14 Best Travel Toiletry Bags, Tested Over Many Miles (2026)

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Featured in this article

Best Toiletry Bag for Men

Wandrd Toiletry Bag

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$44

Amazon (Medium)

Best Toiletry Bag for Women

Parallelle Traveller

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$110

Parallelle (Medium)

Best Toiletry Bag for Carry-Ons

Alpaka Wash Kit

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$35

Alpaka

Best Hanging Toiletry Bag

L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

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$40

L.L. Bean (Medium)

consider many people’s idea of a toiletry bag. Even the best toiletry bags can be a rudimentary pouch or cube with a single zippered compartment—or, perhaps more primitively, a ziplock bag—with just enough space to hold travel shampoo and conditioner, a toothbrush, maybe a razor. But the items probably roll around and spill, or squish out of hastily screwed-on lids. Next thing you know, you’re rummaging through what’s basically a junk drawer any time you need to find something. There is a better way.

As someone who lives far from family, I have been traveling every few months for the past 18 years and have tried all kinds of toiletry bags, including our favorite hanging option, the LL Bean Personal Organizer ($40), and our pick for the best men’s toiletry kit, from Wandrd ($44). As any seasoned traveler knows, the best toiletry bags are largely a matter of personal taste. Some people to travel as light as possible with just a razor and some shampoo. Others have elaborate skin- and hair-care routines that practically require a tackle box. There are clear bags, bags with many compartments or elastic organizers, and even bags made out of sailcloth. The only firm principle is that a “good” toiletry bag should make your travel life easier, not more difficult.

To help parse the overwhelming array of options, I’ve included some of our Reviews team members’ favorite toiletry bags they’ve been using for years, plus some new selections from brands whose other bags we loved and those whose designs or features provided something unique to the category. Looking for the best in other travel gear? Check out our guide to How to Pack Your Beauty Routine for Travel, then see our roundup of the Best Carry-Ons, Best Travel Pillows, and Best Laptop Backpacks for Work.

Updated February 2026: I’ve added new picks from the North Face, No Reception Club, and Parallelle, as well as a bag from Patricks to Honorable Mentions. I’ve also added a section to the FAQ on how WIRED obtains toiletry bags to test, removed discontinued bags, and ensured up-to-date links and prices.

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• Others We Tested
• How I Test Toiletry Bags
• How Does WIRED Obtain Toiletry Bags for Testing?
• What Kind of Toiletry Bag Do You Need?

• Best Toiletry Bag for Men

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    Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

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    Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

  to wishlist

  Wandrd

  Toiletry Bag

  $44

  Amazon (Medium)

  $44

  Wandrd (Medium)

  Wandrd’s Toiletry Bag comes in two sizes: medium and large. Get the large, because it has more storage and organization and doesn’t cost much more. The medium, which is also available on Amazon, is a little too simple for the asking price (though if you buy both, you can merge them together). It’s made from Robic nylon with a thermoplastic urethane coating, and it’s weather-proof (not submersible), thanks to the zippers and coating. That should help keep liquid in if your cologne bottle breaks when baggage handlers are a little too carefree with your luggage. There are webbing loops on the exterior, and this lets you connect it to other bags, Wandrd’s Prvke (my favorite camera bag), or you can buy the carry strap ($24) and wear it as a crossbody. Do you want to carry your toiletry bag as a crossbody? Well, maybe! I’ve stayed at hostels where I’ve carried all my stuff to the d shower area, and a strap would’ve helped dangle it off a doorknob so I didn’t have to plop it on the wet ground.

  On the back of the large size, there are three little pockets for ChapStick and the , and the middle one has a built-in carabiner. Open up the main compartment and it’s spacious, with a zippered pocket on one side and a little spot to attach your toothbrush. The best feature of this bag is the toothbrush protection sleeve, which keeps it so your toothbrush bristles don’t touch anything else in the bag. This main compartment could stand to have a little more organization, but I mostly used it to store my hairbrush. Lastly, on the outside is another zippered pocket, and this is where you get two mesh pouches and a final zippered pocket. My main gripe is that everything is a dull black, and I wouldn’t have minded some color options or at least a brighter interior for easier visibility when grabbing things out of the bag in the dark. —Julian Chokkattu

  Exterior material	N420 Robic nylon with TPU coating
  Dimensions	5.5 x 9 x 4 inches (Large)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Nifty toothbrush protection sleeve
  • Can be attached to other bags
  • Optional strap to carry as a crossbody

  TIRED

  • Only comes in black
  • Medium size isn’t a great value

• Best Toiletry Bag for Women

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Parallelle

  Traveller

  $110

  Parallelle (Medium)

  $135

  Parallelle (Large)

  $85

  Parallelle (Small)

  $105

  Parallelle (Brush)

  Though not a Dopp kit in the strictest sense (see below), the Parallelle Traveller (read our full review here) is such a thoughtfully designed bag that it works for just about any purpose. Bag designer Annie Fan went through 60 iterations to get the details just right, and it shows. Unzip the sides, peel it down, and it becomes a caddy with up to 20 pockets, six pouches, and three dividers, keeping all your products—even some full-sized ones—upright and easy to grab. Zip it back up, and your stuff is secure enough to toss into a bag or suitcase. The small size also has loops along the interior of one side for brushes, and it comes in nine colors and four sizes, so you’re sure to find one that works for you (or a giftee). My only quibble is that it has no handle for carrying, but if this bothers you, you may want to check out Parallelle’s new Kit, below.

