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The Complete Travel Toiletries List – Pack Right Every Time!

Looking for a travel toiletries list to help you organise your packing? If you’re traveling soon, I’ve put together a helpful list of toiletries that work for any trip. As someone who travels very frequently, I’ve narrowed down exactly which toiletries for travel are actually essential. I also know of a few toiletry items that you might not have heard of before or thought you needed. This is the only toiletries packing list you’ll ever need!  I’ve put together a printable toiletries list for travel that you can download as a PDF and print off at home to make packing easy every time.

Travel Toiletries List

I’m also going to share a few tips for packing toiletries , how to lighten your load and share some of the  best travel toiletries I’ve come across over my years of packing toiletries for flying, cruising, road tripping or backpacking. You’ll know exactly what toiletries to pack for a trip by the end of this post!

What You'll Find in This Post

The Complete Travel Toiletries List

Essential toiletries.

These are your travel toiletry essentials. Most of this stuff will feature on everyone’s toiletry bag checklist. If there are any things on this list of toiletries items that you don’t use at home then they’re probably not essential travel toiletries for you. A few of these items are personal preference only like hand cream or cotton buds. For guys, this is basically you whole toiletries list for men.

  • Shampoo – Packed in  GoToob Travel Bottles if you’re traveling less than 2 weeks or traveling carry on only.
  • Conditioner  – Packed as above
  • Hair brush / comb
  • Soap / body wash
  • Toothpaste – Get a travel sized toothpaste if you’re traveling with carry on only
  • Toothbrush – Folding toothbrushes like this are great for travel
  • Dental floss – Pick a small travel size one
  • Deodorant – Make sure it’s under 3oz if you’re traveling carry on only
  • Facial wipes / cleanser – Wipes are easy and less messy than a liquid cleanser
  • Facial moisturiser – I use Rosehip oil as it’s small, easy to pack and lasts a long time but whatever you use at home is right for you
  • Body moisturiser – You can leave this out if you’re staying in hotels but bring it if you’re using Airbnb, cruising or prefer a specific brand
  • Hand cream – Great for the flight!
  • Lip balm – Great for the flight, sun or skiing
  • Coconut oil – One of my top essential toiletries for traveling! Packing in a  GoToob , it is so useful for travel as a moisturiser, after sun, shaving gel, hair treatment, make up remover etc. If you plan on using this, you can omit other items on this list as necessary.
  • Razor – I use this small women’s travel razor
  • Shaving gel / oil – Shaving oil is more space efficient and is a an essential for a men’s toiletries list
  • Small mirror – I use this small magnifying mirror which has suction cups so you can use it on a hotel room window or mirror
  • Nail clippers
  • Cotton buds / cotton pads

Nice to Have / Trip Specific Toiletries for Vacation

These items are either things that are just nice to have or depend on the type of trip you’re taking. Here are some of the extra toiletries to take on vacation:

  • Sunscreen – This sunscreen smells amazing!
  • Insect repellent spray
  • After sun lotion / aloe vera – For sunburn or  moisturising your skin after sun exposure, toiletry bag essentials if you’re at the beach!
  • Anti-chafe balm / powder – Get this anti-chafe balm if you’re traveling somewhere humid, doing a lot of activity or walking a lot.
  • Foot powder – Pick up a travel size foot powder if you’re doing lots of hiking or walking around cities, you can also use anti-chafe balm for this.
  • Tiger balm / Deep heat – If you’re on an active vacation like a ski trip this is great to have.
  • Hand santizer
  • Menstrual cup / Tampons / Sanitary pads – An essential part of any female toiletries list depending on what time of the month you’re traveling!
  • Personal lubricant
  • After shave / beard oil
  • Contact lenses and solution
  • Essential oils  – If you need them, pack them in these small travel bottles for essential oils

Hair & Beauty Toiletries for Women

A lot of these are women’s toiletries. Mens travel toiletries are a little more simple so guys can skip this section almost entirely. Most of these are toiletries to pack for vacation, when you’re going on a cruise, to a nice resort or on a weekend city break. If you’re backpacking toiletries like this probably aren’t necessary.

  • Hair ties  – Wrap your hair ties around the handle of your hairbrush and then slot your bobby pins in over the top!
  • Travel Flat iron – If you have hard to control hair, consider bringing a flat iron. Here’s my list of the best travel flat irons.
  • Travel hair dryer – Most hotels have a hair dryer in the room but bring your own if you’re staying in an Airbnb or at a friend’s house. Here’s my list of the best travel hair dryers on the market.
  • Dry shampoo – Get a travel size dry shampoo spray
  • Hair styling products – Travel size versions of hairspray and styling gel  are easy to find or put your gel into a GoTubb
  • Shower cap – If you’re staying in a hotel, it’s not necessary but if you’re in an Airbnb or staying at a friend’s then it’s useful
  • Make up brushes
  • Make up remover
  • Eye cream – You can scoop some into a little pot like this for travel
  • Solid perfume – These are great for travel! The Pacifica brand has some lovely Hawaiian scents in their range.

First Aid Kit

A small first aid kit is a very useful addition to your travel toiletries list. I pack mine into a Ziploc sandwich bag and just tuck it away until I need any of the items. You don’t need to bring the whole box of Bandaids or rehydration sachets, just a few of each item is enough.

  • Bite / sting cream
  • Immodium – Anti-diaharreal tablets for any emergency situations!
  • Pain relief  – Ibuprofen, panadol or asprin
  • Antacids – These are so useful if you’re going somewhere that has spicy food!
  • Rehydration salts – In case of any Delhi belly, important for kids.
  • Vitamin C sachets
  • Throat lozenges
  • Digital thermometer – This should definitely be on your toiletries travel bag list for any families traveling with small kids.

The 10 Best Travel Toiletries Items

Add these to your toiletries shopping list! After many years, I’ve worked out these are some of the best toiletries for travel . Pack your favorite items, of course, but give these items a try when putting together your toiletry kit list.

Folding toothbrush

One of my latest travel toiletries essentials is a folding toothbrush. Not only do they take up less space and fit into a Ziploc bag but they also protect your toothbrush bristles from germy surfaces or cross-contamination.

One of my favorite travel kit toiletries for packing light! These squeezey silicone tubes are perfect for shampoo, conditioner, coconut oil, body wash or any liquid you want to turn into travel mini toiletries. It’s easy to squeeze the liquid out and they don’t leak at all. They come in 2oz or 3oz sizes so are ideal for traveling carry on only.

must have toiletries for travel

The tub version of GoToobs, a GoTubb lets you put an thicker creams or gels into smaller containers for travel. Very useful for things like eye cream or hair gel. You can also use them for pills, vitamins or even snacks.

must have toiletries for travel

Coconut oil

One of the most useful toiletries to take travelling! You can use coconut for so many different purposes. It’s one of the toiletries travel bloggers most often recommend. It does just about anything! I use mine in lieu of eye make-up remover, body moisturiser, shaving gel, massage oil, hair oil and after sun cream.

must have toiletries for travel

Solid perfume

I love having a little pot of solid perfume to travel with because it’s such a nice pick me up when you’re feeling travel tired, smelly or just want to juzz yourself up for a night out. This Pacifica one comes in lots of great travel themed scents also!

must have toiletries for travel

Ziploc bags

Ziploc bags are so useful for packing toiletries for plane trips as they make it easy to pull your liquids out for security checks. If I’m traveling carry on only then my toiletries for air travel go into a Ziploc bag. You can also use Ziploc bags to tip vitamins into and leave your bulky bottles at home. Just write the contents and dosage on the outside of the bag.

must have toiletries for travel

Magnifying mirror

A small magnifying mirror like this one is so useful for travel because it has suction cups so you can stick it to a hotel window or mirror when you’re doing your eye make up or using your tweezers.

Small brush

A decent travel size hair brush saves a lot of space in your travel toiletry bag.

must have toiletries for travel

Menstrual cup

For all the ladies, if you haven’t tried out a menstrual cup then you should definitely give it a go as it’s so useful for travel. A menstrual cup is a reusable tampon alternative that gives you 12 hours of protection and can simply be rinsed and reused. This collapsible one saves a lot of space and comes in a neat little travel container.

must have toiletries for travel

Another one for the ladies, BB cream is for your travel make up kit! It gives light coverage which is great for wearing make up in hot climates and also contains a sunscreen. I love this Tarte BB cream because it is very light and dries to almost a soft powder. Plus it comes in a 1oz travel size so is perfect for traveling light.

Tips for Packing Toiletries

Using my travel tips packing toiletries is easy! Here are a few of my best tips for traveling with toiletries and avoiding spillage or overpacking.

  • Packing toiletries for flight – I always pack my flight toiletries in Ziploc bags in case of spillage as the air pressure of the plane can cause bottles to squeeze in and push the contents out, even if the lid is screwed shut! To avoid messy situations pack anything that might leak into a Ziploc bag and then put it inside your toiletry bag. You’ll notice that my toiletries list for air travel includes packing shampoo and conditioner into GoToobs. This is because these won’t leak. Still, be careful with any liquids.
  • Packing toiletries for international travel – Unless you’re going somewhere very remote or off the beaten path, you will be able to buy most essential toiletries for travel when you’re abroad. You might not be able to get certain brands you love so if you’re picky, bring them with you.
  • Packing toiletries for carry on luggage – When packing toiletries for air travel you need to adhere to the guidelines of items under 3oz or 100ml. It’s easy to purchase travel-size versions of most ladies toiletries and mens toiletries. Or you can decant your larger shampoo/conditioner bottles into GoToobs. Another alternative is to use a solid shampoo bar although I personally don’t like these and many of them require you to rinse your hair with vinegar afterwards anyway.
  • Pick the right toiletry bag – When picking a toiletry bag, look for one that has good waterproof/spill-proof fabric in case of any leakages. A hook for hanging is also really useful so you can hang up your toiletries when there isn’t a lot of counter space. I really like this eBags flat toiletry kit because all the items lay flat in one layer so it’s very easy to find what you’re looking for in your bag. Here’s my full review of the eBags Pack It Flat Toiletry Kit.

Printable Travel Toiletries Checklist

You download my complete toiletry items list here and print it out to pack for your trip. Now you can get organised and get all your toiletries to bring on vacation together. packing list toiletries

>>>>>Click here to download the printable PDF toiletries list for vacation here <<<<<

Any questions or comments on what toiletries to pack for vacation?

I hope you’ve found my list of toiletries for travel useful. As it’s written from my perspective it’s obviously more a women’s toiletries packing list, but guys can definitely adapt it to a list of travel toiletries for men by cutting off the hair and beauty items and all the fancy creams. For families, these travel essentials toiletries are all the same so you’ll just need to add in your kids’ toothbrushes and make sure you have child suitable pain relief and a digital thermometer.

Here’s a quick summary: When you travel pack toiletries that you use at home, go for mini versions or put them in GoToobs, bring any trip specific items as needed and then use the best way to pack toiletries for air travel by putting them in Ziploc bags or a great toiletry kit bag.

What’s on your toiletry bag list? Do you have any trips on what toiletries to take on holiday? I’d love to hear from you if you have any great products or ways of packing them.

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Travel Fashion Girl

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)

Toiletries , TOILETRIES

must have toiletries for travel

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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 !

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

must have toiletries for travel

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 .

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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

Click here to download

  • 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!

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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.

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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!

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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 !

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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 !

the-ultimate-guide-to-travel-toiletries

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!

must have toiletries for travel

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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must have toiletries for travel

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69 Comments

Peggy Weatherington

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!!!

Vera Kozlowski

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!

Charlotte Hicks

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

Tabitha DePaolo

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.

Laurie Brown

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!

meghan brunnock

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

Melissa J.

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.

Molly Hillman

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!

Dot

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.

Alex

Very good point, thanks for sharing Dot!

NutmegsMom

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!

Rebecca

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.

Allison

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.

Zoey Blue

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!

Kelly Settle

Great tips. Toiletries are the most challenging for me.

Kimberly G. Carter

Great info – toiletries are always a challenge for me!

Sallie McFarlane

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

Jennie Woods

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

Kim Wallace

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

Cheryl

Suggestions for toner bottle? Everything pours out too fast!

Cheri

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!

Karen Rothwell

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

Christine Campbell

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!!

Charlotte

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.

Molly Zimmerman

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!

Nikki Hollier

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!

Nancy Roach

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

Laura cyr

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.

Terri

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!

LeeAnn

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.

Tracy Orr Smith

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

Denise Beisel

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

Jimmie Sue Collett

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

Krista

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

Laurie C

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

Nancy Willmore

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.

Sheila

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.

Leanne

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!

Nadja Jackson

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.

Lisa Bamburg

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

Heather

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!

valerie mudrow

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!

Christine

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….

Sandra

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

Diane

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

Simone

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.

Sandra

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

Anne

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

Robin Polito

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.

Fern Rabil

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

Tracy Trencher Morra

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

Karen

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

Katrina Gillett

Thanks for the list!

Vicki L Patterson

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/

Rick

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! ?

Barbara

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!

Jessica

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! 🙂

Elena Garcia

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

Gabriella

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

Kay Lewis

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! 🙂

Sierra

🙂 sounds great! Thanks.

Connie

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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must have toiletries for travel

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Home » Gear » toiletries

THE ULTIMATE Toiletries Packing List: Hygiene Travel Essentials

Toiletry packing lists are a real pain in the patootie. Figuring out all your toiletry essentials and then compacting that down to a travel-ready state is nothing short of a gargantuan task!

Not too long ago, I was a young professional preparing for my very first backpacking trip. I scoured the internet in search of advice from nomads and wise travelers. And all the toiletry packing lists I found… well… they just didn’t cover my needs.

You can, of course, pick up some travel toiletries on the road, however, that’s really not the best call. The prices stack up quick and constantly going shopping for something you already have at home is really just a nuisance.

Plus… they might just not have your favorite brand!

So, I got to writing my own list of travel toiletry essentials. While this list is going to vary depending on your gender, hygiene maintenance, preference, and more, I’ve listed the most important travel-size items to add to your toiletries packing list.

At the end of the day, there is no magic one-size-fits-all list for the best toiletries for travel, but traveling with the essentials is key. As a woman, I’ll be including many woman-specific toiletries, but I’m also not ignorant to the needs of men since I live with one. So I’ve got you boys covered too. 😉

So let’s hop to it!. This is the ULTIMATE list of toiletry packing for travel for  both  genders and keeping Mama Nature in mind.

Woman washing with her packed toiletries

What are toiletries? (For the purpose of this packing list.)

Travel-size toiletries packing list – the essentials, other nice-to-have toiletries, women specific toiletries packing list, tips for packing less & better, faq about the best travel toiletries, final thoughts on my travel toiletries packing list.

Let’s call them ‘hygiene products’. Toiletries are anything used to maintain your hygiene: soap, toothpaste, hairbrush, nasal douche… (For the record, nasal douche is NOT on this toiletry packing list, but I just really wanted to say ‘nasal douche’.)

Generally, as a rule of thumb, if they make you cleaner or prettier than it’s a toiletry. The difference here is that this is a toiletry list primarily for backpackers . That means two things:

  • They need to be travel-size appropriate i.e. not too heavy, compact, and good for airport security.
  • Ideally, they need to be eco-friendly. Now, I know that doesn’t matter to everyone but it’s something we take seriously and we try to impart on the glorious globetrotting masses. Take care of Mother Nature: you only get one mom.

I feel that sums it up best. That’s the general view of what is considered toiletries and what items you’ll find on this packing list. Ready then? Let’s get clean!

Toiletries can be heavy and take up a ton of space, and it’s important to try to eliminate anything you won’t be using daily from your packing list . Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable, lightweight alternative toiletries designed for travel.

You should also be aware of how to pack for flying when it comes to liquids and powders, especially for carry-on luggage.

Below, I have listed the essential toiletries everyone should bring on their trip. Don’t forget these when you’re crafting your own personal toiletries packing list!

must have toiletries for travel

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Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0

Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 - the best toiletry bag money can buy

The above hanging toiletry bag is a good all-rounder; it’s not too expensive and does the job nicely. However, for those who do mess around with their toiletry packing, there can be only one toiletry bag: the Nomatic Toiletry Bag (2.0).

It’s a toletry bag so serious it got a second edition.

It still hangs from walls, but it also comes in two sizes, is made of incredibly durable and water-resistant material, and the interior pocket setups is supreme (top-notch organization is Nomatic’s homeboy). It even has a dedicated toothbrush pocket to keep your toothbrush separate. I’m so in love with this feature!

If you’re travelling with a Nomatic Travel Bag , the thing slots in like a dream. Really, the only caveat to this toiletry bag is the premium pricing, however, you get what you pay for. And in this case, that’s the best of the BEST! It’s size also make it ideal for packing light and one bag travel .

Travel-Size Silicone Bottles

Silicone travel-size bottles for toiletries

I suggest carrying your travel toiletries in your carry-on luggage for a couple of reasons. One, you may want to freshen up mid-flight or after you land. Two, exploding shampoo bottles tend to be a regular occurrence in check-in luggage.

For this reason, you’re going to want to invest in a few reusable travel-sized bottles. Buying one-time use travel-sized toiletries is a low-key waste of money and a waste of plastic .

Soap – Dr. Bronner’s

Dr Bronner's Soap - an eco-friendly toiletry essential

I never travel without Dr. Bronner’s. If I am checking in my luggage I make sure to bring a good-sized bottle because it can be used as non-toxic laundry detergent and dish soap too! Dudes, you can even use it as your shampoo as my boyfriend does.

Dr. Bronner’s is a godsend company doing good in this world. Their products are entirely bio-degradable, and their soaps smell and feel amazing! No more having to travel with multiple types of soaps or buying expensive ones on the road. Just use this all-in-one soap and go minimal.

You can also get their soap bar. I love traveling with bars because you don’t have to deal with liquid restrictions, and they last way longer for backpacking trips! You can still use the soap bar for those days you do your laundry at the hotel room.

Shampoo (+ Conditioner)

Shampoo bar for light travel toiletry packing

If you’re traveling for a few months, then I highly recommend a shampoo and conditioner bar! They last 3+ months and take up way less space. Plus, you don’t have to worry about liquid restrictions. If you go this route, invest in a soap bar container too.

Dental Health Toiletries

ALWAYS use a toothbrush cover to protect your toothbrush .

Toothpaste can be slightly annoying to pack as carry-on regulations are strict. You may have to get paste in a 3.5 oz bottle, though many times I’ve been able to carry-on my half-used paste.

Another suggestion is to try out “ Unpaste Zero Waste ” toothpaste! I haven’t used these tablets yet (because I just discovered them), but they sound like another solution to long-term travel + less plastic waste. A win-win and perfect for toiletries packing!

While not a toiletry essential, a small roll of floss and heck, even a tongue scraper fall onto this list since they barely weigh a thing.

Deodorant toiletry essential

You’ll want to go for the solid kind rather than the spray to avoid those liquid restrictions and spills! Generally, you never have to worry about running out, which your new friends will thank you for.

Travel Towel

Sea to Summit DryLite Towel

In a nutshell, microfiber travel towels were created for backpackers and travelers. I typically travel with a large towel for drying off after a shower and a smaller face towel.

Facial Cleanser and Moisturizer

Having a facial cleanser and moisturizer is KEY, especially to refreshen after long layovers and flights. Don’t bother bringing your entire bathroom routine. Leave the toners, serums, and fancy kits behind as they take up way too much weight and space in your bag.

Hand Sanitizer Spray

must have toiletries for travel

While I’m not a germaphobe or crazy about it at home, hand sanitizer easily makes the list of necessary toiletries. There will be plenty of times you’ll come across soapless bathrooms, or less-than-hygienic bus and train stops. Trust me on this one.

Reef-Safe Sun Block

Dude surfing lathered in his sunscreen toiletries

If you’re going to be spending hours and hours in the sun, then you’re going to need protection. While I’m a fan of high-tech modern inventions, such as the hat, long sleeve shirt, and shade, I always bring sunblock in my toiletry bag.

Bear in mind, places like Hawaii, Key West, Florida, and Palau are banning many sunscreen brands because they harm and bleach coral reef and aquatic life.

Furthermore, there is a lot of research on endocrine disruptors and carcinogens found in sunscreen… YIKES! Generally, a Non-Nano Zinc Oxide is perfectly safe, effective, and doesn’t harm aquatic reefs, which is why I’m recommending Raw Elements.

Ear Plugs and Eye Mask

Sleep mask toiletry essential for a good night's rest

I always add a few extra pairs of earplugs and my favorite eye mask to my toiletry list for a vacation. You’ll use earplugs and your eye mask in noisy hostels, on flights, bus rides, getting shut-eye in cities, etc. I never leave home without them.

must have toiletries for travel

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Medication + First-Aid Kit

First Aid Kit and super necessary for any toiletry packing list

You need to check each country’s rules and regulations for traveling with medication. CBD might be federally legal in the US, but you would NOT want to end up in an Indonesian jail cell because of it. Get all the necessary Doctor notes and prescription refills you may need too!

