case is genius because it features multiple compartments separated by zippers to store tons of goodies neatly. The transparent exterior makes it easy to grab whatever product you need quickly, and one wipe will take any marks or spills away. If the medium size isn’t your jam, opt for the small or large so you can take as few or as many products as you want.

Calpak star rating : 5/5 stars

An ELLE editor says: “I’d be lying if I said I didn’t grab this cosmetics bag because of its bright pink interior. Then, I started unzipping the compartments and immediately started mentally adding travel-sized beauty goods to my cart. There are so many varying sizes housed in this cute pink case, including two large side pockets and a mini pouch in the middle for tiny knickknacks.” — Nerisha Penrose , ELLE.com beauty commerce editor

Sizes : Small, medium, and large

Colors : Dragonfruit, emerald green, lavender, navy, white, black, caramel, and mauve

If you’ve accidentally knocked a foundation off your bathroom counter or splashed too much water on your toiletry bag resting on the sink, a hanging bag is exactly what you need. This Sea to Summit bag features a sizeable flap with a few tiny compartments to house small trinkets, and one large bottom pouch to keep your products standing tall and firm without any spills or mishaps. The bag even comes with a compact mirror for quick touch-ups.

Sea to Summit rating : 4.9/5 stars

A Sea to Summit reviewer said : “Excellent product design, lightweight with strong materials. I have taken this bathroom bag on numerous adventures, overseas, and motorcycle camping excursions and have had no problems. I like the strong zipper, internal mirror, and overall function of the design. I would purchase and replace it again if I lost it. Thanks, Sea to Summit, for another good product.”

Sizes : Small, large

Colors : Grey, atoll blue, spicy orange, black, orange, blue

Just as you carefully wash your brushes to extend their use, they deserve to be stowed away properly as well. This small case can keep your brushes tucked away from the spills and dirt they would normally accumulate from larger cosmetics bags.

BeautyPie star rating : 4.9/5 stars

A BeautyPie reviewer said : “Fab makeup bag for everyday travel. Easy to find in bag and easy to see what I’m looking for. Lovely bright, happy color.”

Size : One size

Colors : Purple, orange, green

Like the brand’s bestselling weekender, this cosmetics bag is designed with a separate compartment that keeps your makeup brushes and other tools neatly tucked away from messy liquids and powders.

Beis star rating : 4.9/5 stars

A Beis reviewer said : “Omg, I didn’t know this material felt like this! It’s so smooth and easy to wipe clean! I love how it has a bottom compartment just like the weekender and the size is perfect for quick travel for my toiletries! Thanks BEIS for bringing this back in stock!”

Colors : Beige, black

This fancy leather pouch is the multipurpose piece your travel luggage has been missing. Complete with two interior zippered pockets, a removable divider system, a large elastic band to secure bottles, and a smaller elastic band to hold hair ties, it can be used for makeup and to store skincare products, accessories, and other trinkets you may travel with. You can even purchase the strap separately to wear outside.

Leatherology star rating : 5/5 stars

A Leatherology reviewer said : “The craftsmanship of this product is amazing. I am so happy with my purchase. It is a quality leather that will stand the rest of time.”

Sizes : S, M, XL

Colors : 11, including Black Onyx, nickel hardware, bordeaux, navy blue, light gold hardware, camel, and light gold hardware

You already have all the Glossier products displayed on your vanity. Take your devotion to the brand up a notch by investing in its amply-sized makeup bag. In addition to being tall enough for bottles to stand upright, it includes a removable interior pouch and four small side pockets, so you never have to dig for your lip gloss or any other grab-and-go items.

Glossier star rating : 4.4/5 stars

A Glossier reviewer said : “This is literally the cutest makeup bag I have ever owned! It has so much storage and it makes you look sophisticated, haha!”

Colors : Pink and red

Everlane’s case has five pockets to help you organize everything from skincare to jewelry without mixing anything up. Uniquely, it snaps down and rolls back so you can easily sift through your products once you arrive at your destination.

Everlane star rating : 4.7/5 stars

An Everlane reviewer said : “I bought this to use as an organizer inside a handbag. It worked perfectly and I liked it so much that I ordered another as a makeup bag . The little pockets make it easy to organize your things, and I love the roll-down top for easy access.”

Size: One size

Colors : Black, warm quartz, nutria/beech, and ocean cavern

This fold-up toiletry organizer is made for the trendy traveler who is also practical at heart. It’s totally waterproof and leakproof, machine washable, XL-sized, and has many built-in pockets and zippers to keep things organized.

Amazon star rating : 4.7/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer said : “I loved this bag. I bought it for a two-week trip recently, and it was exactly what I needed! It was a perfect fit for all my toiletries and makeup.”

Colors : 13 hues and prints, including M-Navy Blue, M-black, palm leaf, plaid, and zebra print

Away’s travel kit is deceivingly compact-looking. Thanks to its three interior compartments and one exterior zippered pocket, there’s ample space to separate your makeup from your brushes for a no-fuss, clutter-free trip.

Away star rating : 4.7/5 stars

An Away reviewer said : “I’m really happy with this bag. It’s roomy but not oversized, the compartments and pockets are really handy for keeping things organized, and the material seems durable and easy to care for.”

Colors : Black, navy, coast, olive, and garnet

You can’t decide which beauty products to bring with you, so you bring them ALL. If that sounds familiar, you must get this top-rated Amazon pick . Featuring a large interior compartment, two mesh zippered pockets, and two side compartments for separating dry and wet items, it hangs and expands to accommodate all your neurotic “just-in-case” tendencies.

Amazon star rating : 4.6/5 stars

An Amazon reviewer said : “I could fit all skincare and body care products in this bag. The full regular size bottles and containers could stand up nicely, and I had no spilling.”

Sizes : M, L

Colors : Baby pink, black, and grey

Make Up For Ever Professional Bag

Professional Bag

For the professional MUA or beauty enthusiast with an extensive lineup of products, upgrade your kit with Make Up For Ever’s functional organizer, which has enough compartments to fit brushes, bottles, and everything in between. Bonus: You can use the included strap to carry it as a crossbody, too.

Sephora star rating : 4.5/5 stars

A Sephora reviewer said : “I’ve had countless makeup bags in my life, and this one is by far my favorite. It holds all my makeup and the different-sized pouches enable me to organize to my heart’s content. It’s also really, REALLY easy to clean. I recently emptied out the pouches, tossed them in the wash, and wiped down the bag itself with a makeup wipe, and it was as good as new! Be forewarned, it’s massive, but if you have a lot of makeup, it’ll meet your needs perfectly!”

Colors : Black

Louis Vuitton Cosmetic Pouch

Cosmetic Pouch

Nothing says luxury like packaging your makeup essentials in a Louis Vuitton pouch. This one has chic gold brass detailing and a washable interior, so you can travel in high style without sacrificing function.

A review from Wantastic Beauty said the pouch’s tapered design is great because of “how wide the opening of the mouth is and that the zipper extends right down the sides because you can access your stuff much easier and clearly see where everything is.”

Colors/Finishes : Damier Azure Canvas, Monogram Canvas, and Damier Ebene

H&M Large Toiletry Bag

Large Toiletry Bag

Cut your prep time with a clear toiletry bag that allows you to see how deep down your brown lip liner fell. It’s double-tiered to give you plenty of space for lipsticks, eyeshadows, and larger f oundation bottles and compacts.

H&M star rating : 4.7/5 stars

An H&M reviewer said : “This is the BEST toiletry bag ever! I’ve ordered many different ones in many different sizes, and this one tops all. I put all of my makeup in the top compartment and all of my toiletries in the bottom.”

Colors : Transparent and transparent/powder pink

Sonia Kashuk Makeup Organizer Bag Set

Makeup Organizer Bag Set

Smaller bags within one larger carryall is always a smart way to keep things organized. This four-piece set from Sonia Kashuk comes with everything you could possibly need, whether you’re headed away for a weekend or two weeks. Toss your makeup brushes into the pencil case, your larger products into the square-zip pouch, your smallest items into the round-top bag, and all three bags into the transparent tote for easy access.

Target star rating : 4.7/5 stars

A Target reviewer said : “This set has lasted me over two years of travel with regular cleanings. It’s very durable and overall a classic look.”

Colors : Black/Stripe

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First and foremost, consider how big your collection is and the types of products you’ll be storing. For instance, if you tend to pack light or your routine is somewhat minimal, a small zippered pouch should suffice. On the other hand, if you’re a professional makeup artist or a beauty enthusiast with a sizable collection, you’ll want a larger case with plenty of compartments to hold all your bottles, palettes, brushes, tubes, tools, and more. Look for options with special compartments that hold bottles upright, and consider styles that can hang, as they’re easily accessible and won’t overcrowd a small bathroom counter.

Remember that the larger the toiletry bag, the more room it will occupy inside your luggage. To find a happy medium, look for styles that can store your skincare and makeup essentials while occupying a reasonable space in your suitcase or duffel.

What fabric is best for a toiletry bag?

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No matter which style you choose, it’s always a good idea to look for options made with durable, easy-to-clean materials like PVC or polyester, so makeup mishaps are a cinch to fix. Also, consider waterproof fabrics to avoid spills leaking through to the rest of the contents in your suitcase (aka, a traveler’s worst nightmare).

Why trust ELLE Beauty?

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Nerisha Penrose is the Beauty Commerce Editor at ELLE.com. Since joining ELLE.com in 2017, she has interviewed countless skincare professionals and has personally tested the latest and greatest products across makeup, skincare, and hair care.

Sam Peters is a seasoned commerce writer and editor with over five years of experience covering beauty, fashion, and lifestyle topics. For this roundup, both editors tested toiletry bags and pored over dozens of customer reviews to find the best toiletry bags.

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Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best toiletry bags of 2024, according to travel experts.

Tote everything from toothpaste to aftershave in one of these bags.

The Best Travel Toiletry Bags

An open toiletry bag with small bottles inside.

Getty Images

Of all the travel accessories you can own, a toiletry bag may be the most essential – especially if you want to avoid leaks and spills in your luggage. Toiletry bags are necessary for keeping shampoo, toothpaste and other personal care items contained and organized when traveling.

Based on our personal experiences as well as consumer reviews, we've chosen the best toiletry bags in a number of categories, from the top option for men to the best hanging toiletry bag (especially useful in tight spaces like cruise ship cabins).

Best Overall: Peak Design Small Wash Pouch

  • Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Dopp Kit: Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag – Cada Día

Best for men: topo designs dopp kit, best for women: lug trolley mini cosmetic case, best kids: wildkin toiletry bag, best large: l.l. bean personal organizer toiletry bag, large, best small: away the small toiletry bag, best hanging: open story small hanging toiletry bag, best clear: fawn the toiletry case large.

  • Best Leather: Mark & Graham Dual Travel Organizer – Large

(Note: Prices and availability were accurate at the time of publication; they may fluctuate due to demand and other factors. All toiletry bag dimensions are listed in order of length by width by height.)

Peak Design Small Wash Pouch in gray against white background.

Courtesy of Peak Design

Dimensions: 6 x 10.2 x 4.4 inches

This toiletry bag earns rave reviews for its compact design and variety of internal compartments, which include four mesh pockets, a zip pocket and a magnetic pocket designed for your toothbrush. The bag is also versatile – its structured build means it won't flop over when you set it on the bathroom counter, while an attached hook allows you to use it as a hanging toiletry bag as well. Available in black and sage (as well as a larger size ), the Peak Design Small Wash Pouch is weatherproof and easy to clean.

What our editors say:

This toiletry bag perfectly fits all of my travel-sized essentials for a trip and I love the separated compartment pockets. It's pretty small and its soft exterior makes it easy to shove into a carry-on or a personal item without taking up too much room. It also sits upright on its own, which is a nice touch. – Erin Evans , Managing Editor

Price: $49.95 or less

Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag – Cada Día in black against white background.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 5 inches

If you're looking for a Dopp kit (a style of toiletry bag, typically with a side handle), the Nido Accessory Bag – Cada Día is a solid choice. The toiletry bag offers three compartments as well as an interior zippered pocket. Plus, it's available in Cotopaxi's vibrant color combinations.

The Nido Accessory Bag can fit a lot – much more than I expected, in fact. I can pack my electric toothbrush (with its case!), a full-sized toothpaste, a hairbrush, makeup and more. Even with how much it can fit, I don't find that the bag takes up a lot of space in my carry-on. I especially love the Nido's three different compartments (plus a zippered pocket) to organize my toiletries and accessories. – Leilani Osmundson , Senior Digital Producer

Price: $45 or less

Topo Designs Dopp Kit in green against white background.

Courtesy of Topo Designs

Dimensions: 5.5 x 11 x 5.5 inches

Not only does the triangular shape of this toiletry bag make it unique, but it also allows the bag to stand upright on its own. The Topo Designs Dopp Kit is bigger than it looks, and its main compartment offers plenty of space for all the necessities including a razor. The bag is available in a variety of bright two-toned styles and solid colors.

The Topo Designs Dopp Kit's bright colors and unique triangular shape inspired my initial purchase, but its versatility and durability quickly made it my go-to toiletry kit for every type of travel. The spacious bag works just as well in my carry-on as on a camping trip and has stood up to countless spilled shampoos and exploded toothpaste tubes. The Dopp kit stays upright on counters, while the attached hook makes it easy to hang and dry. – Zach Watson , Senior Editor

Price: $34 or less

Lug Trolley Mini Cosmetic Case in black against white background.

Courtesy of Lug

Dimensions: 4 x 8.75 x 3.75 inches

Lug's Trolley Mini Cosmetic Case is perfect for both toiletries and makeup. Inside, the main compartment features a patterned lining and two zippered pockets: one on the back wall and another on the lid. On the outside, there are two side pockets plus a front pocket with a divider for even more organization.

I've had this toiletry bag for four years, and it is the first thing I pack for every trip! I absolutely adore its compact design, multiple zippered compartments that make it easy to reach your essentials without having to sort through an entire toiletry bag, and the wipeable interior (for when that foundation or shampoo leaks in transit). For longer trips, I have the Lug Trolley , which can even fit a curling iron. – Rachael Hood , Senior Editor

Price: $49 or less

Wildkin Toiletry Bag in holographic silver against white background.

Courtesy of Wildkin

Dimensions: 5 x 9.5 x 5 inches

Available in a wide variety of playful colors and patterns (think: trucks and mermaid scales ), the Wildkin Toiletry Bag is perfect for kids. The bag offers a spacious main compartment plus an internal zippered mesh pocket and an external zippered pocket.

I bought this bag to coordinate with my son's Wildkin Overnighter Duffel . The quality of both bags is top-notch, and I know we'll be able to use them for a long time. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist 

Price: $24.99 or less

L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Large in black against white background.

Courtesy of L.L. Bean

Dimensions: 12.5 x 11.5 x 4 inches

The L.L. Bean Personal Toiletry Bag is a classic, and the largest size is perfect for weeklong trips and even multiple family members. In addition to having a variety of internal and external pockets, this hanging toiletry bag can hold up to 25 pounds. Available in a variety of colors, it also features a carry strap and tote handle as well as a small mirror.

While this kit comes in a few sizes, the large is my favorite. It fits everything I need for a trip, from shower essentials to makeup to medicine. The plastic front on the upper two compartments is beginning to wear away, but I can deal with that considering I've had mine for more than 10 years (if not longer). – Marisa Méndez , Senior Editor

Price: $44.95 or less

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Away The Small Toiletry Bag in black against neutral background.

Courtesy of Away

Dimensions: 5.5 x 8.3 x 3.15 inches

If you're looking for a small toiletry bag that can be used for short trips, this is the one. But don't let the small size (and name) of this toiletry bag fool you. Two interior zippered compartments – one clear, one mesh – are big enough to hold all of your travel-size toiletries plus medications for even longer trips, and the zippered exterior pocket is perfect for makeup wipes. When you inevitably get the bag wet, its water-resistant nylon material makes it easy to wipe dry. The Small Toiletry Bag is available in black, navy, blue gray and white.

This is the toiletry bag equivalent of Mary Poppins' bag. It holds way more than it looks like it can. – Amanda Norcross

Price: $55 or less

Dimensions: 8 x 8.31 x 3.5 inches

Not only is this hanging toiletry bag well organized, but it also costs less than $15 at Target. The toiletry bag has a built-in hanger, four mesh pockets (two of which have zippers) and an additional compartment that can hold travel-size (or even full-size) toiletries and makeup. It also has an external tote handle. The Open Story Small Hanging Toiletry bag is currently available in light blue.

I've used this toiletry bag for a couple years now, and it's great for my travel needs. The hanging hook saves me a lot of space, and there's plenty of organization inside – all for an incredibly affordable price. – Catriona Kendall , Editor

Price: $12.99 or less

Fawn The Toiletry Case Large in brown against white background.

Courtesy of Fawn

Dimensions: 6.5 x 9.5 x 3.5 inches

For a clear toiletry bag that makes it easy to see all of your essentials – plus a faux leather trim and matte gold zippers that make it just plain pretty – frequent travelers recommend this option by Fawn. Two interior compartments are large enough to hold both toiletries and makeup, and top grab handles make it easy to pull out of your luggage and transport wherever you go.

I was initially drawn to this bag for its clear vinyl compartments, but after using it for about a year I've been pleasantly surprised by how many items it can hold. I'm able to fit all my travel-size skin care and hair care products, and it doesn't take up too much space in my carry-on. It's also very easy to clean. – Ann Henson , Assistant Managing Editor

Price: $59.99 or less

Best Leather: Mark & Graham Dual Travel Organizer – Large

Mark & Graham Dual Travel Organizer – Large in white against white background.

Courtesy of Mark & Graham

Dimensions: 6 x 9.5 x 2.25 inches

This toiletry bag is both elegant and efficient. Crafted with vegan leather, it's available in eight colors, including red, blush, camel, white and navy, all of which are accented by gold zippers. The toiletry bag has two spacious compartments and conveniently sits upright on flat surfaces.

I really like my large Dual Travel Organizer from Mark and Graham. The main compartment can hold your basic makeup essentials and a travel-sized toothbrush, and the bottom zippered section is ideal for jewelry, a contact lens case or hair ties. The vegan leather material is both soft and environmentally friendly, and you can also get the bag monogrammed for a personal touch. – Nicola Wood , Senior Editor

Price: $99 or less

Frequently Asked Questions

Per the Transportation Security Administration's liquids rule , a quart-sized bag is recommended for any toiletries packed in carry-on luggage ; however, a clear bag is not specified. What's most important is that any liquids (including creams, gels and aerosols) are placed in a small bag and do not exceed 3.4 ounces. For checked luggage , there are no limitations on toiletry bag and liquid sizes.

Anything you use for your personal hygiene at home should be packed in your toiletry bag. This can include:

  • Conditioner
  • Shaving cream
  • Moisturizer
  • Contact solution
  • Contact lenses
  • Feminine hygiene products

Depending on space, you may also want to pack the following items in your toiletry bag:

  • Medications

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Amanda Norcross regularly reviews and writes about travel gear. She consulted her team at U.S. News as well as recent consumer reviews to determine the best toiletry bags for men, women and kids.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Best Packing Cubes
  • The Most Useful Travel Accessories
  • What to Pack in Your Carry-on Bag
  • What Is Allowed in a Carry-on Bag?

