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The 19 Best Travel Toiletries of 2024

These are our picks for more convenient, streamlined travel necessities.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel & Leisure / Kristin Kempa

Anyone who’s adventure-bound — whether headed on a weekend camping excursion or a month-long beach stay — will need to make smart and strategic packing decisions, especially when it comes to toiletries. The best travel toiletries are portable, multi-functioning, and convenient, to help you maintain an effective grooming routine with fewer, smaller items than what you’re used to using at home. 

From compact skincare products to versatile hygiene essentials, we’ve culled the best travel toiletries in every category. And, keeping the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on luggage in mind, we’ve swapped some traditionally liquid items for solid alternatives to make packing even easier. 

Best Face Wash

Evolvetogether face wash.

Evolvetogether 

It’s lightweight, convenient, and sustainable.

It may not be as effective at removing makeup as other solutions.

Whether you’re trying to cut down on liquid toiletries for your carry-on luggage or you’re just trying to avoid potential spills in your bag, non-liquid products are very convenient for travel. This tried-and-true powder face wash comes in 100 percent biodegradable individual-use packets, so it’s easy to pack the exact amount you need for your trip.

Plus, they’re slimmer and more lightweight than even a miniature bottle of liquid. The water-activated unscented face wash turns into a foam with an ultra-fine sandy texture that cleanses, exfoliates, and moisturizes your skin. 

The Details: 30 packets, 2 x 3.5 inches each

Best Face Moisturizer

Elizabeth arden eight hour cream.

It delivers long-lasting hydration in a travel-friendly tube.

Some skin types may be sensitive to salicylic acid. 

Between the dry air in plane cabins and climate changes in a new environment, traveling can be taxing on your skin. This small but mighty tube of petroleum-based face cream delivers eight hours of hydration to help keep your skin soothed, dewy, and moisturized. Meanwhile, it’s formulated with vitamin E to repair damage caused to the skin barrier and salicylic acid to promote gentle cell turnover for healthier, smoother-looking skin. A bonus: this purse-friendly product doubles as a balm for cracked and chapped lips.

The Details: 1.7 ounces

Best Lotion

La roche-posay lipikar ap+m triple repair body cream.

The multi-tasking formula eliminates the need for multiple creams.

Be sure to layer SPF on top.

When you travel, multi-tasking products are your best friend as they allow you to lug fewer items overall. That’s why we love this prebiotic moisturizer, which can be used on your body, hands, and face. It’s packed with a combination of shea butter, glycerin, and niacinamide to replenish lost moisture and soothe dry skin. The non-greasy, non-sticky formula is non-comedogenic and safe for sensitive skin. 

The Details: 2.5, 6.8, or 13.52 ounces

Best Body Wash

Glossier milky jelly cleansing bar.

It won’t count against the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons.

It’s pricey.

Another convenient multi-tasker, this nourishing cleansing bar can be used both on your body and face. And feel free to toss this ergonomically-designed soap bar in your carry-on luggage since it won’t count against the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. The fragrance-free vegan cleanser is safe to use on sensitive skin, and it’ll leave your epidermis feeling hydrated and never stripped. It uses chamomile extract to help balance and even your complexion. 

The Details: 3.85 ounces

Best Face Sunscreen

Summer fridays shadedrops spf 30 mineral milk sunscreen.

It’s enriched with vitamins, antioxidants, and soothing chamomile.

If you’re prone to sunburns, you may prefer a higher SPF value. 

Whether you’re headed beachside or hitting the ski slopes, dermatologists agree it’s imperative to protect your skin from the sun with SPF 30 or higher whenever you’re spending time outdoors. This sunscreen is formulated like a lightweight serum, so it has none of that greasy, sticky feeling of traditional sunscreen, nor will it leave a white cast on your skin. It’s formulated with zinc oxide (which is safe for sensitive skin), smoothing and plumping squalane, and a vitamin E-based antioxidant complex that helps protect skin against free-radical damage.

Best Body Sunscreen

Babo botanicals sheer mineral sunscreen lotion spf 50.

It has a comfortable, lightweight formula.

 There is a faint mineral smell.

When we tested 20 different travel-sized sunscreens , this nourishing, non-greasy SPF 50 formula stood out above the rest. We particularly loved the lightweight, liquid formula, which felt more like a lotion than a sunscreen and was not as heavy or sticky as old-school sunblock tends to be.

Plus, we were able to get plenty of use out of just a small dollop of the zinc oxide-based product, making the 3-ounce a better value for the price. It offers 80 minutes of water-resistance, so it’s a great pick for beach or pool trips. Plant-based ingredients including shea butter help moisturize and soothe skin.

The Details: 3 ounces

Best Shampoo

J.r. liggett's all-natural shampoo bar.

The long-lasting bar is equal to approximately 24 ounces of liquid shampoo.

The rose, lavender, and spearmint scent may not be for everyone.  

Not only are shampoo bars more environmentally friendly (due to lack of plastic packaging) and more cost-effective (since you typically get more washes out of a bar than a bottle) than their liquid counterparts, but they’re also a mess-free, TSA-friendly option for travel.

We especially love this all-natural pick because it can also be used as a body soap, a lubricant for shaving, or for hand washing clothing items such as socks and underwear. The 100 percent vegetable oil formulation doesn’t strip the natural oils from your hair and naturally conditions it, so many people find they don’t need to use an additional conditioner after shampooing (and can therefore pack one less item).