  Exterior material	Vegan leather and water-resistant cotton
  Dimensions	8 x 7 x 4.5 inches (Medium)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Peel-down sides allow easy viewing and access of products
  • Design keeps items secure even if thrown around
  • Fits a surprsing amount of items

  TIRED

  • No handle makes it awkward to carry

• Best Toiletry Bag for Carry-Ons

  

  Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Alpaka

  Wash Kit

  $35

  Alpaka

  Despite its petite 1.3-liter capacity (“ideal for in-flight essentials” or “one-bag journeys,” the marketing says, which I found to be accurate—we’re talking toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant only), this minimalist black bag is a crowd pleaser. My two testers and I all gave it a solid thumbs up. Everything from the 200D easy-clean interior with its three simple pouches to the leak-resistant YKK zippers, large Hypalon pulls, and generously sized handle seems engineered to provide as seamless a toiletry bag experience as possible. It also weighs only 3 ounces and sports a 400D recycled polyester exterior, so it can take some rough handling. If you’re a “just the basics” style of traveler looking for something small to slip into your carry-on, this is one of the more durable options for the price, though do note it does not have a hook for hanging. It’s currently sold out as of press time, but you can add your name to an email list to be notified when it’s back in stock.

  Exterior fabric	Ecopak EPX400
  Dimensions	8.7 x 3.5 inches

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Easy to clean
  • Rugged fabric resists damage

  TIRED

  • Too small for much more than bare basics
  • No hook for hanging

• Best Hanging Toiletry Bag

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Courtesy of L.L. Bean

  to wishlist

  L.L. Bean

  Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

  $40

  L.L. Bean (Medium)

  $50

  L.L. Bean (Large)

  $33

  L.L. Bean (Small)

  This no-nonsense bag is an impressive value, packed with enough organizational features to satisfy a wide array of travelers. I tested the Medium size, which should be plenty large for most people with its six zippered pouches—two lined with easy-clean PVC and one with mesh—plus a handy detachable shower caddy and mirror. Three mesh non-zippered pouches in the main compartment are large enough to fit smaller full-size tubes of product, and the thin, rubber-tipped hook makes it easy to hang just about anywhere without slipping off. It also has a fabric handle on the top for carrying.

  It comes in a slew of colors, fabrics, and prints, although it’s on the heavier side at 14 ounces and has a large footprint if you’re unable to hang it. L.L. Bean says its abrasion-resistant nylon packcloth exterior keeps spills contained, and though I found this to be true in the short term after “spilling” half of a travel-size container of liquid inside, the liquid was able to leak out of the zipper, and after half a day, the fabric became damp. L.L. Bean’s water-resistance claims aside, my whole family loved the versatility of this bag.

  Exterior material	Nylon packcloth
  Dimensions	9.75 x 11.5 x 3.5 inches (Medium)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Detachable shower caddy and mirror
  • Easy to clean
  • Many color options

  TIRED

  • Takes up a lot of space if not hanging
  • Zippers aren’t leak-proof

• Best Toiletry Bag for Camping

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    Courtesy of Sea to Summit

  to wishlist

  Sea to Summit

  Hanging Toiletry Bag

  $55

  Sea to Summit (Large)

  $50

  Sea to Summit (Small)

  $50

  REI (Small)

  Known for its ultralight camping gear, Sea to Summit makes some of our favorite sleeping bags and tents, so it’s no wonder its light-as-air hanging toiletry bag is also a hit, made out of water-resistant 30D Ultra-Sil Cordura (color options include blue, orange, and gray). I tested the Large version, which features two zippered mesh pouches and a small shatterproof mirror that slides in and out. Travelers can hang the bag on a tree or towel rack, or lay its 11-by-9.5-inch body on a rock or bathroom vanity, though I admit I found it floppy and cumbersome to use when not hanging.

  For those not taking it outdoors, its lightweight, unstructured body is easily mashable in a suitcase, which is great for packing but not so great for breakable or fragile items glass containers. The one main compartment is also extremely roomy, so items tend to roll around. For backpackers and travelers concerned with weight, the large version is impressively light at only 4 ounces, including the mirror—the lightest of any bag we tested. Backpackers and those looking for even less weight might do well with the 2.8-ounce small size. Sea to Summit also offers a lifetime guarantee.