Tags: Travel , Travel Gear

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  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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

Keep all your bathroom necessities together

best travel wash bag womens

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

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

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

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

Final Verdict

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

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, sea to summit hanging toiletry bag.

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

Designed for organization

Tough exterior

Plenty of thoughtful additions

Nothing yet

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

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

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

TripSavvy / David Carr

Best Budget

Wandf toiletry bag.

  • Design 4 /5
  • Portability 4 /5

Generous amount of space

Very lightweight

Not very compact

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

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

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

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

Very spacious

Zippered mesh pockets are helpful

Sturdy yet compressible

Customer reviews complain about the color

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

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

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

Best Hanging

Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag.

Durable design

Easy to pack

Water-resistant material

Not the easiest to clean

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Away large toiletry bag.

Made of recycled materials

Stores bulky items well

Lets you see everything at a glance

Limited colors

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

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

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

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

Best Organization

Peak design wash pouch.

Peak Design

Extra durable

Fits into other bags easily

Contains recycled materials

A bit on the pricey side

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

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

Best for Extended Trips

Dare to roam steward dopp kit.

Dare to Roam

Impressive capacity

Eco-friendly

Less likely to harbor microbes

Bulkier than other options

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

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

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

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

Best for Camping

Matador flatpak zipper toiletry case.

Back Country

  • Capacity 4 /5

Stripped-down but serviceable

Built to last

One large pocket

May be too simplistic for some

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

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

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

Best Eco-Friendly

Cotopaxi nido accessory bag.

  • Portability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

Nice internal organization

Not ideal for extended trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What to Look For in a Toiletry Bag

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

TSA Requirements

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

Hanging Capability

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

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

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

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

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

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best travel wash bag womens

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

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

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

Best travel toiletry bags, at a glance

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

What to look for in a travel toiletry bag

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

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

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

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

Shop the best travel toiletry bags

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0

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

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

Available colors: 1

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

eBags Pack-It-Flat Toiletry Kit

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

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

Available colors: 4

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

Dagne Dover Hunter Neoprene Toiletry Bag

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

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

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

Available colors: 9

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

Queboom Travel Makeup Bag

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

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

Available colors: 12

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

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

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

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

  • Waterproof exterior pocket
  • Multiple organizational compartments
  • Limited colors

The Daily Edit Black Clear Travel Case

Originally $99, now $50

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

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

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

Truffle Clarity Jetset Case

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

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

Available colors: 8

  • TSA-friendly design
  • Available in four sizes
  • No internal organization

Anya Hindmarch In-Flight Case

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

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

Available colors: 5

  • Water-proof material with waterproof fabric lining
  • Roomy interior

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Best toiletry bags 2023: practical and stylish wash bags for travel

Going away? Keep your toiletries in a selection of these fantastic washbags

One of the best toiletry bags on a table, surrounded by a toothbrush, glasses, cactus and watering can

Every traveller needs a good toiletry bag. You may be the type that can get by on just a toothbrush and a tube of toothpaste, but the accessories you need for more than a few days away quickly mount up. Shampoo and body wash is increasingly provided by hotels these days, but you still need to travel with your own deodorant, razor, shaving cream, moisturiser, creams, gels, medication, tablets… for some travellers, the list goes on and on.

So while you may aspire to travel with just a toothbrush and a credit card, the reality is very different. Cue the travel wash bag, a long-time travel staple.

However, they come in many different shapes and sizes. There are luxury-looking wash bags fashioned from leather, canvas bags designed for camping, and all kinds of styles in-between. There are clutches, products with integrated hanging hooks, and ultralight designs that are all about saving weight. 

These toiletry bags must be paired with the best suitcase , best carry-on luggage , or best backpack .

How to choose the toiletry bag for you

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

You may not spend as much time choosing a wash bag as a wristwatch , but what you choose will say a lot about you. 

You can pay for materials and style, of course, with leather (both faux and real Italian hide) in our lineup. Those materials are easy to clean and exude style, but they come at a high price. 

The soft leather James Purdey & Sons Leather Wash Bag is a high roller at aroud £295, but it's very basic in design. Even the faux leather Ted Baker Cobbler Wash Bag is more intriguing, though not as impressive as the ultra-organised Aspinal of London Men's Hanging Washbag .

In the mid-rage sits the attractive Filson Canvas Wash Bag at around £120, with the rest of our roundup concentrating on more affordable and outdoorsy, unisex designs using man-made fabrics, such as the feature-packed Snugpak Luxury Wash Bag , and the compact Lifeventure Travel Wash Bag ,

For those who prefer to travel ultralight, check-out the Osprey Ultralight Washbag Zip , which also acts as a hanging wash bag, but includes a tear-off, see-through pouch for storing liquids in hand luggage, as does the unisex OneNine5 , which is fashioned from recycled plastic.

From business trips and plush hotels to camping and backpacking, there’s a travel wash bag here for you.

The 8 best toiletry bags you can buy

OneNine5 travel wash bag

1. OneNine5 travel wash bag

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

If you’re the kind of traveller that takes a lot of creams, lotions and potions, this generously-sized wash bag is for you. Designed by a London based start-up, OneNine5 has the Millennial crowd in its sights; it’s got a 100% recycled plastic lining, but also a magnetised clear liquids bag for getting through airport security when you’re travelling carry-on only. 

Coming in three colours, the OneNine5 travel wash bag has seven separate compartments to maximise space, including a zipped area for must-not-lose items as well as a hanging hook and a separate toothbrush holder. It’s available in three unisex colours; blue, pink and grey. 

Snugpak Luxury Wash Bag

2. Snugpak Luxury Wash Bag

Sometimes you don’t have to spend big to get your money’s worth. If you can live with the polyester outdoorsy look, Snugpak’s offering has all you need and more; as well as two main individually divided and zipped compartments, the Luxury Wash Bag has a useful wet storage compartment, a detachable mirror, and a stainless steel hanging hook to store it up and out of the way in bathrooms. That’s three features you don’t usually get from a washbag. It’s also got four elasticated sections for sundries. 

James Purdey & Sons Leather Wash Bag

3. James Purdey & Sons Leather Wash Bag

If you want to travel in luxury, look no further than this beautiful leather wash bag. The clutch design may be reminiscent of a handbag, but elsewhere it's masculinity defined; where else would you find a 'signature oak bark tanning technique' applied to hide? 

At 8x18x26cm it's roomy enough for most toiletries, while the nicely lined main area contains a small pouch for contact lenses. Elsewhere it's all about style, with excellent quality zips and an embossed designer emblem. It's beautiful, if a little basic, but does anyone need to pay this much for a washbag?

Filson Canvas Wash Bag

4. Filson Canvas Wash Bag

If you're after a more vegetarian retro look, consider canvas. It's light, durable and much more versatile than leather. Oh, and it's cheaper, too. Cut from canvas and lined with nylon for extra waterproofing, this simple toiletry bag from Filson is a one-compartment affair, though inside is an open side-pocket for easy division of kit. 

A grab handle on one end is a nice touch, as is a high quality zip. Measuring 14x19x30cm, it's big enough to take some serious gear, but it folds down to nothing when not in use, which is handy when you're back at your bathroom base.

Osprey Ultralight Washbag Zip

5. Osprey Ultralight Washbag Zip

Take two wash bags into the bathroom? If you're quite the jet-setter who's just as likely to pop over to Europe for a business meeting – with hand luggage only – as you are to go long duration, long haul, you don't want to have to buy a different wash bag for every kind of trip. 

This well-designed and incredibly lightweight 14x23x7cm option from outdoor specialist Osprey has three separate sections that can be unfurled when you get to your destination. Weighing just 12g, it's got a small coat hanger and plenty of pockets, a built-in mirror, and a transparent compartment that doubles as a rip-off toiletries pouch.

Ted Baker Cobbler Wash Bag

6. Ted Baker Cobbler Wash Bag

At first glimpse this looks like a solid leather trunk bag, but a clever compartment saves the day. Made from faux leather, with brass-look zips and with some attractive detailing, this 12.5x13x26cm toiletry bag has one big compartment ideal for storing the usual suspects like deodorant, shaving cream and a tube of toothpaste. 

However, another compartment on its undercarriage contains a few mesh pockets and a host of elasticated straps ideal for securing shaving accessories (or even cables). It adds some much-needed functionality because despite the attractive look, the build quality here is actually pretty basic.

Aspinal of London Men's Hanging Washbag

7. Aspinal of London Men's Hanging Washbag

  • Aspinal of London Men's Hanging Washbag - £225

Are you the organised type? If you're the kind of man who likes to travel with everything you need at your fingertips, there are few better options than a hanging wash bag. When closed it looks like a regular wash bag, with a magnet keeping everything snug. There’s even a carry handle on rear. 

However, unfurl it and you find three separate compartments, two of them zipped. There's even a mirror. Handmade in smooth calf leather, each pocket is lined with water resistant fabric. It's a joy to use, but the bizarre choice to have a loop rather than a hook makes it harder to find it a home.

Lifeventure Travel Wash Bag

8. Lifeventure Travel Wash Bag

If you have no need for leather and looks, you'll love this small unisex toiletry bag that looks like a packing cube. Available in blue, red and grey, the 22x18x8cm Lifeventure is all about practical design rather than style. It's made from ripstop nylon, and has two compartments one a mesh pocket and the other a more secure zip top security pocket.

 Thankfully, the loop design also comes with a hook, and there's a zipped pocket to make tablets easily accessible without opening the whole bag. It's also got a mirror, though in practical terms it's mere novelty.

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Jamie is a freelance journalist, copywriter and author with 20 years' experience. He's written journalism for over 50 publications and websites and, when he's not writing, spending most of his time travelling – putting the latest travel tech through its paces.

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The Best Toiletry Bags for All Your Year-Round Travels

Whether you're packing for a weekend road trip or a month-long European tour.

best toiletry bags for travel

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Whether you're traveling for an extended period of time or going away for the weekend, packing a toiletry bag is essential for keeping your smaller essentials contained and organized in one place. Because, let's face it, no one wants to deal with having to search high and low for your self-care goodies, or even worse, a shampoo explosion mid-flight.

Medium Train Case

Best Personalized

Leatherology medium train case.

Leather Wellness Case

Best Organization

Cuyana leather wellness case.

Cosmetic Pouch

Easy to Clean

Rifle paper co. cosmetic pouch.

Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag, Family Size

Best for Long Trips

L.l.bean personal organizer toiletry bag, family size.

Bag-all My Vanity Travel Case

Best Canvas

Bag-all my vanity travel case.

 TSA Approved Toiletry Pouch

Lermende TSA Approved Toiletry Pouch

Black Small Classic Grain

Best Luxury

Mulberry black small classic grain.

Makeup Bag

Best Compact Size

Charlotte tilbury makeup bag.

Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic

Best Hanging

Tumi voyageur madeline cosmetic.

Classic Small Pouch

Best Variety

Stoney clover lane classic small pouch.

Almost everything looks a little better with a monogram—including a toiletry case, like this one from Leatherology, which at 6 inches high is large enough to keep travel-sided bottles upright.

Dimensions: 6" H x 8.5" W x 5.5" D

One reviewer writes: "I used this for my makeup on a recent trip to Europe. Although not always full, it still kept its shape perfectly and is a great size. I fit my brush, deodorant plus all my makeup and some travel shampoos in a secure spill proof."

Keep all your serums, tinctures, and other products from knocking into each other with Cuyana's leather wellness case, which not only looks super luxe, but also features thoughtful details like elastic loops and a back pocket to keep everything organized on the go.

Dimensions: 7.48" H x 7.48" W x 4.92" D

This easy-to-clean toiletry case features a wide opening for easy access and one of Rifle Paper Co.'s signature botanical prints to brighten up even the most minimalist hotel bathroom.

Dimensions: 10" L × 4.25" W × 7" H

If you're in charge of packing toiletries for your whole family, consider investing in a larger bag like this one from LL Bean, which holds multiple full-sized bottles and hair brushes, and features water-resistant fabrics to reduce spills.

Dimensions: 10"H x 12"W x 8"D

One reviewer raves: "This bag is really big and holds a ton of things including hair dryer, straightener, two cans of hair spray and an array of toiletries! This is my second bag. My previous one was 20 years old!"

Never lose track of your favorite moisturizer, shampoo, and shaving cream with this chic black-and-white vanity case, which is lined with a fun striped pattern.

Dimensions: 10.5" L x 6.25" H

If you prefer to always carry on when you travel, stowing your toiletries in a clear TSA-approved toiletry bag is a smart choice, so you can zip through security lines. Plus, when you get to your destination, the see-through pouch makes it easy to find exactly what you're looking for quickly as you get ready for a day of sight-seeing.

Dimensions: 7.87" x 2.36" x 6.1"

One Amazon reviewer writes: "I have used this bag for my liquid bag for two trips to Brazil! Never had any issue with tsa in either country. I can fit so much. I used the other bag for my power banks, cords, adapters and headphones. I love they are clear and I can see everything! Would recommend."

This classic black leather cosmetic case, which features Mulberry's signature Postman’s Lock is so beautiful, it could double as a clutch—especially if you're trying to keep your suitcase light.

Dimensions: 5" H x 7.25" W x 2.5" D

For a truly coordinated self-care experience while traveling, pack Charlotte Tilbury's cult-classic magic cream inside this canvas pouch covered in kisses from the brand.

Dimensions: 9”W x 5”H x 1”D

One reviewer writes: "I received this bag as a gift and I love the cute lip print, it’s a perfect travel size and fits perfectly in my suitcase. I also love how it sits on my dressing table. It’s made of good quality material and perfect to give as a gift."

The reason Tumi luggage is so beloved? It seamlessly blends form and function, like in this sleek black cosmetic case, which features a hanging hook and multiple compartments that unfurl to keep all your lotions and potions easily accessible.

Dimensions: 2.75" x 11.25" x 8"

One reviewer writes: "I love Tumi products. They are so well made, with sturdy zippers and great material. This bag is no exception. I've loaded it up and everything fit perfect."

Some people swear by the folding method of packing—piling their clothing into neat stacks in their suitcase. Others love the rolling method, which they swear reduces wrinkling and creates more space in a carry-on. I live by the pouch method—putting everything into packing cubes and smaller bags to keep things organized. This style from Stoney Clover Lane makes it obvious where all the toiletries are tucked.

Dimensions: 5" H x 9.5" L x 2" D

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

Leather Travel Case Set

T&C 's Roxanne Adamiyatt swears by this leather toiletry set that comes with two differently-sized pouches, perfect for travel and your day-to-day life. "This duo has really helped me keep my self-care belongings in order," she says. "First, the zippers on both the large and small case aren't just horizontal at the top, they wrap around from base to base, so you get maximum space efficiency. And while the large bag can hold both my travel-sized skincare and makeup brushes when I'm on a long-haul trip, I like to put the various components of my cosmetic routine (base, blush, eyes, etc.) in their own individual compostable baggies that are labeled so there's less pandemonium when I unzip the case."

Dimensions: Large: 7" H x 12" W. x 3.5" D Small: 5" H x 8" W x 2.5" D

Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case

Large Clear Cosmetics Case

Another great see-through option, this toiletry bag has two clear compartments that allows you to locate where everything is and stay organized. It comes in three different sizes, all of which that flatten to fit perfectly into a suitcase.

Dimensions: 11.5” x 5.25” x 9”

One reviewer raves: "Don't think twice - get it! SO useful! Purchased for my semester abroad, it was the perfect storage for all my toiletries - especially those I feared would spill in transit. The design of this case protects your items and has SO much room. I was able to fit 4 full-size products and more in just one side of the case."

Béis The Cosmetics Case

The Cosmetics Case

For true makeup lovers, this structured travel case features a removable sleeve for makeup brushes on one side and a zip pocket on the reverse to keep lipsticks, eyeliner, and other smaller essentials neat and tidy. But the pièce de résistance? It also comes with an interior mirror to ensure you always look your best while on the go.

Dimensions: 9 ½" W x 7" H x 4" D

One reviewer raves: "The best cosmetic case I’ve owned. Besides being pretty it’s sturdy and functional. It’s the perfect size as it holds everything I need."

Headshot of Caroline Hallemann

As the digital director for Town & Country, Caroline Hallemann covers culture, entertainment, and a range of other subjects 

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The 14 Best Toiletry Bags for Travel to Prevent Messy Suitcase Spills…in Style

Author image: dana dickey

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

Whether you are packing for a getaway weekend with just a carry-on or a two-week vacation that utilizes your whole luggage set , taking along one of the best toiletry bags is key to a successful trip. You need something that’s going to keep all your cosmetics sorted and separated from your soaps and shower supplies. Whether it’s a hanging organizer , a status splurge or a waterproof travel kit , we’ve sorted through all the top travel luggage brands and come up with recommendations for you.

The Best Toiletry Bags for Travel at a Glance

  • Best Overall: Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case
  • Best on a Budget: WDLHQC Hanging Toiletry Bag
  • Best Splurge: Gucci Ophedia Toiletry Bag
  • Best Multi-Purpose Toiletry Bag: Sweaty Betty Toiletry Bag
  • Best for Hanging: Away Hanging Toiletry Bag
  • Most Waterproof: Caraa Travel Kit
  • Best Design: Nikshel Travel Toiletry Bag
  • Most Rugged: Herschel Chapter Toiletry Kit
  • Most Transparent: Mark & Graham Clear Toiletry Bag
  • Most Accessories: Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
  • Best Quart Size: Olanmark Zippered Toiletry Bag
  • Most Organized: Stephanie Johnson Martha Toiletry Bag
  • Best Leather Toiletry Bag: Clare V. Toiletry Bag
  • Best Nylon Toiletry Bag: Large Toiletry Bag

The Top 17 Pieces of Underseat Luggage (Because Have You Seen Those Airline Baggage Fees?)

Best toiletry bags: A woman reaches into a clear Calpak toiletry bag

Best Overall

1. calpak clear cosmetics case.

  • Why We Love It: Roomy size, dual transparent pouches

Cast off the yoke of the too-small toiletries bag with this clear case that lets you see everything in one place, in clear vinyl with sturdy bindings, trim and zippers in mauve, stone, caramel and black (there's also a limited-edition lavender one ). And collapsible handles mean this bag takes up no more than its 11.5-inch by 9-inch footprint.

Best toiletry bag: A striped hanging toiletry bag

Best on a Budget

2. wdlhqc hanging toiletry bag.

  • Why We Love It: Four drop-down pockets, multiple colorways

A sturdy PVC fabrication and a stainless-steel hanging hook make this affordably priced toiletries bag seem much more expensive than it really is. Available in multiple striped hues plus a solid basic black, this bag fits so many items in its two waterproof and two mesh pockets. We appreciate the opaque external covering (discreet) and the at-a-glance visibility when the bag is unfolded.