The Details: 3.5 ounces

Best Conditioner

Pureology hydrate conditioner.

It softens and moisturizes hair while controlling frizz.

It's expensive.

When subjecting your hair to new environments while traveling, it can easily get dried out. This creamy and luxurious conditioner deeply softens and nourishes stressed hair and works to restore moisture. It’s formulated with moisturizing jojoba, health-promoting green tea, and sage, which supports hair follicles. Just a small amount of this color-safe conditioner goes a long way, making it an effective choice for travel (and it helps to balance out the hefty price tag). 

The Details: 1.7, 9, and 33.8 ounces

Best Hair Serum

Christophe robin regenerating serum.

This all-in-one hair serum hydrates dry hair and protects against heat damage.

Be sure to travel with the lid so the press pump doesn't get bumped accidentally.

This regenerating serum is the only hair care item you'll need to pack in your toiletry bag (besides shampoo and conditioner, of course). It's designed to hydrate and replenish dry hair while acting as a heat protectant for up to 440 degrees Fahrenheit. The main ingredients all have specific purposes, too, including strengthening prickly pear seed oil, nourishing tucuma butter, and castor oil to provide a healthy shine that won't leave your hair looking or feeling greasy. You only need to use a small amount so the tiny bottle takes up very little room and lasts a long time.

Best Hair Brush

Putysuun travel comb brush combo.

This compact item includes two styling tools in one.

It may feel a bit flimsy.

A hair brush can be a tricky item to pack due to its awkward shape and bristles, which can get caught on and damage vulnerable items such as knit sweaters. This combination tool includes a hair brush and a fine toothed comb in one, so you can address all your hair styling needs with a single item. The best part is that it folds up into a compact tool that won’t risk snagging other items in your luggage. When folded, it becomes a pocket-friendly size that’s easy to stash.

Best Hairspray

Sexyhair spray & play volumizing hairspray.

It protects hairstyles against humidity.

It can make your hair feel a little crunchy.

When you’re traveling, it’s impractical to pack various hairsprays, gels, and styling creams for a variety of hairstyles. Instead, rely on a single product which has numerous uses. This small but mighty hairspray has plenty of hold to keep your tresses securely in place no matter your activity.

The volumizing spray provides fullness, lift, hold, and shine, and it’s suitable for use on all hair types. If you’re headed to a hot or humid location, rest assured that the product’s humidity protection will help keep your strands from frizzing for up to 72 hours. 

The Details: 1.5, 10, or 16 ounces

Best Hand Sanitizer

Touchland hand sanitizer.

It’s formulated with moisturizing aloe vera.

The scents are strong. 

Whether you’re boarding a long-haul flight or trekking through terrain where you won’t encounter a sink for quite a while, hand sanitizer will help keep your hands clean. This flat container is extra convenient because it slides nicely into a pant or purse pocket — or you can clip it to a key ring or lanyard. The aloe vera-based formula is moisturizing, and each bottle contains 500 sprays. Choose from delicious scents like lemon-lime spritz, frosted mint, and citrus grove.

The Details: 1 ounce

Best Travel Razor

Gillette venus comfortglide white tea blades.

Courtesy of Amazon

It comes with a travel case for safe packing.

The short handle may be tougher to maneuver than a larger one. 

With a mini handle and a nifty travel case, this razor is easy and safe to toss in your toiletry bag and won’t take up too much space. The pivoting head gets into tough-to-reach areas for a smooth, close shave. The three-blade razor is surrounded by water-activated gel bars that release a rich body butter lather, guarding your skin against nicks, cuts, and irritation as you shave — and eliminating the need for an additional shaving cream.

Best Mini Deodorant

Lume whole body deodorant.

It can also be used on your feet, thighs, and anywhere else you sweat.

The roll up mechanism can stick and become defective.  

When you’re traveling, it’s helpful to pack multi-functioning products that allow you to tote fewer items overall. This full-body antiperspirant helps keep your pits, feet, and any other area where you tend to sweat feeling and smelling fresh for up to 72 hours. Powerful yet gentle, the aluminum-, paraben-, and baking soda-free formula is safe for sensitive skin. 

The Details: 2.2 ounces

Best Travel First Aid Kit

Protect life small first aid kit.

It helps ease the stress of mini emergencies.

 It doesn’t include pain medication. 

It’s always a good idea to carry first aid essentials in case of small emergencies like scrapes or splinters. Don’t let the small size of this health kit fool you: it contains 100 pieces, including numerous bandages, gauze pads, an emergency blanket, a CPR mask, tweezers, a tape roll, and more. Pack the 7.5 x 5.2 x 1.5-inch container in your backpack or purse to address minor injuries on the go without having to stop at the drugstore. 

Best Travel Toiletry Containers

Liquisnugs premium leak-proof silicone travel bottles.

The TSA-approved bottles come in two different sizes.

You may need to purchase multiple sets to accommodate all your travel liquids. 

Some of your favorite toiletries may not be available in travel-friendly sizes. That’s where these nifty refillable containers come in. Available in 2- and 3-ounce sizes (use the larger containers for liquids you use more frequently), the silicone bottles are super simple to fill with your lotions, body washes, shampoos, and more thanks to a larger opening at the top. In our testing , each individual bottle held up well and there wasn’t any spillage or damage after we tossed, turned, and dropped them in our simulations. 