Also, having a small first-aid kit is necessary for travel! You may only need to bring tape (an absolute necessity), moleskin if you’re hiking, a couple of gauze pads, alcohol wipes, a few band-aids, and Neosporin. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Travel hairbrush in toiletries packing

If you have long hair, then this is probably a necessity for you. Consider grabbing a Tangle Teezer if you’re hair is manageable because they are so tiny. Remember, small and lightweight is the key!

Razor for travel and a semi-essential toiletry

Although not a necessary toiletry for all travelers (you may wax or just let it all hang out), for many, this is still essential toiletry packing for any trip. Grab some high-quality razors that’ll last several weeks while you travel. Or better yet, get a reusable razor like the Weishi for the closest shave you’ll ever get from a hand razor.

While you can find razors pretty much anywhere in the world, picking up disposable razors can be annoying. Another alternative is to bag yourself an Electric Travel Shaver .

Moving along to the next section; this part of the toiletries packing list aren’t strictly necessary items but they are creature comforts. Sometimes, when you’re on the road, all you need is your baby blanket!

Uhh, I mean favorite nail clippers.

Mosquito Repellent

Best way to avoid mosquito bites

This may be considered part of your first-aid kit, but since you put it on your skin, I’m including it in the toiletries list! Depending on where you are visiting, you are going to NEED repellent . Don’t forget to get a travel-size bottle for your carry-on!

Nail Clippers

Another multi-purpose item! And don’t worry – these are fine to carry in your carry-on.

Some people can’t live without chapstick, so this might be essential for you. If you’re going anywhere with extreme cold or hot weather, then it’s good to have.

Tooth Picks

Not a necessity, but it’s nice to have several and they don’t take up much space. I’m a fan of the tea tree oil and mint ones.

Same explanation as above: not a necessity, but it is easy to pack a few and they don’t take up much space.

Roll of Toilet Paper

Happy Frogs packing toilet paper with their toiletries list

Carrying toilet paper is a necessity if you’re backpacking… less so if you’re only staying in hotels. If you are traveling in places like Pakistan, Southeast Asia , and so on, you will come across bathrooms without TP. Pull out the cardboard roll if you want to save space.

TP is also great to have on hand to clean a quick spill, blow your nose, or for getting a campfire started. Tissue paper is obviously more plush and fancy.

Contacts and Prescription Glasses

If you need ’em, don’t leave them at home! That being said, daily contacts can take up a lot of space if you’re traveling for more than a month! I don’t like using monthly due to hygiene, so if I’m traveling for a long time, I just pick up contacts every couple of months with my prescription on hand.

Health Supplements

There are a few supplements I choose to travel with that help me on the road to keep my immune system in check! Vitamin supplements are also awesome toiletries packing for countries where you may be eating a more meagrely spread diet then you’re used to, however, generally in sountries like that, buying supplements can be super cheap.

For the ladies and the men packing for their ladies, this is the list of toiletries you’ll either definitely need (see below) or at least want to consider.

Feminine Care

Mestrual cup - toiletries packing for women

Stock up on your feminine care products before your trip because they can be hard to find in some countries.

Consider a Menstrual Cup . I used to travel with tampons because they are pretty difficult to track down in certain countries. I finally made the switch to the Diva cup a few years ago and never looked back. It’s WAY better for the environment and they take up way less space!

Honestly, my cosmetic bag has shrunk significantly over the years. If you’re on a long backpacking trip, I can guarantee you’ll stop wearing most of your make up.

When you’re traveling in humid countries, lounging on the beach, hiking in the mountains, or taking overnight buses, the last thing on your mind is blending your foundation.

That said, it’s nice to dress up once and a while, so feel free to add your go-to mascara and blush to your list of toiletries. Just remember that it will be difficult to replace your favorite brands on the road. It’s the perfect excuse to give your skin a break and go au   natural .

Make-up Remover Pads

But if you do bring make-up you have even more toiletries to pack. My life changed when I realized I started to use carrier oils (like argan and coconut oil to remove my make-up.) Now, I just carry a couple of bamboo make-up remover pads (less waste, better for the environment), and use whatever oils I have on hand.

must have toiletries for travel

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Extra Hair Ties

I guess this one goes out to you long-haired men too.

Beach vacation with few toiletries

I tried to keep this list short and sweet. The toiletry essentials should cover most people’s bases, and then from there, you can add a few things depending on your type and length of the trip.

As someone who has packed for more trips than I can count, I am so happy that my toiletry bag has shrunk over the years. Toiletry packing truly takes up so much space and weight, and then you rarely end up using half of them when you’re on the go-go-go.

Here are my top tips for packing less!

  • Go through your daily routine and make note of each thing you use. Pack nothing else.
  • Always choose multi-purpose items. Dr. Bronner’s is a great example of this.
  • Girls, ditch the make-up and straighteners. I promise you won’t use any of these things (unless you are on a business trip or weekend out on the town).
  • Invest in a versatile toiletry bag to keep your things organized. If it doesn’t fit in this, it doesn’t come on your trip!
  • Use liquid containers for carry-on but also checked bags to save space and weight
  • Choose solid over liquid whenever possible. This includes soap and deodorant.
  • Plan accordingly!

What NOT to take in your toiletry bag

  • Unsealed Liquids
  • Bottles larger than 3.5 oz in your carry-on
  • Anything you don’t plan to use every day.

Still have some questions? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the most important toiletries to pack?

These toiletries should be in everyones bag: 1. Shampoo and Conditioner Soap 2. Travel Towel 3. Nail Clippers 4. ChapStick

What is something that should not be missing in your toiletry bag?

Very simple: Deodorant . It won’t just make you smell fresh and clean, but it’s also great for everyone around you. You don’t want to stand out due to a smelly body odor.

How do you store your travel toiletries?

A toiletry bag is the perfect way to store all of your bathroom essentials. The Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 is our favorite one.

Can you take all toiletries on an airplane?

Toiletries like liquids, nail clippers, scissors and other forbidden objects can be carried in a suitcase, but not in your carry-on luggage.

must have toiletries for travel

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I have covered all of the essentials you should include on your toiletries packing list and then some!

My main advice remains this: take a hard look at your daily routine and bring ONLY those items.

Furthermore, bring your favorite essentials with you, for the most part. Many areas may offer convenience and cheaper local prices where you can buy things on arrival. On the other hand, many destinations won’t carry your favorite brands, or pricing can be far higher.

For example, buying that sunscreen you forgot in an airport or a small island store will be more expensive!

Do a little bit of research before you go – which you’re doing right now (yay for you) – and pack your travel-size toiletry essentials in your toiletry bag. Heed my advice and you’re well on your way to traveling efficiently and comfortably!

Oh and one last tip for any toiletries packing list: write that sucker down!

Kermit with his first aid kit packing

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ana Pereira

Ana Pereira

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21 Top Toiletries Packing List Items for 2024 + What NOT to Bring

21 Top Toiletries Packing List Items for 2024 + What NOT to Bring

One thing you definitely don’t want to forget when traveling is your toiletries! At the end of the day, there is no magic one-size-fits-all toiletry list that’ll work for everybody, but repurchasing items in foreign countries can get expensive and you don’t want to risk throwing away your favorite products because they exceed the TSA limits.

If you’re traveling by plane, bringing your necessary toiletries with you on board is a good idea, in case of lost luggage or if you need to freshen up mid-fight. From deodorant to floss, make sure you check this list twice before leaving home!

21 Top Toiletries Packing List Items for 2024 + What NOT to Bring

What Toiletries to Pack – 21 Essentials

1. hanging toiletry bag.

Hanging toiletry bags are a game-changer. Once you travel with them, you will never go back to the days of spilled shampoo in your suitcase or digging to find a toothbrush. This creates a shelf-like system in any bathroom, simply by hanging it on the door, shower, or a hook. I use it for camping or when there is zero countertop space, it really saves my sanity! And it holds the entire family’s essentials (haircare, skincare, makeup, towels, etc.).

Hanging Toiletry Bag

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Deodorant Wipes

Unfortunately, travel can leave you feeling sticky, sweaty, and stinky. These wipes really help alleviate that feeling without harsh chemicals and without leaving a sticky residue. They have a nice scent and come in little packets, so you can carry a few with you in case you need them during the day.

Deodorant Wipes

3. Natural and Gentle Solid Sunscreen

The Sun Bum brand is known for its gentle and effective skincare products, and this solid sunscreen is no exception. Not only is it as effective as other, more chemical-laden sunscreens, but it’s also extremely good for your skin. This product even boasts natural agents that help prevent premature aging! It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, easy to apply, and smells nice to boot. I can’t get enough of it when I’m in the sun.

Natural and Gentle Solid Sunscreen

4. Folding Toothbrush

Any space that can be saved in your luggage is valuable, and a folding toothbrush is handy for that purpose. It’s also great because instead of having to bring along a separate sterile toothbrush cover, your toothbrush folds into itself to protect the bristles without any extra accessories!

Folding Toothbrush

5. Itsy Bitsy Razor

In keeping with the space-saving theme: look how tiny this razor is! It may not seem like much, but if you think about the length of standard razors, a shorter version tends to be much easier to pack and won’t have to be shoved awkwardly into a too-short toiletry bag or plastic baggie. This set comes with a handle and two blade heads and will deliver the quality shave that can be expected from Venus brand products.

Itsy Bitsy Razor

6. Motion Sickness Patches

If you’re prone to any motion or sea sickness, these patches are stellar! On days when you’ll be bobbing up and down on any boats, driving down windy roads, or flying by on high-speed trains – these will be a huge relief to any nausea or dizziness you experience. We field-tested many brands and these holistic patches came out on top!

Motion Sickness Patches

7. Travel Shampoo and Conditioner

This shampoo and conditioner set is just awesome. This formula includes Vitamin E and other high-quality ingredients to help you pamper yourself while protecting your hair. It can be safely and effectively used on keratin-treated hair, color-treated hair, and even extensions.

Travel Shampoo and Conditioner

8. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

We use travel towels for all of our travels! Since it dries 10x faster than cotton, it’s very muti-purposeful and easy to reuse throughout the day. It can double as a sweat rag, makeup remover wipe, microfiber cloth, beach blanket, and more.

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

9. Dry Shampoo

If you haven’t tried dry shampoo before, you should. It’s becoming common knowledge that washing your hair too often is not very good for it. When you’re traveling, sometimes you can’t wash your hair as often as you’d like anyway! On the other hand, we all know the gross feeling of having dirty hair. Dry shampoo is like magic for these situations. I use my spray version at least once a week to absorb excess oils at the roots of my hair so that I don’t have to strip the healthy oils from the lengths and ends of my hair by washing it. Perfect for on-the-go!

Dry Shampoo

10. Aluminum-Free Deodorant

Your underarms are hugely related to your lymphatic system, and these nodes fight against cancer. Since they can absorb toxins more easily than other parts of your body – ensure that your main deodorant is all-natural and aluminum-free. This one smells amazing, comes in many scents, and is unisex for both men and women.

Aluminum-Free Deodorant

11. TSA-Approved Travel Bottles

If you’re a big enough fan of your usual products to want to bring some along with you instead of opting for travel-sized products, I highly recommend using these flexible, leak-proof silicone travel containers. They’re easy to fill, pack, squeeze the product out of, and clean. They’ve quickly become my favorite containers to use, and because of the silicone, I don’t have to worry about them being squished or cracked and popping open in my suitcase.

TSA-Approved Travel Bottles

12. Awesome Makeup Case

When traveling with makeup and other beauty products, it’s important to keep them safe en route. Clattering about can cause your favorite products to crumble or become otherwise ruined. I personally don’t want to have to replace my entire collection after every trip, so I use this great little makeup case to keep everything divided and safely cushioned for the trip! It’s a small investment to keep your expensive brushes and makeup products in good condition.

Awesome Makeup Case

13. Hand Sanitizer Spray

Hand sanitizer is a must-have when traveling, especially when traveling with kids (they touch everything). I fell in love with spray sanitizer after trying it once, and I much prefer it to the sticky gels that take too long to dry. Alcohol-based sanitizers work by evaporation, so you don’t want to have to wave your hands around and wait a long time for that to happen, right? This spray is perfect, plus it is beautifully scented and not harsh on your skin – or your kids’ skin!

Hand Sanitizer Spray

14. Makeup Removing Cleanser

Have you heard of the “sleep naked” concept? Well, it’s been studied and concluded that sleeping with makeup on your face ages you incredibly quickly and can even lead to terrible skin conditions. A good makeup remover will be gentle on your skin and do its job thoroughly without stripping your skin of its own natural protective layers. That’s why I love this Bioderma cleanser – it’s an oil-free facial cleansing and makeup-removing water for sensitive or allergy-prone skin, and it feels great to use. Your skin will thank you for using it, even on the most exhausting of travel days.

Makeup Removing Cleanser

15. Packing Cubes

These suitcase organizers are perfect for any vacation to any destination! Since each cube can be labeled with index cards, you can keep track of shirts, pants, pajamas, socks, essentials, makeup, and more. They’re great for transferring between drawers and backpacks without having to tear apart your hotel room, and this set even comes with laundry bags for your clean and dirty clothes. Booyah !

Packing Cubes

16. Organic Rosewater Spray

This naturally toning, alcohol-free spray is delightful. A toner balances oils and conditions your skin to help heal and protect it. These are important qualities while traveling when your skin is exposed to all kinds of internal and external stresses! This serum is made from roses and is the perfect way to freshen up, rehydrate, and protect your sensitive skin. It also smells lovely, which adds to the whole self-care ritual.

Organic Rosewater Spray

17. Leave-in Conditioner

Doesn’t it always seem like your hair gets frizzy, staticky, and a little wild while you’re traveling? Mine certainly does. That’s what these products are for – they’ll replenish, restore, protect, and help you style your hair while you’re on the road. These products are known for their effectiveness and their great smell – reviewers rave about them!

Leave-in Conditioner

18. Solid Shampoo

Solid shampoo is a fantastic alternative to liquid shampoos and will save you space in your quart-sized baggie when going through security at the airport. Some solid shampoos aren’t as effective, but this particular bar is great. It’s soap-free to prevent stripping of natural oils and to minimize residue It works extremely well and smells nice.

Solid Shampoo

19. Tide-to-Go Pen

After ruining several tops and pairs of pants by spilling delicious food on them, I’ve learned never to go anywhere without my stain-remover pens. This is especially important when traveling, as you may not have access to laundry services right away to prevent that stain from setting! In my experience, Tide pens work much better than other brands.

Tide-to-Go Pen

20. Biodegradable Toilet Paper

It’s wise to be prepared for all lavatory-situations you may face. And there are no guarantees that you’ll have toilet paper available at all times. Whether you’re on safari in Africa or at a restaurant in New York City, not everyone stays on top of stocking the essentials. I always bring a couple of rolls of toilet paper, just in case. This brand is degradable so it’s great for campsites where you’re required to leave no waste behind, or squat toilets in less developed countries.

Biodegradable Toilet Paper

21. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

If you’re flying to your destination, secure your suitcase with these luggage locks before checking them. They are TSA-approved so security can check your bag with their universal keys, but no one else will be able to break into your bags or look through your things. We’ve had items stolen out of our checked luggage, so now we know that you can never be too safe. They also give you peace of mind for backpacks in crowded areas, public lockers, and more.

TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Other Toiletry Packing List Items Not to Forget

  • Lightweight Towel
  • Cooling Towel
  • SPF Lip Balm
  • Dry Shampoo
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Neck Wallet
  • Crest White Strips
  • NordVPN Wi-Fi Security
  • Travel Insurance
  • Global Excursions

What NOT to take in your toiletry bag

1. liquids that are unsealed.

The last thing you want is to open up your toiletry bag or carry-on and find a sunscreen explosion! Make sure you tape each bottle closed, and then separate your liquids into a waterproof ziplock bag.

2. Bottles that are larger than 3 oz

TSA has some pretty strict rules! Make sure you follow all the liquid rules while packing to ensure that you don’t have to throw anything out while you’re in line for security.

3. Anything flammable

TSA rules aside, it’s probably just a bad idea in general to bring flammable liquids on an airplane.

FAQs about traveling with Toiletries

1. what toiletries can i bring on my carry on bag.

You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the security checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Placing these items in a ziplock bag, and separate the bag from your carry-on baggage while going through security screening. Pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in checked baggage. For more information  click here

2. What are some tips for packing toiletries?

Go through your daily routine in your head (or pay special attention to it the morning before you leave) and make a list of each thing you use. Pack only the items on that list, and nothing else! Keep an eye out for items that have dual or triple purposes, and definitely leave the “just in case” items at home.

3. There is a lot I want to pack in my toiletry case! How can I pare it down?

Try to pack makeup/toiletry samples rather than the full products. Put your liquids into even smaller containers that are meant for travel. It’s also extremely helpful to opt for dry or solid forms of your toiletries, such as shampoo and conditioner bars or deodorant wipes.

4. Is it better to bring everything I need or to buy toiletries at my destination?

It depends on your destination. There are many areas where convenience and local prices for items make it much more worth it to buy some things when you arrive. However, with most destinations, you’ll find that you either can’t get what you need easily, or the pricing on the toiletry items is far higher there than at home. Do a little bit of research before you go if possible, but it’s generally best to pack most of your own stuff.

The Best Travel Toiletries

must have toiletries for travel

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So you’re going on vacation . Hooray! But as any traveler knows, acing the toiletry game is no easy feat. Sure, there’s a dizzying array of travel-sized toothpaste, sunscreen, face wash—the list goes on and on—available for purchase. But not all mini-moisturizers are created equal.

We did the grunt work for you, meticulously testing dozens of tiny toiletries to see which are the best on the market. Ahead, we’ve got the best travel toiletries money can buy, and we even threw in our favorite toiletry carry-all for good measure. Of course, every traveler deserves a little pampering, so we threw a few splurge items on the list, too.

Below are our picks for fantastic travel toiletries.

  • What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, oars + alps everyday essentials kit.

Oars + Alps

Want to click buy on one thing and pretty much be ready for take-off? Here’s your answer. This Oars + Alps set includes travel size (all 3.4 ounces or less) versions of the following: Hydrating shampoo, hydrating conditioner, luxury body wash, solid charcoal face wash, ultra-hydrating shine-free lip balm, and aluminum-free deodorant. It’s all packed up in a water-resistant travel bag, and even though geared toward men, we promise that the ladies will swoon for this lineup of superb travel toiletries, as well.

Best Budget

Convenience kits international men's deluxe, 9-piece kit.

Okay, so don’t expect the most luxe products ever at this product's price point, but this Amazon’s Choice product boasts travel-sized essentials: Gillette Foamy Shave Cream, Disposable Twin Blade Razor, Old Spice Body Wash, Comb, Old Spice Swagger A/P Deodorant, Crest Toothpaste, Toothbrush, TSA Compliant Quart Size Zip Top Bag, Travel Zippered Bag with Black Trim. All liquids are TSA-friendly sizes. (Yes, this bundle is geared toward men, too, but it’s unisex as far as we’re concerned.)

Best Sunscreen

Everyday california spf 45 reef-safe face sunscreen.

Everyday California

Yes, you should wear sunscreen on your face every day. When you travel, you can’t do better than this 3-ounce tube specially formulated for active days. In addition to being free of oxybenzone, octocrylene, octinoxate, phenoxyethanol, and parabens, this zinc sunblock is water-resistant, long-lasting, and formulated for all skin types. The unscented sunblock also has blue algae, sea kelp, jojoba, sunflower, and rosemary extracts to keep your skin extra-happy. As a bonus, a portion of every sale goes to the Surfrider Foundation , which promotes plastic reduction and ocean and beach conservation.

Best Sunscreen Stick

Bare republic mineral stick.

Bare Republic

If you prefer to go the stick route in the SPF department, you’re going to adore Bare Republic’s non-nano Zinc Oxide SPF 70 sunscreen stick. It’s sheer and non-greasy. And its smartly designed teardrop-shaped applicator makes it easier to apply all over your body. The water-resistant formula also includes moisturizing Shea butter, antioxidant-rich raspberry seed extract, and carrot seed extract to help keep your skin in tip-top shape. Free of mineral oil, synthetic fragrance, and parabens, this formula also doesn’t have any chemical sunscreens as active ingredients. For tinted sunscreen for your face, we’re also obsessed with the Bare Republic Tinted Mineral Sunscreen, SPF 30 . It’s also got a non-greasy, sheer finish.

Best Concealer

Kite beauty on the glow concealer.