Best toiletry bags: A Gucci logo toiletry bag

Best Splurge

3. gucci ophedia toiletry bag.

  • Why We Love It: Separate drawstring AirPod pouch, luxe leather trim

Chicly covered in the signature Tory Burch monogram print, trimmed in leather and shining with brass-finish hardware, this pouch elevates your entire trip. But this is more than just a pretty face: Three exterior slit pockets and an interior zipper pocket hold a lot in this 8-by-11-inch bag. The jacquard quilting outside and microsuede lining aren't impervious to major dousing, but both wipe clean in case there's a minor spill.

Best toiletry bag Sweaty Betty

Best Multi-Purpose Toiletry Bag

4. sweaty betty washbag, sweaty betty.

  • Why We Love It: 100 percent recycled nylon, doubles as a clutch

The all-nylon construction of this pick reminds us of a sturdy gym tote. The happy combination of these two elements is this 9-inch by 5-inch little bag that's got a front zip pocket and an internal zip pocket. If you don't have too much to pack and just need to carry your own self-care items, this is a great multi-use option.

Best toiletry bag: A blush pink Away bag

Best for Hanging

5. away hanging toiletry bag.

  • Why We Love It: Detachable pouch for liquids, Internal mesh division

This online luggage brand, beloved by hipsters and animal lovers , is known for its colorfully rendered and performance-oriented pieces. Case in point: This hanging toiletry bag is a manageable 9.6-inch by 6.6-inch size that holds enough for a week away. The nylon body has a spill-proof interior coating for the mesh-pocketed areas that can hold your makeup and dry goods. A separate detachable plastic pouch keeps your mini-shampoo and other liquids safe from oozing onto all your other cosmetics or luggage. And the black, blue, green and petal pink colors are so up-to-the-minute cool (as well as perfect for coordinating with your Away suitcase).

Best toiletry bag: A woman holds a cream Caraa toiletry bag

Most Waterproof

7. caraa travel kit.

  • Why We Love It: Waterproof inside and out, comes with two matching shoes/clothes drawstring bags

This minimal, multi-pocketed bag gets points for looking groovy while providing all the storage space and waterproof security a frequent flyer loves. The brand's signature vegan leather—really, a high-quality vegan Italian leather—will show surprisingly little wear and tear after use and looks great on-the-go.

Best toiletry bags: A blue Nishel toiletry bag

Best Design

8. nikshel travel toiletry bag.

  • Why We Love It: Transparent middle section for standing bottles, multiple pockets

This unique style gets more than 3,200 5-star reviews on Amazon for its roominess (12-inches by-9 inches) and multiple compartments, including the large double-zipped chamber for standing bottles at the center that means you can tote along your full-size shampoo if you're planning to put this in your checked baggage. Each side has a flap that's specially kitted out to hold something unique, from makeup brushes, lipsticks, liquid makeup bottles and eye shadow palettes. The transparent PVC throughout the interior wipes clean easily, and the exterior comes in a choice of five colors (black, dusty pink, pastel pink, Aegean blue and mauve).

Best toiletry bags: A deep blue Herschel toiletry bag

Most Rugged

8. herschel chapter toiletry kit.

  • Why We Love It: Simple design, durable polyester exterior

Like the sturdy tote bags and backpacks that Vancouver-based manufacturer Herschel is known for, this toiletry kit is the distillation of performance-oriented, gender-neutral design. Available in tons of colorways, this toiletry kit has a waterproof zipper with a little peddled leather tab, a high-density polyester exterior and nylon inside, plus a little mesh sleeve for storage. It's less is more, travel toothpaste-and-soap edition, and we can see this hanging from a carabiner on a backpack as readily as on the counter of an Ace Hotel.

Best toiletry bags: Four clear Mark & Graham toiletry bags

Most Transparent

9. mark & graham clear toiletry bag, mark & graham.

  • Why We Love It: Free monogramming, vegan leather trim

This happy little monogram bag is so cute, we love the idea of getting both large (10-inches by 7-inches) and small size (8-inches by 3.25-inches) to have one at the ready for trips both long and short. Its transparent, wipe-clean polyurethane is trimmed with your choice of six shades of vegan leather (black, navy, sky blue, poppy, camel and neon yellow) and you'll have your choice of fifteen monogram colors.

Best toiletry bag: A mauve Dagne Dover toiletry bag with accessories

Most Accessories

10. dagne dover hunter toiletry bag, dagne dover.

  • Why We Love It: Soft neoprene body, Extra organizing bags included

PureWow readers (and staffers) are obsessed with the Dagne Dover stand-up travel case ; so it's no surprise that we'd urge you to expand your DD collection now that we've discovered this neoprene toiletry case. It comes with separate pouches for your toothbrush and small items. The inside also has plastic loops to hold lip balm, razors and travel fragrance, leaving lots of room at the center to fit in your TSA-approved liquids. The zip-top keeps everything from spilling out onto your non-toiletry items, and the neoprene fabrication is lightweight and easily rinsed by hand. Coming in five core shades (navy, moss green, heather grey, black and dune), this kit is periodically offered in limited edition neon shades, as well.

Best toiletry bag: A clear toiletry bag with black trim

11. Olanmark Zippered Toiletry Bag

  • Why We Love It: Guarantees easy TSA check, convenient handle

If you've run afoul of TSA agents who are sticklers about container sizes...you're safe now. This heavy-duty see-though PVC pouch is the same size as a 32-ounce Ziploc bag, but it's not going to fall apart or get worn-looking upon repeated uses. And there's an outside pocket, durable zipper and handle, so you'll be able to quickly grab this inflight for a trip to the restroom before landing.

Best toiletry bags: A blue toiletry bag with an orange interior

Most Organized

12. stephanie johnson martha toiletry bag, stephanie johnson.

  • Why We Love It: Removable mini-cases, convenient handles

If you're the kind of person who absolutely needs to be organized, this toiletry case is for you. Four removable transparent plastic pouches fit perfectly and snugly inside this clamshell-opening case. Made of durable woven polyurethane, it honestly looks like leather, and the endless way it can be arranged means you'll never have hairbrush bristles hanging out of your carry-on again.

Best toiletry bag: A black leather Clare V bag

Best Leather

13. clare v. toiletry case.

  • Why We Love It: Handy size, snazzy blue interior

This Los Angeles-based accessories designer has reimagined the classic black Dopp kit as a sophisticated little case that holds all the essentials you'd need for a weekend (or to have in your tote bag for a work-to-dinner date makeover). The shiny genuine leather exterior looks more gorge the more you use it, and the bright blue ripstop nylon interior wipes clean in a snap.

Best toiletry bags Cream

14. Large Toiletry Bag

  • Why We Love It: Makeup brush straps, leather-like

Not only is this leather-like zippered bag attractive, it's got a unique two-tier design that allows you to separate out your things as you wish. It comes in four colors, and we adore the cute little saying across the front, which reads "Life is a journey. The simpler the happier." Needless to say, this one makes for a great gift.

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The Travel Hack

The best travel toiletry bag for women: Reviewing the Amazon bestsellers

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , Packing Tips , Travel Tips

The best travel toiletry bag for women: Reviewing the Amazon bestsellers

I’m on the hunt to find the very best women’s travel toiletry bag.

If I’m honest, I’ve been hunting for this mythical toiletry bag for years. I’ve never had one that’s quite right. They’re either too big, too small, too many pockets, not enough pockets…you get the idea!

I decided to order all the best selling travel toiletry bags for women from Amazon and share my thoughts…

Here they are, the best travel toiletry bags for women….

These are my four favourites and I’ve included a detailed review and more wash bags below.

Travel Hanging Toiletry Wash Bag Makeup Cosmetic Organizer for Women (Blue Leaf (Medium))

Narwey Hanging Toiletry bag

Best for: My personal favourite

Best wash bags for women

This Narwey hanging toiletry bag has a really unusual design. I love that it has one, big pocket for bottles and then side pockets to keep makeup or smaller items separate and organised. It ticks every box and I love the design too.

  • It has a hook for hanging
  • One large pocket to chuck bottles in
  • Organisers and dividers incase I do want to be organised with that big pocket!
  • A waterproof pocket
  • Lots of mesh pockets
  • Extra compartments and pockets for makeup
  • Lovely, wipeable design

The only downside to this is that it falls over. So unless you’re leaning it against something it’s a bit awkward. Now the majority of the time it will be sat on a bathroom counter leaning against the wall or mirror. But there will be times when it’s not and, I’m not going to lie, that’s really annoying when it falls over.

  • ✅ PRACTICAL 25cm TALL - The main compartment has a practical height of 25cm (9.8") which could easily fit common-size toiletries as well as makeup like shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste,...
  • ✅MULTIPLE STORAGE COMPARTMENTS - Large main compartment with 8 mesh pockets, 4 zipper pockets (3 internal, 1 external) keep items organized and in place well, 2 open sides with several organized...
  • ✅ NOT BULKY DESIGN - It is medium size with large capacity yet compact design, weighing only 10 ounces. Pack it flat design makes it not to take up too much room in your suitcase.

Toiletry bags for women

Funnasting Wash Bag

Best for: Simplicity

Wash bag for travel

This was my second favourite. I like the simplicity of having one large pocket but also appreciate having a separate mesh pocket for anything I want to keep away from my liquids bottles.

There’s also a dry pocket on the bottom which would be handy for things like damp flannels and toothbrushes.

This is a simple design for a women’s travel toiletry bag but it’s the most practical of them all and doesn’t have any annoying niggles.

  • 【Wet & Dry Separation】Our toiletry bag is double-layer design, the bottom is wet area, which can be used to hold wet towels, underwear and other items. No leakage when filled with water, but it...
  • 【Large Capacity】The main compartment of the wash bag has a practical height of 6.5 inch, which can easily fit normal sized toiletries and cosmetics such as lotion, foundation, shampoo,...
  • 【Widely Application】 Large makeup bag set not only can storage your cosmetics, but also jewelry, electronic accessories, Toiletries, Shaving Kit and so on. Great for travel, gym, camping, bathroom...

Women's wash bag

4 piece washbag

Best for: Having a bag for everything/ families / lots of toiletries

best travel wash bag womens

I got this one thinking it would be great to use each bag for different items:

  • Shower products
  • Haircare and styling

If you take a lot of toiletries away with you then this is a really nice option!

These bags were cheap at just £8.49 and could also be used to keep things nicely organised at home too.

They could also be a good option for a family!

  • 【Materials】Our makeup bags are made of PVC + PU material, waterproof, durable, and odourless.
  • 【Transparent】Highly transparent design, the items stored in the wash bag are clear at a glance, helping you quickly find the items you want. Important! It is convenient for you to pass the...
  • 【Waterproof】The transparent cosmetic bag is made of PVC, which is waterproof inside and outside, wear-resistant and dust-proof, and easy to clean. The surrounding edges are made of sleek embedded...

women's 4-piece wash bag

Veyarien Hanging Folding Cosmetic Bag

Best for: Budget

Best budget womens toiletry bag

This is the cheapest of the lot at just £7.99.

I’ll be honest and admit that this does feel cheap but I’ll also say that for £7.99 it’s a bargain and I’d have no problem using this toiletry bag for women.

It’s got a hook and simple, easy to access pockets in the flap. One pocket is waterproof and it has organisers inside. It stands up easily and doesn’t fall over and I think it’s the perfect size.

If you want to keep costs down, this is the one for you.

And if you like a bit of matchy matchy with your travel accessories, I also have these packing cubes which match perfectly and would look lovely inside your suitcase!

  • ✈ Premium Quality--The Travel Toiletry Bag is made of high quality Waterproof Oxford cloth with tidy and fine close stitching, lightweight, breathable and quick-drying. protects your gear from...
  • ✈ User Friendly Design--Soft & padded fabric, reliable smooth zippers and convenient velcro, Buit-in hook allows convenient hanging the wash bag from towel rack, coat hook or whereever is available,...
  • ✈ Small Body Large Capacity--Size: 9.4"x7.4"x3.9"(24cmx19cmx10cm), Multiple roomy compartments for razor, shampoo, shower gel, toothpaste, toothbrush towels and toiletries. With multiple pockets,...

Packing Cubes for Suitcase,Geediar 9 PCS Travel Luggage Packing Organizers Waterproof Travel...

  • 9 Pcs Super Value Travel Packing Set: The set include 3 packing cubes with see through mesh top for clothes, 1 private cubes for bras and underwear, 1 travel shoes bag, 1 toiletry bag, 1 toothbrush...
  • Buckle Design: Clothes Bag Set can store and classify clothing, dirty linen, underwear, shoes, cosmetics, toiletries and electronics accessories well. Keeping your things tidy reduces clothing...
  • Top Visible Mesh Design: With mesh material on the top of the travel luggage organizers, transparent & breathable, allows you to quickly access and find the item what you need. Brand new buckle design...

best travel wash bag womens

Norway long hanging toiletry bag

Best for: Communal showers

best travel wash bag womens

This was my least favourite of the lot. It could be handy when being used in the hanging position but unless it’s hanging it’s just awkward. It’s too long to fold out onto a bathroom counter but you have to fold it out to access each compartment.

If you’re regularly using communal showers (gyms and hostels) then I think it’s a good option because you might be taking your entire washbag in and out of a shower or communal bathroom each time. 

Narwey Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag for Women Wash Bag Cosmetics Makeup Bag Organizer for Travel Size...

  • ✅ PLENTY of ROOM - Size 26x20.3x14cm, easily fit full-size toiletries as well as makeup like shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, toothbrushes, hair brush, shaving kit and a few extra items.
  • ✅ MULTIPLE STORAGE COMPARTMENT - 4 separate compartments keep items organized and in place well, 2 main compartments with mesh pockets and elastic bands keep items upright, easy to grab exactly what...
  • ✅ NOT BULKY DESIGN - Large Capacity yet compact design, weighing 14 ounces. large metal hook allows hanging the toiletry case from towel rack, coat hook or whereever is available, making your...

Extra long hanging toiletry bag

Narwey Green PU Cosmetic Bag

Best for: Simplicity and ‘just chuck it all in’ type travellers

Toiletry bag for ladies

I liked the look of this one because sometimes it’s easiest to just have one large toiletry bag to chuck everything into. All those pockets and zips can overcomplicate things sometimes.

While this one came up under travel toiletry bags for women I’d definitely say it’s more of a make-up bag (which it is actually labelled as so that’s my bad!)

The lid of this bag has a compartment that would be great for makeup brushes or your toothbrush and there’s a detachable purse that could be handy too. I’d put things in there that I need to keep clean and dry such as cotton pads and medication.

But overall I felt that this toiletry bag was too ‘floppy’. 

Travel Makeup Bag Large PU Leather Cosmetic Bag Makeup Case Organizer for Women (Mint Green)

  • ✅ 4cm Deeper, Volume up 1.5 Times - Unlike other similar products which is too shallow, we make it 4 cm deeper, volume 1.5 times up, which is more practical to fill makeups and cosmetics such as...
  • ✅ Hold Shape, Sense of Design - Still worried it is too collapsed? With better material and construction, we make the top and sides hold shapes, keeping items from slide out when it is open.
  • ✅ Still worried you would receive flimsy makeup bag? Upgrade with nice smooth lining, soft & padded material, much more durable and thicker than similar products, every detail is delicately made.

Ladies toiletry bag

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23 best toiletry travel bags for women: From pouches to vanity cases, hanging options & more

A toiletry bag or a vanity case makes an excellent gift... .

best toiletry bags

When packing for a holiday, short city break, or overnight stay, a trusty travel bag for your toiletries is a must. Toiletry bags are often the unsung hero when it comes to organisers, as they're perfect for keeping your beauty essentials accessible and tidy. 

They also make great gifts - especially for a birthday present. If you're shopping for your mum/sister/best friend and you're looking for a cute women's toiletry bag or a chic vanity case, you've come to the right place. 

Best women's toiletry bags - at a glance

  • Best travel-friendly toiletry bag: Trinny London's The Chelsea Large Storage Bag £38
  • Best clear toiletry bag:  Beauty Pie has a clear makeup bag that's perfect, £18
  • Best hanging toiletry bag:  The Stackers Hanging Washbag looks like perfection , from £40
  • Best compact toiletry bag:  Amazon to the rescue with a cosmetic bag that holds more than it looks , £14.99
  • Best flat-lay toiletry bag:  ASOS has lots of Flat Lay bags £19.99
  • Best small vanity case:  Nere is on our radar for all travel accessories going forward , £41.30 down from £59
  • Best large vanity case:  Beautifect is loved by celebrities, and you can totally see why, £299
  • Best designer toiletry bag:  We wouldn't say no to the DIOR Beauty Vanity Case , £1,600

How we chose the best toiletry bags

Size:  Travel toiletry bags come in all shapes and sizes, from small and compact designs, perfect for those on a tight weight limit, or the minimalist packer, as well as larger designs. 

Varied styles:  From pouches and vanity cases, clear toiletry bags to hanging creations, and so much more, from high street shops and online retailers, we have sifted through to find the most practical toiletry bags to make travelling in 2024 even simpler, and packing absolutely stress-free.  

Travel friendly:  A lot of these are hanging toiletry bags so you can easily access everything you need with ease, and don’t have to fear about leaving anything behind after your trip. 

Scamp & Dude Swag Bags With Purpose

Scamp & Dude Swag Bags

Scamp & Dude Swag Bags

The Scamp & Dude Swag Bags don't just look good, they DO good, too! Seven amazing women from the beauty world (including Princess Eugenie's makeup artist Hannah Martin) have designed their Swag Bag in aid of a charity close to their hearts They come in two sizes and they are also wipeable which is a must for any beauty spillage.

After a sell out collection in 2018 and raising over £35,000 for charity, the return of Swag Bags with Purpose aims to raise a huge £160,000 for the collaborators chosen charities, that hold a special place in their hearts.

If you buy the smaller Swag Bag, £10 goes to charity. If you buy the larger Swag Bag, £15 going to charity. 

Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Makeup Bag - Limited Edition

charlotte tilbury limited edition makeup bag

Charlotte Tilbury Makeup Bag

Charlotte Tilbury's new limited edition Pillow Talk Makeup Bag is a multi-magic makeup organiser - just wait until you see what it looks like inside. This must-have beauty bag features different compartments to easily segment, store, organise and travel with your makeup products!

They've thought of everything as well - from the rose gold zip to the cute lip print inside, this is the essential makeup organiser for beauty mavens. 

Antler Clifton Vanity Case In Coral

ANTLER Vanity Case

ANTLER Vanity Case

Antler is another firm favourite brand to shop when on the hunt for travel essentials, whether it is suitcases or vanity cases or hanging wash bags.  

With a whole host of designs, and colourways across the entire range, there is bound to be something to suit your needs. 

H&M Large Two-Tiered Wash Bag

h&m washbag

H&M Wash Bag In Lilac

H&M is a great destination for travel must haves - and this chic wash bag proves it. This one is spacious and because it's two-tiered, you can be super organised when you travel. The handle at the top is perfect for on-the-go and the compartments are perfect for storing make-up brushes inside the lid.