The Details: 2 and 3 ounces

Best Toothbrush

Kulusion dental travel kit.

It holds your toothpaste, too.

It’ll count as a liquid if you fill it with toothpaste.  

Here’s another useful tool that can replace multiple items. This travel-sized toothbrush comes with a built-in, refillable toothpaste container, which easily releases your preferred toothpaste with the touch of a button. When shut, the contraption keeps the soft toothbrush head clean and protected. 

Best Bug Spray

Off family care insect repellent ii with picaridin.

It doesn’t have any off-putting chemical smells.

It doesn’t come in a container larger than 4 ounces.

When T+L put 16 different bug sprays to the test , this OFF! pick rose to the top of our list. What we love: the highly effective 5 percent picaridin formula has a very light scent and doesn't feel sticky at all, you may even forget you have it on. Plus, the non-leak bottle is easy to use and it disperses a fine, even mist onto skin. The 2.5-ounce size can be tossed in your carry-on luggage or it can fit in your pocket for day trips.  

The Details: 2.5 and 4 ounces

Best Dry Shampoo

Living proof perfect hair day dry shampoo.

Your hair will smell fresh and clean in between washes. 

It’s not cheap. 

The less time you spend shampooing your hair on vacation, the more time you’ll get back to enjoy your trip. On days between hair washes, you can use a dry shampoo to freshen up your tresses and say goodbye to greasy strands. Living Proof’s cult favorite version goes a step further by actually cleansing your hair, so it looks, feels, and is clean. The fragrance is nice and not overtly floral or chemical. 

The Details: 1.8, 5.5, or 9.5 ounces

Tips for Buying Travel Toiletries

Know which items you truly need.

When you pack for a trip, know you won’t necessarily need to have all the comforts of home with you. Prioritize your daily essentials including toothpaste, soap, and deodorant. Consider which items you’ll realistically use, and which ones you can do without (for instance, you may want hairspray for a trip to Paris but not for a camping excursion). If you’re staying at a hotel, think about items you may not be picky about (such as shampoo and body wash) that may be provided by the facility free of charge. 

Invest in reusable containers

You may find miniature versions of your favorite products adorable to look at, but they’re not the most sustainable or cost-effective option. Plus, your favorite brands may not even have travel-size picks available. Consider investing in reusable containers in TSA-friendly sizes. That way, you can fill them with the full-sized toiletries you already buy and you can take just as much as you need for the length of your trip. 

Use a clear, ziplock bag to store your liquids and prevent leaks. This also makes it easier to see what you have and comply with airport security regulations. Try to stock up on multi-tasking products (for instance, a lotion that can be used both on your face and body) so you’ll have to pack fewer items. Use reusable travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less for any larger items that you want to pack in a carry-on.  

Pay attention to TSA travel restrictions and make sure all your carry-on items comply with the official 3-1-1 liquids rule , which states that you can bring containers equal to or smaller than 3.4 ounces that fit in a single quart-size resealable bag. When possible, try subbing in solid alternatives to liquid toiletries (for example, a bar of soap over a liquid body wash), which are not subject to liquid restrictions and take up less space.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Talia Ergas used her experience as a beauty editor and avid traveler to research the best toiletries in every category. She also selected top-rated items from various product tests conducted by Travel + Leisure whenever possible, to ensure the highest quality selections.

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

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Minimus is the world leader in all things travel sized and individual sized. Over the course of the last 18+ years, we have worked hard to provide hundreds of thousands of satisfied customers with incredible and reliable service. Today, we carry more than 2,500 travel sized products and single serving items in stock, including more than 100 kits and gift sets. We are continually adding to our inventory, so be sure to check back often. Our new additions can easily be found by visiting our New Products aisle. We invite you to take a few moments to look around our shopping aisles which can be found via drop downs at the top of the page (and then it will also appear on the left), or via the Browse Categories icon on a mobile phone. If you are looking for specific trial size items or travel size toiletries, simply type it in to the search bar just above the category titles (one-word searches work best). And if you are ever searching for something that you don't find here, let us know at and we'll see what we can do to find it.

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24130 - Bulldog Moisturizer Skincare for Men - 1 oz.

30 Tuft Nylon Toothbrush

Ace Dressing Comb - 7.5 in.

Ace Pocket Comb - 5 in.

Act kids bubblegum mouthwash - 1 oz..

Adult Hairbrush (individually polybagged) - 7.5 in.

Adult Soft Bristle Hairbrush (individually polybagged) - 7.5 in.

All Pure Kids Toothbrush W/Suction Cup & Travel Cap

All Pure Mint Waxed Dental Floss - 164 ft.

Always Radiant Regular w/ Wings Scented Pads - Pack of 15

Always Thin Active Scented Liners - Pack of 20

Always Thin Liners - Pack of 20

Aquaphor Healing Ointment - 0.25 oz. Jar

Arm & Hammer Advance White Toothpaste - 0.9 oz.

Arm & Hammer Ultramax Fresh Scent Anti-perspirant - 1 oz.

Arm & Hammer Ultramax Powder Fresh Antiperspirant - 1 oz.

Assortment of chapstick classic lip balm - 0.15 oz. stick (orange cream burst).

Aussie 3 Minute Miracle Moist Conditioner - 1.7 oz.

Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Nighttime Balm - 1 oz.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizer Body Wash - 2 oz.

Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion - 2.5 oz.

Aveeno Positively Radiant Skin Brightening Scrub - 2 oz.

Aveeno Stress Relief Moisturizing Lotion - 2.5 oz.

Axe Body Spray Apollo 1 oz.

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Travel Size Products

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)

TOILETRIES , Toiletries

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Packing toiletries is like an art form. You want to pack the essentials, but you don’t want to overpack and weigh down your suitcase. Follow our ultimate guide to creating the perfect travel toiletries list and master the art of packing!

Table Of Contents

Toiletries are a serious struggle for many travelers. How do you take everything you need especially if you’re traveling carry on only?

Store-bought travel size toiletries are convenient but they’re not always the best option. 

This article will help you plan what toiletries you should bring on your trip by giving you a step-by-step walk through of a suggested planning process.

It will also provide you with travel size toiletries examples, a printable checklist, answers to the most common questions, and will also show you how to downsize your favorite beauty products.

Photo Credit: E-bags Shop: eBags | Walmart

What is a toiletry item?

When I started traveling, someone took me by surprise when they asked me, “What are toiletries?” Before we get started, I want to quickly clarify what they are.

The toiletries definition from Cambridge Dictionary is: “articles used in washing and taking care of one’s body, such as soap, shampoo, and toothpaste”.

To be as helpful and efficient as possible, we’re including a variety of items in our toiletries list including grooming items, beauty products, and other essentials.

The secret to traveling light is to create a functional but minimalist capsule wardrobe. Learn more in my guide !

What toiletries can I take on a plane?

One of the most important things to know before you start planning for your trip is what you are allowed to bring in your suitcase. The toiletries you can take on a plane depend on whether or not you are checking your luggage.

Image Source: US Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

For cabin or carryon toiletries: airlines require that liquid products be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and all bottles must fit in a clear quart size ziplock bag when traveling with a carry on. Products that need to be inside the quart size ziplock bag are liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. This is called the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule .

Clear Travel Toiletry Bag

For checked toiletries:  items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters (regardless of amount ) should be in checked baggage. Visit this TSA page to find out exactly what items are allowed in a checked bag. It’s actually an interesting read!

These guidelines are for US-based airlines. However, these tend to be the general guidelines across all airlines. For specific items, always check the website of the airline or contact them and ask them directly.

Shop Sea To Summit Toiletry Bag: Amazon |   Backcountry

What’s the best toiletry bag?

The two toiletry bags our readers love the most are the eBags Pack it Flat Toiletry Kit and the  Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag.

For more suggestions, read our article rounding up the ten best toiletry bags  and the best hanging toiletry bags .

Tip: Make sure that you keep the quart-size ziplock bag (storing your carryon toiletries) accessible when you get to the airport. Once you get through security, place them back into your toiletry bag.

How do you keep your liquids from leaking?

Here’s a tip I shared on Oprah to help you prevent liquids from leaking in luggage: remove the cap from the bottle, place a small square of plastic wrap over the opening, and replace the cap.

The reason your bottles leak or explode on a flight is due to changes in air pressure. As the plane goes up, the pressure causes the bottle to compress (as if you were squeezing it with your hand). The plastic wrap acts as a seal to prevent leaks.

YAMYONE Leakproof Travel Bottles

This is the reason why store bought travel size toiletries are never completely full. You need to allow a little bit of extra space so the liquids don’t get pushed out by the changes in pressure. (This is also the reason why your ears get plugged while flying.)

The solution: Don’t fill your bottles all the way to the top. Instead, only fill them by 2/3 or 75%.

How to Pack Toiletries for Travel

Follow the below step-by-step guide on how to pack toiletries to determine what you will and will not need to bring along with how to downsize items.

Step 1: Planning and Preparation

Step 2: eliminate, step 3: downsize, step 4: travel containers.

Start by laying out all the grooming and beauty products you use on a day to day basis. Which of these can you take on your trip and which will you need to leave behind? Choose anything and everything you think you may need.

Then, place each item into one of these categories:

• Not required
• Not applicable

Safehaven Products – 8 Piece Hygiene and Toiletry Set

There are certain things you might find non-negotiable such as your favorite brand shampoo or premium face moisturizer. You can save a lot of space and weight in your luggage by minimizing toiletries and eliminating certain items altogether.

Round Clear Jars

Would you be willing to use the shampoo and body moisturizer provided by your hotel for a few days? A few weeks? If not, don’t worry. There are tips in the next steps in the article that will provide a solution to this problem. (Hint: Reusable travel containers !)

If you’re unsure whether your accommodation provides complimentary travel size toiletries, check their website or better yet, send them an email. Want a faster response? Call them.

To help you determine the products you may or may not need, you’ll find a list of toiletries examples below:

Sample Travel Size Toiletries List:

(Click any item for product suggestions)

• Conditioner
• Body Wash/Soap/Oil
• Face Wash/Scrub
• Feminine Wash
• Shaving Cream
• Face Moisturizer
• Body Moisturizer
• Body Powder
• Leave in Conditioner
• Dry Shampoo
• Anti-heat Spray
• Styling Gel/Mousse
• Hair Smoothing Cream
• Hand Moisturizer
• Hand Sanitizer
• Nail Polish
• Nail Polish Remover
• Hair Removal Cream
• Makeup Remover
• Styling Brush/Styling Comb
• Flat Iron/Straightener
• Curling Iron

Are there any additional beauty products you use such as other shower essentials ? If so, add them to your initial list.