  Exterior material	Ultra-Sil fabric made with Cordura Nylon yarn
  Dimensions	8.9 x 10.2 x 3.9 inches (Large)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Extremely lightweight
  • Easily mashable in a suitcase
  • Lifetime guarantee

  TIRED

  • Floppy and cumbersome when not hanging
  • Unstructured exterior doesn’t provide breakage protection

• Best Toiletry Bag for Parents

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  No Reception Club

  The Dopp Kit

  $45

  No Reception Club

  Purveyor of stylish, unisex travel diaper bags that don’t look diaper bags, No Reception Club also makes smaller, family-travel-friendly accessories, this Dopp kit. Featuring a lifetime warranty, this slim, two-sided number is designed to carry your kid’s hygiene products on one side and yours on the other. (There might be room for two kids’ stuff, but not more than that.) I that the kid side has a clear, washable plastic window for the inevitable messy toothbrush, and that the canvas bag is overall tough and well-designed and doesn’t look overtly something for parents, with a stitched-on rubbery No Reception Club logo, YKK zippers, and a large plastic hook that will fit over most towel or shower-curtain rods. It comes in olive and navy in addition to black.

  There is no place to stow the hook, so it flops awkwardly over the adult compartment if you’re using it on a countertop, and the two-sided feature is available on many other toiletry bags, but this is still the best “specifically for parents” bag I’ve found. (Note that it’s also made to fit perfectly in other No Reception Club bags, the Getaway Bag, which WIRED reviewer Nena Farrell used when her son was younger.)

  Exterior material	Nylon/polyester
  Dimensions	9 x 5.5 x 1.5 inches (one size)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Tailor-made for storing your kid’s hygiene products
  • Looks an adult toiletry bag
  • Slim profile and convenient hanging hook

  TIRED

  • Other bags could be used for this same purpose
  • Hook is large and obtrusive if you’re not using it
  • May not be big enough for multiple kids

• Best Budget Toiletry Bag

  

  Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Bagsmart

  On-Road Toiletry Bag

  $23 $16 (30% off)

  Amazon

  $26

  Bagsmart (Medium)

  Only want to spend 20 bucks (or less) on a toiletry bag? Bagsmart’s got your back. No one does practicality and function for cheap quite this brand. The products may not last you a lifetime, but you’ll get the features and looks you want at half or even one-third the price of flashier labels.

  This is one of the more popular Bagsmart designs sold on Amazon. The sturdy, water-resistant exterior is a bit stiff, but it keeps its shape well, protecting contents. It features a contemporary matte finish in nine colors, including cream, light pink, and olive. The Medium bag, which I tested, is large enough for longer trips without taking up too much space in a carry-on. (Note: This one doesn’t hang, but the similarly handy Bagsmart Blast does. Though at $30, it costs a bit more.)

  Other than the lack of a hook for hanging, this bag hits all the toiletry bag high points. It’s got three compartments, including a waterproof pocket on the front; interior pockets to hold toiletries upright; and a front flap that folds down with loops for razors, makeup brushes, or toothbrushes. The double-zipper strip that opens at the top is a little annoying, taking up more space on the counter than I’d , but this style does make it easy to open. I also the generously sized handle.

  Exterior material	Water-resistant polyester
  Dimensions	10.2 x 6.3 x 5.5 inches (Medium)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • All-purpose design can be a toiletry bag, shaving kit, or cosmetic bag
  • Water-resistant
  • Lots of organization
  • Waterproof compartment for soap or toothbrush

  TIRED

  • No hanging option
  • Fabric is a bit stiff
  • Dual-zippered top flap can get in the way

• A Toiletry Bag That Just Looks Cool

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  The North Face

  Base Camp Travel Canister

  $40

  Backcountry (Small)

  $40

  The North Face (Small)

  Is this old-school North Face bag practical? Not exactly. It’s heavy (10 ounces on my scale), it arrived mashed and struggles to maintain its canister shape, and the hook is too small to hang on a towel or shower rod. But with its yellow waterproof exterior (it also comes in blue and black) and black MOLLE webbing, it evokes the North Face of , back when the brand supplied real outdoor climbing equipment to real adventurers and not cropped puffer jackets to suburban outlet-mall shoppers.

  A crescent-shaped opening on the top unzips to reveal one large compartment with a small mesh pouch on the lid, plus a mirror attached to the hook’s strap with Velcro. The hook and mirror can be tucked into another pouch in the lid when not in use. I didn’t love my personal care products rolling around loosely in the main compartment when I tested this, but it would be perfect for more durable travel containers Cadence Capsules, below, as well as trips that risk rips and damage to a toiletry bag’s exterior.

  Exterior material	300D recycled polyester, 840D ballistic nylon
  Dimensions	11.6 x 6 x 6 inches (Small)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Nostalgic vibe
  • Very tough material
  • Equally useful to hang or sit on counter
  • Hook has an attached mirror

  TIRED

  • Heavy
  • Struggles to maintain its canister shape
  • Mostly one main compartment
  • Small hook won’t fit on towel racks

• An Eco-Friendly Dopp Kit

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    Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

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    Photograph: Julian Chokkattu

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    Courtesy of Peak Design

  to wishlist

  Peak Design

  Wash Pouch

  $50

  Peak Design (Small Size)

  $60

  Peak Design (Regular Size)

  If you’re packing for a big trip or you just have a lot of stuff, the Peak Design Wash Pouch can fit a lot. It comes in two sizes—I tested the “Regular,” which has more space than I need. It has a very durable and somewhat crinkly shell made from Coyote X-Pac Ocean Edition, aka 100-percent recycled fishing nets, and it’s waterproof too. There’s only one zippered mini pocket on the outside, along with a handle and a hook. Open it up, and there are several layers you can rifle through: one side has pouches to store items vertically, the middle divider has a zippered pouch with more interior pockets, and there’s a big gap on the other side to fit larger items a hairbrush. In the middle, there’s also a little pocket that magnetically closes at the top of the middle divider—it’s where you can store your toothbrush and keep the bristles from touching anything else.