Trinny London The Chelsea Large Toiletry Bag

Trinny London chelsea packing bag

Trinny London Toiletry Bag

Trinny Woodall often shares packing videos on her Instagram, and the Chelsea is always front and centre. It's large enough to store all your essentials and chic enough that you’ll want it on display, The sturdy, water-resistant case is designed with a handy interior pocket. 

Amazon Travel Cosmetics Bag

amazon toiletry bag

Amazon Toiletry Bag

Amazon leaves shoppers spoilt for choice no matter what you're looking for, including travel-friendly toiletry bags. 

While some may be looking for vanity cases, others may prefer hanging designs, and Amazon has it all. 

NotOnTheHighStreet Recycled Matte Toiletry Bag

NotOnTheHighStreet Recycled Matte Toiletry Bag

NotOnTheHighStreet Personalised Toiletry Bag

This would be great as a gift. The personalised Matte PU Toiletry Bag is a stylish and functional travel essential made from 100% recycled materials. You can pick from three colours and four thread shades for the personalisation. 

Lululemon Command the Day Dopp Kit 5L

Lululemon Command the Day Dopp Kit 5L

Lululemon Wash Bag

Lululemon’s wash bag is often deemed an essential for those heading to the gym, but actually, it can come in handy when travelling too. 

HERYEBING Makeup Bag Large Capacity

amazon makeup bags

Amazon Large Capacity Makeup Bag

Sometimes you don't want to go digging for your makeup all the time - this one is perfect because of the wide-open design which makes it easier for you to find what you're looking for, especially with the waterproof PVC transparent window. It has two main compartments, a separate area for makeup brushes, and a pocket with a zipper, and multiple compartments to keep your cosmetics organised. 

AWAY Hanging Toiletry Bag In Pink

away toiletry bag

AWAY Toiletry Bag

Away is the creme de la creme when it comes to shopping for luggage and holdalls, but it also delivers on packing cubes and toiletry bags too. 

Away’s toiletry bags range from small to large creations, with plenty of pockets and compartments inside to house everything so your toiletries don’t get soiled. Away also has a hanging toiletry bag, as well as clear pouches and so much more, so there is something to suit every shopper, but these have sold out due to popular demand, so you won't want to miss out on the Hanging Toiletry Bag to organise your skincare, make-up and toiletries. 

The Flat Lay Co. Drawstring Makeup Bag In Blush Pink

The Flat Lay Company Toiletry Bag

The Flat Lay Company Toiletry Bag

The Flat Lay Company is famed for the stylish make-up bag you can house your cosmetics, and pull the drawstring to wrap them all up again in a neat pouch. 

But when you are travelling, you may be looking for something a little more compact and tight to secure all your belongings in the one place. 

Beautifect Vanity Case

BEAUTIFECT makeup organiser

Beautifect Box In Gold

The Beautifect Box is a portable makeup vanity case, ideal for every day use at home or for travel. The makeup case has an advanced luminous system -  five lighting colour modes and three brightness settings -- that perfectly replicates daytime and evening light while eliminating shadows by evenly dispersing light over the entirety of your face. 

The smart storage system is specifically designed with deep and generous compartments to provide space for daily makeup. Dual function flaps separate pencils and brushes while also securing makeup in the ultimate vanity case.  The rechargeable and cordless beauty box also includes a 5x magnification mirror that can be attached to the main mirror for times you need to see minute details. 

What's more, there's a specially engineered hinge angles and holds the mirror to any position that best suits you allowing you to sit comfortably at all times.

Stackers Hanging Wash Bag

stackers hanging toiletry bag

Stackers Toiletry Bag

Stackers is the go-to for clever storage solutions, and this hanging wash bag (which is available in an array of colours) is simply genius as there is a compartment for absolutely everything. 

Stackers Large Cosmetics Case

stackers large cosmetics case

Stackers Cosmetics Case

If you're not after a hanging style bag, how about the large cosmetic case? It's perfect for storing your beauty essentials, whether this is for travel or keeping your dressing table organised at home. The interior features two zipped compartments, elasticated pocket as well as a removable clear pocket designed to house your brushes away from your makeup, so all of your cosmetics can be kept secure. Also includes a compact mirror.

Elizabeth Scarlett Honey Bees Velvet Pouch In Charcoal

Elizabeth Scarlett toiletry bag

Elizabeth Scarlett Toiletry Bag

If you're looking to add a little colour to your makeup bag, this Elizabeth Scarlett is spot on! 

Inspired by the honey bee, Elizabeth took to her sketchbook and illustrated the humble creatures, capturing their extraordinary form in pencil and watercolours. The motif features all of the intricate details of the bee, with golden threads twinkling against the jewel-toned velvet base.

Elizabeth Scarlett are committed to giving back to the wildlife that inspires their designs. With a mission to raise £2 million for wildlife conservation by 2030, Elizabeth Scarlett have been able to support some incredible causes and have no plans on stopping anytime soon. 

REFY Signature Bag In White

Refy signature bag

Refy Signature Bag

REFY is known for award winning and world first products with innovation being at the forefront of everything they create. To celebrate their 3rd birthday, the cult beauty brand has reinvented your everyday makeup bag with The REFY Signature Bag.

Two years in the making, the REFY Signature bag has been designed to be used everyday. Developed to be functional without compromising on their signature white. The REFY Signature Bag has a cotton canvas finish, but unlike its competitors the fabric is coated in a bespoke treatment to avoid any stains and marks on both the outer and inner lining, allowing you to instantly remove makeup.

NERE Stori Vanity Case In Hyper Pink

nere pink vanity case

Nere Vanity Case

Your next trip just got more stylish with the Nere Stori Vanity Case in Hyper Pink, a lightweight travel case made with a quality ABS hard shell, detachable strap and lots of storage space.

For a luggage look worthy of a fashionista, pair this piece with matching or complementary Nere suitcases and accessories.

DiorTravel Vanity Case

Dior vanity case

Dior Vanity Case

The DiorTravel vanity case is an elegant and clever accessory - and very chic, too! Fully embroidered with a blue Dior Oblique motif and embellished with a 'CHRISTIAN DIOR' signature on the front, it screams luxury. 

The style features a spacious main compartment and several places to accommodate toiletries and makeup.

M&S Star Makeup Bag

m&s star print makeup bag

Marks & Spencer Toiletry Bag

M&S has plenty of vanity cases, travel bags, make-up bags and so much more to shop.  

There are also lots of lovely gifting options, and this star print design would make a beautiful present for your nearest and dearest. 

Glossier Toiletry Bag

Glossier toiletry bag

Glossier The Beauty Bag

Glossier's Beauty Bag has proved to be a huge hit with shoppers, as it is recognised as one of Glossier’s most popular buys right now. 

Whether you are looking for a compact wash bag to take on your travels, use when you return home, house your toiletries, make-up, fragrances, or make-up brushes, even your jewellery, it has multiple functions so you get your cost per wear. 

Etsy Personalised Makeup Bag & Organiser

etsy makeup organiser

Etsy Toiletry Bag

Etsy is filled with unique travel essentials, and we love this toiletry bag for taking on holiday. The multiple compartments means you can keep your beauty products organised - and the hanging design keeps them easily accessible, saving you from rummaging around your luggage to find what you're looking for.

Boots Butterfly Square Clear Toiletry Bag

Boots toiletry bag

Boots Toiletry Bag

Boots is one of our go-to shopping destinations in the run-up to a holiday, for everything from travel-sized toiletries to toiletry bags. 

From miniature travel wash bags to hanging designs, Boots has everything you could ever desire, and at affordable prices too. 

Beauty Pie Medium Clear Makeup Bag In Yellow

beauty pie makeup bag

Beauty Pie Toiletry Bag

For those who travel light, and need a travel toiletry bag to house miniature shampoo, conditioners and other bodycare must-haves, Beauty Pie has delivered. 

We love using a makeup bag with a transparent case so you can find what you need with ease. 

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best toiletry bags women cuyana luxe digital

The Best Toiletry Bags For Mess-Free Storage And Travel

More than just a pretty case.

by Molly Wolfe Published on February 3, 2024

At Luxe Digital, we independently research, review, and recommend products we love and that we think you will love, too. Learn more about how we curate the best products for you .

It may not be the most exhilarating purchase, but we think that the humble toiletry bag may just be one of the most underrated bags of all—whether you’re a member of the Wanderlust club and hardly step foot on home soil, or you don’t need a vacation because you live the life you love already (go you!). 

Call it a cosmetics case, dopp kit, wash bag—or whatever you will—but it could mean the difference between a leaky, clothes-ruined disaster or an arrival that is elegant and poised. 

As for design…

Well, it’s not the most important thing. But personally, we’d rather have a trendy toiletry bag that we’re proud to display rather than one that constantly needs to be stowed away when you hear the doorbell ring. 

Where to find such a functional and fashionable essential?

Kiss your zip-lock bags goodbye—Our carefully curated list of the best women’s toiletry bags has one for every personality and preference. (We also curated a list of the best dopp kits for men ).

16 best toiletry bags for women

Beis the hanging: overall best toiletry bag for women.

best toiletry bags women beis review - Luxe Digital

Our rating:

  • Can be hung or used as a box toiletry bag
  • Easy to clean
  • Convenient grab handle
  • Includes a TSA-compliant clear pouch
  • Transparent and mesh interior pockets to find what you need
  • Hanger doesn’t rotate so the bag doesn’t hang flush against the wall
  • On the heavier side

Our verdict:

Whether hanging against the bathroom door or neatly position on the counter, this versatile, organized, water-resistant toiletry bag is as functional as it is fashionable. 

If we had to own just one toiletry bag, we’d find it impossible to choose between a hanging bag and a box bag. Which is why we’re obsessed with this one by Beis. Owned by actress Shay Mitchell, the cult-favorite brand has a notable Instagram following—and one that it consistently lives up to with its chic, sleek travel accessories. 

As our best toiletry bag for women, the Beis Hanging Cosmetic Case is case (sorry we had to) in point. Featuring a hidden hanger, the stylish boxy silhouette plays double duty as a hanging toiletry bag. While the water-resistant finish protects our cashmere sweaters and slip dresses from accidental travel spills (read: shampoo explosions.)

Regardless of how you position it, the compartmentalized travel case is ultra-organized, with transparent (skim-friendly) pockets, as well as a TSA-compliant clear pouch for gliding through airport security. We use ours for shorter and longer trips and we’re always hugely impressed.

Gucci Jumbo: Best luxury toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women gucci review - Luxe Digital

  • Made in Italy from the highest quality leather
  • Stylish, sophisticated and timeless
  • Extra strong zippers
  • Internal stretch pockets
  • It’s expensive

Yes, this glamorous Gucci cosmetics case may seem totally unnecessary, but the high-quality accessory is almost guaranteed to last forever—in fashion and functionality. 

If you’re looking for a designer toiletry bag to luxe up your travel collection, the Gucci Jumbo toiletry case promises to make any average bathroom feel like a five-star hotel. Made in Italy from the brand’s signature monogrammed canvas, the cylinder silhouette oozes sophistication and class. But it’s not just a pretty case. The Gucci toiletry bag is also highly functional. 

The spacious interior features four stretch pockets, perfect for small essentials such as hair ties and lipsticks. The nylon lining is water-resistant and easy to wipe down. The zippers are incredibly strong and robust And we appreciate the grab handle when we’re carrying the Gucci Jumbo to the bathroom or hauling it out of a tightly packed backpack. 

Herschel Chapter: Best value toiletry bag for ladies

best toiletry bags women herschel chapter review - Luxe Digital

  • Ultra-light for its spacious dimensions
  • Water-resistant
  • Internal and external storage sleeves
  • Large carry handle
  • Super affordable for a quality product
  • Fabric marks easily
  • Takes up a lot of counter space

If you’re looking to spend as little as possible without compromising quality, the Herschel Chapter toiletry bag is a no-brainer. 

At Luxe Digital, we’re only interested in quality brands that are designed to last longer. And while we’re usually prepared to pay more for luxury purchases, every now and then we come across an affordable gem, such as this toiletry bag by Herschel. 

The first thing we tested were the zippers (as these are usually the first to go) and were pleasantly surprised at how they held up—even when being tugged and pulled in a child-like manner. We also assessed the brand’s water resistance and are pleased to report that the toiletry bag is impenetrable. 

When it comes to organization and usability, the Herschel Chapter toiletry bag has plenty of pockets on the inside, as well as slips to store your watches and bracelets while you’re in the shower on the outside.

Cuyana Travel Case: Best leather toiletry bag set for women

best toiletry bags women cuyana review - Luxe Digital

  • Sustainably sourced, premium leather
  • Durable zippers
  • Sophisticated and stylish aesthetic
  • Includes two different sized pouches
  • Can be personalized
  • No external pockets

You can always count on Cuyana to elevate basics to iconic stature—that covetable blend of luxe-feeling, timeless style and flawless functionality. If you’re looking for something that is a little more stylish but not impractical, we’re pretty sure you’ll love Cuyana’s elegant travel case set.

After testing most of Cuyana’s best-selling products, we’re unapologetically biased towards the sustainable, minimalist brand. But that also means that we have impossibly high standards for the label. 

Handcrafted in Argentina from sustainable sourced leather, the set of two bags—a small and large—exudes sophistication. And the design is both timeless and practical with impressively strong zippers (coming from the overpackers themselves).

While the leather lining is easy to wipe down, it should be noted that these cases aren’t entirely waterproof. 

When it comes to price, the Cuyana toiletry bag set is on the higher end, but the quality and design definitely justify the cost. Especially since it plays double duty as one of our favorite clutches when not carrying your beauty regime.

Away Travel: Best large toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women away review - Luxe Digital

  • Fits an extensive beauty regime
  • Lightweight for its size
  • Structured silhouette doesn’t fall over
  • Exterior zip pocket for grab-and-go items
  • Not as flexible as other less-structured silhouettes

A large toiletry bag isn’t always appropriate for shorter trips. However if you need to pack an extensive beauty regime into one waterproof dopp kit, this super organized spacious travel case is the way to go.

If you’re anything like us and you’re constantly trying to squeeze just one more serum into an already overstuffed toiletry bag, the Away Large is an absolute game-changer. With a thoughtful design that’s quintessential of Away, the classically styled toiletry bag opens wide, so you can quickly access whatever you need, avoiding awkward fumbles. 

It’s palatial in size. The super-organized interior has three main compartments—one for your liquids, one for your dental hygiene kit and one for your razors and hair accessories. 

As one of the most functional dopp kits, the large toiletry bag is made from sustainable, water resistant nylon. And like most products sold by Away, it’s incredibly durable with a lifeline seemingly longer than our own. 

Besides transforming our own travel experiences, the Away Large toiletry bag is also a great gift for almost any woman. Especially if you make most of the brand’s sentimental personalization options. 

Bellroy: Best compact women’s toiletry bag

best toiletry bags women bellroy review - Luxe Digital

  • Compact size is perfect for shorter trips
  • Water resistant lining is easy to clean
  • Separate toothbrush sleeve has a magnetic closure
  • Made from recycled materials
  • Compact size often isn’t big enough for longer trips

From separate toothbrush slips and ample pockets to water-resistant, recycled materials and a 3-year warranty, this cute toiletry bag is all about perfecting the finer details. It’s a big thumbs up from us.

One of the worst toiletry mishaps is to arrive at your destination to find a toothbrush covered in shampoo. That’s just one of the reasons that we’re obsessed with this cute toiletry bag by Bellroy. The brand has thought of everything—from a magnetic closure toothbrush slip to its carry-on compliant compact size. 

Inside the Bellroy toiletry bag , you’ll find a surprisingly spacious, water-resistant interior that easily wipes clean, as well as side pockets for smaller essentials. The addition of grab loops means that you can balance it on one finger while carrying a change of clothes. And we appreciate that the use of recycled materials aligns with the brand’s overall environmentally conscious choices. 

Calpak Kaya: Best clear women’s toiletry travel bag

best toiletry bags women calpak review - Luxe Digital

  • Transparent materials to see what’s inside at a glance
  • TSA compliant
  • Super organized
  • Clam shell opening can also be hung
  • Water resistant
  • Zips don’t feel the most durable

We always love a clear toiletry bag as it’s easy to see if you’ve missed anything without unpacking the whole case, but this transparent accessory takes organization and convenience to a whole new level.

We can see clearly now. As much as we love a fashionable toiletry bag in standout hues, we have to admit that a clear toiletry bag is usually the most convenient choice. Particularly this one by Calpak. While it’s not a hanging toiletry bag per se, the clam shell opening and grab handles mean that you can hang it on your towel hook to save space. And two separate, water-resistant zipped compartments mean that if one of your liquids explodes, your toothbrush and razors remain untouched. 

As one of our best toiletry bags for carry-on, the clear PVC exterior is also TSA compliant (no ziplock bags for you). And while the spacious medium interior is perfect for most occasions, the Calpak Kaya travel case also comes in a small and medium for shorter or longer trips.

Nomatic 2.0: Best women’s toiletry bag for outdoors

best toiletry bags women nomatic review - Luxe Digital

  • Strong zippers are engineered for heavy use
  • Slim profile takes up minimal space and is incredibly lightweight
  • Includes a hidden hanging hook
  • Fully waterproof
  • Not the most stylish option and only comes in gray

Aesthetically, it may be less exciting than others, but when it comes to performance and durability, you won’t find a toiletry bag more suitable for outdoor adventures.

As one of the best toiletry bags for camping and other outdoor excursions, the Nomatic 2.0 is unbelievably light and durable. The waterproof materials are totally impenetrable, regardless of weather conditions. And no matter how you treat them (we tugged and pulled), the robust zippers and seams always hold up. 

Additionally, the lightweight silhouette takes up very little space in a backpack. And the hidden hanging hook means that you can conveniently hang it up in your tent or cabin to save space. 

Which size to choose? When you’re hiking or camping, you usually don’t require your full collection of serums, moisturizers and makeup, in which case we prefer the smaller size. However, if you’re not one to leave anything behind regardless of your destination, the Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 also comes in a larger size. 

BAGSMART: Best hanging toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women bagsmart review - Luxe Digital

  • Large capacity
  • Hanging capability
  • Well padded for extra protection
  • Stylish design
  • Super affordable
  • Exterior isn’t the easiest to wipe down
  • Seems aren’t quite as strong

It may not be a brand that you know, but this toiletry bag is surprisingly high quality and maximizes bathroom space by conveniently hanging flush against the door. Plus, it’s super affordable, organized and extra spacious.

While we’re all for prioritizing skincare, an extensive beauty regime comes with its travel challenges. Taking up space in your suitcase and Airbnb bathroom, it usually means leaving something else behind. Unless, you’re packing the BagSmart toiletry bag, in which case, you’re sorted. 

As one of the most popular women’s toiletry bags on Amazon, we were intrigued to see if the affordable accessory lived up to the hype. And it delivered in spades. 

With four main water-resistant compartments and ample pockets (interior and exterior), the fold-up silhouette is unbelievably organized and big enough for all the bathroom essentials (and non-essentials). While the hanging toiletry bag simultaneously maximizes bathroom space. 