Printable Toiletries Checklist

• You can write in an item’s weight (lighter items mean less overall baggage weight)
• You can note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• And most importantly, you can organize where you’ll pack each item including suggested packing organizers like these

Read this post for a  printable packing list  that includes clothes, shoes, and more!

Now that you’ve gone through the entire list of every possible beauty product you own, create two piles: one for items you don’t need to take and one for items you absolutely do.

AmoVee 2 in 1 Flat Iron – Dual Voltage

For example:

• Do you need five hair styling products or can you choose just one? Use something like  this  2-in-1 curling/flat iron duo
• Instead of razors and hair removal creams, how about a wax before your trip? I like no-heat strips like these
• Can you leave behind your nail polish and get a gel manicure instead? Read this post on making your vacation nails last
• Do you need several items to comb or brush your hair or can you use just one like this  foldable wet brush with a mirror?

Is it possible to temporarily hold off on using any products? If so, do it!

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP:   Find out if your accommodation offers products such as shampoo, shower gel, hair dryer, etc. Some hotels even have additional complimentary items at reception such as razors, toothpaste, and other small essentials. Just ask!

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps

One of the best ways to minimize toiletries is to choose multi-use products or items.  Determine if there are any products you already own that can work double-duty. Choose between two products that serve the same purpose.

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps  and  Sea To Summit Wilderness Wash  are two of the most popular travel all-in-one travel products.

Other items to consider:

• Is it possible to pack 4-in-1 facial cloths like these instead of taking face wash, scrub, and  makeup wipes?
• Can you use a 2-in-1 shampoo plus conditioner like these ?
• Would you consider a tinted moisturizer or BB cream? This one’s my fave.
• Can you use your straightener as a curling iron? Better yet, choose a 2-in-1 curling/flat iron duo like this
• Have you ever seen double ended makeup brushes? Save space with these

There are various multi-use products on the market, or you can use a few long-term travel hacks like I do, such as:

• Baby powder as dry shampoo
• Shampoo as shower gel (only for short periods of time)
• Conditioner as shaving cream
• Face scrub as body scrub
• Body moisturizer to smooth hair flyaways

Nars Multiple | Eco Tools Brush Set

You’d be surprised at how many products can be used for multiple needs. Things like coconut oil  or other natural oils can be used as a body moisturizer, shave gel, and split end treatment! Tip: The best coconut oil is cold-pressed, unrefined, and good enough to eat.

There are also various multi-use makeup products  such as my all-time fave:  Nars The Multiple !

Read these tips on how to minimize toiletry products for even more tips!

Have you ever paid attention to how much shampoo you use? I only wash my hair every other day, so a 3 oz. travel size can last me a week!

How long is your trip? Make note of how much product you use for the duration of that time. Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need.

Essentials such as shampoo, toothpaste, and moisturizers are particularly important. Don’t forget to test out bath, skincare, and makeup products. Make note so you can refer back when you’re ready to make the final plan.

Tip: avoid taking liquids in your carryon by replacing them with solid toiletries and travel wipes !

Editor’s Favorite Reusable Makeup Remover: Kiki & Josie

Once you have a better idea of what you actually need then consider other ways to downsize such as:

• Instead of taking nail polish remover, can you take a few individual wipes like these instead?
• Do you need an entire bottle of foundation or can you use a small container like this to take only what you will use?
• Mini-nail polish bottles like these are a good choice, if you can’t stand chipped nails.
• Read these travel makeup hacks for more ideas!

Skincare tends to be more personalized, but try not to bring more than three skincare items: a cleanser, treatment (for acne or wrinkles), and moisturizer. If you use a skincare system different from this one, try to cut it down to three products.

To downsize your makeup routine, read The Beauty Junkie’s Guide to Packing a Minimalist Makeup Kit and How to Create a Capsule Makeup Collection !

Empty Lip Gloss Balm Container

Choose appropriate travel containers. Many times, 3 oz bottles are too big for a one or two-week trip, so buy various sizes and take only the amount you will use.

Instead of immediately buying “travel-size” containers in 3oz or 100ml bottles, get a range of sizes including 1oz , 2oz , and smaller jars like these , too.

Tip: Replace glass containers with plastic to minimize weight and avoid breakage.

Read this post on the best travel containers  for more info!

Do a test run to see if everything fits in your toiletry bag. If your belongings don’t fit, consider using multi-use products such as a shampoo/conditioner combo, using conditioner as shaving cream, or baby shampoo for your hair and body.

Travel Toiletries Comparison Chart

Watch this video for more tips on how to fit all your toiletries into a carryon:

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: For long-term trips, don’t pack full-size toiletries. Purchase travel-size products as you go. Some local drug store brands are common around the world. Here are more toiletry tips for long trips!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

Learn more about Stop Overpacking here !

What items are a must have on your toiletries list? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on travel toiletries, please read:

• 10 Best Travel Toiletry Bags
• The Ultimate Guide to Hair While Traveling
• Ways to Fit All Your Toiletries into Your Carry-on
• The Simple Guide to Essential Travel Beauty Products

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I hope you liked this post on the ultimate guide to travel toiletries. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

69 Comments

Probably the biggest impact on my packing has been the tips to reduce and decant toiletries. I have followed this website and FB page for several years and the first thing I realized was that my toiletry footprint in my suitcase can be much smaller. This, in turn, makes for more room in small bathrooms (I typically cruise). Thanks for all your great info!!!