  I had no trouble fitting all the travel-sized things I usually bring on a trip, a little bottle of cologne, a mini toothpaste tub, face lotion, travel-sized shampoo and conditioner, a hairbrush, and a razor. If you have a lot of long makeup items, they may not fit vertically in some of the pouches, so you’ll have to place them horizontally at the bottom, which could make it annoying to find something specific. —Julian Chokkattu

  Exterior material	Weatherproof 200D nylon Versa Shell
  Dimensions	10.2 x 6 x 4.4 inches (Regular)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Can sit upright or hang
  • Waterproof
  • Made of recycled fishing nets

  TIRED

  • Longer items may not fit vertically

• Best TSA-Approved Toiletry Bag

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    Photograph Kat Merck

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    Courtesy of Cadence

  to wishlist

  Cadence

  Parcel

  $65

  Cadence (Medium TPU)

  $85 $68 (20% off)

  Cadence (Medium Canvas)

  $233

  Cadence (With Capsules)

  If you to decant your own TSA-approved 3-ounce-or-less personal care products face wash, moisturizer, and sunscreen for travel, odds are you’ve heard of or seen Cadence Capsules. These trendy, leak-proof, TSA-compliant magnetic containers are worthy of the hype. They come in eight colors and expandable sizes (I love the tall ones for things Canary toothpaste tablets, $15), and it’s so satisfying to see their matching hexagonal bodies all lined up. If you, me, feel it’s a shame to bury them deep in the bottom of an opaque toiletry bag, know that Cadence recently came out with a clear bag specifically for those who want to admire (and be admired for) their organizational A-game.

  The Parcel has an origami-simplicity: The wide base can serve as a caddy when open, but push down the top and the two magnetic ends fold into each other to create a perfect little rectangle. And you certainly don’t have to use Cadence Capsules—there’s nothing proprietary about the Parcel’s construction, so you can just put any travel toiletry in there. There’s even a fabric loop for carrying or hanging. The TPU body is easy to wipe clean, but there’s also an opaque, limited-edition canvas option if that’s more your aesthetic.

  Exterior material	TPU or canvas
  Dimensions	5.5 x 2.25 x 7 inches (medium)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Clear sides show off your Cadence Capsules
  • Folds down neatly with no bulk

  TIRED

  • Magnetic closure isn’t the most secure
  • Doesn’t always stay open when you need it to

• Best Leather Toiletry Bag

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Harber London

  Compact Toiletry Bag

  $379

  Harber London

  I was surprised by how much my testers and I loved this multifunctional bag, each of which is individually handmade in Spain. It doesn’t hold a lot (2-liter capacity), but what it does pack is easily visible and accessible. The stiff, sturdy construction makes it so it stands up by itself on a countertop with only a 2-inch footprint, and the slim profile makes it easy to slip into a backpack or carry-on. It also has a detachable loop handle for carrying, or if you want it to double as a purse, murse, or tech pouch. The full-grain leather is available in tan, black, or deep brown. Note that, because it ships straight from Europe, US duties and taxes are folded into the price.

  Exterior material	Leather
  Dimensions	9.4 x 5.6 x 1.6 inches

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Slim footprint makes it easy to fit anywhere
  • Stands up on its own
  • Detachable carry loop is handy

  TIRED

  • Doesn’t hold a lot
  • Slim profile
  • Other bags offer similar functionality and finish for less

• Best Personalized Toiletry Bag for Men

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Korchmar

  Ryder Leather Toiletry Kit

  $175

  Korchmar

  Founded in 1917, this fourth-generation, family-owned leathersmith started out making automobile lamp visors and suitcase corners but is now better known for travel and business bags. Its leather Ryder Dopp kit is as simple as it gets—American cowhide sourced from the top 5 percent of available hides, with a single roomy compartment, snap-down sides, and a liner of plaid twill. It comes in black or varied shades of brown, and you can order monogramming on the little front square for an extra $35.

  “I can smell my grandpa’s bathroom just looking at this,” remarked my husband upon watching me test this bag, which is incredibly smooth and smells a new luxury car. Indeed, it looks almost exactly the Dopp kit my own father has been using for more than 40 years. If you have someone on your gift list who loves old-fashioned luxury, a monogrammed version of this would make a great gift.