We love the BagSmart toiletry bag so much that we use it at home, as well as for longer trips. It’s also affordable enough to invest in two if you’d prefer to keep one for storage and one for travel. 

Horizn Studios Kōenji: Best one compartment toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women horizn studios review - Luxe Digital

  • Same material as for bulletproof vests
  • Magnetic pull tag maintains a structured silhouette
  • Spacious main compartment
  • Small zipped pocket for smaller items
  • Carbon neutral shipping and 100% vegan materials

While we love a toiletry bag with compartments for organization, it usually means less packing space. So if you’d rather prioritize space and a compact size, we recommend this extra durable, one-compartment toiletry bag by Horizn Studios.

If you’re packing fewer bigger things, like shampoos and moisturizers, a one-compartment toiletry bag can actually be more useful. As our best one-compartment toiletry bag, the Horizn Studios Kōenji Wash Bag illustrates why. 

With ample room for larger bottles and hairbrushes, the water-resistant interior is incredibly spacious for its size. While the single zipped side slip is the perfect size for a toothbrush or hair ties. 

The Horizn Studios wash bag is also ridiculously durable. Made from ballistic nylon, we use ours all the time, and it’s yet to show any signs of wear or tear. Plus, it comes in eco-friendly packaging and ships carbon neutrally. 

Peak Design: Best women’s toiletry bag with compartments

best toiletry bags women peak design review - Luxe Digital

  • Ultra organized
  • Fits in more than most
  • Structured silhouette remains upright
  • Separate toothbrush slip with magnetic seal
  • Although it has a hook, it doesn’t hang flush against the wall
  • Stitching isn’t the strongest

If organized travel is your main priority, this toiletry bag with compartments is unrivaled when it comes to tidiness. With countless slips and pockets, every item has its designated place. 

If you know us, you’ll know how much we harp on about organized travel accessories. And so it should come as no surprise that we’re totally biased towards this one by Peak Design. 

As our best travel toiletry bag for organized getaways, the wash bag has two main compartments with multiple space-saving, origami-style pockets, all of which are water-resistant and thoughtfully placed. 

While it doesn’t look like much from a glance, we were seriously impressed by just how much could fit inside the toiletry bag. And the accordion-shaped silhouette remained steadfast and upright even when full. 

Our one complaint is that the seams aren’t quite as strong as we expected, but seeing that the Peak Design wash bag is covered by the brand’s lifetime warranty, we’re willing to overlook it. 

Lululemon: Best roll up trendy toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women lululemon review - Luxe Digital

  • Lightweight and compact to pack
  • Conveniently hangs from a bathroom hook when unfolded
  • Rrecycled, water-repellent materials
  • Three main compartments including a see-through mesh pocket
  • Doesn’t stand upright when not hanging
  • No grab handle

If you’re looking for a hyper-practical roll-up travel toiletry kit that is also super sleek and stylish, Lululemon’s version is a standout. Just note that the bag doesn’t stand upright, it’s only designed for hanging.

We all know and love Lululemon for its cult-favorite collection of quality activewear . Which is why we were so excited to get our hands on the brand’s trendy toiletry bag. 

How did it perform? Well, it’s not perfect—it’s not as easy to clean and doesn’t have grab handles—but it’s still a standout as our best roll-up toiletry bag for women. The sleek design is compact and maximizes space. While the three water-resistant compartments are all you need to organize the essentials. 

We also love that the Lululemon Travel Toiletry Kit is made from recycled materials. And while it’s engineered with meticulous attention to detail, the quality accessory doesn’t cost the earth.

Cuyana Beauty Case: Best stylish toiletry bag for make-up

best toiletry bags women cuyana beauty case review - Luxe Digital

  • Made from sustainably sourced Italian leather
  • Elastic bands for beauty brushes
  • Removable pouch for smaller essentials
  • Wipeable microsuede interior
  • Timeless, sophisticated and stylish
  • Structured silhouette is heavier and takes up more suitcase space

If you carry around a fair bit of makeup, it’s worth having a toiletry case specifically designed for your various brushes and bottles. With ample storage space, removable pouches and carefully placed elastic bands, the Cuyana Beauty Case ticks all our boxes.

As one of our favorite brands for casual and business casual essentials, Cuyana consistently impresses us with its knack for turning everyday essentials into cult-favorite classics. Living up to its burgeoning reputation, the Cuyana makeup bag kit embodies everything we love about the brand. 

Made from premium Italian leather that is also responsibly sourced and tanned, the elegant silhouette is designed to add a sophisticated edge to your bathroom counter, while considering the planet in the process. The plush microsuede interior is effortless to wipe down. And we particularly love that there is a designated place for every type of brush and bottle—including a removable pouch that can slip into your handbag.

That being said, Cuyana’s Beauty Case isn’t the most affordable option, but it’s a lifetime purchase that you’ll only ever applaud the more you use it. 

Nuori: Best women’s toiletry bag for home and away

best toiletry bags women nuori review - Luxe Digital

  • Set includes a large and small toiletry bag
  • Small case is clear and TSA compliant
  • Vegan leather and comes in sustainable packaging
  • Quality zips and seams
  • Stylish and sophisticated aesthetic
  • No grab handles

Two travel upgrades in one—A multitasking case and a clear travel toiletry bag that’s great for staying home, too. It’s all you need.

Usually, we’d get a larger, more structured toiletry bag for home and a more travel-friendly version for getaways. However, this Nuori two-piece set fulfills both functions. 

As one of our best dopp kits for women, the larger vegan leather has ample space for your capsule beauty regime , including carefully placed elastic bands for brushes. While the smaller skincare travel bag is more compact and carry-on friendly. It’s also completely clear and TSA-compliant so you can glide through airport security without worrying about ziplock bags. 

When it comes to aesthetics, this Nuori two-piece set is a masterclass in modern minimalism. And while it’s designed to organize your skincare, beauty and dental products, it simultaneously acts as a decor item on any bathroom countertop. For us, that’s a noteworthy bonus, especially because we keep ours displayed year-round. 

Dagne Dover The Hunter: Best lightweight toiletry bag for women

best toiletry bags women dagne dover review - Luxe Digital

  • Ultra-light and flexible for packing
  • Soft, water-resistant neoprene protects toiletries
  • Removable mesh pouch for customizable storage options
  • Organized interior includes slips and elastic loops
  • Neoprene may fade if placed in direct sunlight for extended periods
  • Not machine washable as we initially hoped it would be

It’s not fancy but it’s ultra-light, robust, and gets the job done for a much lower price tag. 

Weighing only 0.3 pounds, the Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag has a barely-there appeal. It easily fits into carry-on luggage without taking up much of your airline weight limitations. And while the silhouette is structured enough to stand on its own, it’s also flexible enough to squeeze into an overstuffed backpack when not fully packed. 

As one of our best dopp kits for women, the neoprene toiletry bag features a removable mesh pouch as well as elasticated slips and sleeves for various brushes and bottles. It should be noted that the neoprene exterior isn’t 100% impenetrable, but it’s water resistant enough to deter liquid spills from infiltrating your suitcase. 

When it comes to size, we opted for the small Hunter Toiletry Bag . And while some women may find it insufficient, we love the compact, lightweight silhouette for everyday gym missions, overnight hikes and other shorter trips. However, if you’d prefer to fit in more, the toiletry bag also comes in large. 

Bonus—Aesop: Best pre-stocked toiletry set

best toiletry bags women aesop review - Luxe Digital

  • Saves the time of looking for each item individually
  • Travel sizes fit perfectly into all of our best toiletry bags
  • Made from quality natural ingredients
  • Missing a few essentials, such as a face cleanser and toothpaste

Saying yes to new adventures at a moment’s notice? Easy with this pre-stocked toiletry bag of matching quality, travel-sized products. Aesop’s Arrival collection is guaranteed to elevate your check-in experience.

Ok, so this one isn’t exactly a toiletry bag, but we think Aesop’s flight-ready travel sets are too good not to share? Our current favorite? The four-piece Arrival set. Featuring a mini (50ml) shampoo, conditioner, cleanser and body balm, it’s exactly what you need to kickstart your vacation with fragrant, natural ingredients. 

Aesop’s travel-sized essentials are guaranteed to fit into your designer toiletry bag—which we’ll assume you’ve already picked off our list. And we love the clean, minimalist aesthetic perched on any bathroom countertop. It may seem like a small detail, but these decadent staples really are an elixir for any weary, jet–lagged traveler. 

Buyer’s guide to choosing the right toiletry bag

While a new toiletry may seem like a relatively straightforward purchase, there is actually quite a bit to consider if you want to find exactly what you need:

Intended use

First consider how often you intend to use your toiletry bag and what for: on the move or home storage?

On the move

If you intend to travel with your toiletry bag—be it longer vacations or everyday gym excursions—you’ll want to look for wash bags that are lighter and maximize space. 

It can also be helpful to think about the type of travel you usually do. If it’s outdoor adventures, you’ll want a wash bag that is water-resistant and compact—after all you likely won’t bag an extensive beauty regime to go camping. On the other hand, if you’re traveling for business or a wedding, you’ll want a bag that fits all the everyday grooming essentials. 

Another important factor is how you intend to transport your toiletry bag. If it’s in a carry-on, a compact transparent, TSA-compliant bag is incredibly useful. And if it’s in a check-in bag, you’ll likely want to prioritize something larger. 

Home: everyday storage

Even if we have shelves and cupboards in our bathrooms at home, most of us prefer to store our cosmetics and skin care products in toiletry bags. If this is what you’re looking for, we recommend a stylish, spacious, structured silhouette that plays double duty as a decor piece on your countertop. 

Compartments and contents

Of course, different toiletry bags are designed to accommodate different contents, so in order to choose the right one, you need to have an idea of what you’re packing inside it. 

If it’s make-up, you’ll want a toiletry bag that has elastic rings for various bottles and brushes. If it’s liquids, water-resistant compartments are essential. If it’s a couple of bigger items, a spacious one-compartment version may be best. And if it’s a bit of everything, look for one with plenty of pockets for many different categories (medicines, electronics, hair products, brushes, skincare, etc). 

You also know how much you intend to fit inside. If your uncompromising beauty regime is pretty extensive, you’ll want a bag that fits every serum and cleanser. However, if you’re a light-packer with many adventures planned, a lightweight, compact version is likely better suited to your lifestyle. 

The question is: flat, hanging or a hybrid? 

Flat, boxy toiletry bags are easier to transport from mirror to mirror as needed and are often better for storage. However, a hanging wash bag is great for maximizing bathroom space and is often lighter to pack.

If you can’t choose between the two, a hybrid version gives us the best of both worlds. Just make sure that it’s structured enough to stand on its own and is flexible enough to hang flush against a wall or door. 

Things we specifically looked for

While all our favorites are made differently, here’s what we prioritized when picking out the best toiletry bags for women: 

  • Easy to clean: a toiletry bag should always be easy to wipe down and bonus points if it’s also machine washable. 
  • Strong zips: as zips are often the first thing to go, we tugged and pulled to ensure this wasn’t the case. 
  • Size and capacity: even if it’s a smaller toiletry bag, it should still maximize its capacity. 
  • Organizational features: we paid attention to how many compartments and pockets each bag had, as well as how strategically they are placed. 
  • Portability and hanging capability: If it’s a travel toiletry bag, it should have grab handles or a hanging hook. 
  • Water resistance: water resistance compartments are super important if you intend to carry liquids. 

Frequently asked questions about toiletry bags for women

The best women’s toiletry bag depends on your lifestyle and beauty needs. Stylish, versatile, and durable, the Beis hanging toiletry bag is our favorite toiletry bag for women, while Gucci is our best luxury toiletry bag. But to select the perfect dopp kit for your needs, check out our curated list of the best toiletry bags for women .

As our overall best toiletry bag for women, Beis’ toiletry bag is considered the most versatile for any situation. The considerate design can be hung against your bathroom door or perched on top of a counter.

A toiletry bag is designed to hold personal hygiene and beauty items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, and skincare products, focusing on practicality during travel. A cosmetic bag, on the other hand, is intended for makeup and beauty products, emphasizing organization and protection for cosmetics. The bags are different by definition, however, a single wash bag can serve both purposes.

A women’s toiletry bag is often simply referred to as a “toiletry bag”, however it can also be called a “dopp kit” or “wash bag”. In some circumstances, a toiletry bag may be referred to as a “cosmetics bag” or “make up bag”, although strictly, the two serve slightly different purposes.

About the author

best travel wash bag womens

Molly Wolfe

Style & travel editor.

Molly is a luxury travel  and  fashion  writer who has a passion for all things unique, boutique, and design-centric. She loves nothing more than exploring new destinations, shopping in luxury boutiques in the world’s fashion capitals and finding quirky vegetarian restaurants to sample. And writing all about her fabulous finds for  Luxa Terra  and  Luxe Digital .

Learn more about Molly Wolfe

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The best toiletry bags for every traveler

Whether you travel light or heavy, a toiletry kit is essential to keeping your luggage tidy. Here are our picks.

The best travel toiletry bag can be the difference between clean, organized luggage and a suitcase full of spilled lotion. After combing through hundreds of customer reviews, we determined that Peak Design’s Wash Pouch is the best overall.  

It incorporates the most important features in a travel toiletry bag: thoughtful design, plenty of multifunctional pockets, durable materials, and a compact size. This bag is a great fit for most travelers, but it’s not the only option. Whether you pack light, heavy, or somewhere in between, here are all our top toiletry bags for your essentials.

Our picks for the best travel toiletry bags

Best overall: peak design wash pouch.

Light gray Peak Design Wash Pouch

Buy it now on   Amazon   or   Peak Design

Why we like it:   The thoughtful design behind Peak Design’s Wash Pouch allows it to handle all sorts of toiletry items. Inside, multiple mesh pockets organize essentials, a zippered compartment holds smaller items, and a magnetically sealed section neatly stashes a toothbrush. Anything that won’t fit inside tucks into the large zippered pocket outside.

We love that you can set it upright on a counter or hang it via a built-in hook. The Wash Pouch is designed to prevent spills and leaks. However, if something seeps out, the weatherproof nylon material makes it easy to clean up. You can remove the inner lining to clean up bigger spills too. Peak Design backs this bag with a lifetime guarantee.

Keep in mind:   There are only two color options (black and sage green). It may take up a lot of space in a carry-on bag.  

Product details: Dimensions:   10.2 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4.4 inches tall | Weight:   8.7 ounces | Material:   Nylon | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best toiletry bag for makeup: Eachy Travel Makeup

EACHY Travel Makeup.

Buy it now on   Amazon

Why we like it: The best feature on this waterproof toiletry bag is that it opens flat, allowing easy access to makeup. That’s especially helpful for anything that needs to stay upright, like foundation and moisturizer. Multiple interior pockets and partitions keep compacts and tools organized, plus there’s a built-in brush holder. With 24 styles and two sizes (medium and large), travelers have lots of options to choose from.

Keep in mind:   This toiletry bag has a top handle for carrying, but there is no hook for hanging.  

Product details: Dimensions:   9.25 inches long, 4.13 inches wide, and 4.33 inches tall |   Weight:   9 ounces | Material: Polyurethane | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best small travel toiletry bag: Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer

A Dagne Dover toiletry bag

Buy it now at   Dagne Dover

Why we like it:   The Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer may be small, but it packs a big punch in organization. It has a removable insert with six adjustable dividers that turn this simple pouch into a multi-compartment toiletry bag. Two tall and two short elastic hoops keep things like toothbrushes and razors in place, while a zippered mesh pocket helps you see smaller items like bobby pins.

We appreciate that this organizer is made from recycled polyester and mesh and that the dust bag it ships in is made of three recycled plastic bottles. Travelers can stuff products into the smaller option to fit in a carry-on, but the larger option provides a bit more room.

Keep in mind: This toiletry bag isn’t waterproof and requires a little more care to clean.  

Product details: Dimensions:   5.5 inches long, 5.5 inches wide and 5.5 inches tall | Weight: 6 ounces | Material:   Polyester | Waterproof:   No

Best travel toiletry bag for organization: L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

Why we like it: With six liters of space, L.L. Bean’s water-resistant Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag is best for heavy packers. It has multiple large mesh pockets, zippered compartments, plus a removable shower caddy and a built-in mirror to keep everything organized. The hook is hefty enough to hold 25 pounds, according to the company. This toiletry bag is likely a safe bet for durability—L.L. Bean claims they exposed the bag to extreme temperatures, 20,000 zips and unzips, and 150 sandpaper scrapes.

Keep in mind: All that organization sacrifices space. This bag is big and will likely take up lots of room in a carry-on.  

Product details: Dimensions: 9.75 inches tall, 11.5 inches wide, and 3.5 inches in diameter | Weight: 14 ounces | Material:   Nylon | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best hanging travel toiletry bag: Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

Green Calpack Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

Buy it now at   Calpak

Why we like it:   Counter space is always at a premium when traveling. That’s why we love the water-resistant Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag, which maximizes vertical storage. It’s got plenty of large and small compartments, toothbrush holders, and zippered pockets. We also appreciate that it’s made from six single-use plastic bottles and is backed by a one-year warranty. The toiletry bag has 10 color options, plus a matching sling bag and duffel backpack.

Keep in mind: The top closes with a buckle, which isn’t as secure as zippers for preventing things from falling out.  

Product details: Dimensions:   8 inches long, 6 inches wide, and 4 inches tall | Weight: 7.2 ounces | Material: Polyester | Waterproof:   Yes  

Best Dopp kit: The Renew Transit Catch-All Case

Green Transit Catch-All Case

Buy it now at   Everlane

Why we like it: Everlane’s Renew Transit Catch-All Case is a stylish and functional dopp kit. Durable and water-resistant, it has a spacious main compartment with five pockets and an exterior zip pocket for frequently used items. We like that the main pocket folds down so you don’t have to dig around for that tube of toothpaste. This toiletry bag also gets bonus points for using environmentally friendly fabric (polyester made from single-use plastic bottles) and environmentally safe dyes.

Keep in mind:   This toiletry bag can only be spot-cleaned, which is less convenient than machine-washable options.

Product details: Dimensions: 11 inches long, 6.5 inches tall, and 4.75 inches in diameter | Weight: Unknown | Material:   Polyester | Waterproof: Yes  

Best waterproof toiletry bag: Maliton Hanging Toiletry Bag

Maliton Hanging Toiletry Bag

Why we like it: No matter how much you try to prevent it, leaks can still happen. Our top pick for best waterproof toiletry bag comes from Maliton. Made with showers and humid bathrooms in mind, it’s constructed of waterproof nylon and has reinforced zippers to help keep spills in and water out.

Besides being waterproof, this toiletry bag has ample space for all your bathroom essentials—mesh pockets and multiple compartments, including one big enough for a towel. And the whole thing folds up for storing.

Keep in mind: This bag is larger than other toiletry bags, so it may not be ideal for carry-ons. suitcase.