This is a great post, very helpful for thos of us that think we need to bring it all with us. Thank you for helping us travel lighter!

Sort of in the toiletries category, if traveling to South East Asia, I highly recommend getting a small pack of toilet seat covers and travel toilet paper (or carry tissues). No guarantee that there will be any available in locations other than your hotels. Otherwise, there is a hose with a spray handle for you to use, and that’s it. :0

I struggle with packing toiletries and overpacking things. I really appreciate this step by step guide that holds my hand and walks me through every step of packing so I don’t get overwhelmed, confused, or frustrated trying to figure everything out.

This is the most helpful travel blog, as I have always struggled with my liquids leaking when I fly. Thx for posting your excellent resources!

I love the compass rose packing cubes and look forward to taking them to Paris and Amsterdam the end of October.

This article has been a lifesaver as my toiletry bag is out of control! I learned many new ways of pairing it down and found some great containers to make that happen. The tips will also help my clear liquids bag be more manageable! Thank you for the great ideas.

I love all of these suggestions! I now have the flat-it pack it from eBags and also the lip balm containers which are genius! Thank you!

Lots of good tips, but beware of local restrictions when traveling; e.g., many African countries are very restrictive about plastics. Plastic bags are bad for the animals… If the plastic bag could be a 1-use bag, it might be prohibited even though you plan to use it multiple times during your trip. Some countries prohibit the shopping bags from the duty-free shops. There could be fines and imprisonment. Just a reminder to check restrictions in your designation country.

Very good point, thanks for sharing Dot!

I find it very informative to see what everyone says about downsizing toiletries. Thanks for sharing a great post. And the comments!

So glad you found this guide helpful!

Minimizing my toiletries and my toiletry case is the challenge I must overcome. I just came back from a 16 day trip to Austria. Individual zipper pouches not only create more bulk but also more weight. Reading your well written articles will assist me in this challenge.

I used those round clear jars on my last trip, but I couldn’t really get a grip on the lid and base to separate the two 🙁 I’m going back to using old empty jars of product and decanting into them instead.

I just want to thank Travel Fashion Girl and everyone that is part of this community for the inspiration and know-how for successful travel when abroad and also when dreaming from home. Taming toiletries remains a challenge! Using multi-purpose (lips, cheeks, eyes) make-up helps minimize make up, and sample sizes (like tiny mascara) are helpful, as is repotting items into much smaller containers versus buying travel sizes. Thanks for all the tips!

Great tips. Toiletries are the most challenging for me.

Great info – toiletries are always a challenge for me!

I loce the tips and be learned from following TFG and pass it a long to friends often! Thanks for the tips

Unbelievably thorough! Thank you for these hugely helpful tips and examples. I’m so excited!

This is the most thorough and well-written toiletries packing article out there! Thank you 🙂

Suggestions for toner bottle? Everything pours out too fast!

Packing now for my first trip carry on only … and I am finding toiletries are the most challenging part! Thank you for all the info, tips, and tricks!

The empty lip gloss containers … life changing! Thank you!

Another great lesson from Alex at TFG! I have more toiletries and medicines than clothes to take on my 15 day trip to the UK. I leave Thursday and am still refining my packing. These toilette tips are sooo helpful! In fact, all of Alex’s blogs are so helpful! I’m so glad I found this group!!

We first started traveling internationally in 2013 and were determined to do carry-on only. I thought it was impossible until I discovered TFG. Toiletries were the most difficult for me to figure out. 9 years later I still use all the tips I’ve learned from here.

Thanks to your tips I was able to downsize my toiletries and pack in a carry on only for my recent 11 day trip to Europe. Never did I ever think I could make this happen!

I got so much helpful information! I never thought of downsizing from Travel size for my liquids. This has been a game changer for me when packing my toiletries! Thanks!

Such great information! Can’t get enough of TravelFashionGirl!

My first trip traveling with only a carry on suitcase was an epiphany! Easier to pack and unpack. I wear all the pieces during the trip and there is less stuff to deal with while traveling.

Great blog – so many tips (with links) to help pair down toiletries especially for carry-on only – especially buying different sizes to decanter products! Using these tips for trip next week – thanks!

These tips are great! Honestly, in past trips, I have done fine packing with limited clothes but my toiletries have taken up half my suitcase! Looking forward to using these tips to scale back and miniturize.

So many great tips for toiletries. I learned alot and will be applying these ideas on my next trip. Thanks for the great info.

Thanks for this great post. Details very helpful! And practical!

Great information. Used these tips on recent flight to Maine. Worked great!

These tips saved me on my recent trip to Italy! Thanks for all of the great advice.

A packing list! I will totally use this and hope to whittle down further. Thank you for another great resource!

I’m so scared to travel with a checked bag theses days and my toiletries are the thing that I was most concerned about fitting into a carry on. I love all the downsizing tips and can’t wait to use them for my next trip in October! Thanks Alex.

I like shopping the travel size section in my drug store and at Target. I find lots of different size containers there. I sometimes buy items just for the containers and then fill them with my products.