Kite Beauty

Lugging a bulky makeup bag on vacation? No thanks. Kite Beauty to the rescue. This new beauty startup focuses on on-the-go beauty, and this vegan, cruelty-free, paraben-free, fragrance-free, AAPI- and female-founded, made-in-the-USA concealer does not disappoint. The company offers a “shade match guarantee” (and a helpful, brief survey to help you figure out the right shade for you), and the concealer arrives in six convenient pods that are great for tossing in your purse while you travel or for placing in your toiletry bag. All of the concealers provide a beautiful natural finish with medium coverage and will make any pimples or dark circles from jet lag disappear in a jiffy.

Best Face Wash

Lazy coconuts radical paste sensitive face wash.

Lazy Coconuts

Hello, facial cleanser Shangri-la. This sustainability-minded brand makes a highly concentrated face wash with no water added that’s free of parabens, sulfates, fragrances, dyes, phosphates, and more. The 1-ounce container is entirely plastic-free, and the formula is pH balanced to be gentle on your face (pH 4.9). If you’re looking for an alternative to that gross shampoo bar with caked-on paper packaging you’ve been toting around, consider their 1.7-ounce Lazy Coconuts Radical Paste Shampoo , that’s also free of junky additives.

Best Moisturizer

The organic skin co. task force nine turmeric and calendula cream.

This “calming cream” features nine hydrating and soothing natural ingredients, such as calendula, turmeric, honeysuckle, sea buckthorn, and rosemary. The 2-ounce elixir comes in cutting-edge sustainable packaging, including a compostable outer shell, PCR aluminum tube, and a biodegradable bamboo lid. Designed to revive dry, tired skin and treat sunburn, rashes, and other minor breakouts, the moisturizing properties give your skin a lovely boost. And did we mention Organic Skin plants one tree for every product sold? Bonus: This cream is certified vegan and certified by Biogro as “made with organics” (meaning it contains over 70 percent organic ingredients; 78.4 percent organic ingredients, to be precise, for this product).

Best Hair Kit

Foxybae moisturizing kit.

Already have a stuffed-to-the-gills weekender but need amazing hair products? Look no further than FoxyBae's Travel Collection . This trio includes 2-ounce versions of their Moisturizing Shampoo, Moisturizing Conditioner, and 12-in-1 Magic Daily Leave In Hair Mask. If you're a real hairdo enthusiast, you might want to also travel with their rose gold Mini Travel Flat Iron , Mini Travel Hair Dryer , or Mini Travel Curling Wand . You can buy all three of these styling tools in their Mini Travel Kit .

Best Luxury Mask

Tata harper hydrating floral mask.

Maisons Pariente has partnered with Tata Harper Skincare —an upscale natural luxury skincare line—to offer the beauty company’s products at several of its five-star boutique hotels, including Crillon Le Brave, Lou Pinet , and Le Coucou . If you can’t make it to these dreamy getaways, bring the dreamy getaway to you in the form of this luxurious face mask. The 1-ounce jar easily slips into your makeup bag or toiletry kit, and 100 percent of the ingredients are from natural origins, such as chia seed water, shea butter, and banana flower oil. Made in the USA, this moisturizing face mask helps alleviate redness, even your skin tone, and gives you a dewy glow. It also makes you feel oh-so-relaxed and in the mood for a vacation, whether on the road or in your bathroom “spa” at home.

Best Deodorant

Milk + honey extra strength deodorant.

Aluminum-free, extra-strength deodorant that smells amazing? Sign us up! Choose from lavender and tea tree oil or lemon and vanilla scented versions of this TSA-friendly* deodorant made with baking soda containing arrowroot powder to neutralize odor naturally and to reduce wetness from sweat. Organic coconut oil also hydrates the skin and fights odor. If you like this paraben-free deodorant, check out more of their travel products here . (FYI: It’s TSA-friendly because it’s not a liquid and, ergo, not subject to the 3-ounce liquid travel rule.)

Best Single-Use Hand Sanitizer

Purell personals.

Hand sanitizer has become reasonably ubiquitous these past two-plus years . When traveling, these lightweight single-use packets are great to toss into your wallet, pocket, or glove compartment as you go about your day (and you'll also want to throw a handful of these packets into your liquid bag if you're traveling by airplane). As you'd expect from America's number-one sanitizer brand, it kills 99.99 percent of the most common germs that may cause illness. The "pinch and go" packets are a breeze, and the hand sanitizer is free of synthetic fragrance, parabens, phthalates, and other ingredients. On Amazon, it's also Climate-Pledge friendly and Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold (the world's most advanced standard for safe, circular, and responsible materials and products).

Best Hand Sanitizer Spray

Nomatic all-day armor sanitizing spray.

If you like traveling with a spray, this option from NOMATIC gets our vote. In addition to killing 99.99 percent of germs on your hands and giving you more than four hours of protection, we appreciate that this spray is fine to use on the entire body, your clothes, your phone, or just about any surface. (When traveling, you might want to use it on a gas pump, door handle, or remote control for the TV in a hotel room.) Even better, it contains soothing aloe, so your hands won’t get dried out.

Best Toothbrush

Amazon basics pulsating deep cleaning toothbrushes.

For a stellar travel toothbrush, it’s time to befriend the Amazon Basics brand. By that, we mean become smile buddies with the Amazon Basics Pulsating Deep Cleaning Toothbrushes, which have flexible VibraClean Bristles to remove plaque and debris between teeth and gently massage and stimulate your gums. Stash a pack of these toothbrushes in your toiletry kit at all times so you'll be ready to maintain your dazzling smile whenever the road calls.

Amazon Basics Twin Blade Pivoting Disposable Razors

For affordable, high-quality razors, Amazon Basics delivers yet again with these twin-blades. A pivoting head and lubricating strip help you get a close shave, and a rubberized handle makes for a solid grip, especially when the razor is wet. Ideal for single-use shaving, there’s good reason this Amazon’s Choice product has more than 900 five-star reviews.

Best Toothpaste

Colgate travel toothpaste with fluoride.

Cavity protection? Check. TSA compliant ? At 1 ounce per pack, you sure bet it is. Fresh breath? Hello, mint (and even better, it’s sourced from American mint farmers). This top-notch toothpaste will help keep your teeth clean, and your breath fresh. Since travel-sized toothpaste always seems to be one of those things you realize you’re out of on the night before you’re going on vacation, buying a bulk pack of 24 is a great idea.

Best Makeup Remover Wipes

Solimo make up remover wipes.

Plopping on your hotel room bed after a long day, only to realize that you didn’t pack makeup remover, is no fun. Pout no more with these two resealable 25-count packs of makeup-removing face wipes. The dermatologist-tested face wipes are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, ethanol, isopropanol, and rubbing alcohol. It’s safe to say we’ve never been more excited to remove makeup, including waterproof mascara. P.S.: Try the Original or Night Calming if you prefer scented versions.

Best Toiletry Bag

Minted dopp kit.

Minted / Iveta Angelova

All of these spiffy toiletries deserve a spiffy place for storing. And we can’t think of a better option than this selection from minted, an online marketplace for independent artists. The 100 percent cotton Dopp Kit has a leather handle and a foil-pressed leather tag. Each Dopp Kit has a leather handle and a custom foil-pressed leather tag, which you can personalize with a name or initials for free. With a water-repellent liner, you’re ready for all the fun and curveballs that travel throws at you, and you can choose from a wide array of fun patterns and designs like pastel geo and wandering .

What to Look for in Toiletries

If you’re flying, you have to abide by TSA’s rule of limiting liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Before purchasing travel-sized toiletries online, scan the specs or look at the images to ensure they don’t exceed the size limit. The last thing you want to do is toss your expensive new sunscreen before you make it to your destination or scramble to check your bag and pay additional money so you can bring large containers.

It goes without saying, but budget matters. For most of us, breaking the bank when shopping for travel toiletries isn’t ideal, and if you’re traveling for a week or two, you likely won’t mind using products that are a touch less fancy than the ones you opt for at home. With that in mind, it is nice to pamper yourself with something luxuriant while out of town, so you may want to splurge on a nice hair mask or a high-quality moisturizing cream.

Travel-sized sunscreen: Essential to have. Travel-sized perfume: Nice to have (but also less pleasant to have if the case cracks in transit, and you’ve got a floral or cedar wood explosion all over your clothes). Remember that when you travel, you often come home with more in your bags than what you set out with, so less is more. Whatever you can get rid of from your toiletry bag that isn’t a must-have (or that your hotel already stocks for guests) helps free up precious real estate in your luggage. We promise, you can live a few days without your eight-step anti-aging routine. But that amazing glass turtle you found at a boutique in Sitges, Spain? That you need room for in your bag, friends.

Don’t forget your mini-toothpaste. We repeat: Don’t forget your mini-toothpaste. You will be slapping yourself when you arrive at your destination, and your first order of business is finding a convenience store rather than making it to your 8 o’clock concert on time. Beyond toothpaste, your essential travel toiletries list should include a toothbrush, shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and face wash. A razor, moisturizer, and a toiletry kit to stash it all are nice to have, too.

Check out your hotel or Airbnb’s website for details on what’s included in your stay. It might list what kind of toiletry essentials are provided in their accommodations. (If you’re staying at a friend’s place, you can always ask, too.) That way, if you see that your digs have shampoo, conditioner, soap, face wash, and the like, you can skip on packing your own. Another way to cut down on what you pack is to try double-duty products; for instance, sunscreen doubles as a foundation or 2-in-1 shampoo.

In general, paring down your “beauty routine” on vacation is always a good choice. Spending less time futzing in the bathroom, and more time on the beach or exploring a museum, is always a win in our book. And one more savvy tip: Do that overnight hair mask the night before you leave on vacation. That way, you’ll have one fewer thing to pack in your toiletry kit.

If you’re traveling by plane, remember TSA’s liquid rule. “You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.” You can check out all the juicy details on the policy at TSA.gov here . Put all of these items into one clear, quart-size toiletry bag or zip-top plastic bag. Even if you’re not flying, it’s nice to do this to stay organized.

Ensure that the toiletry bag, zip-top plastic bag, and all liquids or gels are securely closed. We also recommend using this rule of thumb when packing travel toiletries: When in doubt, leave it at home. If you’re unsure you’ll use it while out of town, leave it behind and free up the luggage real estate.

Perri Ormont Blumberg is a travel and lifestyle writer who has written countless product reviews. In the personal care space, she’s covered everything from the best hand sanitizers to face washes . In addition to testing products firsthand, she worked with publicists representing top personal hygiene brands to curate this list and pored over many customer reviews to zoom in on superior products. 

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Travel toiletries packing list | a curated guide of the best travel toiletries.

The best travel toiletries and personal-care products.

must have toiletries for travel

Travel toiletries have posed a challenge to just about every traveler — specifically, how does one strike the balance between packing what’s needed and packing way too many toiletries. It’s tough, even for seasoned travelers.

So don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed by knowing what you should (and shouldn’t) pack for your trip — that’s exactly why I created this travel toiletries packing list.

Ok, let’s dive in.

My Philosophy On Travel Toiletries

Before we jump into this packing list, let’s look at a few major considerations that will impact the kinds of toiletries you pack and might shape your packing philosophy.

Packing Light and Carry-On Regulations

must have toiletries for travel

Personally, I travel as light as possible. Ideally, I only travel with a single carry-on sized backpack/suitcase — which drastically reduces the number and size of toiletries I travel with. It also means having to stick to TSA liquid regulations .

Obviously, carry-on travel isn’t for everyone.

However, every traveler should make it their goal to travel as light as possible. At the very least, you need to be able to carry your bag up multiple stairs without any trouble.

Unfortunately, toiletries are often bulky and heavy so reducing the amount you pack is one of the best ways keep down your luggage weight.

Buy As You Travel

must have toiletries for travel

Unless you’re traveling to the far corners of the Earth, there is an excellent chance you can purchase just about any toiletry you need at your destination.

My general philosophy is to only pack the things I 100% know I’ll use and then buy things if the need arises. Furthermore, some items are better purchased once you arrive.

Additionally, many hotels/hostels/rental apartments come stocked with some toiletries so double check as this might help reduce what you need to pack.

Travel-Sized Products

must have toiletries for travel

Travel-sized products have always annoyed me because they’re not only expensive but some feel wasteful as well. I prefer to find alternatives (like using refillable travel-sized bottles).

On that same note, I’m rarely a fan of normal items that have been turned into “travel-versions” of themselves. For example, “travel toothbrushes” are just worse versions of normal toothbrushes and it’s not like a standard toothbrush isn’t travel-friendly.

Travel Toiletries Packing List

must have toiletries for travel

Here’s a list of recommended travel toiletries that you might want to pack for your next big trip.

Toiletry Bag

must have toiletries for travel

A quality toiletry kit is a must-have because it helps keep all your stuff organized and easily mobile between your bag and the bathroom.

I highly recommend choosing a toiletry kit that has a hook so you can hang it up — don’t be surprised if your accommodation has little to no counter space.

Personally, I’m a fan of minimalist toiletry kits because they take up less space in your bag and it helps you limit the amount of stuff you pack.

GoToob+ Leak-Proof Travel Bottles

must have toiletries for travel

Some of my favorite travel-specific products are the carry-on sized GoToob+ refillable bottles — specifically, because GoToob makes some of the best leak-proof bottles that I’ve tested.

And trust me, you want leak-proof bottles.

These silicon bottles come in a variety of sizes (1.7, 2.5, and 3.4 ounces are all carry-on sized) and a variety of colors — they come in a few larger sizes as well if being carry-on compliant isn’t an issue.

GoToob+ bottles are sold in multiple configurations from single bottles to multi-packs. Expect to pay around $15-$30 for a set of three.

Shampoo, Conditioner, & Body Wash

must have toiletries for travel

Normally, I purchase things like body wash and shampoo once I arrive. However, if you have products you like then I recommend putting them in smaller travel bottles like the GoToob+ bottles .

Toothbrush, Toothbrush Cover, Toothpaste, & Floss

must have toiletries for travel

I bring a regular toothbrush when I travel (skip the “travel” toothbrushes — they’re all a waste of money).

Throw in a roll of floss as I’ve found floss to be expensive outside the US. I prefer to pack a travel-sized toothpaste so I can brush right away, but I often buy a regular tube when I arrive.

I’m also a big fan of Steripod clip-on toothbrush covers as they help sterilize your brush (the plastic is infused with thymol, a safe ingredient found in many types of mouthwash) while giving it a physical barrier from other stuff in your toiletry case.

Shaving Razors and Shaving Cream

must have toiletries for travel

I highly recommend packing a few of your own favorite razors as changing up your shaving routine on the road is a recipe for disaster — especially if you’re traveling overseas as the brands and quality of razors might be different. I typically buy razors in multi-packs via Amazon for the best price.

I often buy shaving cream once I arrive at my destination because you can find essentially the same shaving products worldwide. That said, EOS Shave Cream (for women) and C.O. Bigelow Premium Shave Cream (for men) are travel-sized and non-aerosol shaving creams that get good reviews.

must have toiletries for travel

I’ve found that different countries use different deodorant formulas so I always pack a regular-sized stick of whatever I normally use — stick with a solid deodorant instead of liquid/aerosol since they don’t count against TSA restrictions. You can find plenty of mini-sized deodorants on Amazon if you’re concerned about space.

If you want to be ultra-minimalist, consider the SweatBlock Clinical Strength Antiperspirant Wipes which are supposed to help offer up to seven days of protection per wipe (I haven’t used these but they get great reviews).

must have toiletries for travel

Flying (and travel in general) can be incredibly dehydrating so I always travel with a few things of lip balm. I bring multiple sticks and divvy them up between my day bag, carry-on, and toiletry case — plus, I tend to lose a few along the way so it doesn’t hurt to pack a few extras.

Pepto-Bismol Tablets

must have toiletries for travel

I never travel without packing a few Pepto-Bismol chewable tablets. You can find these easily overseas but I’d rather them have on-hand as soon as I need them.

must have toiletries for travel

I have no idea if vitamins actually help keep you healthy but I figure any extra protection against germs (especially if you’re flying) can’t hurt. Zinc and Vitamin C are cited as the most helpful supplements.

Travel Wet Wipes

must have toiletries for travel

I always throw in a few individually wrapped wet wipes into my bag as sometimes travel can wreak havoc on the ol’ digestive system.

If nothing else, wet wipes can also be used to freshen up your face/hands after a long flight or train ride.

Blister Bandages

must have toiletries for travel

Travel usually means a lot of walking so the last thing you want is a painful blister. I always throw in a few band-aids that are designed specifically for blisters — notably for your heels.

Anti-Friction Body Powder

must have toiletries for travel

In addition to blisters, excess walking can cause a lot of friction/chafing so I like to pack some kind of body powder — especially in the summer. Anti-Monkey Butt Anti-Friction Powder is a cult favorite but there are other options as well.

Pain Medicine and Prescription Drug

must have toiletries for travel

In many countries, you can only purchase over-the-counter pain medicine from a pharmacy (which might have limited hours) so bring a few with you. I’m also a fan of Tiger Balm for sore muscles.

Additionally, prescription drugs can also be difficult to get so pack enough for your entire trip. That said, bring the original bottle/box as the local pharmacist might be able to help you get what you need.

Hand Soap Sheets & Hand Sanitizer

must have toiletries for travel

Hand soap and hand sanitizer are not interchangeable — they both kill germs but trying to “wash” your hands with hand sanitizer simply doesn’t work. That’s why I pack both.

I’ve found that hand soap sheets are the best for travel since they take up virtually no space and weigh basically nothing.

Makeup & Skincare

must have toiletries for travel

Makeup and skincare products can add considerable weight and bulk to your bag so sticking to the basics is recommended.

  • Favorite Cosmetics: Pack a few of your favorites but stick to the basics.
  • Face/Body Moisturizer: A good moisturizer will help with the dreaded travel dehydration.
  • Dry Shampoo: A lot of people swear by dry shampoo when traveling so you might pick up a few travel-sized cans from Amazon .
  • Makeup Brushes: Stick to one or two of your favorites.
  • Small Magnifying Mirror from Amazon .

Ways to condense makeup and skincare products:

  • Leak-proof liquid bottles from Amazon .
  • Leak-poof cosmetic cream jars from Humangear , Bariho , and Peak Gear .
  • Makeup wipes are a lightweight solution to keeping your face clean — Olay Daily Facial Wipes are a good all-in-one solution.
  • Disposable nail-polish remover wipes from Amazon .
  • Bioderma Cleansing and Make-Up Remover from Amazon .

Cologne/Perfume

must have toiletries for travel

Perfume and cologne are unneeded luxuries but I’ve always been a fan of traveling with them. That said, I never travel with a full bottle so I either spray some in a mini refillable atomizer or I pick up a few samples.

Contact Lens Solution/Disposable Lenses

must have toiletries for travel

Anyone who uses reusable contact lenses knows the struggle of contact lens solution. If possible, I recommend traveling with disposable lenses so you don’t have to deal with finding solution in a foreign country. That said, in many countries, you can only buy solution from a pharmacy so head there if you need something.

Hair Care and Styling

must have toiletries for travel

If you have a specialized hair care routine, then I recommend putting your shampoo and conditioner into refillable no-leak travel bottles like the GoToob+ bottles , or check out Amazon to see if your favorite product comes in a travel-sized option . Otherwise, consider buying shampoo and conditioner once you arrive as there’s a good chance you’ll be able to find similar products.

You should also bring a duel voltage hairdryer or buy one that’s made specifically for the correct voltage (recommended).

Here are some affordable travel hairdryers that get good reviews on  Amazon :

  • Conair 1600 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle
  • BaBylissPRO BABNT053T Nano Titanium Travel Dryer
  • Conair 1875 Watt Compact Hair Dryer with Folding Handle
  • BaBylissPRO BABTT053T TT Tourmaline Titanium Travel Dryer

Nail Clippers and Nail Care

must have toiletries for travel

Take care of your nails with a pair of nail clippers and a file.

must have toiletries for travel

Throw a pack of condoms into your bag so you have them if needed — Amazon has a wide selection.

must have toiletries for travel

Finding sunscreen is easy but having a small bottle with you comes in handy so you can carry it while you’re on the go. I’m a fan of Neutrogena sunscreen but Amazon has multiple options.

More Packing Articles

I’ve written extensively about packing for travel. Here are a few of the most popular:

  • Backpacking Europe Packing List
  • Travel Europe Packing List for Women
  • Europe Packing List
  • Hostel Packing List
  • Ultralight Travel Packing List
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must have toiletries for travel

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Ordinary and Happy

20 Essential Toiletries for Travel You Should Never Forget

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Assure any trip away runs smoothly by packing these essential toiletries for travel , freeing up your time and energy to focus on having fun and making memories while away.

Essential Toiletries for Travel

Essential toiletries packing

You need a good travel shampoo for your hair. You can go with your regular brand of shampoo and just pack it in a leak-proof travel bottle .

If you already have too many liquid products, you may want to go with a solid shampoo bar . And you get bonus karma points if you go with an eco-friendly brand!