Product details: Dimensions:   11 inches long, 4.87 inches wide, and 7.6 inches tall | Weight: 6.4 ounces | Material: Nylon | Waterproof: Yes

Our review process

With so many options, choosing the best travel toiletry bag for you can be time-consuming. To help, we filtered our search by the following attributes:

Third-party reviews: Brand marketing can be deceiving. We made sure to consider only toiletry bags with high ratings and positive reviews from both verified customers and third-party review sites.

Brand reputation:   We looked beyond product descriptions to customers’ opinions about the brand as a whole. Speedy and attentive customer service, ethical manufacturing practices, and a commitment to sustainability are all important aspects.

Functionality:   We looked for toiletry bags with a variety of pockets, compartments, and zippers for maximum functionality. We awarded bonus points for thoughtful design elements such as removable pouches and hooks.

Material and durability:   How a toiletry bag is constructed is key. We looked for bags made with sturdy materials such as nylon and polyester. We gave extra points for innovative materials, like recycled plastic or eco-friendly vegan leather.

Capacity:   We looked for travel toiletry bags with enough room to hold all your essentials, plus a little extra in case of emergencies.

Compactness:   Space is always at a premium when traveling. We kept an eye out for toiletry bags that collapse or flatten to fit into carry-ons.

Tips for buying travel toiletry bags

Type of toiletry bag.

Toiletry bags typically fit into two categories: hanging and dopp kits. Hanging bags have a built-in hook and generally open like a book, revealing multiple compartments and pockets. Dopp kits tend to be more compact and have a main compartment with a zippered opening on top. While dopp kits can have multiple pockets, they’re usually more suitable for packing light.

Because toiletry bags store liquids and powders, they need to be able to withstand in-flight spills. Look for bags made of water-resistant materials like nylon or polyester. The best travel toiletry bag should have at least one mesh pocket for securing items that tend to get damp, like toothbrushes.  

Toiletry bags come in all shapes and sizes. To determine what size is best for you, make a list of must-have toiletries and determine whether you prefer to pack travel-size products, full-size, or a mix of both. Don’t forget to factor in the size of your luggage.

Frequently asked questions

What fabric is best for a toiletry bag?

Toiletry bags made of nylon or polyester are great because they tend to be more durable and easier to clean. These materials also tend to resist water, but always check the label to be sure.

What is a TSA-approved toiletry bag?

Per   TSA guidelines, air travelers can carry on 3.4-ounce bottles and aerosol containers of creams, pastes, liquids, and gels in one quart-sized bag. To reduce the chance of being screened, many people opt for clear toiletry bags so that TSA agents can see what’s inside. Some international airports require transparent plastic bags for liquid items. Always check the guidelines for your destination.

What’s the difference between a toiletry bag and a dopp bag?

Generally, dopp bags or kits tend to be made of leather and are rectangular in shape. However, “toiletry bags,” “dopp kits,” and “dopp bags” are used interchangeably in most cases.

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15 stylish travel toiletry bags to pack for your next trip

Need the perfect pouch to organise your holiday essentials? Browse our favourite toiletry bags

travel toiletry bags

Perhaps you're heading off for a romantic weekend break or flying to the Med for a family getaway - well, toiletry bags are ideal for keeping your beauty, hair and skincare essentials in one place.

We've rounded up the most stylish ones available to buy right now, including hanging toiletry bags for convenience, clear ones so you can see all your products and luxury wash bags made of the finest leather.

These travel toiletry bags for men and women range from large wash bags to fit your full-sized shampoo and conditions to toiletry bags with compartments - ideal for the super-organised traveller. Some make excellent travel gifts , too. And if you've purchased a stylish weekender or one of the best suitcases , the perfect travel toiletry bag should fit nicely inside your luggage.

Whatever you have in mind for a travel toiletry bag this summer, you'll want to scroll through our chic selection...

Antler Brompton leather wash bag in black

Antler Brompton leather wash bag in black

A quality travel toiletry bag made from full-grain leather and a compact size to fit in your essentials, Antler's wash bag has a zipped pocket on the outside and provides internal pockets to keep your toiletries in place. The side handle makes it easy to carry, wherever you're staying, and it's a breeze to wipe clean.

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag for Travel

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag for Travel

A stylish travel toiletry bag with a chic striped design, this hanging wash bag from Bagsmart has a host of handy features. The large swivelling hanger helps you hang it up with ease, while the waterproof interiors means you don't have to fear spills. It's generously sized, with four separate compartments, and elastic inner straps that keep bottles upright. It's an excellent all-rounder.

Narwey Travel Hanging Toiletry Wash Bag

Narwey Travel Hanging Toiletry Wash Bag

"This toiletry bag holds many toiletries, some are full-size bottles," says one frequent flyer, who uses this bag. Whether it's toothbrushes, SPF or your favourite night cream, you'll find the space for it in Narwey's pretty purple wash bag. There's a metal hook to hang it, separate sections for brushes and side pockets to pack more in.

H&M Wash Bag

H&M Wash Bag

Perfect for keeping all your beauty essentials in one place, this transparent travel toiletry bag has two large compartments with double zips for easy access. The clear case allows you to see everything in the wash bag and you can divide them by product type, such as your hair must-haves in one and skin favourites in the other. The travel toiletry bag is available in pretty pink or chic black.

OneNine5 Eco-Friendly Travel Wash Bag

OneNine5 Eco-Friendly Travel Wash Bag

You can care for the environment in style with OneNine5's Eco-Friendly Travel Wash Bag that's made with a 100% recycled plastic lining. The chic travel toiletry bag features a reusable and detachable clear bag which is handy for popping in your liquids at the airport. We love the various compartments and pockets for storing everything, from hairbands and ear plugs to mini bottles of shampoo and toothpaste. Plus, its thoughtful waterproof design with water-resistant zippers makes it a breeze to clean.

Aspinal of London Large Essential Cosmetic Case

Aspinal of London Large Essential Cosmetic Case

Want something that allows you to add your initials for a more personal touch. Aspinal of London's stunning travel toiletry bag is a beautiful one you'll love forever. It's made from Italian full-grain leather and has one compartment for storing all your toiletries in one place.

H&M Transparent Wash Bag

H&M Transparent Wash Bag

Spacious, transparent and looking more expensive than its price tag, one of our favourite travel toiletry bags can be found at H&M. It's practical, with a clear case that contains two smaller canvas wash bags, and we love that you can use them as one or three separate bags.

Oliver Bonas Carrie Blue Fold Out Make Up Bag Large

Oliver Bonas Carrie Blue Fold Out Make Up Bag Large

This large wash bag in a fun and fresh shade has a gorgeous quilted stitch for a premium design. There are green zips and interior candy stripes for a travel toiletry bag that looks pretty inside and out. It comes with a hanging hook so you can display all your essentials and the zipped pockets keeps them organised. Make it a collection by matching it with the more compact pink bag - it's perfectly sized for popping in your handbag, when you're out and about exploring.

Lavievert Toiletry Bag

Lavievert Toiletry Bag

If you're looking for a travel toiletry bag that has multiple pockets, this one from Lavievert's got you covered. There is one main compartment, smaller interior mesh pockets, two-way zipped pockets for easy access and more. You can fit in all your essentials for a trip away, from toothbrushes to hairspray and make-up to full-size moisturisers. You can also use the hook to hang it up in the bathroom.

Bellroy Dopp Kit

Bellroy Dopp Kit

This travel toiletry bag has an excellent feature we love: a magnetic sleeve that holds your razor or toothbrush separately from everything else. It also has interior mesh pockets for organisation and the water-resistant lining makes it ideal for wiping away any spills. A compact wash bag for just a few essentials, this design from Bellroy is just the thing for no-fuss packing.

Away The Large Toiletry Bag

Away The Large Toiletry Bag

For a travel toiletry bag with a simple design that's practical and stylish, look no further than this blue option from Away. It's designed to fit in all your essentials, from your toothbrush to deodorant. There's an exterior zip pocket for cotton buds, disinfectant wipes or makeup remover pads, while the interior has multiple interior compartments to help you keep everything organised.

Horizn Kōenji Wash Bag

Horizn Kōenji Wash Bag

Engineered by industry specialists and made from the same material as bulletproof vests, this travel toiletry bag is ideal for frequent travellers. Horizn's Koenji wash bag is water-resistant, durable and designed to withstand wear and tear.

marks M&S 3 Piece Printed Toiletry Bags

M&S 3 Piece Printed Toiletry Bags

Need more than one travel toiletry bag? We love this set of three from M&S, which gives you a large, medium and small wash bag that you can carry as a set or separately if you're travelling light. They're made from recycled material and feature fun plain and abstract designs in gorgeous colours for a stylish holiday option.

M&S Recycled Polyester Pro-Tect™ Washbag

M&S Recycled Polyester Pro-Tect™ Washbag

Made from recycled material that's scuff-resistant and made to last, this men's travel toiletry bag is just the thing to keep all his bathroom essentials in one place. Fans say it's "solid" and offers "plenty of room," and we like the practical water-resistant lining, plus the two compartments for separating items.

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Travel On The Fly

Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags (Updated for 2023)

Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags – It can be very frustrating for travelers to keep all their personal items organized. There is nothing worse than digging through a disorganized bag or pouch looking for a certain item and not finding what you are looking for. Even searching for your toothbrush in a messy bag can be difficult.

best travel wash bag womens

Or, you may find things like leaky shampoo bottles and soaps. Cleaning this up can be a nightmare!

Also, if you are staying in a hotel where counter space is an issue, you may not even have a place to put your travel bag.

Want to skip the article – Here is my favorite one , hands down.

This is where a proper hanging toiletry bag will come in handy. Here are my top 5 recommended hanging toiletry bags.

Hang any of these bags wherever possible and you will have no problem keeping everything organized and finding what you need in a flash!

Table of Contents

In a Hurry? What We Recommend

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Our Pick – Hanging Toiletry Bag By Freegrace – Most Versatile

  • 11.02’’ x 5.52’’ x 10.24’’ — 150% the size of a normal toiletry bag
  • Several interior compartments for extra storage
  • Manufactured with a sleek nylon material and cushioned with pearl cotton
  • Available in four different colors
  • Lightweight (shipping weight: 1.369 pounds) | Size: 11 x 5.9 x 9.85

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

The Freegrace Hanging Toiletry Bag keeps your personal items neatly organized and easily accessible. It is made of a premium nylon material, built with a durable metal hook, as well as a pearl cotton cushion.

Unlike single-compartment bags, where it takes time to rummage around looking for what you need, the Freegrace toiletry bag provides multiple storage compartments, so you can find what you want fast and easy.

This toiletry kit is the perfect choice when packing for long-term travel , business trips, summer vacations, out-of-town family holidays, or even for dorm rooms.

It features three separate compartments and a strong hanging hook to make organizing your accessories, cosmetics, and travel essentials easier than ever before! You’ll have a lot of room for your belongings.

The bag folds flat, taking up about the same amount of space as a pair of jeans, perfect for space-saving placement in any suitcase or travel bag.

What We Like

  • 150% the size of your typical toiletry bag
  • Affordable and high quality
  • Lots of storage space

What We Don’t

  • Not much we don’t like about this one

Vetelli Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men – Best Bag for Men

  • 4 spacious inside pockets
  • Sleek high-quality leather
  • Easy to use with stainless steel zippers and buckles
  • Weight: 1.24 pounds
  • Size: 12 x 8 x 2 inches

The Vetelli Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men is multi-functional and it makes the perfect travel accessory.

Use it as a toiletry wash bag, a travel bag, a shaving kit bag, and much more. 

The stainless steel zips and buckles secure your belongings. This high-quality durable toiletry travel kit is big enough to store all your essential items. It’s made of cruelty-free water-resistant leather, which is easy to maintain.

The unfolded dimensions are 20.9″ x 12″ (53cm x 30.5cm). When closed, this bag measures 8″ x 12″ (20.5cm x 30.5cm). It’s big enough to store all your essential items and will hold up to the wear and tear of traveling.

  • Love the look of this one
  • 4 large inside pockets
  • Sleek high-quality leather that’s easy to clean
  • Lightweight
  • Relatively expensive

D&D Hanging Toiletry Bag – Most Spacious

  • Built with waterproof nylon
  • Six zippered pockets and three interior compartments
  • 2 side compartments for small items
  • Easy to use on the go
  • Available in six colors/styles
  • Weight: 1 pound | Size: 11.4 x 11.4 x 1.6 inches

The D&D Hanging Toiletry Bag is an incredibly versatile bag. It features a metal swivel hook that turns 360º, which gives you complete flexibility to hang your bag anywhere. It also includes high-quality YKK Zippers, which are the best in their class.

Also, this toiletry bag is incredibly lightweight at only 10.6 oz. It’s suitable for ultralight backpackers and other travelers who want to keep their luggage weight at a minimum.

The main compartment is perfect for larger items and has a mesh inner structure that will keep everything upright and securely in place. The transparent inner pouch is the ideal storage space for cosmetic items, makeup, shaving gear, medicine, and jewelry. 

At 10″H x 10″W x 4″ D, this bag is large enough to even fit full-sized bottles.

  • Manufactured with waterproof nylon, ideal for outdoor use
  • Spacious with three interior compartments and two side zipper pockets
  • Lightweight at just 1 pound
  • Comes with a metal swivel hook so you can hang it on your bathroom door
  • Ideal for small items
  • Zipper pockets are not as deep as some bags

BOACAY Premium Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag – Best Bag for Women

  • Durable metal zippers
  • Available in 4 colors
  • 5-year warranty
  • Double-sewn handles for added durability
  • Two side pockets
  • Product Dimensions: 9 x 4.7 x 10 inches | Weight: 11.2 ounces

The BOACAY Premium Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag is carefully made with durable materials, including metal zippers and double-sewn handles to make the bag extra sturdy. It’s a sleek bag for men and women, available in six different colors.

This bag features a spacious interior compartment with two side pockets. It makes for a cute and affordable gift option for anyone you know who loves to travel.

  • Two spacious side pockets
  • TSA approved
  • Only ideal for short trips

How to Use a Hanging Toiletry Bag on The Road or at Home!

Pro Packing Cubes Travel Toiletry Bag – Most Compact

  • Available in 5 different colors
  • Water resistant
  • Ultra lightweight
  • Compact, easy to store
  • Weight: 7 ounces | Size: 9″ height x 16″ length x 3.5″ depth

The Pro Packing Cubes Travel Toiletry Bag has four separate compartments to keep your shaving essentials, personal hygiene products, and makeup perfectly organized. It is highly durable, constructed from ultra light-weight, water-resistant ripstop nylon fabric with high-quality YKK zippers and manufactured with double-reinforced stitching.

The versatile design means this toiletry bag can also be used as a packing cube. Think of a swimming bag, workout bag, diaper bag or an overnight bag for any light traveler.

  • Incredibly lightweight
  • Compact – can lay flat and fold to just a 3.5” tall
  • Water-resistant
  • Includes a waterproof pocket

What we don’t

  • Not very deep – difficult to store larger items

What Should You Look For In A Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag?

There are three main characteristics that you should look for:

Organizational Features

You want to make sure you can keep your personal items neatly organized and easily accessible. Most single-sized compartment bags will take too much time to rummage around looking for what you need. So, look for multiple storage compartments so you can find what you want fast and easy.

Related: What Size Luggage Can Hold 50 LBS

Type Of Material

Most often, you won’t have to worry about your toiletry bag being waterproof. They usually are. Look for one that is also made out of tear-proof material. This will make it more durable and able to handle any abuse they endure during travel. Normally, the good-quality bags will have extra padding and lining to help protect against leaks. An antibacterial lining is great to help protect against bacteria which can form due to moisture.

Design Features

Most toiletry bags will have a hook or straps for you to hang them properly. Make sure these are strong and will be able to hold the weight of the items you put in it. I find the hook design to be the best choice. They are very easy to use and reliable. I have never had an issue with any hook design toiletry bag. If the bag is compact with many different-sized compartments, you will find it much easier to keep organized and take with you on your travels.

As you can see, there are many options for choosing a hanging toiletry bag. You have a great selection of colors, sizes, materials, and price to choose from. For the most part, they are inexpensive and will save you money in the end by protecting your toiletries. You really can’t go wrong with any of the items mentioned. Choose the one that suits you the best, it’s one of those purchases I’m so glad I made years ago!

Some Additional Questions

What size is a tsa-approved toiletry bag.

In your carry-on bag, there is no restriction on the size of your toiletry bag. However, when it comes to the liquid contents in your toiletry bag, the TSA says you may take one clear plastic quart-sized bag containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. Each item cannot exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in volume.

Note – I always travel with a gallon size Ziploc bag instead of the quart sized ones and have never had an issue getting through TSA. These are the ones I use.

Can I put full-size shampoo in checked luggage?

3.4 ounces maximum is the maximum size of the container for liquids, gels, aerosols, and all containers must fit into a 1-quart plastic bag. Bags checked do not have those limits, so you can pack full-size containers of shampoos, lotions, toothpastes, and other restricted items.

What’s the difference between a Dopp kit and a toiletry bag?

Dopp kits are toiletry bags. But you probably already knew this, right? These small travel bags are used to store bathroom items by men and women. All your toothbrushes, shaving creams, moisturizers, etc., go in this bag to help you stay organized.

Does makeup need to be in a clear bag TSA?

You are permitted to carry on or check bags with solid or powder makeup, regardless of the amount or size and they don’t need to be in a clear bag. The only requirements for liquid makeup packed in carry-on bags are that it must be in a clear bag and that lotions, gels, pastes, or creamy forms must be in containers smaller than, or equal to 3.4 ounces (100 ml).

So, Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags

Hopefully you have found the right toiletry bag for you from this list! We looked at some of the highest quality toiletry bags on the market that are affordable, spacious, and durable.

Thanks for reading!

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11 best women’s wash bags for taking your routine on the road

From hanging wash bags to vanity cases and zip-up pouches, choose the size that suits your stuff, article bookmarked.

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We know make-up can easily leave behind stains, so we also looked at how easily these wash bags were wiped clean

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With travel firmly back on the agenda again after an uncertain couple of years, packing up to head away has never felt more exciting.

Women’s wash bags are the best bet for carrying make-up , skincare , toiletries, accessories, and even loose electricals. Whether you’re taking a trip or organising the bathroom cabinet, they come in different shapes and sizes.

When it comes to picking one, potential choices include hanging wash bags that open to reveal a selection of pockets, vanity cases for storing a full make-up collection and classic zip-up offerings.

The material matters too, from vegan-friendly leather wash bags to soft fabric offerings, in bright shades, patterns, or neutral tones, depending on your style preference.

To help you choose which type is best for you, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide, covering wash bags suiting every need.

  • 9 best men’s wash bags for packing all grooming essentials
  • 7 best overnight bags for women: Stylish and dependable
  • 10 best women’s purses that are stylish and made to last
  • 10 best women’s crossbody bags to add to your wardrobe

How we tested

We sampled several women’s wash bags over a month of testing, looking at size dimensions and potential storage space. Our tester also explored material durability, plus different colours, patterns, and styles. We used the wash bags for keeping make-up in at home and storing toiletries while travelling.