  Exterior material	Leather
  Dimensions	11 x 5 x 6 inches

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Heirlooom quality, full-grain American leather
  • Timeless style
  • Durable construction

  TIRED

  • Basic design—just one compartment

• Best Personalized Toiletry Bag for Women

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

  to wishlist

  Leatherology

  Train Case

  $160

  Leatherology (Small)

  $175

  Leatherology (Medium)

  $210

  Leatherology (XL)

  Leatherology is known for its simple yet timeless styles, and this train case comes in four sizes and many colors—from neutrals ecru and camel to jewel tones green and Bordeaux. I tested the Small size, and while it had limited organization on the inside, I had no problem fitting all the travel-sized toiletries I needed and my Dosey pill compact ($26), which is no small feat. The boxy style makes it versatile for anything from makeup to medicine. The outside is not very structured, which makes it great for fitting oversized items, but not so great for jamming into a suitcase—mine did get a little crumpled after I took it on a cruise. Regardless, it still looks classy and comes in a giftable fabric dust bag. Personalization options range from simple monogram printing, as shown ($15), to custom embossing ($120).

  Exterior material	Leather
  Dimensions	7.5 x 5 x 5.2 inches (Small)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Quality leather
  • Timeless and versatile style

  TIRED

  • Lack of structure risks bag being crushed

• Best Toiletry Bag for Full-Sized Products

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    Photograph: Kat Merck

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  to wishlist

  Parallelle

  The Kit

  $155

  Parallelle

  ing the success of Parallelle’s runaway-hit toiletry bag, The Traveller (see our full review here), the brand released this unisex version in November 2025. Its box shape allows for a full complement of full-sized products, all held in place by Parallelle’s usual warren of loops and pockets. It doesn’t peel down quite as cleanly as the Traveller does, though—you have to pinch the sides and kind of wrench them down. But once they’re down, all your products are held securely and visibly, ready to grab off the counter.

  I tested this bag on a trip to Oahu and found it to be slightly bulkier than the Traveller but equally secure. I also love that the Kit has a handle, the lack of which was a nit I had with the Traveller, but I did find the Kit’s structured shape got loose and floppy after several trips. Right now, it only comes in two colors, Vicuna (a kind of cinnamon brown) and Navy. Both sold out almost immediately and remain sold out as of print time, but will hopefully be back in stock soon.

  Exterior material	Vegan leather/water-resistant canvas
  Dimensions	8.5 x 7.25 x 5.75 inches (one size)

  WIRED/TIRED

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  WIRED

  • Keeps full-sized products organized and secure
  • Fold-down sides make for easy access

  TIRED

  • Sides don’t fold down as easily as Parallelle’s Traveller

Others We Tested

There were multiple great bags we tried whose features or designs just didn’t add up to a place in the top spots above. However, everyone has something different they’re looking for in a toiletry bag, so while not perfect for us, some of these options may still be perfect for you.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Patricks BB1 Bathroom Bag for $189: This crush-resistant, shock-absorbing rectangular bag is basically a heavier-duty, unisex version of the Flat Lay, below, except it costs four times as much. I tested it in the Triple Black colorway, which is “strictly limited to 1,000 pieces globally.” This one’s got two interior flaps with a slim, shallow zippered pouch on either side, but otherwise is just one big compartment that led to too much clinking and clanking of contents during my test. It’s great for full-sized products, but my testers and I all preferred bags that hold the products securely upright, as in the less expensive Parallelle Kit, above.

Flat Lay Makeup Box Bag for $37: Available in opaque-fabric and clear (“jelly”) styles, this unassuming pouch looks a chubby rectangle with a handle on the end but actually unzips into a flat tray for easy access. There’s only one compartment, so I didn’t love it as a toiletry bag, but I did love it as a pool and beach accessory bag for sunscreen and makeup.

Monos Metro Toiletry Case for $95: This durable, structured case, available in either nylon or vegan leather, exhibits the class and quality construction Monos is known for. It has one main roomy compartment with three small pockets inside; one zippered. It did a great job of protecting its contents while still being squishable enough to fit in a tightly packed carry-on, though I did find myself wishing it had a handle for carrying.

Calpak Clear Cosmetics Case for $85: Constructed largely of water-resistant, wipe-clean PVC, this clear cosmetic case (I tested the Medium size) zips all the way around and folds flat to reveal two zippered compartments and one smaller zippered mesh bag. It also looks a cute little purse with its 16 trendy color options, dual handles, and metal bottom studs. However, contents aren’t as easy to access as other cosmetic bags that just open from the top—you have to lay the Calpak flat to open both sides, which requires a 16-by-10-inch footprint.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Vera Bradley Toiletry Bags for $30: The erstwhile must-have accessory of both early-aughts Southern sorority girls and their grandmothers, Vera Bradley bags are back with a new spokesperson (Zooey Deschanel), new designs, and updated fabrics smooth twill and cotton gabardine. (Die-hard fans can rest assured that the staple quilted paisley options are still available.) The new line includes multiple styles of toiletry bags and makeup bags that are lightweight, giftable, and can add a pop of color and personality to your travel setup. I tested several, and my favorite was the Lay-Flat Travel Organizer—its two interior clear zippered compartments and three mesh slip pockets were roomy yet snug enough to keep all contents of my morning routine secure, and a rather large spill of soap in the large pocket cleaned up quickly. However, even though the fabric is padded, which provides some protection for the interior contents, the exterior is somewhat absorbent and not machine washable (though other designs are), so be forewarned that light-colored options could attract stains.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Bagsmart Blast 4.5L Toiletry Bag for $30: This rectangular toiletry bag can sit on a counter (with about a 10 x 5-inch footprint) or hang with a 360-degree rotating hook. It’s machine washable and has a bright orange interior for visibility, sporting five mesh pockets. Both my testers and I d it a lot. The only thing that kept it from nabbing a top spot is how much space it took up when not hanging, and when it did hang, it stuck out more than the traditional flat hanging styles.