This post helped me so much when I was packing for my trip to France in April 2022. I think I was fairly successful in packing only the toiletries that I needed and was planning to check my bag, anyway. I also watched the video again when packing for a shorter trip to NY and was able to take even less toiletries on that trip! Thanks for all of your tips and tricks on safety too in the Paris 2022 Packing Guide!

It’s amazing how little I actually need when I travel—I use lots of products but a tiny amount goes a long way and helps so much with both volume and weight. I decant into a combination of the tiny “lip gloss” tubes and have the tiny deodorant sticks as well for solids (perfect for using up the end of a large stick that wouldn’t have come out anyway). Feels good to not purchase more throwaway plastic for travel sizes since I just refill when I get home and then I’m ready for the next trip! Also I highly recommend lotion bars.

Oh my goodness! This has helped me so much. Packing my liquids was my number one worry about consolidating to a carry on.

What a helpful post! I’m just going to be traveling stateside, but this gave me some great ideas as our space is limited. Thanks TFG!

I have learned so many great ideas for decanting makeup etc. I now have lip gloss tubes, contact lens cases and travel size. It makes traveling so much easier – thank you!

We all have such different needs and non-negotiables, but this article really takes us through the steps to figure out what works for us. Using these tips (and with some trial runs) I’ve been able to get down to a small Sea To Summit toiletry bag. Still refining with each trip….

Downsizing my toiletries is my biggest challenge! Thank you for these great tips.

Wow this information is so helpful. I will use many of these tips.

thank you for these tipps. I always feel very accomplished after I pack my clothes but than comes everything else, like toiletries and electronics and my backpack is bursting.

Your suggestions and tips have been so helpful when preparing for an adventure. Thank you!

Every article you write is helpful, but packing toiletries is my biggest struggle. So thank you for this one!

Using contact lens cases were a game changer on my recent Safari. We were limited to a soft -sided duffle and we wanted to carry on due to Heathrow so this was the way to go. It is amazing how much product fits in each case and how much product you actually use on a trip. I then used the cases on our recent road trip to Arizona. Never had a single spill either trip.

This is my all-time favorite post. Life -changing, making carry-on travel the only way to go now. Huge eye-opener!!!

This post is incredible. So much useful information! Thank you!

I have sliced up solid shampoo and conditioner bars into smaller pieces, to make ones the right size for a weeklong trip.

Thanks for the list!

There is now available shampoo, conditioner, bodywash, soap, laundry detergent in sheet form, and mouthwash and toothpaste as tablets, lotions in bar form,

Hi Vicki, thank you for sharing your great toiletries tip with us! ?

We love solid toiletries and have a range of options here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/solid-toiletries-for-travel/

One trick I found on the web that works great is to use contact lens cases. You can put a few days/week supply in them, mark them with a black sharpie, and put in your toiletry bag.

Hi Rick, thank you for sharing your great travel hack for packing your toiletries with us! Happy travels! ?

Someone on your blog had mentioned she uses plastic paint cups from Michaels to put her make up in. What a great idea! I just purchased (16) 1/6 oz cups for $2 ( with 50% off coupon) and put my eye cream, under eye concealer, blush…. in them. They are awesome! And they are airtight, so the product won’t dry out! Thank you, whoever you are!

Wow, that is amazing Barbara, so happy to hear it worked so well with packing your toiletries!! Thank you for sharing! Happy Travels!

I wear contacts and somehow have loads of extra contact cases. I use them for putting my face moisturizer, BB cream, salve (in case of cuts or infections) in for trips up to a week. I just use a sharpie to mark something on the outside of the case so I know what is inside.

Hi Jessica, thank you for sharing your great travel tip! 🙂

Love your tips! They have helped me to be a more confident traveler!

I do the same because I know how much I need for products compared to others.

Two products worth the money (and I’m a cheapo). Blinc mascara. Order online. It is water-proof and rub-proof. To remove, rub with fingers and warm water. No remover required.

ColoreScience sunblock, SP 50. It’s a powder, with the brush built in. No need to pack powder. And who re-applies gloppy lotion every 2 hours? My dermatologist says the best sunblock is the one you use.

Hi Kay, thank you so much for sharing your travel toiletries! 🙂

🙂 sounds great! Thanks.

I have found that some doctors offices have small and very small bottles that you can get for free, if you ask nicely. One example is eye doctors, who have these bottles for sample eyedrops. I’ve gotten 6 in this way….for free. And they are the perfect size for travel!

Hi Connie, thank you so much for sharing your great travel tip for toiletries! 🙂

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The 25 Best Travel-Size Beauty Products on Amazon to Pack for Your Next Getaway

TSA-friendly favorites that fit nicely in your carry-on

It may seem easy enough to throw your most-used items into a toiletry bag and call it a day, but TSA requires anyone traveling by plane to ensure liquids, gels, and aerosols are no more than 3.4 ounces each in your carry-on. (That list encompasses cleansers, facial mists, shampoos, foundations, and more.) And in addition to pint-size liquids, packing a bevy of mini beauty tools for your on-the-go routine makes it easy to stay glam while you’re away from home.

Shop the Best Travel-Size Beauty on Amazon

The Wizard Detangling Primer

Clarifying Cleanser

Whitening Mint Toothpaste

Go Curl Travel Eyelash Curler

The Honest Company

Babe’s mini must-haves gift set.