The best women’s wash bags for 2022 are:

  • Best overall – Their Nibs cosmetic bag set, pink Mardi Gras: £25, Theirnibs.com
  • Best for quick access – The Flat Lay Co. open flat drawstring make-up bag, tropical leaves print: £22.99, Boots.com
  • Best sustainable buy – Fiils travel wash bag with rose gold minis: £22, Fills.co
  • Best vegan-friendly wash bag – Aromatherapy Associates iconic wash bag: £22, Aromatherapyassociates.com
  • Best affordable buy – M&S hanging make-up bag, blue: £15, Marksandspencer.com
  • Best luxury buy – The White Company leather wash bag, white: £70, Thewhitecompany.com
  • Best for space – Whistles Lenni quilted nylon wash bag, dark grey: £25, Whistles.com
  • Best fun wash bag – Rawr Beauty terry towel cosmetic bag, pink: £10, Rawrbeauty.co.uk
  • Best for make-up – FatFace bee print wash bag: £15, Fatface.com
  • Best soft wash bag – Barbour quilted wash bag: £24.95, Barbour.com
  • Best vanity case wash bag – Otis Batterbee makeup vanity bag, camel tiger: £49, Otisbatterbee.com

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Their Nibs cosmetic bag set, pink Mardi Gras

Their Nibs.png

Best: Overall

Rating: 10/10

This eye-catching wash bag duo includes a large and small zip-up option in the vibrant pink, floral and peacock feather Mardi Gras print. The biggest bag is 18cm x 28cm x 5cm and easily stores at least five 100ml bottles, or multiple miniature items. Meanwhile, we used its matching pouch for lipstick, eyeliner, and hair scrunchies.

The pretty satin-effect bags are machine washable and they both have a durable lining featuring Their Nibs branding, which we found quickly wipes clean. Our tester liked that the stunning print is combined with design practicality at a reasonable price. Between the two wash bags, we could pack plenty of toiletries, makeup, and accessories, and particularly enjoyed having a twin pair for travelling.

The Flat Lay Co. open flat drawstring make-up bag, tropical leaves print

Flat lay co.png

Best: For quick access

Rating: 8/10

This nifty wash bag design comes in different colours and prints, including the green, gold, and the white tropical leaves one we chose. When opened – as the name suggests – it lies completely flat, so we could access all our products at once. There’s an internal zip-up pocket, and elasticated loops to hold mascara or make-up brushes, as well as a hanging hook.

Once full, we pulled the drawstring fastening and watched it quickly scoop up all our items. On the outside, there are two Velcro-fastening pockets for storage without unravelling everything. We appreciated the perk of grabbing products in a rush from this lightweight wash bag, minus any rifling through.

Fiils travel wash bag with rose gold minis

Fiils.png

Best: Sustainable buy

Rating: 9/10

A useful buy for taking liquids away with you, this stylish silver vegan leather wash bag is made from recycled materials and includes four refillable 100ml aluminium bottles. Plus, a removable insert to stand them up in, and the option of pump or screw-top caps. There are three bottle colours to choose between including silver, copper, and the sleek rose gold we sampled.

We used this wash bag both with the bottles in and without, to keep nail varnish, make-up, or other cosmetics. There’s a zip pocket for secure inside storage too. Each bottle is named for use, across shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion picks, but we also found them handy to hold toner, cleanser, and make-up remover on the go.

Aromatherapy Associates iconic wash bag

Aromatherapy.png

Best: Vegan-friendly wash bag

A classic cream wash bag made from vegan leather, finishing touches include gold Aromatherapy Associates branding and a raised metal logo. The curved washbag has a 20cm length and 17cm height and is fully lined. This is an ideal option if you prefer muted accessories minus any print. Plus, we noted that any spills easily wiped off the cream material. Our tester put skincare products, perfume, or travel-sized haircare in the small wash bag, with their volume deciding how many would fit. As a rough guide, we slotted four 100ml bottles in comfortably.

M&S hanging make-up bag, blue

M&S.png

Best: Affordable buy

This vegan leather hanging wash bag is available in coral and sage, as well as the powdery light blue shade we chose. It unfolds to reveal two transparent zipped pockets and a detachable make-up bag held in place by Velcro, which is a generous size for multiple full-sized products. A silver hook at the top enables hanging so we could see and store our products at the same time.

The dimensions when folded are 20cm x 28cm, with the length growing to 56.5cm after opening. We appreciated being able to compartmentalise packing, keeping our phone charger in a separate section to skincare. The sturdy gold zips and textured leather-look finish make the wash bag appear more expensive than its £15 price tag too.

The White Company leather wash bag, white

The White Company.png

Best: Luxury buy

This spacious white leather wash bag is 18cm x 28cm x 14.5cm and has a strong zip closure. Our tester took the sturdy bag away for a weekend and packed several items inside, including glasses, contact lens solution, hair products, face wash, a toothbrush, perfume, and an electric shaver. We also found the extra inside pocket ideal for popping in lipsticks, and hair ties.

We think this is a timeless wash bag option, which has a luxury feel. It’s robust, without being stiff, so it can be squeezed into a jam-packed suitcase too. And although it has a premium price tag, the high-quality leather and stitching look like they would last well for years to come.

Whistles Lenni quilted nylon wash bag, dark grey

Whistles.png

Best: For space

This roomy washbag is 21cm x 32cm x 12cm and includes a black looped handle for hanging up and a sturdy zip fastening. Our tester liked the hardy dark grey nylon outer that doesn’t mark easily and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth. The tactile quilted finish adds a stylish edge, and we can see dual purpose clutch bag potential too.

There’s a separate grey inner lining, and a slight stiffness so the wash bag holds its shape well. We could fit a large hairbrush and several full-sized shampoo, conditioner, and skincare products inside with ease. Plus, because the bag has a wide base, the zip wasn’t stretched even when full of toiletries.

Rawr Beauty terry towel cosmetic bag, pink

Rawr beauty.png

Best: Fun wash bag

This bright pink terry towel wash bag is a small square shape with a gold zip fastening. At just over 20cm in length, there is enough room to store a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a few cosmetics. As it’s lined with quite a thick polyester inner, we found the terry towelling didn’t get wet from toothbrush sogginess either. The wipe-clean pouch worked equally well for storing a full stash of make-up on the move, without being bulky in our bag. Its bold shade and towelling texture add an uplifting summery vibe too.

FatFace bee print wash bag

Fatface.png

Best: Fore make-up

This navy blue (19cm x 9cm x 10.5cm) wash bag features a cute bee print and tassel zip detail. The outer composition is 100 per cent cotton, while its lining is polyester, which we found was durable against spills. As the shape is long and slim, our tester mostly used this wash bag for make-up, while bottles and tubes were well protected in transit, as the material and structure are quite tough. There’s also more than enough space for holding lipstick, foundation, mascara, eyeliner, an eyelash curler, a small eyeshadow palette, and blusher inside, with plenty of room to spare.

Barbour quilted wash bag

Barbour.png

Best: Soft wash bag

This soft material wash bag of (15cm x 24cm x 4cm) lies flat when not in use for compact storage. The stitched quilted design features a chic pink check print, and logo branding on the front and zip. There’s a contrasting plain interior, and the material is polyester throughout. Although wiped clean, our tester was careful not to mark it too much because of the pale pink shade. We stored the wash bag in our hand luggage on a trip, for holding lipstick, hair accessories, and hand cream. Alternatively, we could fit several small skincare bottles in there too.

Otis Batterbee makeup vanity bag, camel tiger

Otis Batterbee.png

Best: Vanity case wash bag

This medium-sized (21cm x 17cm x 15cm) vanity case is made from vegan-friendly leather and features a glam animal print design. Straightaway we noticed how well made it looks and feels, with finishing touches including a chic top handle. There are four small pockets inside with popper fastening details as well as a separate lid pocket and detachable make-up mirror. Our tester used these clever compartments for hair clips, lipstick, and jewellery.

We found we could fit multiple bottles of perfume, foundation, and skincare in the main inner, which is waterproof to protect against make-up spills. All in all, this is a stunning carry case wash bag, with a structured shape much like a luxury handbag.

The verdict: Women’s wash bags

We rated Their Nibs’ cosmetic bag as our best buy for being a matching pair to suit packing needs at a reasonable price point. Meanwhile, Otis Batterbee’s makeup vanity bag is a stunning carry-on wash bag, with clever compartments. Finally, Fiils’ travel wash bag with rose gold minis offers a stylish, sustainable option with handy refillable bottles for liquid storage.

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12 Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks for Women of 2024

Shop our recommended lightweight luggage picks for traveling on a plane overseas, quick work trips, and weekend getaways.

travel backpacks for women

Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Travel backpacks and lightweight carry-ons are incredibly versatile since they offer more organization, comfort, and storage than a typical purse, better functionality than a tote, and are still sleek enough to bring just about anywhere. There are countless options suitable for every kind of adventure — whether you’ll be hiking in inclement weather on vacation or exploring an international city for a work trip — and each one is designed with airplane travel in mind.

Our top picks for best travel backpacks 2024:

The ReNew Transit Backpack

Best Overall

Everlane the renew transit backpack.

Le Pliage Backpack

Best Foldable

Longchamp le pliage backpack.

The Everywhere Zip Backpack

Most Fashionable

Away the everywhere zip backpack.

Metro Backpack

Most Functional

Monos metro backpack.

Metro Convertible Backpack

Best Convertible

Mz wallace metro convertible backpack.

Large Travel Backpack

Best Budget

Large travel backpack.

Stowaway Pack

Best Carry-On

L.l.bean stowaway pack.

Excursion Backpack

Best Compact

Athleta excursion backpack.

Ki Backpack

Most Efficient and Comfortable

Troubadour ki backpack.

Sirrus 24 Women's Hiking Backpack

Best Hiking

Osprey sirrus 24 women's hiking backpack.

We’ve taken all the guesswork out of selecting the best travel backpack for your needs with our recommendations below. They fall under a variety of categories, so you can pick and choose the features that matter most to you. Once you settle on the perfect backpack, all that’s left to do is to start brainstorming some creative travel captions and hit the road.

There's not much that this Everlane backpack doesn't offer in terms of travel conveniences. It comes with a 15" exterior laptop pocket, a trolley sleeve, catch-all exterior zip pockets, two water bottle holders, and comfortable straps, all for under $100.

Like other Longchamp accessories, this chic backpack offers plenty of flexibility for women on-the-go. The nylon material can easily fold into a suitcase or larger bag for storage, and is lightweight enough to be worn for long stretches of sightseeing.

This sleek backpack easily slips on top of a suitcase with its trolley sleeve, and can also fit a great deal if it's the only luggage you're bringing. Plus, it features a 15" laptop pocket. Customers note that it offers plenty of space to organize basic travel necessities including masks, hand sanitizer, snacks, books, magazines, and a light jacket all at once.

Don't be fooled by the simple design of this pack: it offers all the bells and whistles you could possibly want for everyday traveling. Features include a detachable folio kit, a 15" laptop sleeve, a trolley sleeve, and several thoughtfully designed interior pockets for storing everything from electronics to toiletries and clothing.

Designed with urban commuters in mind, this stylish quilted backpack is incredibly comfy and still professional enough for the office. It offers both interior and exterior pockets, top carry handles, and a structured silhouette for all your work essentials.

Over 11,000 reviewers rated this backpack five stars on Amazon thanks to its roomy interior and security features. One customer wrote, "This backpack somehow bends the rules of physics to fit several outfits (warm-ish weather), a pair of shoes, carry-on toiletries, and a few personal items. I’ve taken this on three trips so far and the zippers and stitching are holding fast despite pushing it to its limits on an international trip."

Looking to maximize that one personal item allowance on your next flight? This lightweight pack includes cushioned straps, several interior pockets, and a "shove it" front pocket for quickly stowing away electronics and other small items.

This lightweight backpack offers an impressive amount of storage given its size, making it ideal for everything from sightseeing, to hiking, and even long distance running. One happy customer wrote that it's "Such a cute backpack! It's small and deceiving, fits way more than you would expect!"

If protecting your back and shoulders is a top consideration while traveling, opt for this ergonomic Troubadour pack. It comes with a breathable back panel and thoughtfully designed straps for a supportive fit without sacrificing storage space.

For a hiking-specific backpack, this Osprey bag includes several unique features that are helpful on the trail. A trekking pole attachment offers ease on rough terrain, hipbelt pockets make snacks and essentials easily accessible, and a raincover and ice axe holder offer protection during inclement weather.

BÉIS The Expandable Backpack

The Expandable Backpack

If you tend to overpack (or do a lot of shopping on vacation), an expandable backpack offers added flexibility. Not only does this one offer extra space, but it also comes with functional details like a key leash, laptop sleeve, trolley sleeve, and water bottle pockets.

Fjällräven Kånken Water Resistant Backpack

Kånken Water Resistant Backpack

This Scandinavian backpack was originally produced in the 1970s for Swedish schoolchildren, but has since become iconic around the world thanks to its stylish yet practical design. The water-resistant material makes it durable, and the foam insert and cheerful color makes it a piece you'll be reaching for often.

How to shop for a travel backpack for women:

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Look for the following when shopping for a new travel carry-on backpack:

✔️ Durability: A travel backpack is an investment piece that you'll hopefully get a lot of use out of, so there are several factors to consider before buying. The primary question to ask yourself is how you plan to use it, and whether it's important to buy something that you can use in a variety of settings. To get the most value out of your purchase, we recommend looking for features that offer versatility and durability, such as high-quality, water-resistant material.

✔️ Support and comfort: Additionally, whether or not you have back issues, it's important to consider the level of support a backpack offers. Opting for lightweight packs, with cushioned back panels, and ergonomic straps will protect your shoulders (and will also make for a much more pleasant wearing experience.)

✔️ Style and special features: Lastly, taking into account your personal style and any must-have features will help narrow down the many options available. Take time to think about if the aesthetic is a top priority, or if a different aspect such as organizational capabilities or eco-friendly manufacturing is more important to you. The good news is that if you're really having difficulty deciding, there's always the option to purchase more than one backpack for different occasions.

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  • Why is a travel backpack helpful? Rolling luggage certainly makes transporting your heaviest items easier, but it does require the use of one or both hands. Especially if you're traveling lighter, or for transit that occurs after those initial trips to/from the airport, a backpack allows you to move about hands-free, while still carrying more than you could with a smaller bag or purse.
  • What size backpack can I bring on a plane? If you're using the backpack as your primary piece of carry-on luggage, t he maximum dimensions are typically 22 inches long, 14 inches wide and 9 inches high . If you're using it as a personal item stowed under the seat in front of you, it shouldn't exceed 18 inches long, 14 inches wide and 8 inches high.

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Sam Lawyer is a lifestyle writer and television producer based in New York City. She’s been contributing to Woman’s Day for nearly five years, and covers a variety of topics from gifting, to health, and entertainment. Her work has additionally been featured in Cosmopolitan, Country Living, and Good Housekeeping. When she’s not writing or producing, you can find her binging her favorite Bravo shows or getting walked by her French Bulldog.

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Every product on this page was chosen by a Harper's BAZAAR editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

But choosing the best travel garment bag for your needs can be a challenge. There are a lot of options on the market, so we asked an expert about how to find the right one. According to Tumi creative director Victor Sanz, “Your garment bag should be sturdy, functional, and sleek. If you’re frequently traveling by plane, a garment bag that folds to fit carry-on requirements is essential.” He adds, “You want to find the size that will fit all your clothes without having to overfold them and will allow you to reach your destination in style.”

Michael Garment Bag

Best Quilted Garment Bag

Mz wallace michael garment bag.

Alpha Garment Bag Trifold Carry-On

Best Luxury Garment Bag

Tumi alpha garment bag trifold carry-on.

The Garment Duffel

Best Garment Duffel

Halfday the garment duffel.

Boxford Garment Bag

Best Timeless Garment Bag

Longchamp boxford garment bag.

Packable Garment Bag

Best Packable Garment Bag

Calpak packable garment bag.

Premium Garment Bag

Best Affordable Garment Bag

Amazon basics premium garment bag.

Metropolitan Two-Garment Sleeve

Best Durable Garment Bag

Hartmann metropolitan two-garment sleeve.

Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Best Personalized Garment Bag

Mark & graham commuter 2-in-1 garment bag.

Ascella 3.0 Softside Expandable Luggage

Best Expandable Garment Bag

Samsonite ascella 3.0 softside expandable luggage.

Ultimate Garment Bag

Best Water-Resistant Garment Bag

Stitch ultimate garment bag.

It’s also important to consider bonus features, like pockets and organizational compartments, and, as Sanz notes, “A crucial function is to ensure that you’re able to hang your garment bag when you arrive at your destination, so that you can prepare your outfits as easily as possible and to ensure that all your clothes are crisp.” Keeping all this in mind, we found the 12 best travel garment bags out there today. Once you start using one of these, you’re never going to go back.

MZ Wallace’s signature quilting isn’t limited to the brand’s totes, appearing here in garment bag form. The thin design is extremely lightweight, ideal for quick trips when you need to bring one to three outfits. There is even an exterior pocket for bonus storage.

Dimensions: 22" × 3" × 39"

Materials: Oxford, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I have been interested in a MZ Wallace garment bag for a while. It is perfect! Just right proportions and size. Thoughtful design and construction details.”

Tumi always delivers premium luggage that will last you over a decade, and this garment bag is no exception. Sanz says: “It’s foldable, with a sturdy handle for easy carrying, making it convenient and compact for every type of travel. I also love that it has several zipper pockets, so I can pack my toiletries and other travel essentials all in one bag. When I arrive at my destination, I hang it in the closet and I know that I will be ready to go.”

Dimensions: 15" x 22" x 6"

Materials: Ballistic nylon

What reviewers are saying: “This bag stores so much for a carry on. I was able to comfortably fit 2 suits and more for a destination wedding!”

This duffel has been receiving high praise ever since its release. A few of the reasons it’s so popular: The duffel is carry-on friendly, water-resistant, and has interior and exterior pockets. And those are only a few of its distinguishing features. Choose an original or compact size for the style that suits your needs.

Dimensions: 22" x 12" x 12"

Materials: Polyester

What reviewers are saying: “The Garment Duffel is a great purchase, especially for anyone in an industry that takes short frequent trips. I was actually able fit quite a bit more clothes than I had anticipated. Took the bag to work and my company bought 20 of them to give to customers. Great purchase.”

Longchamp’s iconic nylon and leather trim takes on a garment bag silhouette. The two-tone design exudes sophistication, with practical touches like a top carry handle, built-in hanger, and front zip pocket.

Dimensions: 23.25" x 41.25"

Materials: Nylon, leather

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this as a gift for my boyfriend who travels a lot and needed a nice garment bag particularly for his suits. This bag is perfect! It fits his suit as well as a few extra shirts. The fabric is an amazing, durable quality, and the leather details make this product look incredible.”