Beis the Dopp Kit for $68: I’ve had Beis’ Dopp Kit for four years now, and it’s still my go-to for any trip. The poly canvas material is durable and easy to spot-clean. Plus, I opted for the black version to mask the inevitable scuffs and smaller stains. What I love the most, though, are the compartments. The water-resistant section is a total game-changer when packing liquids or fragrances. If something leaks, a quick wipe gets the job done. The waterproof bottom is also a huge bonus when I’m getting ready at a bathroom sink. —Boutayna Chokrane

Photograph: Kat Merck

Thule Aion Toiletry Bag for $65: This spacious, 5-liter bag with an 11 x 5-inch footprint features many thoughtful touches, including a wipe-clean interior with a rubbery, water-resistant bottom to protect it from wet countertops. (Though there’s also a handy strap that snaps to hang on any-diameter hook or rack.) The sides snap down to compress, almost a packing cube, and I that it’s squishable to fit into a smaller suitcase. It also comes with a removable translucent bag for taking liquids through the airport security line. However, it does take up a lot of space when not snapped down, and the waxed canvas does attract a lot of lines and marks, which may not be to everyone’s aesthetic taste.

Nex Dopp for $73: The small and large Dopp kits I tested, part of Nex’s 2024 Hawaii collection, consisted of a roomy, single compartment with a dual zippered strip. They’re made of microfiber leather, which is a higher-quality synthetic leather, said to be softer and more durable. The bags were stiff and well-structured, which felt protective of my cosmetics when jammed into my carry-on. There is a slight synthetic smell from the microfiber leather, which is hard to miss, since you must lean your face quite close to the bag to see the contents in the cavernous single compartment. I also felt that when the bag was unzipped, the zippered strip was either in the way or had to be splayed out, which took up too much space on my tiny hotel-bathroom shelf. Otherwise, this is a fine option that offers both a lifetime warranty and an unlimited trade-in program.

Cotopaxi Nido Accessory Bag Cada Día for $50: Cotopaxi’s trim little bag is meant not just for hygiene items, but any collection of odds and ends. It’s made from light recycled deadstock nylon (so, probably not for you if you are carrying glass bottles or anything that needs padding) and weighs in at a modest 6.5 ounces. Your colorway will be unique! I the surprisingly capacious 4-liter capacity spread over three different compartments, with a big middle compartment for your quart-size, TSA-approved bag of liquids and two other compartments with separate, smaller pockets. I do have to admit, though, that I hooks better than loops, and hanging is more convenient with a clamshell toiletry bag design than with this one, which can’t be hung while open. —Adrienne So

Photograph: Kat Merck

Kusshi Hair Tools Bag for $89: Unsimilar bags that just bunch up your hair tools into a roll, this hair tool carrier has two organized pocket sections; a zippered pouch in the middle for hair products or, in my case while I was testing, attachments for my Shark FlexFusion; and a pocket on the outside for rubber bands or small accessories lip balm. It’s also made of neoprene that’s heat-resistant up to 380 degrees Fahrenheit, so you don’t have to worry about waiting for your tools to cool down before packing them away. Keep in mind, though, that the initial off-gassing is strong with this one—you may want to let it sit in a well-ventilated area for several days before packing it in your suitcase, lest it make everything else smell plasticky. This included the air from my hair dryer when I used it. There are also reports online of it not accommodating some Dyson tools, though it did fit an Airstrait and Corrale.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Aer Travel Kit 2 Ultra for $79: Does the average traveler need a toiletry bag made partially of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE), which is 15 times stronger than steel by weight? Perhaps not, but it definitely makes for an interesting bag. Part of Aer’s 10th Anniversary Ultra Collection, this hardy, chunky little Dopp kit incorporates the collection’s Ultra400X fabric (in black only) by Challenge Sailcloth, known for its high-performance sails for yacht racers and kite surfers. Despite its strength, the Travel Kit is still pretty lightweight at 8 ounces. However, the hook is thick plastic and too small for a towel rack, and the rubbery “Aer” brand tags on the outside and inside seem to accumulate toothbrush and soap residue, as does the mesh zippered pouch in the top compartment. Both proved somewhat difficult to clean.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Trifold Toiletry Kit for $50: Eagle Creek’s travel accessory game is extremely strong. Its toiletry bags, packing cubes, and various organizers are affordable, sturdy, and exceedingly well designed, and this toiletry bag is no exception. At first glance, it looks two toiletry bags snapped together, but each side unzips to make a hanging organizer with six compartments. The only problem is that one side of the bag holds products upside down until it’s unfurled, which led to items falling out in my tests.