A great addition, if you have more space, is a dry shampoo , which will reduce the number of liquid toiletries you need to take. 

2. Conditioner

As with the shampoo, you can bring conditioner in a leak-proof travel bottle or choose to pack a solid conditioner bar .

3. Body Wash

To cut back on liquids, bring a travel-size bar soap which will save you some space. I really prefer body wash to bar soaps, but you can jazz up the bar soap by picking something like this Bali soap scented with coconut, papaya, vanilla, lemongrass, or jasmine.

If you’re going on a short trip and don’t need a whole bar soap, you can always cut a bar soap in half and bring only half with you, saving space in your bag.

4. Deodorant Wipes

These wipes can help you clean whenever you feel sweaty during your trip but don’t have immediate access to a shower. Great for those trips to warm climates or active trips that involve hiking and other sweat-inducing activities.

There are many types of deodorant wipes nowadays, but it’s probably the best to choose the type which doesn’t contain harsh chemicals or leave a sticky residue after use. These alcohol-free deodorant wipes from Dove will leave you smelling fresh like cucumber and green tea.

5. Facial Moisturizer

Pick a moisturizer with SPF for the best protection while traveling.

6. Toothpaste and Toothbrush

Toothpaste is the most commonly forgotten toiletry item among travelers. So, make sure you don’t forget it together with your toothbrush.

You can go green and choose an eco-friendly toothbrush .

When it comes to your toothpaste, you can pick toothpaste, toothpaste powder or even toothpaste tablets to cut back on weight and space.

7. Dental Floss

Besides being important for your oral health, floss can also help tie bits and bobs together.

8. Nail Clippers Set

You should know not everyone around the world follows the same rules as the TSA. In Cambodia, one of my friends had to throw away her nail clippers when going through airport security (despite having gone through multiple countries and airports already with the same nail clippers). So, bring them in your carry on at your own risk.

9. Deodorant

You’d be surprised how hard it can be to find your favorite deodorant in some places. My personal favorite is Secret Clinical , and it’s impossible to find it when traveling in certain countries outside the U.S.

Therefore, bring your favorite deodorant with you, and if you want to cut back on liquids, pick the solid version of your favorite deodorant.  

You can now find travel-sized razors that are just as good as their larger versions.

11. Cotton Pads and Q-Tips

Versatile and useful for removing makeup, fixing makeup, cleaning your ears, and more — make sure to pack a handful of cotton rounds and q-tips. You can even find eco-friendly cotton rounds and cotton swabs .

12. Travel Bottles

You can use flexible, leak-proof travel bottles to bring some of your products at home, such as shampoo, body lotion, or body wash, instead of buying travel-sized products. They are travel-sized, easy to pack, fill, and squeeze the product out.

They are easy to clean as well, so you can reuse them for all your trips. 

13. Hand Sanitizer Spray

This product can be very handy when traveling and not being able to wash your hands whenever you want, or when traveling with kids. You can choose a spray, foam , gel, or wipes sanitizer.

Bring a portable travel mirror with you, preferably one made of metal or thin acrylic. Although this type of mirror material is heavier, it’s less prone to breakage than glass. 

15. Sunscreen

Make sure you pack sunscreen to keep your face and skin protected from the harmful sun rays. You can buy powder sunscreen you can apply with the built-in brush.

16. Hairbrush

You don’t want your hair messy during your entire trip, so find a travel-sized hairbrush, like this small wood hairbrush , and bring it with you. 

17. Hand Lotion

Even though this may be an extra toiletry item for many people, others can’t go a day without a hand lotion. If you belong to the second group of people, find a travel-sized hand lotion you can carry with youu.

18. Feminine Hygiene Products

In Hoi An and Da Nang, Vietnam, it was practically impossible to find tampons. So, if that’s what you prefer to use on your period, definitely bring them with you on your trip.

19. Toiletry Bag

must have toiletries for travel

Pick a toiletry bag with room for all your makeup as well. If you bring beauty products, including makeup on your trips, you’d want them safe while traveling instead of getting them crumbled or ruined.

20. Travel Towel

Pack an absorbent microfiber travel towel , which can fold up super small and dry quickly. This type of towel is great for hostels, the beach, or anywhere you go. It may cost a little more than a regular towel, but it’s definitely a smart decision. 

Don’t leave things to chance when leaving home to go on a trip, be it domestic or abroad.

A little planning and forward-thinking can go a long way to keeping you comfortable and safe, particularly if you’re traveling somewhere remote where pharmacies and supermarkets are hard to find.

Pack these essential toiletries, and never have to worry about finding these important items while away. That way, you can enjoy every minute of your trip, the way it was intended to be.

Related: Packing Hacks: The Top 10 Mistakes You Need to Avoid

Keep this essential toiletries packing list for safekeeping, ready for an upcoming trip, by saving this article to one of your boards.

20 Essential Toiletries for Travel You Should Never Forget

Happy to Wander

The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)

Last Updated: February 16, 2022

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Looking for a clear, easy-to-follow toiletries packing list? I’ve gotchu.

I’m not sure what it is about toiletries that makes them so easy to forget, but time and time again, even after 4 years of frequent travel, I frequently find myself in exotic locales without basic necessities like toothbrushes, combs and *shudder* deodorant.

So after brushing my teeth with my fingers for the umpteenth time, I’ve decided to plant my butt down and write a complete Toiletries Packing List, both for myself, and of course for you, the best looking readers on the planet.

In this post, I’ll also be including my favourite products/must-haves. I’m a pretty low-maintenance person with a penchant for packing light , but there are some things I couldn’t travel without. Here is the full list!

If you need a handy version of this printed out, I’ve got you. Click here to download it from my Resource Library!

Save this post for later on Pinterest:

must have toiletries for travel

Essential Items for Your Toiletries Packing List

Before we get started with the actual toiletries I pack, I want to introduce you to a few different products that can be re-used time and time again, and will make packing toiletries way easier in the long run. In my suitcase, I’m always sure to have…

Re-usable toiletry bottles

This helps you save both money and the environment, so double tick!

I always travel with my own re-usable toiletry bottles, which means I don’t need to use the mini toiletries at the hotel (which, while adorable, aren’t great for unnecessary plastic waste) and also I have easy access to my own favourite products all the time. Re-usable bottles are cheap and easy to find online! Here’s an example.

Of course, the best bottles for you depend on your needs. I have a full guide here that rounds up the best options for different functions, but here is a table summarizing some of the highest rated toiletry bottles you can buy online:

A reuseable toiletries bag

Forget using Ziplocks or the flimsy little bags provided at the airport. Get yourself a clear, TSA-approved toiletries bag instead and you’ll be able to reuse them over and over. Plus, they’re sturdier. Mine is similar to this one and I love it.

Depending on your needs though, you might want to look into investing in a more comprehensive toiletries bag.  I have a full guide here that rounds up the best options, but here is a table summarizing some of the highest rated toiletry bags you can buy online:

A good travel towel

No lie, this travel towel  is my favourite travel item in the whole wide world. It folds up super small, is amazingly absorbent, dries quickly and is perfect for the beach, hostels and pretty much anywhere you need to go. Best investment I ever made!

must have toiletries for travel

Check prices and reviews for this amazing travel towel

OPTIONAL: A hanging toiletries bag

must have toiletries for travel

A lot of travellers swear by these hanging toiletries bags, which allow you to easily prop up all your stuff for easy access (without having to put them on the grimy sink). I don’t think this is a total necessity, but a handy splurge if you need it! Plus, this one has pink flamingos on it, sooo…

Check prices and reviews for this cute flamingo organizer

Toiletries Packing List: Summary

If you just want a quick toiletries packing list to glance through, here it is! Obviously this is a very thorough list and you might not need all these things, but I’ve listed them anyway to remind you of them. You can scroll down below for a more detailed explanation and product recommendations.

Oral Hygiene:

Comb or hairbrush, shampoo & conditioner, hair elastics, hair straightener/curler, miscellaneous face & body care:, moisturizer, shaving cream, miscellaneous extras:, make up wipes, q-tips/cotton pads.

Eye care: 

Contact Solution

Feminine hygiene products:, pantiliners, toiletries packing list: detailed explanation & recommendations.

A lot of the time, you guys ask for more specific recommendations about travel products, so if you need any further clarification or elaboration on the above list, here it is!

The #1 thing I forget, so I put it first!

One key consideration is to either get a toothbrush with a protective case , or remember to bring a protective case for it, otherwise your toothbrush will just be floating around in your bag with everything else, which is a little gross for something you regularly put in your mouth.

If you’re looking to get something new, I recommend buying a bamboo toothbrush. You can easily get packs online for SO cheap, plus they’re much better for the environment. For instance, this 6 pack comes with a carrying case and is less than $15.

Check prices and reviews for this set of bamboo toothbrushes

I’ll never understand why toothpaste isn’t usually included in hotel toiletry kits. I always manage to forget mine!

You can stock up here if you’re out.

If you’re looking for a non-liquid option, some folks make mouthwash tablets these days. Otherwise, I’d recommend just filling up your own reusable bottles rather than buying mini-versions.

must have toiletries for travel

Check prices and reviews for these mouthwash tablets

Another thing I always forget, so I’m gonna underline this multiple times for you. To save space, you can get very cute mini hairbrushes like this one .

I use a special blue shampoo because of my dyed hair, and I bring it with me everywhere using my own  reusable bottles . This is more cost-effective in the long run and better for the environment too, so I highly recommend it! If you don’t mind it, a 2 in 1 might be a good idea if you want to cut down on your toiletries packing list.

must have toiletries for travel

Otherwise, solid shampoos are all the rage now. I have a strange hair type and I’ve never found them to work that well for me. That said, if you want to reduce liquids and get a product that will travel/keep well, my friends rage about the shampoo bars from Lush. There’s also  a huge range of affordable options on Amazon.

Check prices and reviews for these shampoo bars

Always handy to have at least a few small ones in your bag for days when your hair just won’t cooperate. If you have thick hair like me, I highly recommend you get some higher quality ones to avoid mid travel day breakage. Here’s a cheap pack you can grab on Amazon.

Always, always handy to have a few of these. If you keep losing them like I do, you can buy them in bulk online for super cheap here.

must have toiletries for travel

I’m not usually high maintenance but one indulgence I always allow myself is  my hair straightener ! I use it to curl my hair too, so it’s a double whammy.

Sure it’s a little heavy, but it’s worth it because otherwise my hair looks like a rat’s nest.

One thing I will say: don’t waste your time with mini travel straighteners… they don’t save THAT much space and in my experience, they don’t work nearly as well.

Check prices and reviews for this straightener (that also curls hair really well!)

I don’t usually bring it to be honest, but some people swear by it so I thought I would include it. Aerosol toiletries like these are okay in small amounts for carry-on baggage.

So, so crucial. I have a genuine fear of smelling bad, so I actually bring a little deodorant in my toiletries bag and also every purse. This Lady Speedstick 48h is my favourite of all time, so much that I stock up on it every time I’m back home because they don’t sell it in Germany!

Again, I really recommend you just get some  reusable bottles  and bring whatever body wash you use at home. It’s more cost-effective in the long run and better for the environment too.

must have toiletries for travel

This Nivea Purifying Facewash is my favourite. It works great on my oily skin and I just bottle it up in my reusable bottles and I’m good to go. Check prices and reviews for my favourite facewash

It’s so basic but I swear by my Cetaphil Lotion . It’s nothing fancy but it works wonders.

The most important consideration with your razor is that you have a case for it, otherwise it gets wet and goopy and weird to just throw in with the rest of your toiletries (razor and toothbrush touching? NOPE!!)

This mini travel razor from Venus is my fave – the case is really cute and handy. Otherwise, my friends have said great things about this Sphynx All in One which even comes with a shave bar.

I don’t use it. Is that blasphemy? Anyways, if you do, just don’t forget to pack it!

I always, always, always forget sunscreen. Don’t be me. This Neutrogena one is my favourite.

I don’t usually use these – facewash is sufficient for me!

A tiny bundle is always handy to have in your toiletries bag just in case! I’ve seen a cute hack where you can also store them in a little pill container. Cute!

If you need a good lip balm recommendation, Burt’s Bees is the bees knees.

No recommendations – sorry! I don’t usually include perfume in my toiletries packing list but some might 🙂

(All self explanatory, methinks, so I’ll spare you additional explanation)

Disclaimer: I’m not a fancy make-up girl. I’m just so bad at make-up that any expensive, high-end products would be lost on me… so these are basic products that I own and love.

This Loreal Liquid eyeliner is my favourite thing ever. I have very oily skin so finding eyeliner that doesn’t just rub off is a miracle. Plus, it’s cheap! I wear it everyday.

I used to avoid mascara like the plague because it would always rub off and give me panda eyes. This Covergirl Lashblast waterproof mascara is the only one I’ve found that stays put all day. I love it.

Lipstick/gloss

Okay, so I don’t normally gush about makeup products because I’m no makeup guru but I literally swear by this Maybelline Superstay 24h lip stuff .

It’s cheap, comes in a bajillion colours and is SO good for travelling because it lasts such a long time.

Trust me, if it can survive 6 hours of straight-drinking at Oktoberfest and still look flawless, it can survive any of your travel days, I promise!

must have toiletries for travel

Check prices and reviews for my favourite lip stuff

Foundation / Concealer

I find that the Loreal True Match line works great and lasts all day!

When I travel, I just use moisturizer but back in the day, I used to use this Smashbox one a lot.

Lastly, I wear eyeshadow on rare occasion but the Naked Mini Palettes are great – I have the Heat one and it’s super versatile.

These are pretty straight forward, no explanation necessary I think…

What NOT to Include in Your Toiletries Packing List

Full-sized anything 

It’s not worth it! It’s heavy and also you won’t be able to bring it in your carry-on.

Flammable items

Again, not worth the risk and you probably won’t be able to bring it on.

Any “just in case” items

Sometimes, people panic and freak out and pack a million things just in case, like a full-on first aid kit.

I would like to remind you that you’ll most likely be travelling somewhere where there are pharmacies and stores for you to buy your stuff.

Don’t pack anything “just in case” because you’ll most likely not need it. Instead, just buy it when the “case” arises.

Toiletries packing list, items on table

Grab Your Printable Toiletries Packing List

My go-to travel favourites:.

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

6 thoughts on “The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)”

Hey Christina! Just thought I’d give you a heads up that the ‘ultimate’ in your Pinnable image at the top of the post is missing the ‘t’ 🙂 – great post though, always love your writing!

haha d’oh! thanks so much for pointing that out – I would have never noticed. Running off to change it now <3

My suggestion for perfume is to use Sephora’s sample bottles and refill them with your perfume from home.

The only just in case item that I always throw in is a couple of sink packages of TIDE. They fit easily in the makeup bag and you just never know… The rest of your list is great! Thanks!

I would definitely add Tylenol or ibuprofen. Just get the little travel tube and refill as needed.

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The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List - Essential Toiletries for Travel

Preparing essential toiletries for travel is a great way to save money. But what to include? Check out this article for everything you need to know about toiletries packing list for a trip.

Keeping your essentials neat and organised is a must when it comes to travelling. But imagine you are in a rush for a last-minute trip and you need to get your packing done as soon as possible. More than often, you are likely to forget one thing or another, even something as obvious as a toothbrush, razor, deodorant or cotton pads. Don’t worry. We have all been through that. 

The best way to tackle this thorny matter is to get a small bag designed for toiletries essentials in advance and fill it with all the personal items that you need for your upcoming trip. It is probably incapable of solving all your problems, but it sure will  help you avoid the hustle of overthinking and over packing. And to save more time for you, our CabinZero team has sorted out an ultimate toiletries packing list that gives you the ultimate checklist of everything you need to travel safely, smartly, and with style.

What is a toiletry item?

Toiletry is usually defined as self care items that are used for personal hygiene. In other words, it can be anything you use for cleaning or grooming yourself, such as toothpaste, toothbrush or shampoo. More than often, a simple travel bag of toiletries might include tiny bottles of shampoo, dental floss, deodorant, and soap.

But if you are travelling for a long-day trip, keep scrolling for our handy list of guidelines that are sure to keep things organised for your next journey. 

What is a toiletry item

Making a toiletries checklist is a must. Credit: @amend_raditya

Essential Toiletries Packing List 

Once you know what to include in your travel toiletries list , everything will become less overwhelming and you will likely get the most amazing experience on your next journey. 

Tip: Make sure the toiletries bags are travel size and are sufficient for any circumstance. 

>> If you have plan for a honeymoon trip, check out the packing list for honeymoon trip .

Toiletries List for Ladies

Here is everything you absolutely can’t get by without bringing:

  • Conditioner
  • Lip balm - (this is a must for flight travel)
  • Cotton swabs
  • Soap or body wash
  • Moisturiser (this is a must for cold weather condition)
  • Perfume/Cologne (you are never fully dressed without perfume)
  • Sunscreen (must-have items for  tropical weather)
  • Shaving cream

Whether it is a weekend getaway or just a short vacation, it is typical for us ladies to want to look our best while feeling great and comfortable. Our beauty checklist can help you remember essential toiletries items:

  • Makeup Remover
  • Facial wipes / cleanser – Wipes are easy and less messy than a liquid cleanser
  • Hair Straightener
  • Curling Iron
  • Hairbrush or comb
  • Hairstyling Products (if applicable)
  • Skincare products (only the essentials)
  • Lotion for body and face

Toiletries List for Gentlemen

Packing can be pretty much of a disheartening experience for us gentlemen. If you are still worried about what toiletries to bring on a trip , check out the list of indispensable items below as you pack for your next travel endeavour.

  • Solid Shampoo
  • Solid Conditioner
  • Shower Gel and/or Soap
  • Toothpaste - (get a travel sized one to save space)
  • Dental floss - (pick a small travel size one)
  • Lip Balm - (this is a must for flight travel)
  • Sunscreen (must-have items if you are travelling to tropical regions)
  • Nail Clippers & File
  • Hair gel, hair clay and comb
  • Razor, shaving cream and aftershave (must-have items for a men’s toiletries packing list)
  • Cotton buds / cotton pads
  • Hand sanitizer (must-have items to avoid getting sick, especially after the coronavirus pandemic)
  • Additional vitamins

Toiletries List

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Tips for packing toiletries Item

You might think you only need to get yourself a simple toiletries bag, and toss all your essentials into it is enough to travel. However, if you want to make the most of your toiletries packing list while staying organised on the go, you will need even more. Here are some essential tips that our team has concluded for you to curb the packing problems once and for all. 

Obvious as it might be, planning things in advance can be a great solution for those who are not regular travellers or have a tendency to forget things and end up hustling back and forth looking for some items. When you have in mind what to include in your holiday toiletries checklist already, you will save plenty of time for yourself and find the way to a stress-free vacation. 

Categorise your essentials

Another thing to keep in mind is that no matter where you go, there will always be tons of things to remember whenever you are about to hit the road. That’s why it is advisable to separate your essential toiletries for travel into groups and choose a different coloured or different-sized bag for each group. This way, you will lessen the burden of thinking long and hard about what to include in your toiletries packing list while also ensuring an enjoyable experience for your next journey.

Categorise your essentials

Do it right, and you will have everything at hand. Credit: @dannapena

Pack liquids in secure bags

Imagine tossing everything in your toiletries bag real quick for a last-minute trip only to find the liquid all over the place inside as you arrive at the destination. What a nightmarish scenario that is! 

No matter how careful you are, toiletries that can leak will leak. A great way to avoid this is to keep these items placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Experienced travel experts even recommend cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in order to prevent any possible seepage.

Check the weather forecast while packing 

Depending on where you are going, checking weather forecasts in advance can really do you good by giving you the best idea of what weather to expect on your holiday. For example, if you are travelling to a tropical beach or island, you will need to bring big sized sunscreen not only for your face but for your body as well. Or if you are travelling to a place with cold weather conditions, items like moisturiser, lip balm or hand cream are all essential products to include in your toiletries packing list as winter can be an especially brutal time of the year for your lips, which often get chapped, dry and cracked.

In a nutshell, do a little bit of research on the weather forecast the day before you fly and pack accordingly to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience

Be prepared for extra holiday purchases

When travelling, you are likely to come back from almost every trip with new items such as perfume/cologne, some types of hair care products, cosmetics, or specialty goods as a souvenir to share with friends and family. Therefore, to save space in your luggage for the trip back home, we recommend keeping everything at a minimum number or amount, and using travel-size products so you can feel free to bring any extra holiday purchases when you are about to go back home. 

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials

Double-checks are never enough! 

Your packing list won't be of any use if you don't check it before you leave! So check your toiletries packing list many times to make sure you have everything you need for travel. 