This garment bag is actually designed to fit inside of your carry-on, rather than serving as a stand-alone piece. The water-resistant exterior protects against spills, and exterior zip pockets hold small accessories. It gets the job done, while taking up the least possible amount of space.

Dimensions: 40" x 19"

What reviewers are saying: “I use this bag when I need to workout at work. I go from a suit to athleticwear in minutes.”

Looking for an affordable option that is available ASAP? Amazon’s garment bag holds up to three suits or dresses and boasts multiple zipper compartments.

Dimensions: 40" x 4" x 20.5"

What reviewers are saying: “I bought this bag in 2019 and it has held up incredibly well since then, performs all functions advertised at a great price value. I have taken it on many flights, buses and train rides and have never had an issue with fitting it in the overhead bin on both longer-haul flights and short budget-airline carriers.”

Hartmann’s garment bag adds contemporary touches to an otherwise traditional design. The result? A chic, useful travel accessory that will stand the test of time. The padded shoulder strap and multiple interior pockets enhance the convenience of this style.

Materials: Nylon

What reviewers are saying: “Hartmann was an anniversary gift from my work place, and I am still proud to own it 35 years later.”

Mark & Graham Commuter 2-in-1 Garment Bag

Another convertible duffel, but this time with a personalized touch. That’s right—Mark & Graham lets you monogram your duffel. With a plethora of zippered and snap interior and exterior pockets, this bag gets creative with its storage solutions.

Dimensions: 22" x 10" x 10"

This spinner-style garment bag makes navigating a chaotic airport easy. The ergonomic design has expandable capabilities, as well as various compartments, a hanger bracket, and a pocket for liquids.

Dimensions: 20.5" x 24" x 9.5"

What reviewers are saying: “It’s easy to maneuver and overall great quality and very neat design (many compartments and zippered areas).”

For golfers and non-golfers alike, Stitch makes a duffel that is water- and stain-resistant, and includes a hanger hook, shoulder strap, elastic shoe pockets, and webbed handles. You can even get it customized with your initials.

Dimensions: 22.5" x 11.5" x 12"

What reviewers are saying: “Love it! Fits into the airplane overhead bin, no trouble bringing it along as a carry-on bag. Very sturdy, zippers are tough enough. Shoulder strap is removable. My suit arrived in top shape using this garment bag. Highly recommended.”

Ralph Lauren Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Leather-Trim Hybrid Garment Duffel

Ralph Lauren’s duffel design is the epitome of understated elegance. An accompanying shoulder strap makes it easy to carry around.

Dimensions: 15" x 21.5" x 9"

Materials: Polyester, leather

Gucci Savoy Garment Bag

Savoy Garment Bag

Embrace the bold luxury aesthetic with a Gucci bag covered in the house’s monogram. Containing a big compartment with a hanger and two zip pockets, this garment bag will hold all your essentials.

Dimensions: 21.5" x 16.1" x 6.7"

Materials: Canvas, leather, cotton

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The 15 Best Wrinkle-free Pants, Shorts, and Skirts to Pack for Your Next Trip, According to a Travel Writer

They work for any trip,

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Travel + Leisure / Reese Herrington

No matter where you’re headed on your travels, there’s one thing that’s a surefire annoyance once you reach the destination: a suitcase full of wrinkled clothing. Seriously, no one wants to spend the precious moments of an itinerary breaking out the hotel ironing board to erase the creases in their shirts. That’s why, as an avid jet-setter and proud carry-on-only traveler , I’m incredibly particular and strategic about what pieces that I decide to pack — and that includes opting for wrinkle-free pants, skirts, and shorts (I mean, I already loathe ironing at home, so there’s no way I’m about to do it on a trip). 

Below, I’ve rounded up 15 of the best wrinkle-free travel bottoms that are great staples for any trip destination — including a classic Madewell denim piece , ultra-comfy Vuori pants (I'm a big fan of the brand ), and some of the best options at Amazon for sleek trousers , maxi skirts , and more. Each piece is not only functional, but also versatile so as to not waste precious luggage space. Trust me, if you pack any of these items, you’ll be sure to spend less time ironing and more time enjoying your vacay. 

Tronjori Women's High-waist Casual Wide-leg Palazzo Pants

There’s no denying that I’m a big fan of chic trousers for any occasion — but especially for travel. These wide-leg pants drape nicely, and work for a dressed up or dressed down scenario. They have over 12,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, with customers sharing that they’re lightweight, comfortable, and easy to wear. Plus, countless reviews confirm that they’re wrinkle-resistant and great for travel .

Modegal Women's Satin High-waist Midi Skirt

I love including a silk skirt in any warm weather capsule wardrobe; it adds an elegant touch to your favorite outfits while being extremely versatile — and they take up virtually no space in your luggage. However, in my experience, a lot of options out there look like a crumpled paper bag by the time that they come out of my suitcase. This skirt, however, seems to be the answer to my never-ending quest. 

As one Amazon reviewer wrote : “This is a great product to have if you travel a lot. You can dress it up or dress it down, and it does not wrinkle.” Other reviewers confirm that it doesn’t wrinkle when you roll it up in your luggage, and it makes for a great travel companion. With 27 gorgeous colors to choose from, it's bound to suit your travel style.

Libin Women's Cargo Joggers

These joggers have a whopping 10,000-plus five-star reviews on Amazon, and for good reason. “I love these pants. They are so comfortable and lightweight. They wash well, are great for travel, and they never wrinkle,” one customer wrote , calling them a “great buy.” In fact, hundreds of reviews say that these joggers are ideal for long-haul flights and outdoor adventures , alike. The lightweight, UPF 50+ fabric will keep you cool and safe from the sun, and ensure that the pants take up little to no space in your luggage. 

Amazon Essentials Women's Mid-rise Shorts

Finding a pair of staple travel shorts can be a true challenge. But with nearly 4,000 five-star reviews to back them up, this mid-rise option from Amazon Essentials should do the trick. They feature a classic straight fit and a tailored look. They’re made with a breathable cotton fabric — and before you raise an eyebrow at the wrinkle-potential, check out this rave review from a pleased traveler: “They washed well, I rolled them up into my bag and when I got to the hotel, I didn't need to smooth any wrinkles out.“ 

Eddie Bauer Women's Departure Ankle Pants

I’m all for outdoor-ready pants that also function as cute travel bottoms. These Eddie Bauer ankle pants are made with a moisture-wicking, UPF 50+ material, and they’re a favorite amongst shoppers. One Amazon customer said : “These are great pants for travel. [They’re] wrinkle-free, thin, and you can dress them up or wear super casual.” Plus, they come in seven different earthy colors — what more could you ask for?

Madewell Women's The Rilee Denim Midi Skirt

I love packing at least one skirt in my carry-on, just to have a bit of outfit variety. Reminiscent of the classic ‘90s style, this long denim Madewell skirt is an absolute dream since it pairs great with a simple T-shirt or tank for a breezy day of sightseeing. Alternatively, you could elevate the look with a white button-up and heeled sandals. One reviewer wrote that the denim “isn’t too heavy, which will make it very comfortable transitioning into the summer” — this also means that it will pack nicely into a suitcase without taking up too much space. And, of course, since it’s denim, you don’t need to stress about wrinkles. 

Madewell Women's Harlow Wide-Leg Pants

These wide-leg trousers from Madewell are a T+L favorite. In a recent review , one Travel + Leisure writer said that she wore these pants from a plane ride straight to dinner, and they were super comfortable for the entire journey. “I was pleasantly surprised that the pants were barely wrinkled,” she wrote. “I practically rolled off the flight and straight to the restaurant. If it weren’t for the luggage in tow, I’m almost certain no one would have guessed that I came straight from LaGuardia.” The popular pants are also available as shorts , which are perfect for spring and summer travel. 

Everlane Women's The Dream Maxi Skirt

The name of this skirt says it all: the versatile design, stretchy yet substantial fabric, and just-right length make this piece an absolute must-have for your travel wardrobe. One reviewer summed it up beautifully, writing, “The length is very easy when traveling as there’s no worry about wrinkles or constantly pulling the skirt down. I wear mine with a tee and sandals now but, this fall might bring more options. I plan to purchase the black skirt as well, as the tan has been great.” 

Everlane Women's The Easy Pants

The Easy Pants from Everlane are a fantastic packing staple. They're made with a lightweight, breathable cotton twill fabric that's perfect for warmer climates. Plus, the elastic waistband and pockets galore make it highly functional during any trip. One reviewer wrote: “We just spent 10 days traveling with just carry-ons and these were the perfect pants to bring. They're super versatile and packed well; I will probably buy it in another color.” Although they're made with cotton, these pants stay wrinkle-free. 

Aritzia Women's Effortless Pants

These pants have become one of my go-to travel wears. As the name suggests, they're truly effortless to wear (and you feel effortlessly chic whenever you slip them on). They are a breeze to dress up or dress down — I like to pair mine with a T-shirt and sneakers, or a nice blouse and heels — making them a fabulous travel staple. Best of all, the drapey crepe material of these pants never seems to wrinkle. I’ve packed these pants for over 10 trips at this point, and they always emerge from my suitcase looking flawless. I currently own them in black, but I plan to add one of the 15 other colors to my collection very soon.

Vuori Women's Volley Skirt

Speaking of skirts, you can’t go wrong with this sleek option from Vuori if you’re in the market for something a little sportier. Complete with built-in shorts and moisture-wicking material, this skirt is great for any outdoor sport — but it’s also much more versatile than that. “It’s great for wearing casually, for travel, and yes for tennis/other activities as the advertisements suggest,” said one reviewer. The fabric of the skirt is peachy-soft to the touch, and you’ll never need to worry about wrinkles.

Vuori Women's Daily Wide-leg Pants

I’ve raved about the Vuori Daily Leggings time and time again — and now the brand makes a wide-leg version. These pants feature the same buttery soft, breathable fabric, but with a flared silhouette for extra pizzazz. This cut is perfect for plane travel, walking around a new city, or even working out on your trip. Not to mention, there won’t be a wrinkle in sight when you pull them out of your carry-on.

Lululemon Men's ABC Classic-Fit 5 Pocket Pants Warpstreme

Lululemon may be primarily known for their women’s leggings — but don’t sleep on the brand's men’s activewear selection, particularly when it comes to pants. I think this may be one of its best categories, though it’s still a bit of a hidden gem. Take the ABC Classic Fit Pants, for instance. They feature the brand’s signature four-way stretch and wrinkle-resistant fabric, which holds its shape and feels comfortable for many hours of wear. Plus, there are so many ways to personalize them to suit any preference — including five choices for length, three additional fabric options, and 11 different colors. And it probably goes without saying, but they look super sharp, whether you’re hopping on a plane or headed to dinner. 

Vuori Men’s Pebble Shorts

Featuring a recycled material made from plastic bottles, these lightweight shorts are a true standout. They’re quick-drying, which makes them perfect for outdoor activities, warm-weather sightseeing, or sprinting through an airport terminal when needed. While these shorts are suitable for active adventures, they’re also tailored and look put together enough for a more elevated outing. With nearly unanimous five-star ratings, customers love wearing these wrinkle-resistant shorts for travel and everyday life. 

Vuori Men’s Cascade Tech Chino Pants

Whether you’re headed to a golf game or hopping on a plane, these chinos are ready to perform. They’re made with the brand's performance stretch fabric, which is also water-resistant (a.k.a. great for any surprise weather) and ultra breathable. One satisfied customer specifically called out the fabric, noting that it “drapes well when wearing it, does not wrinkle, dries quickly.” They also added, “You can come off a long flight and not look like it.”

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

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Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

when to visit moscow

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

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With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

where to stay in moscow

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

moscow itinerary

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

moscow itinerary

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

moscow itinerary

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

  • Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
  • Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
  • Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The Red Square

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

  • Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
  • Cost: USD $15.00
  • Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The Moscow Kremlin

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

  • Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
  • Cost: Free!
  • Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Lenins Mausoleum

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

  • Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
  • Cost: USD $8.00
  • Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

St. Basils Cathedral

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

  • Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
  • Cost: Free to enter
  • Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

GUM Department Store

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

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These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

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Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

  • Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
  • Cost: USD $5.00
  • Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Novodevichy Convent

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

  • Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
  • Cost: Free! 
  • Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

  • Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
  • Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The State Tretyakov Gallery

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

  • Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
  • Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

All Russian Exhibition Center

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

  • Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
  • Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
  • Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Bolshoi Theater

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

moscow itinerary

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

  • Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

  • Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
  • This museum is fun for both adults and children!
  • Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

  • A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
  • Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
  • The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

The Alexander Garden

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

  • Television and radio tower in Moscow
  • Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
  • Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

Ostankino Television Tower

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

  • The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
  • Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
  • Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Izmaylovo District

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

  • Closed on Mondays
  • Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
  • The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

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SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

Sergiev Posad Golden Ring

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage and Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

Trip to Kolomna - Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

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Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

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The Present Perspective

Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

the red st basils church in moscow on a white winters day

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

man and woman standing in front of main church in moscow

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

red orthodox church in moscow russia red square on a winter day

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

white lcocks on a table

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

woman in winter jacket standing in front of St Basils Russian Orthodox in moscow on a winter day

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

selfie of man and woman pointing to the Kremlin in Moscow

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

red exterior of lenins mausoleum in moscow russia

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

man in sinter jacket standing in arbat street moscow at night with glistening white lights strung from the buildings

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

people walking inside GUM mall in russia with christmas lights

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

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Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

turned-on chandelier on ceiling of moscow metro

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

long gray escalator in moscow russia

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

moscow bridge at night with lights

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

group of people walking in moscow red square at night with christmas lights everywhere

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

woman in head scarf hugging bronze statue of angry bear

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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A History of Moscow in 13 Dishes

Featured city guides.

A guide to the very best shopping in Moscow

Sep 17, 2019 • 5 min read

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While shopping in GUM department store be sure to check out its famous glass roof © Popova Valeriya / Shutterstock

Shopping in Moscow can be quite a daunting experience – you can walk for miles without finding anything but mass-market brands and overpriced boutiques. But, if you do it right, it can also be quite fun. Here are our top tips on how to get the most out of your shopping trip in Moscow.

An interior view of a wide open mall, with a domed glass roof above.

Shopping malls 

There are many shopping malls all around Moscow, but there three that double as bona fide tourist attractions: GUM, TsUM and Detsky Mir, all within walking distance from each other. GUM is one of the oldest department stores in the country. It’s famous for the glass roof designed by one of Russia’s most celebrated architects, Vladimir Shukhov.  Today it serves as a high-class shopping mall. There are plenty of luxury shops, a supermarket that sells lots of signature Russian goods and several places to eat. Head to the more expensive  Bosco Cafe with a Kremlin view or, for a budget option, try the Soviet-style cafeteria Stolovaya No 57 . GUM also occasionally hosts contemporary art exhibitions in one of its three main aisles.

The Red Square and beyond: a guide to Moscow’s neighbourhoods

TsUM  is another shopping mall from the pre-revolutionary times. It’s the most luxurious store in the city, famous for its paper bags that many Muscovites carry around or post pictures of on Instagram to let everyone know they shop there. Full of haute couture boutiques, TsUM also has a rooftop restaurant Buro , frequented by Russian celebrities. Tsentralny Detsky Mir  children's store is perfect if you are looking for a gift for a kid or want to check out its awesome viewing platform with good views over central Moscow. At just R50 per ticket it’s a steal. 

A curved ceiling with a glass domed centre; there is a fruit and veg stall to the left and a row of other market stalls to the right

Food stalls and markets 

There are two food markets that are worth checking out in Moscow.  Danilovsky Market  became the trailblazer of Moscow’s foodie revolution when it got an uplift in 2017. As well as many trendy food stalls, the market also hosts lectures, film viewing and even theatre productions, and it recently opened an antiques section. It’s an architectural landmark, a masterpiece of late Soviet modernism that looks like a UFO. Food at  Usachevsky Market  tends to be a bit more pricey and upmarket. Both markets also sell plenty of fresh produce, local cheeses and cured meats.

An outdoor stall selling Russian dolls painted in bright reds and blues, some with recognisable figures on them, such as Donald Trump and Marilyn Monroe

Antiques and flea markets 

Shopping can also be a way to get away from the major landmarks and explore some sights off the beaten path. Moscow’s #1 flea market is  Izmailovsky , located in and around the pseudo-historical complex 'Izmailovsky Kremlin' with its colourful walls and domes. Open daily, it’s best to come here on the weekend to catch better deals. Admittedly tacky, Kremlin has a handful of weird museums like the Vodka History Museum or Baba Yaga Museum (Baba Yaga is a Russian fairy tale character). Part of the market had been gentrified into creative cluster Vernissage , with hipster coffee shops, various workshops and Svalka , an enormous two-floor secondhand shop with everything from used books to vintage clothing.

For high-class antiques, rare books and icons head to Antikvarnaya Lavka (Antique Store) just off Bolshaya Nikitskaya street (5 Kalashny Pereulok). Here you can snag a real masterpiece – a painting or a sculpture – but the prices are quite steep. 

Four great day trips from Moscow

Russian memorabilia including a picture of politicians Brezhnev and Honecker, three small trucks and a bust of Lenin

If you are looking for a more authentic place with less hustle, one option is the antiques market on the premises of vodka distillery Crystal (4 ul Samokatnaya), which you can reach by taking tram 20 to Samokatnaya ul from the exit of metro Chkalovskaya. The market is located in the basement of one of the red-brick factory buildings. There are plenty of antiques, books and various Soviet-time memorabilia, such as Stalin and Lenin busts. While at Crystal, be sure to check out great works of street art – they are all around the factory premises. 

For die-hard antique collectors there’s also a place right outside of Moscow – Novopodrezkovo market (also know as Levsha market). Take a suburban train from Leningradsky station to Novopodrezkovo (approximately half an hour), cross the tracks to the other side and there you’ll find it – a treasure trove of used books, vinyl records, clothing, paintings and antique furniture.   

Where to shop for Russian designs

Gosha Rubchinskiy might be the only Russian clothing designer of world renown, especially after his collaboration with Kanye West, but there are many more up-and-coming fashion stars worth checking out. One of the places to do it is KM20 , the place Moscow fashionistas, with streetwear brands from all over the world and a lot of very rare items. There's also one of the best vegetarian cafes in Moscow on second floor. 

GUM shopping mall has a two-storey store devoted to Russian designers –  Sektsiya (Section). Section sells products made by 50 Russian brands, from accessories to Heart of Moscow souvenir pins. Plus there’s a bar overlooking the Red Square. 

If you are not into high fashion, but still interested in getting a cool outfit with Cyrillic script, check out the creative cluster centred around two abandoned factories: Flakon and Khlebozavod . One of the biggest stores is Zaporozhets Heritage  at Flakon , which sells clothing and accessories styled after various Soviet pop culture icons. The northern part, Khlebozavod, hosts several shops like Yunost  and Khlebny  that take a more punk-rock approach to streetwear. After shopping, have a pint at a great local craft beer bar Svoboda  or a coffee at Floo .        

Sputnik 1985 is a Russian clothing brand specialising in hoodies and hats with quotes in Cyrillic and retro prints. The store is located in a courtyard on Pokrovka street (19 Ulitsa Pokrovka). 

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