Photograph: Kat Merck

State Bags Benson Toiletry Kit for $65: This is a solid, simple bag with three mesh pouches and a snap-in/snap-out plastic envelope that can hold a toothbrush and toothpaste or shower items soap. The navy version I tested had a coated polyester wipe-clean exterior and interior made from recycled bottles, and I d that it had the option to hang. However, the organization was more rudimentary than similar-category bags we tested, and it was missing some of the thoughtful details featured on other bags in the same price range, a quick-access pouch on the back and a larger hook with a rubber tip to prevent slipping. (This bag’s thick, small plastic hook wasn’t even wide enough to hang on a towel rack.)

Cuyana Travel Beauty Case for $298: Those still chasing the quiet luxury aesthetic will love this elegant zippered cosmetic case, available in black or pale pink. It’s made of high-end-feeling Italian pebbled leather both inside and out, with gold hardware and “Cuyana” discreetly printed on the bottom. It opens clamshell-style, and the lid contains a snap-close cover concealing a brush holder with elastic loops. A removable pouch snaps onto that lid cover, and the main compartment has a pocket for securing tubes, bottles, and small tools. Contents aren’t as immediately accessible as they are in other cosmetic cases I tested, but they are more secure. This bag is also on the heavy side, even for a cosmetics case, weighing in at 1.6 pounds, but if you can swing the price, this is a well-made, timeless investment for your travel arsenal.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Cincha the Toiletry Bag for $55: After testing nearly every style of toiletry bag in existence, I thought I had seen it all, but this thoughtfully designed bag from Cincha surprised me. The large size is essentially the tackle box of toiletry bags. It zips open in the middle to reveal four roomy compartments—two on each side, each topped with a small, translucent vinyl zippered pouch. I could not believe the amount of stuff I was able to fit into this thing, and yet I never had trouble closing it, despite packing it to the absolute max. I ended up taking it on a five-day getaway where I had to a bathroom with two other people, and I found that I loved being able to flip it over and lift the “lid” of whatever side I needed, in order to keep the counter footprint small.

July Hanging Toiletry Bag for $85: I own and love July’s carry-on suitcase, so I was excited to try the brand’s popular hanging toiletry bag. It’s a great design with a zippered pouch on the back, plus a body that zips flat to reveal PVC and pouch zip compartments and a large, rubber-tipped metal hook that tucks away. It looks well-made and stylish with leather trim and gunmetal hardware, but my husband took it on a business trip and found that its pockets are actually quite small, confirming a worry I had when I tested it in my bathroom at home. It wouldn’t be an issue if the bag itself were small, but it took up a full quarter of the carry-on.

Tumi Alpha Bravo Response Kit for $225: This rugged-looking, ballistic nylon bag has the classic Tumi Tracer inside to help facilitate its return to you if it gets lost, as well as an antimicrobial lining. It can hang, stand up, or lie flat and has several convenient internal pockets and an external zipped pouch. It’s a lot of money for a toiletry bag with many of the same features as ones half the price, but if you’re a Tumi fan and need a toiletry bag to match your luggage, you could do worse than this model.

Photograph: Kat Merck

Beautifect Go Mini for $177: WIRED reviewer Louryn Strampe loved the larger Beautifect Box, and I tested the Mini to see if it would work for travel. While the smaller size does make it more portable (along with a purse-carry strap), the multifunction lighted mirror and its battery made the lid top-heavy, so it kept flopping forward when I tried to use it on a soft, uneven surface my lap or a bed. It’s also got a very hard case and is a bit heavy at almost 2.5 pounds, so as much as I wanted to take it with me on a plane, I ended up bringing a smaller bag instead. Worth a buy if you want a makeup case with a lighted mirror, but it’s definitely best for day trips.

Fjallraven Kanken Toiletry Bag for $60: I love this thing, which makes me feel a Red Cross nurse on the battlefields of World War II. It’s made from a proprietary Fjallraven fabric blend that combines organic cotton with recycled polyester, so it feels fabric but is more waterproof and durable. It has a clamshell design with a sturdy interior plastic hook. My quart bag of bottles goes into the enormous lower zip compartment, my toothbrush and deodorant in the top compartment, and there are mesh pockets and MOLLE webbing so that your tiny things are easily visible. However, its dimensions are very large, so this might not be for you if you’re a minimalist with just a toothbrush and a comb. —Adrienne So

Photograph: Kat Merck

Tom Beckbe Canvas Dopp Kit for $195: Known for its high-end jackets, field hats, and vests for fishing and waterfowl hunting, Birmingham, Alabama-based sports outfitter Tom Beckbe also makes a Dopp kit made of full-grain distressed leather and the brand’s proprietary Field Canvas. It matches the genteel Southern vibe of Tom Beckbe’s collection of other travel bags and related accessories camo whiskey totes and insulated shooting gloves. If the Marlboro Man ever left the ranch, this is definitely the Dopp kit he would have used. The only downside is that the bag is relatively large—and dark inside—for what’s essentially one compartment.