CabinZero Packing Cubes - Best choice for packing Toiletries Item

Travelling can be a life-altering experience and certain elements are required for a smooth and comfortable journey. That being said, it is important to pick the suitable backpack so you won’t have to feel like it is weighing you down. But how can you pick the right one when there are tons of options out there? Don’t worry. We are here to help.

must have toiletries for travel

Here is our breakdown of questions to ask yourself first when it comes to baggage selection:

  • How long is your trip going to be?
  • Which form of transport are you taking?
  • How much do you pack?
  • If you are travelling by plane, what are the expected carry-on bag dimensions?

Here at CabinZero, it is our priority to advocate for our clients with our versatile, minimalist and lightweight packing cubes . We are proud to claim that these products will stay on top of all the point strategies, exclusive offers & pivotal news in the travel industry - and they will definitely lock in huge savings along the way. So keep scrolling and check out one of our best-seller products - The Classic Cabin Cube.

Style and colour

Our products have a number of different styles available, and most of them follow a minimalist, versatile and old school look. The most popular choice is the Absolute Black, but if you opt for something else, the range for another brighter shade is also available. 

Size and Dimension

These packing cubes are perfectly sized to fit inside our 44L, 36L and 28L bags. Each cube has a nylon outer and is fully lined. A convenient grab handle outside the bag is included to make it easier for carrying around. 

  • Volume: 5.5L (Medium), 11L (Large)
  • Weight: 100 grams (approx)(Medium), 150 grams (approx)(Large)
  • Dimensions: 25cm x 17.5cm x 8cm (Medium), 25cm x 35cm x 8cm (Large)
  • Composition, Outer: Nylon Lining: Polyester

Additional Details

Another additional benefit of these products is that each packing cube includes a built-in global luggage tracker, powered by Okoban. So like all our other bags, if you misplace these packing cubes, there is a fair chance you'll find them again within a few days.

What is more, you can also organise your clothes neatly and efficiently using our large packing cube. And if you are travelling by plane, you won’t have to worry so much as our CabinZero luggage is also specifically designed to fit the carry on luggage requirements for the vast majority of airlines.

With such high quality and convenience, we truly think they are the best packing cubes you will find in the market. Invest in these items for a simpler and easier journey so you never have to worry about whether your bag is good to go for any and every situation. Organising the essential toiletries for travel has never been easier!

Got a question? We are here to answer! 

Here are some of the top questions that we get asked the most from our beloved followers about travel toiletries list. If you don’t see your question here, let us know in the comments and we’ll answer from our own experience.

Do packing cubes really save space?

Packing cubes is not the panacea to all of your problems, but they do assist you in staying organised when packing, and our recommended toiletries checklist is sure to help cross out the major packing headache off the list for you. Once you know what toiletries to pack for your trip, you'll always have everything you need at your fingertips.

Should I include a first aid kit in my toiletries?

It depends. A compact first aid pack would be a great addition to your toiletries packing list. You can put it in a Ziploc bag and store it until you need one of the items, but keep in mind this one thing: only pack as much as you’ll need for your trip and nothing more. It is not necessary to carry the entire box of bandaids or rehydration sachets; just a handful of each item is more than enough. Here is the list of thing you need to include:

  • Bite / sting cream
  • Imodium – Anti-diarrheal tablets for any emergency situations!
  • Pain relief – Ibuprofen, panadol or asprin
  • Antacids – Great for those who are big fans of spicy food!
  • Rehydration salts 
  • Vitamin C sachets
  • Throat lozenges
  • Digital thermometer 

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What should I not bring?

Unsealed bottles of liquids 

The last thing you want is to open up your toiletry bag or carry-on only to find a sunscreen or moisturiser all over the place inside! So make sure you tape each bottle closed (may be with a plastic wrap), and then toss your liquids into a waterproof ziplock bag to prevent them from further seepage. 

Bottles that are larger than 3 oz

If you are travelling by plane, keep in mind that the TSA has some pretty strict regulations! Make sure you follow all the liquid rules while packing in attempts to get through the check-in procedures smoothly without throwing anything out.

Flammable items

As mentioned above, TSA rules had quite plenty of requirements for what to include in carry-on bags. So make sure you leave out anything that is flammable from your toiletries bag to avoid unpleasant experiences. Seriously, it is just really a bad idea in general to bring flammable liquids on an aeroplane.

A whole collection of beauty products

Let’s be honest. You don’t need that many products even if you are staying there for months. Be selective about what you are going to bring, pack only essential items according to the weather conditions and definitely leave the “just in case” items at home.

Tip: Go through your daily routine in your head and make use of items that have dual or triple purposes.

Is it better to bring everything I need or to buy toiletries at my destination?

It can be a yes or no, depending on your destination. 

In several regions or countries, the convenience and low local costs for items is much more worth-it than just bringing your own. However, most of the tourist attractions nowadays tend to charge items far higher there than usual, and sometimes you’ll find that you can’t even get what you need easily. So do a little bit of research before your trip if possible. However, our CabinZero team thinks it is best to just pack most of your own stuff in the toiletries bag beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.

Phuong Nguyen

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13 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles: Editor Tested, Leakproof, & Reusable

By Meaghan Kenny

13 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles Editor Tested Leakproof  Reusable

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

Beauty and skincare products like shampoo, moisturizer, and face wash are essential on every packing list , whether you're heading to a hotel or are staying with friends or family. Since buying miniature versions of your favorite products can be expensive—and typically means purchasing a whole lot of single-use plastics—having practical and reliable toiletry travel bottles you can pull out for every trip is a must.

To make sure the reusable bottles we're throwing in our Dopp kit are easy to use and don't leak, we tested out a variety of affordable travel sets to see which ones actually get the job done. Below, you'll find 13 of the best travel toiletry bottles that will protect the contents of your luggage—and all of the creams, soaps, and serums you've shelled out for—and keep you organized on the go. Even better, all of these picks are TSA-friendly in size, so you don't have to worry about any of your favorite products being thrown out at the airport. As an added bonus, many of these travel bottles are available on Amazon Prime, so you can get your hands on them quickly before a last-minute getaway.

How we tested

I scoured the internet to find the most popular travel toiletry bottles—searching a variety of retailers, reading hundreds of reviews, and considering online ratings. After my initial research, I put many reusable toiletry bottles to the test, trying out dozens of options that range in price, size, and design. I've had some of these toiletry bottles for over a year and they've accompanied me on a mix of weeklong vacations in checked luggage and short weekend trips in tightly-packed duffel bags .

Over the last several months, I tested another batch of options: I've filled them with a variety of skincare, hair care, and body products—thick body wash, contact solution, and leave-in conditioner included. I've even left these filled containers upside down overnight to see if there were any unexpected leaks. My findings: There are many great options on the market to choose from and you don't need to break the bank to find the perfect set for you. Below, the best travel toiletry bottles to pack wherever you're headed next .

Our top picks

  • Best overall: Tocelffe 18-Pack travel bottles
  • Best for easy packing: Cadence The Capsule Flex System
  • Best for in-shower products: LiquiSnugs silicone travel bottles
  • Best for perfume: Vonovo mini refillable perfume bottles
  • Best for contact solution: Cauyuan portable contact lens case

Browse reusable bottles for:

Hair and body wash, cleansers and serums, contact lens care, a variety of products.

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

must have toiletries for travel

No matter how organized I try to stay, my bathroom counter at every hotel always becomes cluttered with my many toiletries and hair products . The LiquiSnugs look like your classic silicone travel bottles, but they feature a clever suction cup on the back that allows you to stick them onto any shower wall—freeing up limited counter space. These are great for in-shower products like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. This set of four bottles features two 3-ounce bottles and two 2-ounce bottles, so you can choose how much product you need depending on the length of your trip. Another smart design feature: Twist the top to adjust the label name so you won't forget what's inside. I've had these for about a year now and I consistently reach for these to pack shampoo and conditioner.

Pros : The unique suction cup design makes them great for shower products.

Cons : These occasionally will fall off shower walls if there's not a little bit of water to keep them in place.

must have toiletries for travel

This Amazon bestseller is versatile enough for every type of traveler. The 18-pack from Tocelffe features four silicone bottles of varying size (two 3-ounce bottles and two 2-ounce bottles), four small jars for creams and serums, two spray bottles, two spatulas, a funnel, labels, and a cleaning brush. These all come in a waterproof toiletry bag that you can reuse to carry makeup or tech essentials. In this set, I find myself mostly reaching for the ultra-soft silicone bottles, which are great for products like body wash, face cleanser, and micellar water. Each of these bottles feature three-layer leak-proof tops so you don't have to worry about spills in your bag. Something I love about these bottles is how they can be bent and squeezed easily to get every last bit of product out of them.

Pros: Very affordable, comes in a clear toiletry case, and the bottles' wide opening makes it easy to refill. Cons: The small plastic jars are not as reliable as the silicone bottles in this set.

must have toiletries for travel

If you're just looking for a few affordable no-frills travel bottles, these are for you. Available in a variety of colors, the silicone bottles do just what they say they will. They're leakproof, come in a set of four, and are easy to refill and clean. While there’s no bells and whistles, these three-ounce bottles pleasantly surprised me with just how much product they fit compared to some of the other classic silicone bottles we tested, making them an ideal option for a longer vacation. Plus, these have an average of 4.5 stars on Amazon with over 11,000 global reviews.

Pros: Versatility; available in many colorways

Cons : This set doesn't come with labels or a proper toiletry case.

must have toiletries for travel

Another solid choice for travelers is this set of four 3-ounce silicone travel bottles. These are squeezable, leakproof, and versatile enough to use for everything from shower products and soaps to sauces and baby food. These reusable bottles are all the same size and each a different color so you can differentiate them. Bonus: This set comes in a transparent toiletry case to keep them all organized in.

Pros : This set is available in a dozen colorways; wide opening makes them easy to refill without needing a funnel. Cons : This set doesn't come with labels.

must have toiletries for travel

If you prefer to bring along a bar of soap instead of using what's provided at the hotel, this compact soap box is a great travel companion. Inside, there's a soap mat that absorbs any excess water and prevents the soap from becoming mushy. I've used other plastic soap cases before without a mat and it always leaves a mess. This one features a silicone band that wraps tightly around the box for extra protection, and is about the size of a deck of cards.

Pros : Fits most commonly used soap brands, affordable, and features a simple-to-use design.

Cons : The soap box needs the band to stay secure so be careful not to lose it.

must have toiletries for travel

I've been a fan of Cadence's capsules for a few years now. These leakproof, airtight, and watertight magnetic capsules are unlike any other travel bottles I've used and are a true game changer when it comes to packing your own beauty products. The individual capsules magnetically snap together to take up as little space as possible in your Dopp kit and are designed without any right angles or edges, so you get every last bit of product available.

The original .56-ounce individual capsules are great for weekend trips and storing small items like daily vitamins and safety pins. The Capsule Flex System allows you to customize your own bundle with your choice of small , medium , and large sizes, as well as The Extender —an add-on that allows you to increase the size of the bottle when you need more room. This makes it so easy to customize your travel routine, whether you want to pack extra product for longer trips or bring enough body wash for you and your travel buddy. With The Flex System, you can still choose your own label for each capsule (the labels are interchangeable), as well as the color and number of capsules in your bundle.

Pros : It's easy to get every last drop of product inside each capsule and they are so easy to rinse out and reuse. The custom labels can be swapped out depending on what you're packing.

Cons : These are the most expensive option on our list.

must have toiletries for travel

I was eager to test out the Ries travel bottles after hearing a lot of buzz about the product and seeing them make their way into retailers like Sephora and Goop. These are a more elevated, aesthetically pleasing take on the classic reusable travel bottles you may have used in the past. Ries prioritized sustainability and design with these essentials: Each bottle is made from recycled plastic and features a large opening at the top, which makes it easy to refill and clean (not to mention, they're dishwasher safe). Travelers can purchases these bottles individually (a 3.4-ounce bottle or a 1.7-ounce bottle) or in a set with both sizes . My favorite thing about these bottles is the airless pump—I feel so glamorous while doing my nighttime skincare routine with these, and it makes it easier to use products like face wash or cleanser on the road. The bottles are pre-labeled (shampoo, conditioner, body, face) and you can twist the top to the side to conceal the opening, so product won't spill out.

Pros : Sustainably made; if you prefer a pump, these are for you.

Cons : On the pricier side; the bottles are a bit bulky and take up a little more room in my makeup bag than most travel-size products I use.

must have toiletries for travel

Finally, a solution to my contact lens woes. I can't count the number of times I've stopped into a drugstore to buy a mini bottle of contact lens solution before heading out on a trip, or to pick up rewetting drops because I'm dealing with dry contacts while away from home. This compact case makes cleaning and caring for contacts on the go much easier—it comes with an easy-to-fill reusable dropper that gives me a long weekend's worth of solution, a contact case, and has a mirror to help get them in and out. (I don't like to fly in contacts, so this is particularly handy if I forget to switch to my glasses before leaving home.) It weighs next to nothing, and will fit in all but my smallest handbags, so I've been keeping it on me regularly, not just when traveling. — Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

Pros : It comes with a tiny pair of tweezers to make removing contacts from the case less messy. Cons : The contact solution holder isn't large enough for weeklong trips.

must have toiletries for travel

I admit I've also been guilty of buying mini versions of my favorite contact solution. As much as I love reusable toiletry bottles for my skincare and hair products, I've never had anything that felt right for the consistency of my contact solution. I wear daily lenses, meaning I don't need a whole lot of solution with me when I travel, so it is a little frustrating to carry around a bottle that takes up precious space in my Dopp kit. Lately, I've been carrying about the Cauyuan eye glass case which comes with a super small dropper for contact solution. This refillable dropper holds just enough contact solution for weekend trips and shorter vacations and takes up such little space (I've even found myself tossing it in my handbag in case my eyes get a little dry.) This durable case keeps all of my eye care essentials together and protected, with a separate compartment for eye glasses, and another that holds the dropper, tweezers, a contact case, and a mirror.

Pros : All of my eyewear essentials are now in once place and stay organized; the dropper is small enough to fit in a tiny purse. Cons : The compartment for your eye glasses is on the small size—if you have thick or bulky frames, they might not fit.

must have toiletries for travel

I've never found a reusable spray bottle for my perfume that I've liked, so I've always relied on buying miniature versions of each of my favorite fragrances. But let's be real—those travel-size perfume bottles are expensive! They're often made of glass, too, making them vulnerable to breaking in your luggage. Enter the Vonovo mini refillable perfume bottles: Each of these holds 0.2 ounces of your favorite scent, more than enough for a long vacation. This set comes with five spray bottles, so you can bring along any of your favorites—or all of them. And they are so easy to use—simply pull off the top of your full-size perfume, press the bottom of the mini bottle on top of it, and keep clicking until its refilled. Each of the bottles have a clear vial inside so you can see how much product you have left. My favorite part: These are so tiny—think the size of a lipstick— meaning I can even bring them with me on a date night when I'm only carrying a small purse .

Pros : Easy to refill and compact enough to fit in even the tiniest of travel bags Cons : These spray bottles wont match the look of your full-size perfume and don't have labels, so you'll have to remember based on the color of the mini bottle you choose. Also, these can be refilled with the same perfume, but I wouldn't recommend reusing them with another scent.

must have toiletries for travel

For those with a more rigid skincare or haircare routine, this 16-pack lets you bring along every last product you want—and it all fits into one reusable case. The set comes with four silicone bottles, four jars, two spray bottles, two scoopers, a funnel, and a cleaning brush. The variety means you can pack everything from soap and shampoo to serums and sprays in here, and the cleaning brush makes the bottles easy to clean and re-use. I like this set best for packing my more expensive skincare serums and creams in the small jars that have a scooper to use.

Pros : A variety of types of containers

Cons : The toiletry case the bottles come in isn't the best quality.

must have toiletries for travel

The Kitsch Ultimate travel set includes leakproof holders that are compact and lightweight enough to pack in a purse or tote bag . In addition to three flat pouches, this set also comes with two pump bottles, two mini jars, one mini funnel, one mini spatula, and one mini pipette. This set is best for a longer trip—say, a European vacation or a cross-country road trip —as you can store a lot more shampoo, conditioner, and lotions in the pouches without going over any TSA limits (plus, they'll get lighter as you use them).

Pros : The flat pouches are easy to pack and take up less room in a Dopp kit than bulkier bottles.

Cons : The pouches are a little bit harder to refill than bottles with a wide opening.

must have toiletries for travel

If you're packing toiletries for your entire family , this 21-pack of travel bottles has you covered. This package comes with four silicone bottles, four cream jars, four toothbrush covers, two spray bottles, two pump bottles, two trowels, a funnel, and labels to keep everything straight. Whether it's a trip to Disney World or multi-generational cruise , this set makes packing for the whole family easy.

Pros : These come with toothbrush covers–a nice travel accessory that none of the other options on our list offers.

Cons : Not ideal for weekend trips or light packers.

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Jennifer Connolly-A Well Styled Life Logo

Complete Packing List of Travel Toiletries

It’s taken me years to feel like I’ve mastered a well-stocked toiletry bag. I plan carefully to ensure I have everything I need to look and feel my best on a trip, from my favorite skincare and makeup to essential medicines and first aid items. Here’s a packing list of travel toiletries you may find handy for your next trip.

belt bag and hand sanitizer

If you travel often, you can buy seconds of all of your favorite items and keep your toiletry bag packed and ready to throw into your suitcase. I’m not that organized… but that concept has always appealed to me 😀

A reader asked a few weeks ago how I bring all my hair and skin products since I only travel with carry-on luggage. The trick is using travel-sized items because the TSA’s rules on liquids just limit the volume in each bottle, not how many tiny bottles, so I bring small containers.

Essential Travel Toiletries for Women

Shower toiletries.

  • It’s easy to bring your favorite shampoo, conditioner, and body wash with you by transferring them into these TSA-approved containers.
  • A mini razor (or you can bring your regular-sized one!)
  • Shaving cream

Laundry Essentials

  • To keep my clothes neat and tidy while in the airport, on the airplane, or exploring a new city, I make sure that I keep a mini lint roller or my preferred travel gleener and Tide To Go on me.
  • Wash clothes on the go no matter your amenities – sink, bathtub, or washer – using these Sink Suds packets. They have been a life-saver a couple of times to quickly wash and hang dry items. Tide also makes a version that you can use as well!
  • Prevent wardrobe malfunctions by placing one of these mini tins of fashion tape in your toiletry bag. I go nowhere without these little miracle workers and even keep a tin in my car.
  • Portable Clothes Steamer
  • Portable Fabric Shaver

Skincare, Hair, and Nail Toiletries

  • Hairdryer: Most hotels supply them, but to be safe, you can pack a mini and put it in a bag like this .
  • Curling Iron or Flat Iron: Make sure if you are traveling internationally that you have one that’s dual voltage.
  • Hairspray: I shared in this post all about how I take care of my thinning hair and the products that I use.
  • Moisturizer
  • Lip Balm : While you can usually pick this up when you’re traveling, it’s always when you need it the most that you don’t have it.
  • Serums, toners, etc., that you use
  • Manicure Set
  • If my nail polish chips while I’m on a trip, I use these wipes to remove the polish!

Makeup Products

This is going to vary from woman to woman, depending on how complex your routine is. My routine is the same whether home or away…it’s just a habit, so I always pack the same things. These are my current favorites you’ll find in my travel makeup bag:

  • Foundation- I love this Oxygenetix and have been using it for years…I wear “opal”
  • Concealer – I just ordered this Illia concealer to try after I had to replace my eye makeup
  • Blush- this Merit blush goes on beautifully…I use “cheeky”
  • Lipstick- I bring several lipsticks and always include one of the Jane Iredale lip stain s
  • Eyebrow Pencil- I always use Anastasia…this brow definer in taupe is my current fav
  • Eyeliner- loving this Charlotte Tilbury soft pencil in smokey grey
  • Eyeshadow – I rebought this Naked 2 Basics palette after my eye infection because it is simply perfect for me
  • Mascara- loving this Pillow Talk mascara by Charlotte Tilbury
  • Makeup Brush travel kit , I love how soft these are

Hygiene and Medicine Essentials

  • Personal First Aid Kit : I love that this portable 10 piece first aid kit comes in a small pack. Throw one in your car, your purse, your suitcase. You never know when you will need one.
  • Bandaids: While your standard bandaids come in the pack above, I would suggest buying the blister bandaids just in case. They make a world of difference with the extra cushion.
  • Underarm Deodorant Wipes : These can be a lifesaver to have in your purse and refresh with after a long flight.
  • Toothbrush and toothbrush protector
  • Hand Sanitizer Spray or my favorite Wipes
  • Disinfectant Spray
  • Bug Spray or wipes…I use these natural Deet-free wipes
  • Sunscreen: You can read this post with all of my favorite sunscreens here .
  • Daily Medicines
  • Tylenol, Ibuprofen, etc: In case of a headache, toothache, sore back, you will be glad you have a pain reliever with you.
  • Antihistamines: Especially if you suffer from seasonal or food allergies.
  • I always bring anti-nausea and anti-diarrheal medicines because nothing is worse than battling an upset stomach on an airplane or a long car ride.
  • Poo-Pourri Spray : You may not need this, but I guarantee it will get used if you leave it in the bathroom.