Superfine Hair Spray

Anastasia Beverly Hills

Dipbrow gel mini.

Malin + Goetz

Travel mini eucalyptus deodorant.

Luna Mini 3 Silicone Facial Cleansing Brush

Hydrabio H₂O Micellar Water

If you’ve waited until the last minute to figure out your vacation-beauty rotation, we can’t think of a more convenient way to get it done than by shopping your product list on Amazon. In the retailer’s Premium Beauty section, we’ve found a treasure trove of best-selling picks from coveted brands like Oribe , Anastasia Beverly Hills , Sol de Janeiro , and many more that won’t give you any issues during security screening—and will arrive in no time.

Here, we’ve handpicked some of the best travel-size beauty products on Amazon to help you secure all of your getaway staples in one fell swoop.

Related: The Best Toiletry Bags for Ultimate Beauty Organization

No need to worry about tangles while on the go: Over 1,900 Amazon shoppers are raving about Amika’s smoothing and detangling spray, which also comes in handy to protect hair against damage from hot tools and UV rays.

If you have acne-prone or combination skin, consider this clarifying cleanser from Murad a travel-beauty staple. It uses salicylic acid as a main ingredient to remove dirt and oil, preventing new breakouts while you’re in vacation mode.

Here’s a bite-size whitening toothpaste that more than 4,000 Amazon shoppers consider one of the best travel-beauty products. One reviewer writes that the toothpaste “is pricey but it’s worth it. Not only does it actually give visible results after just a few uses, but it’s the freshest tasting mint toothpaste I’ve ever tried.”

This sleek, artist-level eyelash curler from Japonesque has an open cage that won’t pinch your eyelids, and includes extra pad refills just in case you need them.

Whether you’re a new parent or just have sensitive skin, this lavender-scented skincare set from the Honest Company is a must-have when traveling. It’s not only hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested, but also includes multiuse products like a shampoo and body wash, along with a face and body lotion to help you save space in your carry-on.

Keep flyaways in check with this flexible, medium-hold hair spray from Oribe , which nicely features the brand’s signature Côte d'Azur scent.

Just a few swipes of this popular eyebrow gel hold your hairs in place for up to 12 hours per wear. And since it’s also waterproof, you can seamlessly maintain sculpted brows after a dip at the beach or pool.

If you transitioned to aluminum-free deodorant from antiperspirant during the pandemic, consider adding this best-selling eucalyptus-and-bergamot pick to your shopping cart. As an added bonus, its cooling formula is perfect for warmer weather.

Just because you’re traveling, that doesn’t mean you have to leave all your skincare gadgets at home. Since Foreo’s coveted Luna device comes in a mini version, you can quickly sync it up in your hotel room for an instant facial.

Beauty lovers understand how painful it can be to wipe off an expert-level makeup look, but we have to do it anyway. Help the process move even faster by reaching for Bioderma’s gentle micellar water remover, which is especially safe for sensitive skin.

Fruit Babies Bestsellers Kit

Fans of Glow Recipe’s K-beauty -inspired skin essentials should snap up this bestsellers kit from the brand. You’ll discover travel-size favorites of their Watermelon Glow PHA+BHA Pore-Tight Toner, Avocado Ceramide Moisture Barrier Cleanser, and more.

Nano Titanium Mini Straightening Iron

If you love wearing a good blowout no matter the season, here’s a pint-size flat iron to keep it as fresh as possible. This handy tool heats up to 430 degrees Fahrenheit for a sleek finish, and uses titanium plates to leave hair silky smooth.

Dry Shampoo With Oat Milk

Over 7,000 Amazon customers agree: To help manage excess oil and boost volume during your trip, Klorane’s best-selling dry shampoo is worth the buy. It uses oat milk as a primary ingredient to remove dirt and oil from the scalp, and saves your style for a few days longer.

Beauty Elixir Face Mist

Traveling by plane is notoriously drying for the skin. For a quick pick-me-up, consider this highly popular face mist from Caudalie, which helps tone skin while boosting its overall radiance.

Super Soothe Moisturizing Lotion

A dime-size amount of Tula’s probiotic moisturizer keeps any skin type—including sensitive—feeling smoother and more radiant. It contains key ingredients like aloe, cucumber, squalane, and colloidal oatmeal to soothe irritation while boosting moisture.

Stay All Day Liquid Matte Lipstick

You won’t have to worry about your lipstick smudging under a face mask with this liquid matte version from Stila that’s made to stay put for up to 12 hours.

V-Cense Revitalizing Night Cream

No need to worry about your nightly routine while on vacation: This mini version of Ren Clean Skincare’s vitamin C–powered moisturizer works to brighten and hydrate skin as you snooze.

Lil’ Lemon Drop Mini Travel Detangling Hairbrush

This adorable hairbrush from the experts at Drybar has flexible bristles that won’t get stuck in your tangles, and works seamlessly on both wet and dry hair.

Underarm Deodorant Wipes (30-Count)

If you’re strapping in for a long travel day, consider these biodegradable underarm deodorant wipes from Pacifica. They use a blend of coconut milk and essential oils to combat odor, and are easily thrown away once you’re done freshening up.

The Face Mini Illuminating Self-Tan Drops

To take your no-makeup makeup look to the next level in minutes, these easy facial tanning drops mix right in with your go-to moisturizer for a customizable skin tint.

Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.

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