Eagle Creek Pack-It Isolate Quick Trip for $25: This little bag is a simple design, made from recycled bottles, with a zipper on the top and on the side. However, its light weight and semi-structured shape make it perfect for holding a wallet and keys at the gym, or even as a tech pouch for work purposes.

Kusshi Neoprene Wristlet Clutch for $39: It’s a purse! It’s a toiletry bag! It’s a purse that doubles as a toiletry bag! This clutch is the perfect size for a larger phone, e-reader, or small tablet, with a couple of mesh pockets for makeup. I used it to tote a day’s worth of makeup and skincare around town and found it was just heavy enough to be burdensome, but if you the neoprene look and your essentials are lightweight, this clutch, most Kusshi products, is sturdy and well-made.

Sympl Dopp Kit for $75: I d this bag’s durable Cordura exterior and stow-away clip for hanging, as well as the fact it has a lifetime warranty. The bag opens clamshell-style to reveal four simple waterproof zip pockets—two thin and horizontal, one small rectangle, and one larger rectangle. It’s an interesting idea, but in practice, this severely limits utility since a user is restricted to specific toiletry-sized products that fit the shape of each of the pockets. (My deodorant did not fit, nor did a toothbrush in a case.)

Photograph: Kat Merck

Bagsmart Paz Hanging Toiletry Bag for $35: With its stylish, padded exterior; generously sized carry handle; and ability to transport up to eight full-sized products, this one had me reaching for it long after the testing period was over. The thin, tipped metal hanger makes it easy to hang anywhere, and there’s an easy-access compartment on the front with loops for makeup brushes or other long, thin items. In fact, this is almost a small toiletry briefcase rather than a bag—the whole thing unfurls into a 33-inch-long organizer with four separate compartments (two with sections to hold full-sized products). It will almost certainly be too much for anyone who s to travel light, but if you check your luggage, will be on the road for a long time, or just don’t want to deal with decanting your personal care products, this is a well-designed and easy-to-use solution.

Saltyface Everywhere Bag for $36: Technically designed to store Saltyface self-tanners and bronzers, this puffy black fabric bag spent an indordinate amount of time on my counter, simply because I d how it looked. Practically speaking, though, the handle was too small for an adult-sized hand, and I found myself becoming irritated with the single zipper pull, so it’s not ideal as a general-purpose travel toiletry bag.

FAQs

How I Test Toiletry Bags

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For bags our team hasn’t already been using for years, I spend a four-week period rotating new toiletry bags during my morning routine. I note any annoyances or unique details, volume, how easy it is to store and retrieve items, how much space each one takes up on the vanity, how they survive being splashed with water and soap, and, if the bag can hang, how easy it is to retrieve items once hanging.

About every three months, my family goes on trips that require stays in hotels. I always take different groups of bags and determine how easy it is to use multiple bags at once in a small space, if hook designs allowed for multiple places to hang, and whether the contents spilled in or otherwise dirtied the bags, and if so, how easy they are to clean. For bags I am not able to take on trips, I lend them to friends and family members who are traveling and take down their notes to consider alongside my own home testing.

How Does WIRED Obtain Toiletry Bags for Testing?

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Some toiletry bags are review samples requested from the manufacturer, while others are purchased and expensed. Review samples are only accepted without promise of editorial coverage. Toiletry bags chosen as picks are reused for durability testing purposes, while all other bags are donated upon completion of testing.

What Kind of Toiletry Bag Do You Need?

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Dopp kits, cosmetics cases, hanging bags … the differences between categories aren’t always clear. Here are some of the more common types of toiletry bags you’ll come across, and what to consider with each.

Dopp kit: Named for leather craftsman Charles Doppelt, who provided “Dopps,” or toiletry kits, for WWII soldiers. “Dopp kit” has evolved over time to indicate any kind of portable toiletry organizer, but commercially, toiletry bags labeled “Dopp kits” tend to be smaller and hold just a handful of necessities for short trips as opposed to larger fold-up hanging bags and cosmetics cases.

Cosmetics case: Designed for those who need more than just the necessities, a cosmetics case is usually a much larger boxcontainer with specialized compartments for makeup, skin care, hair care, and other necessities. They often come with extras brush holders and mirrors.

Hanging toiletry bag: A bag that, as the name indicates, comes with a hook so that it can be hung on a hook, towel rack, tree, or someplace it won’t take up space on the counter. Often, the user needs to hang them to be able to access all the storage compartments. Something to consider is that hooks can be used up quite quickly if everyone in your hotel room has a hanging bag. All the hooks in our bathroom were taken almost immediately, so my husband ended up having to hang his bag over the toilet, which he wasn’t thrilled about. A good hanging toiletry bag will also have a hook that’s thin enough to slip over just about any hook, and be rubber-tipped so it won’t slide off.

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Kat Merck is a senior commerce editor for WIRED, where she covers smart bird feeders, hair straighteners, toiletry bags, and everything home-related. An editor and writer for more than 25 years, she has a bachelor’s degree in journalism from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo. ing stints as associate … Read More

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