Well-Designed Toiletry Bags

must have toiletries for travel

This bag looks ingenious and may need to be mine . Hanging toiletry bags are just so convenient and keep the bathroom countertop clear while you’re getting ready. This one has room for all of my essentials. If you’re going on a shorter trip and don’t need as much storage space, this one is great.

must have toiletries for travel

The two side compartments are perfect for storing items you need to grab quickly, like hand sanitizer, pain medicine, band-aids, and other things you may need to grab to use while you’re still en route to your destination whether it’s at the airport or on the road. I like to place those items in small clear bags like these .

More Travel Toiletries for Women:

What are some of your “must take” items when you travel?

64 Comments

Wonderful and thorough post! I’m sure I’ll be referring back to it many times. When I saw the toiletry bag, it reminded me of hanging garment bags, and from time to time you ask what you can help with. I need to store away a number of winter coats and jackets and I don’t have lots of extra space for them. Any suggestion would be welcome. I don’t know if that would be of general interest, but just an idea.

I hang mine in garment bags in our guest room closet.

As a firm believer that you should never carry on unless you can lift it into and out of the overhead bin yourself, alas, I’m now relegated to checking my bag.

Jennifer, do you have a printable available for this list?

I’m sorry I don’t but that’s a great idea!

Jennifer – It was spooky when I opened your email today. We are flying to Texas for our grandson’s 7th birthday soon, and for the 1st time I am trying to go carry on bag only, and this morning had begun researching and planning how to get the toiletries I need ready. Voila! You had a post about this very thing. You are a treasure, and I thank you for all the time and effort you put into helping others.

Have a fabulous trip!!

Great list of travel essentials. Liked the manicure set but the scissors will need to be removed and placed in your checked baggage as TSA will confiscate scissors when your carry-on items are screened. Learned this the hard way; wanted to cry while I watched my favorite small pair of Henckels scissors confiscated and thrown in the trash.

A big shout out for Compeed, which you have pictured at the bottom of the post, saved many a vacation for me. They are gel pads that will stick to your skin. I had a blister on the sole of my foot in Italy and these saved the day! The pads, if carefully applied, will stay on for several days. I always have them when I travel and my medicine cupboard at home. First discovered them in Italy, they are available in many European countries.

Like some other readers, I am very curious about how much all the things on your list would weigh.

Unless I’m traveling for a formal event I go personal size only. We always stay places with laundry facilities. I buy health and beauty aids at a dollar store at my destination. I can go a week or two without my “gear”. I’m very low maintenance.

I use single dose shampoo and conditioner discs that I love. I bought them for traveling, but now use them regularly. They are called Gemz at shopgemz.com. I cut them in half, as a whole one is too much for my hair (Jennifer’s length and thick).

They sound brilliant!

Jennifer,do you take an adapter for the clothes steamer,for countries that don’t have 120V outlets. Thanks for all the great travel info,I have already ordered from some of the links! I have a daughter that lives in Brussels, Belgium,so when we go to visit her,these items will come in handy!

I do not, but I haven’t taken mine overseas. I think it’s a very good idea to bring one when traveling internationally.

Thanks for this post; I do use a eco friendly and moisturizing hand sanitizer on every trip because I use it to spray other things. I get it from Germstar.com online. Save the planet!

Brilliant post! I leave in a week for a river cruise, and am already packing! One clarification is that all of 3 oz bottles of liquid have to fit in your quart size TSA clear bag, so you are “limited” to about nine.

Yes, mine all fit in a quart bad. Tiny bottles are the answer.

I now subscribe to sheets laundry club. No liquid or powder to travel with. They are the same size of dryer sheets just thicker. I throw them in a ziploc bag and I don’t have to worry about spillage. When we all had to wear masks and travel ( I am a Travel Agent) I could easily tear off a portion of the sheet and wash my face mask in the sink.

I’ve never heard of those. What a great idea. Thanks for sharing them.

I love those too. They take up so little room in my laundry cabinet too and seem better for the environment!! XOXO Jodie

I always travel carry-on only plus one personal item bag. I wear minimal makeup anyway, so usually only bring a pressed powder, eyebrow product, blush and lip gloss. I do have to bring a 10x mirror so I can see to apply these though. I also make sure to bring a microfiber cloth to clean my eyeglasses. Skincare products are the ones I use daily, just decanted to smaller containers. I’m becoming less high maintenance the older I get!

I forgot to add the magnifying mirror. I go nowhere without one now 🤣

Oh my, this post is terrific! And great timing since we’re traveling May 1 for the first time in 4 years. I can’t go ‘carry on’ only because we’ll be gone several weeks but at my age I can’t lug around a 50 lb suitcase either so I’m determined to streamline my packing and your tips are a great help. Thank you so much!

I hear you. It’s so much easier to check a bag. Have a wonderful trip, Isabelle.

I dispense my cream foundation and blush into contact lens cases. I don’t wear much foundation but find these work well and are leak proof! Anything that I use only a bit of goes in one of those. They’re tiny enough to get a lot of them in that TSA bag. I love to shop for cosmetics when overseas, so I generally buy lip balm, moisturizer, etc while I’m there, not big sizes. I carry adaptor plugs, two or three of them. My curling iron is mini size. Almost everyone has hairdryers now, so I don’t carry one. We share toothpaste and floss between my husband and me, as well as hair brushes, tweezers, first aid stuff. I never travel without a few OTC drugs. Pharmacists are more than happy to assist you in Europe (it’s been my experience as have gotten sick a couple times in France). Most places we rent (apartments) have washer and dryers too. I use a sheet detergent with fabric softener in it. Works well. Looking forward to the next trip. I always travel to the destination carryon only even for two weeks. However, I also pack a large duffel to check for purchases while there. I’ve only had to wait for for luggage to arrive one time and it was fine.

The contact lens case is brilliant! Stealing that idea.

I put OTC drugs in a daily pill organize. I label each section with a sharpie as to what is in it.

Love your columns, Jennifer. I always pack a small bottle of aloe vera gel…for the bug bite or sudden breakout…

Great idea!

I love this topic! I could write a book on minimalist packing. As a long-time frequent traveller due to family geography and before we retired, business trips, I’ve learned that every trip needs are different so I have lists” for all types of scenarios. Our eldest lives in Australia and our youngest now in Montana (and before that Germany). My husband’s family is in India and in Sweden so how’s that for a contrast in packing needs? That being said, I start out by thinking what would I absolutely need in the middle of the night and couldn’t get to a pharmacy or store or wouldn’t want to wake up my host to ask for it. So I pack a lot of the essentials you’ve listed, but in the smallest quantity I can. You don’t need multiples of so many of these “just in case” items. Also on longer trips when I want or have to do carry on only, I pack for a day or two of supplies, and then hit a pharmacy or grocery store for whatever I may need on the rest of our trip. We went to Sicily for a month with our best friends and because of the small trunk situation with the rental car, the 4 of us had to bring only the smallest carry-ons and 1 tote each. The day after we landed, we hit the open air market in Palermo and bought our shampoos, conditioners, SPF, soaps, etc. It was fun, cheap and we could leave whatever we didn’t need or want by the end of our trip. I also have the perfect travel make-up routine. Chanel CC Cream with SPF 50 that does double duty, a Bobbi Brown or Laura Mercier eyeshadow stick, a wind-up eyeliner and lip liner, brow gel, mascara, 1 lipgloss, 1 lipstick, my Hourglass palette that has blush, bronzer and finishing powder, plus a few retractable brushes I’ve collected over the years. It all fits in one small pouch. I’ve found that unless we’re traveling to attend a very special event, I like a fast and easy make-up routine. I do keep a stash of the foil samples you get from Sephora and other beauty counters, but tend use them for overnights or very short trips. I have TSA approved scissors for those because sometimes tearing them open is a challenge! Sorry to be so long here, but it’s a topic I can totally relate to. Have a wonderful weekend.

Brilliant ideas, thank you for sharing, Suzanne! Please share your TSA scissors. I don’t have a pair and need them.

Susan, Your last sentence had me laughing. I totally agree with you!

My response was to the Susan who mentioned packing her pillow and sheets and maybe she should just stay home.

This is really helpful info! I try to keep certain things in my travel bag and then just add travel size for other items. I have more meds then anything and those have to be carried on no matter what!

I agree. My meds never ever leave my side. Including my supplements which get packed with my meds.

Jennifer, I recommend to anyone (over 65) travelling overseas to take with them Paxlovid and antibiotics. Europe is packed to the gills with tourists, very few, if anyone is a wearing a mask. I was extremely careful during my month away, sanitising and wore a mask on planes, trains and inside venues, but still caught noravirus in Italy and was bedridden for 4 days. One day after returning home, I became ill with Covid. Thankfully, because I had my box of Paxlovid, I could start them immediately. I believe anti virals are not easy to obtain in Europe – but is anyone still taking Covid seriously?

I see some people wearing masks but not many. No one wore them in Mexico but we wore ours in close quarters while in the airport and on the plane. I’m sorry you got so sick. Great suggestion to have Paxlovid.

This is a great post full of many good suggestions and ideas. I would love to see how all of these items get packed (arranged) into your cosmetic bag and how much it weighs when full. Also it would be great to see how you pack your carry-on suitcase and the weight of that when full. Are you able to lift it into the overhead bin on the airplane unassisted? I am a frequent traveler by plane, train and automobile. Always striving to be as efficient with my packing as possible. Love all your suggestions.

I am able to lift it but always appreciate when a neighboring traveler assists. They always seem to lately. Both men and younger people. It must be the silvering hair 🤣

I add portable travel waterpik, portable travel electric toothbrush, tiny free perfume samples. I transfer all makeup into tiny containers, or use sample size mascara, travel shower cap, tiny sewing kit with mini scissors, safety pins, earplugs! Eye mask for sleeping. Small packable nylon grocery bag for Europe grocery pick up. Wash cloth, European rentals don’t include wash cloths.

Great tips!

Thanks for this. I’m packing for a trip now and don’t want to forget my first aid kit or sani wipes. BTW, a waving out a lit match is much easier than a poo spray.

Matches are hard to come by these days. Safe travels!

Thanks! Any hardware or grocery store has matches — at least in New England. I’m a luddite who lights candles the old fashioned way LOL

But I don’t want to minimize the difficulty of traveling with matches!

Hi Jennifer, I don’t usually make comments but I always enjoy your posts. I just read your new post about comfortable shoes. I also have foot issues and have one pair of sneakers I wear with orthotics all of the time and with every outfit. It sure would be nice to some different looks. I also have a narrow foot and most of what is made is medium with some wide. How about passing along to Easy Spirit and other shoe contacts that we with narrow feet buy shoes too. Thanks. Kris

If only brands listened to us!! I wish they did. I’ll keep my eye out for narrow shoes too for you.

Great list, Jennifer. I’m always envious of people who can travel with only a carryon.

One of my “must take” items when I’m staying in a hotel is a small spray bottle of Lysol, for disinfecting the bathroom floor and tub before I take my shoes off, as I have a lifelong repulsion at the thought of catching athlete’s foot.

Happy Passover.

Interesting idea! I wear the hotel slippers if they have them. I hate walking on rugs or floors barefoot. Happy Passover, Kelly. We’ve been invited to attend a Seder this evening and are looking forward to it.

Good morning Jennifer, great post today 🙂🙂 Happy Easter💐

Happy Easter, Pat 🌷

This is a great post, thank you. Susan, I am with you and wish we could travel lighter but as we aged, my husband and I have a bag for medications alone. I do envy those that pack light. Road trips make it easier to bring what we need or may need 🙂. It’s ridiculous what we pack and a challenge to improve for future trips. Happy travels!

Happy Easter Jennifer. Keep up the good work with your helpful,posts

I am confused, even with the small container size, all our liquids have to fit into a quart sized clear bag. That includes makeup as well. I had a friend travelling with me who had some of her things taken because she was using a clear makeup bag, and then had to move it all into a bag that was supplied by the airport. You have the option to put it in your checked baggage, but if you are only carry on then it goes in the garbage. I did lose a small face mist this way. They told me I could take it back out to my car… ha, as if I would leave the line. When I take a checked bag, I can take all my favorite things and the sunscreens alone are worth it. As mentioned already, the 5 pound carry on limit makes it impossible to go that way for me. Even purse size was limited last flight. Remember the good old days. I do still enjoy dressing nicely to travel though.

I transfer my foundation to a tiny sample container like they give you at makeup counters. I never include my makeup in the plastic quart size bag. I had a serum taken once, but it was over the size limit. Some airports are stricter than others. I agree, I miss the old days.

Such great tips and ideas Jennifer! I have done a lot of traveling and recently have gone to a carry on only! This is challenging for me as I tend to pack heavy and I have many products I use that have to come with me! Thank you for all the ideas on travel size products and also the makeup ideas!

I envy those who can do ‘carry on’ only. My toiletries and medications alone on my recent 4 week overseas holiday weighed 4 kgs and as hand luggage has a weight limit of 7kgs, I had to check on my bags (except medications). My ‘must have’ items are just about everything I use on a regular basis and have come to realize, as I packed my pillow (and a top sheet, in case the hotel didn’t use 100% cotton bed linen), I should really stay home.

I’ve sure thought of bringing my pillow too. I hear you Susan.

Jennifer, this is one of the best curated and most helpful blog posts I have ever read! For us travelers, these suggestions are priceless. Thank you for sharing with us.

I’m glad it’s helpful, Nicole.

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18 Travel-Size Toiletries AFAR Staffers Always Pack

These are the must-have travel toiletries we take with us wherever we go..

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18 Travel-Size Toiletries AFAR Staffers Always Pack

Use Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate for extra facial hydration.

Courtesy of Kiehl’s

Toiletries can be a pain to pack. Unless you’ve mastered a bunch of life hacks—or love checking a ton of full-size toothpaste and shampoo into your luggage—it can be a hassle to find travel-size items that will keep you feeling fresh on the road. To make your next trip a little easier, AFAR staffers share the tried-and-true travel-size toiletries—all 3.4 ounces or less—that they always bring in their dopp kits .

Glossier Stretch Concealer

Buy now: $18, glossier.com.

“I love this concealer so much I bought a second that always stays in my travel toiletry bag. It covers dark circles under my eyes—which are inevitable after a red-eye flight—but isn’t so thick that it feels like I’m wearing gobs of makeup on a plane. It comes in 12 shades, plus it’s cruelty free. ” — Lyndsey Matthews, destination news editor

Supergoop Invincible Setting Powder SPF 45

Buy now: $30, nordstrom.com.

“Instead of packing a makeup brush and container of loose powder, I always have one of these Supergoop 2-in-1 setting powders in my toiletry kit. Takes up way less space and also includes SPF 45 for more protection.” — L.M.

Gucci Bloom Fragrance Roller

Buy now: $34, ulta.com.

“I always have my Gucci Bloom fragrance roller; it’s the perfect pick-me-up when you don’t have time to freshen up after your travels.” — Laney Boland, luxury sales manager

Tiger Balm can relieve itching from mosquito bites.

Tiger Balm can relieve itching from mosquito bites.

Courtesy of Haw Par Healthcare Limited

Buy Now: $12, amazon.com

“I do not travel without Tiger Balm. It is hands down the best product for mosquito bites. It relieves the itching and—I swear—makes them go away faster.” — Maggie Fuller, associate editor

Lucas’ Papaw Ointment

“Made in Australia, Lucas’ Papaw Ointment is a real workhorse of an ointment—it can soothe any travel ailment, from a rash to mosquito bites—packed into a small, smart-looking package.” — Aislyn Greene, senior editor

Aesop’s Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash won’t dry out your hands the way other hand sanitizers might.

Aesop’s Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash won’t dry out your hands the way other hand sanitizers might.

Courtesy of Aesop

Aesop Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash

Buy now: $10, nordstrom.com.

“I’m very attached to Aesop’s Resurrection Rinse-Free Hand Wash. It’s aromatic (citrus with some earthy notes) but not overwhelming and won’t dry you out like a lot of other hand sanitizers do. Plus, you can dab some on a paper towel to sanitize your armrests and tray.” — A.G.

Not Your Mother’s Dry Shampoo

Buy now: $3, ulta.com.

“Not Your Mother’s Dry Shampoo keeps you looking fresh without having to wash your hair every day while traveling—plus, you can get it travel-sized.” — Anique Halliday, product director

Olaplex Hair Perfector No. 3 Repairing Treatment

Buy now: $28, sephora.com.

“At 3.3 ounces, this cult-favorite hair treatment fits in your carry-on toiletry kit and will help save color-treated hair from any damage you’ll do to it while swimming in drying salt water or chlorine-filled pools.” — L.M.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate is carry-on friendly at 1.7 ounces.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate is carry-on friendly at 1.7 ounces.

Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate

Buy now: $75, kiehls.com.

“I use Kiehl’s Midnight Recovery Concentrate for moisture every night and on long-haul flights after I’m done with my eye masks. By nature it’s carry-on friendly—only 1.7 ounces—and it just feels luscious. Three drops can give your face all the hydration it needs.” — A.H.

Sephora Collection Eye Masks

Buy now: $5, sephora.com.

“The Sephora Collection eye masks ensure you emerge from your 16-hour flight looking better than you feel. I slap them on, moisturize, put in earplugs, and I’m down for the rest of the flight.” — A.H.

Thayers witch hazel with aloe vera comes in pad format, so it won't take up room in your baggie of liquids.

Thayers witch hazel with aloe vera comes in pad format, so it won’t take up room in your baggie of liquids.

Courtesy of Amazon

Thayers Witch Hazel Astringent Pads

Buy now: $9, ulta.com.

“I use the bottled formula of Thayers witch hazel with aloe vera at home, but on the road, the pad format gives me one less thing to worry about in my baggie of liquids. I use them as toner after washing my face—strong enough to keep me breakout-free, gentle enough that my skin doesn’t dry out. They’re also good for bug bites and other skin irritations.”— Nicole Antonio, managing editor

Aesop Aromatique Hand Balm

Buy now: $30, bloomingdales.com.

“Aromatique hand balm is super-hydrating—the perfect thing to apply after using that moisture-sapping hand soap in airplane bathrooms.” — A.G.

Use Evian facial spray after a long plane ride for some much-needed hydration.

Use Evian facial spray after a long plane ride for some much-needed hydration.

Evian Facial Spray

Buy now: $23 for three 1.7 oz. bottles, ulta.com.

“One of my favorite travel beauty toiletries is Evian facial spray. I might feel like a dried out twig when I get off the plane but at least I won’t look like one!” — Christine Corvalan, digital sales planner

Sun Bum Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50

Buy now: $15, ulta.com.

“For warm-weather trips, this is my go-to sunscreen. The zinc-based formula is reef friendly, but doesn’t leave that dreaded white sheen behind like other mineral formulas. Plus, this bottle of sunscreen is small enough to pack in your TSA-approved plastic baggie for carry-on-only types.” — L.M.

Quip toothbrushes are both compact and visually appealing.

Quip toothbrushes are both compact and visually appealing.

Courtesy of Quip

Quip Toothbrush

Buy now: $40, getquip.com.

“I’ve been traveling with my Quip toothbrush for the past two years and love that it’s both compact and easy on the eyes. It’s not as powerful as, say, a Sonicare, but it offers a timed brushing experience (buzzing for four intervals of 30 seconds), which keeps me from getting lazy on the road.” — A.G.

Marvis travel-size toothpaste is available in a three pack on Amazon for $15.

Marvis travel-size toothpaste is available in a three pack on Amazon for $15.

Marvis Toothpaste

Buy now: $15, amazon.com.

“I know spending more than $1 on travel-size toothpaste is ridiculous, but I stayed at a hotel once that included a 1.3-ounce tube of the Italian cult brand Marvis in their amenity kit. I took it home with me and it lasted through my next three trips. You can pick up a three pack on Amazon for $15 (and it makes for great gifts!).” — L.M.

Japanese Tenugui Cloth

Buy now: $20, amazon.com.

“I have a Japanese tenugui cloth that is always in my toiletry case. I use one every day to keep my hair back while I’m washing my face, and when I’m traveling it’s a great backup to have on hand: It’s an impromptu shower cap, a washcloth, and I’ve even used it once as a towel in an emergency at a hostel. (They’re also beautiful gifts if you need souvenirs from Japan.)” — Chris Pacheco, data analytics manager

MakeUp Eraser

“Instead of packing a whole bunch of makeup remover wipes, which can take up space and are really wasteful, I always take along one of these MakeUp Eraser cloths. All you have to do is wet the cloth and it magically wipes away even the most long-lasting makeup.” —Ciera Velarde, newsletter engagement editor

This article originally appeared online in February 2019; it was updated on October 25, 2019, to include current information.

>>Next: 9 Essential Tips to Help You Get Better Sleep on a Plane

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must have toiletries for travel

A Travel Toiletries Guide and Item List For Travelers

travel toiletries bag

Traveling is just like celebrating life. Choosing and packing travel toiletries is such a task. When it comes to packing travel toiletries, something or the other is left behind.

Once you reach your destination, you realize you have left behind the most basic or essential thing, and you start panicking.

To avoid this unnecessary panic, everybody needs a full-proof checklist for travel toiletries handy before packing their luggage. This checklist will surely assist in reminding what you need or what to avoid .

Almost all of you have packed your toiletries bag many times before a trip. Whether it’s a business trip or personal trip, toiletries are the essential belongings one needs to have. Every single time no matter how much attention you packed your luggage, you would have forgotten some small but most essential toiletries essential.

Even the most attentive person can make this unwanted mistake. So today, to help and remind you with every big to small essentials, we are presenting you with the ultimate guide to travel toiletries. We assure you will never forget any of the important things after you follow our tips and tricks below.

Page Contents

What is Travel Toiletries

Before we jump into the ultimate guide, lets first define toiletries. Travel T oiletries are the essentials for travelling people needed to clean, groom, or take care of our bodies — for example, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and many others. Toiletries can be from basic needs like toothbrush, soap, hairbrush, or it can be a little more like dry shampoo, loofah, and eye cream. Whether small or big, every toiletry is essential to us.

travel-toiletries-for female

This article will help you to plan what you should carry while traveling and how to pack those toiletries securely. We will discuss a step by step suggested planning process.

Here we will also provide a toiletries list, carry on toiletries, travel size container options, and how to downsize your makeup and skincare.

List of Travel Toiletries [Must Have Before Travelling]

  • Conditioner
  • Face Moisturizer
  • Body Moisturizer
  • Body Powder
  • Hygiene Wash
  • Tampons/sanitary pads
  • Shaving Cream
  • Leave-in Conditioner
  • Dry Shampoo
  • Hair Styling Gel/spray
  • Hair Smoothing Cream
  • Hand Moisturizer
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Nail Polish
  • Nail Polish Remover
  • Styling Brush/Comb
  •  Flat/curling iron
  • Lens/ lens solution

travel toiletries for man

You can add other essentials things to this List if required.

All these toiletries should a man have while travelling.

Now once you have the List of all the things that you use in your day to day life, create two sections in front of you: Firstly, eliminate the not so essential toiletries then try if you can downsize the ones you feel are the utmost importance for you to carry. This is a complete list of basic toiletries.

How To Pack T ravel T oiletries Efficiently

The first and most crucial step before you start packing your toiletries is:

Preparation and planning

toiletries travel

Start by preparing a list of essentials you require in your day to day routine. We will provide you a similar one below. Now lay down all the daily care, skincare, grooming, and makeup products which you use daily before you. Place all these products into two categories.

Required and not required. One thing in your mind whether you would be willing to use the shampoo, soap, moisturizer, and a few other items provided by the hotel? If yes, then great, you can eliminate these products from your List. If no, don’t worry, you can take all your essentials in small containers according to how much quantity you will require throughout the trip. Below the toiletries list for ladies that you need for a holiday?

Eliminate and downsize

  • To eliminate wax strips and other similar things, get your wax and eyebrows before you start the trip. Do not downsize on majors as they can prove to be a sudden savior for you. 
  • Take a 2 in 1 hair styling tool instead of packing up separates. (curling-strainer duo).
  • Take a foldable comb/brush + mirror to save up space a little. 
  • Get done your nails and hairstyling before leaving for the trip. It will save you time + products while you can enjoy your vacation without making many efforts. Make sure to carry one nail polish in case your nails get chipped.
  • Contact your hotel, Airbnb, or any other accommodation before to know what toiletries products they offer. Most of the time, hotel toiletries and Airbnb toiletries consist of many useful things that you can eliminate from packing.
  • Try looking for 2 in 1 shampoo + conditioner to save up space. A sunscreen + moisturizer can downsize on your product list too. You can fill these into small travel containers according to how much you will require. 
  • You can downsize your foundation, moisturizer, and other liquid products into small containers. 
  • Carry nail wipes instead of liquid nail polish removers. You can also eliminate a few of the liquids and instead take wipes to replace them. 
  • Eliminate your regular skincare bottles and replace them with travel packs available of different brands like the moisturizer, serum, perfumes, and others. In case you do not find their travel packs transfer them into small containers.

Secure packing tips

  • Do not fill the containers to the neck with liquid or gel. Make sure you only fill 2/3rd of 75% to avoid spilling. 
  • Place a small kitchen plastic wrap over the opening and then secure the cap. It will save the fluid from spilling out. 
  • Invest in proper travel containers, travel kits instead of fancy one-time use ones.
  • Do not overpack. Most of the cities and countries would surely have the toiletries you use in case you run out of them. 

What are Aircraft Friendly Toiletries

travel toiletries

Boxed Water is Better and made with paper and 100% recycle. Before you start planning for your trip, one of the crucial things is to know what you are allowed to take with your luggage in aircraft . Below are the general rules over all the aircraft. We advise you to always prior check the airlines’ official websites for any specific products. 

Checked toiletries: things that are in compartments bigger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters (paying little heed to sum) ought to be in checked stuff.

Carryon or cabin toiletries: aircraft necessitate that fluid items are close to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), and all containers must fit in a transparent quart-size Ziplock pouch when going with carryon luggage. Fluids, vaporizers, gels, creams, and pastes have to get packed inside the quart-sized Ziplock pouch. All these toiletries you can take on a plane.

What are the best travel toiletries bag

The secret of traveling is to pack enough but light. Before you even decide what toiletries to pack, the most important thing is to find the right travel-sized toiletries bag. It can be as versatile as you need it to be, but it must also all your necessities while fitting well in your pocket.

Now before you buy such a carryon toiletries bag, you must first think of the length of your trip and all those considerations impact which bag is best for you to carry alongside.

The most important thing before you buy such travel bags is to invest in a good quality bag that will support you in long runs. Before going behind those fancy toiletries bag, make sure they are of good quality and durable. Pick up a lightweight, versatile, and big enough bag that would support you for at least a few years of traveling.

Try toiletries bottles

Invest in some suitable quality travel-sized containers. Buy a range of sizes like 1oz, 2oz, 3oz, or little jars. These 1oz or 2oz containers will help to take only the moderate amount you would require. Try looking for plastic containers instead of the glass ones as glass would weight more and could break in a situation. 

Once you have shortlisted the final toiletries try fitting them in a pouch or, if required, use multiple-use products like 2 in 1s. 

Also Read:   Can I Take An Umbrella On A Plane

For a long trip, do not pack full-sized toiletries instead of googling it whether the products you use are available to the city or country you are traveling. A lot of toiletries are familiar around places. 

basic toiletries

Final words

Bookmark this ultimate guide to travel toiletries. It’ll serve as a remembrance guide for you to know what to pack. Whether for an international trip, a short vacation, or even a long-planned trip. It will help you to pick everything you might want to pack. The must-have items for vacation and travel essentials to make your trip run more smoothly.

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Hi, I'm Bhavesh Bhati thanks for visiting my blog! I've been traveling and exploring epic locations around the world for the last four years. I'm always looking for real adventures like treks, waterfalls, and Offroading!

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must have toiletries for travel

How to Pack Toiletries for Travel Like a Pro

Toiletries may be a final packing detail, but there’s no doubt they are an imperative part of  any trip, near or far . Yet when the drawers that contain your face and body essentials look like a cluttered apothecary from days gone by, it’s time for a lesson in how to pack your travel toiletries kit like a pro — you’ve got this. 

What Are Toiletries? 

Toiletries are those essential grooming items that keep you clean, groomed, and polished. 

( Fun fact: Before there were what we call toiletry bags, there was the “Dopp kit,” which was created by a man named Jerome Harris, nephew of leather goods designer Charles Doppelt. The bags grew in popularity during the Second World War when the Army gave them out to the soldiers — sir, yes, sir!)

How to Pack Your Travel Toiletries

Choose the right sized toiletries bag.

If you’re only going on a weekend getaway, there’s no need to bring a large toiletries bag. Something like the Briggs & Riley  Everyday Essentials Kit  will do. If you are going on a longer journey, however, something like our  Deluxe Hangable Kit allows you to pack more items in a smart, compacted fashion. 

Think About Your Agenda

Not only do you want to think about your normal daily routine, but what is your agenda going to look like on your trip? For example, if you’re going skiing you may want to bring a stronger sunscreen and a protective face and lip balm for when you’re on the slopes. Camping? Then there’s no need to bring enough makeup for a photo shoot when you’re going to be chilling in the wilderness. Use common sense here. Also, consider which items you can leave behind because they will be supplied at your destination. We’re talking about shower gel, lotion, soap, Q-tips, and even shampoo and conditioner if you can part with your faves. Ditch those “just in case” items. If something comes up and you really need one of those things, you can always buy it later on. 

How to Pack Your Toiletries Kit for Air Travel

Remember the tsa-rules.

If you’re  bringing a carry-on remember the numbers 3-1-1. This means you can only pack toiletries with a volume no greater than 3.4 ounces and packed in a one-quart bag, one bag per person. Even if you’re checking a bag, don’t use that as an excuse to bring a huge can of hairspray, your full-sized cleanser, and a heavy glass jar of night cream, which leads us to our next point...

Transfer Products into Travel-Friendly Containers

Not only are refillable travel bottles good for the environment, but they prevent you from taking more product than you really need. Don’t forget to label them with a smear-proof marker or pen. Look for quality bottles that are leak-proof — because  cleaning shampoo off your luggage , clothing, accessories is never fun. Alternatively, you can look for solid product options such as a cleansing balm, stick perfume, shampoo bar, etc. For products like deodorant, shaving gel, and toothpaste, purchase travel-friendly sizes.

Save Samples

Hold on to those perfume, cologne, hair, body, and skincare samples you get when you purchase something or are browsing through the store. They can minimize what you need to bring with adding virtually no extra weight. 

Helpful Tips for Packing Toiletries

Double down.

While you may not be a fan of a shampoo and conditioner in one (and if you are, great), do consider taking along products with dual purposes so you don’t have to pack as much. For example, a lipstick and blush combo, an oil that can be used from head to toe (think argan oil), a BB cream that’s also an SPF, an overnight mask that doubles as a moisturizer, a cleansing cream that can also be used as a shaving balm, a hair and body wash in one — you get the gist. 

Get Organized

Any of our toiletry bags can help you stay organized. Take advantage of the compartments and pack items in places that make sense. So, perhaps all of your skincare in one area, grooming in another, etc. This way it’s easier to find what you need when you need it. 

Toiletries Packing List 

Obviously, you’re going to cater this to your gender, where you’re traveling to, and for how long, but here’s a general packing list to help get you started. We’ve eliminated things like shampoo, conditioner, and body lotion and wash because if you really wanted to, you could use them at the hotel or a friend or family’s home. However, you may have dry, color-treated hair that will go haywire without your regular deep conditioner. Or perhaps you have eczema and you can’t live without your body cream. Again, use common sense here. 

  • Cleanser/makeup remover
  • Moisturizer 
  • Eye cream or gel
  • Shaving cream or gel
  • Bobby pins, hair ties, etc.
  • Brush or comb
  • Mini hair spray or gel
  • Contacts — only enough for the trip
  • 1 multipurpose lipstick and blush
  • 1 eyeshadow (or a small duo) — opt for a neutral hue that could double as a brow powder
  • 1 foundation or BB/CC cream
  • Loose powder in a small travel container

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35 Best Essential Toiletries for Travel for Women

We’ve all heard the famous phrase from a credit card commercial that asks, “What’s in your wallet?” Perhaps more importantly to you fellow travelers is knowing the essential toiletries for travel to pack in your bag. Especially travel essentials for women.

“What’s in your toiletry kit?”

Table of Contents

35 Essential Toiletries for Travel

As an affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links. I would love your support through clicking on the links. Read the full disclosure here.

One of the most common questions my husband, Chris, and I are often asked is, “ What should I pack for a trip? ” or “What are the essential toiletries that I need for travel overseas?”

If you are a first-time traveler, or even a seasoned traveler, learning a few NEW “ tricks of the trade ” helps to streamline the packing process. My husband, Chris, often travels for business and offers the Ulti mat e Guide to Planning Travel if you want to delve deeper.

You will find that business travelers have packing and all things travel-related planned to perfection.

This post explores the essential toiletries in your bag with links to my Amazon Storefront for convenience. Because, let’s face it, who doesn’t like to shop at Amazon and have it show up on your doorstep a few days later ?

Before we start talking about some of my favorite travel products, let’s back it up a little and discuss your luggage or travel bags to organize your travel essentials for women.

Travel Essentials for Women: Luggage and Organization

Since I often pack the medicine and some basic toiletries for the whole family when we travel, my toiletry bag is sometimes a bigger checked bag. Oh, I can streamline and downsize for a trip when space is limited, especially if it just my husband and me traveling, or if it is just easier to carry-on our luggage without checking. Generally, I like to have all of my “stuff” with me—a small comfort of home when I am traveling.

1. TravelPro MaxLite 5-Lightweight Underseat Carry-on Travel Tote

TravelPro MaxLite 5-Lightweight Underseat Carry-on Travel Tote

2. Samsonite Pro Soft Side Duffel Bag

Samsonite Pro Softside Duffel

3. BagSmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

If you plan to carry-on your luggage and toiletries, you might consider this BagSmart Hanging Toiletry Bag . My girls and I love it for the convenience and organization for all of our essential toiletries.

Bagsmart Hanging toiletry bag

Remember that all liquids in your carry on need to be less than 3.4 oz in size !

When counter space is minimal in a hotel bathroom or Airbnb, these hanging bags are ideal and don’t take up a lot of extra space.

Not YOUR favorite products? Click through ANY link and search on Amazon for YOUR must have toiletries for travel .

4. Travel Toiletries Containers

HINT * You can also check the travel-size products where you like to shop for smaller-sized options of your favorite products. If your favorites aren’t available in smaller sizes, travel toiletries containers are the perfect size to fill with your go-to shampoo, conditioner, or body wash (especially if hotel toiletries aren’t always your favorite). These bottles meet TSA guidelines, and cut down on full-size beauty products that take up precious real estate in your bag of essential toiletries.

TSA Approved plastic travel bottles

5. Containers with Twist-Off Lids

Another great find are small Containers with Twist-off Lids for items such as lotion, tablets, and vaseline.

Travel Containers Silicone with Twist Lid

6. Mini Spray Bottles

And don’t forget Mini Spray Bottles too! I fill mine with my leave-in conditioner or laundry stain remover.

Fine Mist Spray Travel Bottles

Perhaps I am EXTRA CAREFUL (I have had hair gel leak all over my essential toiletries in my luggage), so I recommend that you use zippered plastic bags to store products that may leak. It is just better to be safe than sorry.

7. Water Resistant Travel Pouches

If you want to go a little fancier on the best travel gear for women with travel bags, Chris and I both use Water Resistant Travel Pouches as well. They are versatile for your essential toiletries, snacks , and essential gadgets .

Water-resistant Mesh Zipper Bags for Storage

Women’s Travel Essentials: Hair Products

Now, let’s talk about hair products because they can potentially take up a lot of space. And really, who wants to be without their favorite products and using hotel toiletries instead? Everyone wants to look great on vacation and for all of the Instagrammable moments.

Most hotels and vacation rentals provide a hair dryer.

8. Hair Diffuser

If you have curly hair, a hair dryer with a diffuser attachment might be one of your essential toiletries for travel. You can’t always count on a diffuser being provided in your accommodations.

Universal hair diffusers are a lot easier to pack than searching for a travel hair dryer with a diffuser that also has a dual voltage option .

41FlVEzvKzL. SL500

9. Flat Iron and Curling Iron

Do you use a Flat Iron , Curling Iron , or other styling product? These are a few of my girls’ favorites that are part of their essential toiletries:

NuMe Hair Straightener Tourmaline Ceramic Flat Iron

These appliances take up space in your travel gear, so if you need to pack lightly, just ask yourself, “Do I really need them?”

10. Shampoo, Conditioner, etc.

shampoo 4522695 1920

I like to take my own hair products instead of using the shampoos and conditioners and hotel toiletries that are provided. If you plan to stay in an vacation rental or other lodging, you will definitely need to bring your own shampoo and conditioner as they are not usually provided. You will also want to plan for your own hair gel , leave-in conditioner , and hair spray if you use them.

I buy full-size product for home use and fill my Small Travel Bottles with my favorites.

Not YOUR favorite products? Click through ANY link and search on Amazon for YOUR essential toiletries.

Don’t forget to tuck in your favorite comb , hair pick , brush , or round brush for styling as well as scrunchies , “ouchless” hair bands , elastic bands , and b obby pins [affiliates].

Sunscreen & Beauty Products

11. broad spectrum sunscreen.

Let’s start out with the most important beauty product of them all— PCA Skin Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45 sunscreen with zinc oxide, sweat and water resistant. I’ve got my whole family, husband included, hooked on this stuff. It should be one of your essential toiletries that you wear everyday whether you are traveling or not!!!

PCA SKIN Active Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Sunscreen

12. Anti-Aging Serum

Beauty products are amazing right? Before I apply my sunscreen in the morning, whether I am on vacation or not, I start with Image Skincare Vital C Hydrating Anti Aging Serum . Not only does it smell like an orange grove , it also helps to keep your skin looking young. I love this stuff!

You’re going to be in vacation pictures (hopefully) so you should look beautiful!

13. Makeup Remover Wipes

I may not use Neutrogena Makeup Remover Wipe Singles in my everyday beauty routine at home, but I definitely use them when I travel. They are so handy and eliminate the space other products take.

Basic Toiletries

We’ve covered hair and beauty, now for a few of the basics in your women’s travel essentials.

toothpaste 3067570 1920

Maybe you could do without some of them, maybe you don’t want to. It all depends on the space you have available.

14. Blistex

15. toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, 17. deodorant, 19. perfume, 20. gold bond ultimate healing lotion, 21. hand sanitizer pump and travel size, 22. sunscreen.

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the rest of your exposed skin. When you are in the sun sightseeing all day long, you won’t always realize that you are burning until it is too late. That doesn’t make for a fun vacation.

Banana boat sport sunscreen spf 30

29. Off! Deep Wood Mosquito and Insect Repellent Wipes

I usually tuck a few packets of Off! Wipes in my bag. After river rafting in New Zealand on one of our 10 Best Adventures Around the World , my legs were attacked by tiny little biting bugs and I pulled out these wipes to keep the bugs at bay.

30. Clorox Wipes

With germs, you can never be too safe. Add a small pack of Clorox Wipes to your bag of essential toiletries for a little peace of mind.

31. Bandages

Putting together a small first aid kit is a great idea.

32. Blister Bandaid

If you walk as much as our family does on vacation , you might just end the day with a blister or two. Blister Bandage s help to ease the discomfort.

33. Moleskin

Essential toiletries for travel: laundry, 34. all laundry pods/tabs.

If you plan a vacation that last longer than a week, you will likely need to do some laundry. I take laundry pods because they are easy to use and I know how the detergent affects my family’s skin. Try the Tide Sink Packets if you have a few small items.

35. Tide To Go Stain Remover

Spills and accidents will happen. Take care of them when they do.

Packing Lists for Your Essential Toiletries for Travel and More…

AND…I have made your life easier by creating a variety of Packing List Freebies for women (including a list of the must have toiletries for travel that you might need), for men, for your personal travel bag, for international travel, for domestic travel, for planning your vacation, and even for the “last-minute things to do” right before walking out the door on vacation.

Download the FREE International Travel Planner

This travel planner works great for travel close to home as well.

You’re welcome!

Are you a gadget guy like my husband? You’ll appreciate these recommendations on the 14 Genius Gadgets for Travel .

Button for linking to my Amazon favorites

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i need travel size toiletries.

Yes. Not only do they save on space when you pack but they also follow the TSA regulations when you fly with liquids in your carry-on luggage.

Is it cheaper to buy travel-size toiletries?

Not always. Buy your toiletries in bulk or check your local grocery store for their Travel-Size section. Use refillable containers to add your favorite brands such as shampoo and conditioner.

How strict is TSA with toiletries?

You are able to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the security checkpoint. Sometimes an item will be overlooked; HOWEVER, if you are traveling overseas, your toiletries will be scrutinized there as well.

What toiletries are NOT allowed in a carry on?

Toiletries in containers larger than 3.4 oz (100 ml).

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Final Thoughts on the 35 Best Essential Toiletries for Travel for Women

Seems like a great big list huh? Once you begin packing and recognize the importance of travel-size products, you should be able to find a place for everything.

Is there something that I am missing? Have a favorite product you want to recommend? What are your tips and tricks? What are your favorite must have toiletries for travel?

Leave a note in the comments below.

Obviously, these are a lot of the products that I use. Choose items that are your favorites and enjoy a “beautiful” vacation!

You may also enjoy these posts about packing…

  • 14 Genius Gadgets for Travel
  • 21 Best Travel Bag Essentials for Travel
  • The Ten Essentials for Your Best Day Hikes

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I’m a Colorado-based travel blogger with a passion for exploring the world, enjoying family time, and taking fantastic photographs. I am also a book writing, creative thinking, detail loving, frequent flying, comfort loving mom of three girls and wife to an amazing guy.

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45 comments.

This is a wonderful list! Thanks for making it!

Hope it helps!

I try to keep my bag stocked and restocked so it is ready to go on a whim!

Great. Let me know how the Blister Bandages work for you!

This is so helpful! thanks for sharing.

Glad you liked it.

This is so helpful, especially with places opening up now and people traveling more now!! I am keeping this list in mind when we go on our next trip!!

Just keeping my fingers crossed for some travel this Fall.

Yes! Airborne always! But I always forget insect repellant…that’s a good one!

The handy single pack wipes of insect repellent are perfect.

I have found memories of going into the travel section and buying miniature toiletries for traveling. It was one of the highlights of the trip. These days, though, I much prefer filling smaller containers. A lot more convenient and less waste. Not as much excitement, though. Thanks for all of the wonderful ideas!

Agreed. I fill small containers now so that I can take the toiletries that I use at home.

I used to carry original bottles but my home bottles are very big. Finding great carry on sized re-fillable bottles was a life saver. I usually resort to cutting my hair short for long trips to reduce the hair product and styling products I carry. The one thing we buy over and over again is Aloe for sunscreens. Really should be in my toiletry kit.

Glad I am not the only one that keeps buying aloe. I used to have a small travel-size bottle and it somehow disappeared.

This is a great list! I particularly like the Tide stain remover, such a good idea!

I love that there are so many products to make travel easier.

My mum won’t travel with any other type of plastic zip bags other than Ziploc, so it’s funny you’ve mentioned them here as essential! This is a great list you’ve put together – I always end up forgetting something!

Either I forget something or think of something that would make travel easier.

Ziplock are my go-to favourites. I use the extra large as clothes bags too. I pack them by outfits making it so simple to when travelling.

Great idea.

This is a great list! After so long without travelling, I need a reminder of essential items to pack! Thanks for the great guide!

I always keep my toiletries packed and ready to go.

So glad you included blister bandaids! They’re a life saver on trips with lots of walking and if you have sensitive, blister-prone skin like me

They sure make a big difference when a small blister could have a big impact on your sightseeing.

Thanks for this post, is very useful ?

Glad it was helpful.

Great list! Very detailed; I like to use ziplock bags to sort out my products too! One thing I need to remember to pack is blister bandaids; those would definitely come in handy!

Click through on one of the links!

Great list. I also use zip lock bags for shampoo and such. I once had an explosion of shampoo in a suitcase. It came on shoes and more.

Yes, been there done that. I err on the side of caution for all of my liquids now.

These are great suggestions for travel necessities! I always feel like I need make-up and hygiene items to freshen up after a long day of travel. Thanks for sharing!

It is a great idea to include a few of your must-haves in your carry on as well.

Great selection! Packing toiletries is the most important part of getting ready to travel (it is to me, at least!:)))

Some of use more toiletries than others, but this list gives some good ideas of what to choose.

So helpful! I’ll be traveling soon, so I’m pinning this.

This is such a helpful post! I often forget things and have to spend the first few hours dashing to the supermarket! Julia x

I can be forgetful too. Having stores near by is always convenient.

Goodness what a good (but long) list! I have to admit, I normally bring a fraction of this but I totally agree about your tip of storing it all in zip lock bags. They have saved me from spills plenty of times. 🙂

I like to be prepared, especially on a two week trip away from the comforts of home.

this is a really great list! i love to see the everyday Ziplocks on the list, because they really do come in handy for carry-on travel.

Whoever created Ziploc bags is a genius.

This is a great list, I always have a separate bag for toiletries and always take my own, I love the list

It is nice to have your favorites when you travel.

Such a helpful, comprehensive list. Moleskin is a must after all those walking tours and hikes – but something I always forget!

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Don’t Forget to Pack These Vacation Makeup Essentials

By Kiana Murden

Image may contain Sunglasses Accessories Accessory Human Person Miranda Kerr and Texture

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

With vacation season in full swing, there’s no better time to pare down your beauty assortment to curate your must-have travel makeup essentials. Whether you’re adhering to TSA guidelines or just want to pack lightly, most of us will not be traveling with our complete makeup collection.

While planning your trip details and what to wear are certainly exciting tasks, editing your beauty stash can actually be quite stressful. The entire process makes one reflect on what you’ll need on hand once you reach your destination—especially if you’re going somewhere without a drug store for last-minute beauty buys. Regardless, you’ll want at least one complexion product to even skin tone and veil imperfections, along with multitasking pigments to bring warmth and subtle color to the face. And let’s not forget how you’ll store all your makeup to avoid spills or damage.

Here, we’ve created the ultimate makeup packing guide for your summer holiday and beyond.

Trusted Organizers

First things first, determine what travel makeup organizers work best for you. Maybe you already own the best toiletry bag that can fit both your skin-care and makeup necessities, or perhaps you’d prefer to store them separately. Away’s water-resistant case offers spacious compartments, transparent pockets, and even a detachable makeup brush organizer—perfect to secure in your carry-on. Otherwise, consider Longchamp’s zippered pouch, which is compact enough to pop in your purse or personal item for easy access.

must have toiletries for travel

Away The Cosmetics Bag

must have toiletries for travel

Longchamp Le Pliage Cosmetic Case

From the Oscars red carpet to the Met Gala , experts wax on about the importance of skin prep for glowing, beautiful skin with or without makeup. So, rely on skin-nourishing products and face primers to prep your base. We’d reach for Tatcha’s The Silk Canvas to weightlessly nourish, blur, protect, and prime—or, the French beauty favorite Embryolisse cream to restore skin moisture and leave a satin finish.

Image may contain: Cosmetics, Deodorant, and Lipstick

Tatcha The Liquid Silk Canvas

must have toiletries for travel

Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre

EMBRYOLISSE

Multitasking Tools

Maybe you’re fine with applying all of your makeup products with your fingers. If not though, don’t forget to pack the beauty tools you rely on at home to perfect your look. For brushes , consider a dual-ended option that pairs two different brush types in one, like this Hourglass option suitable for powder, bronzer, blush, and highlighter. On the other hand, classics like the Beautyblender sponge make blending liquid, cream, and powder products a dream.

must have toiletries for travel

Hourglass Ambient Lighting Edit Brush

Image may contain: Sponge

Beautyblender Original Beautyblender

BEAUTYBLENDER

Foolproof Complexion

Selecting your vacation complexion products is arguably the hardest part, with so many different types of foundations, concealers, and powders to choose from—many of us requiring multiple shades for a brightened under-eye or combat hyperpigmentation. You can’t go wrong with Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint for lightweight, dewy coverage that even boasts sun protection and nourishing ingredients (read: niacinamide, squalane, and hyaluronic acid). For concealer, the Kosas’s creamy formula not only offers dewy medium coverage, but brightens, soothes, and plumps skin over time thanks to a blend of caffeine, peptides, vitamins, and hyaluronic acid. Seriously, who can say no to efficacious clean concealers and foundations ?

must have toiletries for travel

Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40

must have toiletries for travel

Kosas Revealer Concealer

Set the Look

Even on vacation, it’s important to lock your look in place appropriately. Charlotte Tilbury’s setting powder is excellent to have on hand to reduce shine and blur skin where you need it, earning bonus points for mess-free application (as opposed to loose setting powder options). Then, spritz your face with Supergoop!’s mist that sets and protects against UV rays and pollutants. In fact, a similar formula by the brand saved Vogue commerce writer Alexis Bennett’s makeup during Coachella .

must have toiletries for travel

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder

CHARLOTTE TILBURY

must have toiletries for travel

Supergoop! (Re) Setting Refreshing Mist SPF 40

Enticing Eyes

Bring your go-to eye look on your tip by way of the best mascara and eyeliners —both of which work wonders to make your eyes pop and enhance their shape. For smudge-free lengthening and lifting, reach for Merit’s clean mascara. To perfect your signature wing or add some dimension to your look, Ilia’s liquid water-proof formula allows you to precisely etch liner however you see fit, thanks to a fine felt tip.

must have toiletries for travel

Merit Clean Lash

Image may contain: Pen

Ilia Clean Line Liquid Liner

Tinted Lips

Makeup artists say that the key to nailing a minimalist makeup look is adding an accent of color. One of the easiest ways to do so throughout travel is by keeping a tinted lip product on hand for a statement-making moment. Kosas’s gloss delivers a lip filler effect by visibly plumping the lips—especially if paired with a lip color complementing liner. Not a big gloss fan? Reach for Merit’s satiny lipstick for sheer, buildable color no matter the occasion.

Image may contain: Cosmetics, and Lipstick

Kosas Wet Lip Oil Gloss

Image may contain: Cosmetics, and Lipstick

Merit Signature Lip

Adaptable Color

We’ve quickly become huge blush enthusiasts, from viral TikTok picks to the best cream formulas. Either way, blendable blushes, and multipurpose color pigments allow you to customize your glow and place colors wherever you want. Versatility is key on any kind of vacation. Tap Merit’s creamy tint across the eyes, lips, and cheeks for a skin-like wash of color. Prefer a liquid formula? Saie’s water-based Dew Blush creates a natural tint after just one dot from its doe foot applicator—blended with one of the previously mentioned makeup tools.

must have toiletries for travel

Merit Flush Balm

must have toiletries for travel

Saie Dew Blush

Defined Arches

Brows say a lot about a person, so think ahead to perfecting yours when you’re packing for travel . Draw realistic brow hairs in sparse areas with makeup pro Dani Kimiko Vincent ’s ultra-fine pencil, or comb hairs in place with a brow gel like Ilia’s to volumize and thicken with flexible hold.

Image may contain: Cosmetics, and Mascara

Kimiko The Super Fine Eyebrow Pencil Automatique

THE DETOX MARKET

must have toiletries for travel

Ilia Essential Brow Gel

Glam Optional

Maybe your travels are for a wedding or gala that requires full glam, or maybe you’re not quite sure what your itinerary entails. Nevertheless, a few products specific for camera-ready, longwear glam is essential. Think false lashes to amp up the drama; with this Velour Lashes kit, you have everything you need to apply natural-looking lashes on the go without trimming or measuring. Finally, the last thing you want during full glam is an unnecessary bout of shine. Stop oil in its tracks with Tatcha’s blotting papers without budging your look—housed in packaging small enough to fit in your party handbag or clutch .

must have toiletries for travel

Velour Lashes Effortless Kit

VELOUR LASHES

must have toiletries for travel

Tatcha Aburatorigami Japanese Blotting Papers

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What to put in a toiletry bag for summer travel plans.

Summer means it's time to get away and relax in the sun. Packing can be challenging, whether it's a long-awaited vacation or a weekend trip. You have to decide what the essentials are and how to pack them. 

 A well-packed toiletry bag can make all the difference in your travel experience. This bag does everything from keeping you refreshed after a long flight to having what you need for a day at the beach. We're going to explore what to put in a toiletry bag for your summer travel plans so you can start enjoying your trip without the stress or hassle of missing an essential. 

What Essential Toiletries Do I Need To Pack?

Whether heading to the beach, embarking on a road trip, or simply spending time by the pool, you must pack certain toiletries to keep you comfortable and protected in the summer heat. 

Here are some must-have toiletries to add to your packing list:

  • Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, and dental floss
  • Face Moisturizer
  • Face wash or cleanser
  • Makeup remover
  • Hairbrush/comb
  • Prescription Medications
  • Hand sanitizer

These items go on any toiletries packing list, no matter the season. However, summer means a few more products also become travel must-haves.

Sunscreen and SPF Lip Balm

Sunscreen is crucial when going on vacation during the summer. Protecting your skin from the sun's harmful rays is important to maintain healthy, youthful-looking skin. Nothing can ruin the vibes, like a severe sunburn that makes wearing clothes painful. 

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and apply it every few hours. Remember your lips because they can get a serious sunburn too. Look for a lip balm that includes SPF. It will keep them moisturized and prevent them from becoming chapped or sunburned .

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a lifesaver if you are prone to sunburns or have sensitive skin. It won't cure your sunburn, but it has cooling qualities that help soothe your skin after a sunburn. The aloe vera gel helps keep the burn less irritated while it heals. You'll want all the relief you can get if you get a sunburn on vacation!

Body Lotion

Even if you don't get a sunburn, you'll still want to apply a daily body lotion. The sun, salt water, pool water, and sweat can all strip your skin of its natural oils. Keeping your skin hydrated and glowing all summer long is essential. Choose a nourishing body lotion that includes ingredients such as shea butter, jojoba oil, and vitamin E. 

Dry Shampoo

Summertime means you may be sweating or spending your days in high-humidity environments. Dry shampoo can keep your hair looking fresh and clean. It absorbs excess oil and sweat to help you avoid that greasy-hair look. This product will also keep your hair smelling fresh if you don't have time to wash it every night.

Are There Any Other Toiletries I Should Consider Adding?

Certain items may not be essential for everyone but will be for you. It's easy to forget everything you use every day. Here are some travel essentials to consider adding to your toiletry kit as needed:

  • Hair care products: Depending on your hair type, you may need to pack certain styling products, hair ties, and hair sprays. Look for TSA-approved travel-sized bottles that will only take up a little space in your carry-on luggage and won't be flagged by airport security.
  • Feminine hygiene products: Try to track your period in the months leading up to your vacation. It will help you determine whether you'll need to pack menstrual products or other feminine hygiene items. 
  • First aid kit: Accidents and illnesses can happen while traveling. It may be smart to pack a small first-aid kit with items such as band-aids, pain relievers, nail clippers, tweezers, and Q-tips. These items may or may not be available depending on where you're going. 
  • Contact lens solution: A contact lens solution is a must if you wear contacts. You may also want to pack a few extra pairs of contacts even if you don't use daily contact lenses. 
  • Insect repellent: If you're going to be spending time outside, mosquito and insect repellent are also essential during the summer months. Mosquito bites can be itchy and uncomfortable. Some bugs are even responsible for spreading diseases. Bring a repellent that contains DEET, as this is the most effective ingredient for keeping insects at bay.

Look For Multi-Purpose Products 

Space and efficiency are key when it comes to packing your toiletries bag. One way to streamline your routine and make the most of the limited space in your bag is to look for multi-purpose products that can serve multiple purposes. 

These types of products can save you time, money, and valuable space in your bag. Instead of packing separate items, you can find a product that serves multiple functions. For example, a tinted moisturizer with SPF can provide hydration, sun protection, and a little coverage. It eliminates the need for three different products.

Conditioner and shampoo bars are another great multi-purpose option for your travel toiletries bag. These solid bars can cleanse and condition your hair all at once. Plus, they are lightweight and take up less space than traditional liquid shampoo and conditioner. You also won't have to worry about spills that can occur with liquid products. 

Speaking of products that make a mess, your body wash can be another culprit. Avoid a spill and bring a travel-size buffer infused with body wash. This Spongellé product combines the two products you need to cleanse your body. The travel size is suitable for a minimum of five washes.

In addition to saving space and streamlining your routine, multi-purpose products can also be more environmentally friendly. Choosing products with multiple functions reduces the amount of packaging and waste resulting from these items.

How Should I Organize My Toiletries? 

Once you have gathered all your toiletry items, it's time to organize. It can seem challenging, especially when traveling using a small suitcase. However, organizing your bag can be much easier with the right techniques.

The first step is choosing the right toiletry bag to hold your items. Toiletry bags are made with these smaller items in mind. Consider the size and shape of your toiletry bag based on your travel needs. However, you may need a larger bag if you are traveling for a more extended period of time. 

Some travel bags even come with travel-size containers. You can decant your full-size products into smaller containers to pack. They will save you a lot of space and prevent you from carrying unnecessary weight. 

This method is also helpful for skincare and makeup products that come in large and bulky packaging. You can find small containers at most drugstores and online retailers. Spongellé offers a travel bag to protect your body buffer. 

Using packing cubes can be a game-changer when it comes to organizing toiletries. These cubes are made to help people pack efficiently. They also keep your items separated. You can sort your items into groups, such as skincare, hair care, and makeup. 

This packing technique makes it easier to find what you need quickly without rummaging through your bag. Packing cubes are a great way to protect your toiletries from spills and leaks.

Tips for Packing Toiletries in a Carry-on Bag 

Packing your toiletries in your carry-on bag keeps your essentials with you during your journey. However, knowing the rules and guidelines for bringing toiletries in a carry-on bag is important. 

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific guidelines for bringing toiletries in your carry-on bag. The TSA's 3-1-1 rule states that all liquids, gels, and aerosols can't be larger than 3.4 ounces, and all containers must fit in a single, clear, quart-sized plastic bag. Keeping this liquid rule in mind is going to save you the hassle of getting stopped by security. If you have products over 3.4 ounces, they must go in a checked bag. 

When packing toiletries in your carry-on bag, separate all liquids and gels from other items, and place them in a clear plastic bag. This step will make it easier for TSA agents to see what you have when you take them out. Try to keep your toiletries bag separate from any clothing or important items. Packing this way will prevent any spills or leaks from damaging your other items. 

The TSA rules comply with most security and airline requirements worldwide. The 3-1-1 rule is a standard in almost every country, so it's important to follow. However, if you travel internationally, it's a good idea to look up the rules for the countries you travel to and through.

Travel Ready 

These travel tips will ensure you arrive at your destination with all of your toiletry essentials. Bringing sunscreen, personal hygiene items, and hair products can help you stay protected and fresh throughout your trip. Spongellé has multi-purpose products perfect for travel that will keep you clean and nourished. 

Sun Damaged Skin: Sunburn, Melanoma, Carcinoma, and More | Web MD

Aloe Vera for Sunburns: Does It Help? | Cleveland Clinic

Liquids Rule | Transportation Security Administration | Transportation Security Administration

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TravelNoire

5 Must Have Items For The Traveling Black Business Woman

T he essence of the Black businesswoman is not a monolith. They come from all different backgrounds,  walks of life, and cities across the country. Some can be seen sporting designer business suits as the CFOs of major corporations while others are working remotely writing code for the newest technologies. Others are splitting time between taking care of their families and launching new business ventures. In whatever form they may come, Black women are handling business and they’re traveling the world. 

The traveling Black businesswoman typically travels with a toolkit when she’s heading out to snag the next deal or driving to a new city to open her next storefront. Some items are traditional essentials while others add a new level of comfort and organization. Here are five must-have items for the travel Black businesswoman.

Portable Charger 

A portable charger is an essential item for the traveling Black businesswoman. In today’s society, cell phones and other mobile devices allow easy communication when traveling for business. From responding to emails to conducting video meetings on the go, there’s a lot of business being handled from electronic devices. 

Low battery symbols and dead cellphones can be avoided by keeping a portable charger handy at all times. They also are useful when in places that don’t have outlets readily available to plug up your phone and other devices. Things to consider when buying a portable charger vary depending on your travel needs. However, be sure to look at battery capacity, weight, charging time, and the number and type of charging ports it has.

Wireless Bluetooth Speaker 

Many Black millennials and Gen-Z travelers are avid music listeners. Wireless Bluetooth speakers are a must-have when it comes to traveling for business. In between meetings and tasks, a little music delight is good for the soul. Some travelers use it to play rain sounds from their phones while they sleep or as the turn-up soundtrack while getting dressed for the day. Not all accommodations have a Bluetooth speaker so it’s important to keep one with you. 

Travel-Friendly Air Purifier

Different destinations have varying air qualities and climates that can be uncomfortable for allergen-sensitive travelers. Those who struggle with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions can grab a travel-friendly air purifier. These mini devices can be set up in your hotel room or even in your car while traveling to help remove microbes from the air that could trigger your allergies. Air purifiers add an extra layer of relaxation to travel by ensuring that the air quality is healthy and comfortable even when out of town on business. 

Hanging Travel Toiletries Holder

Women traveling for business typically have an assortment of toiletries, tools, and cosmetics in their suitcases. Keeping everything organized may be difficult, so a hanging travel toiletries holder is a must-have for women on the go. Not only does the toiletry holder keep things organized while commuting between destinations, but it also allows travelers to easily display and access the items once they reach their hotel. There are several styles and brands of toiletry holders. However, many traveling businesswomen love the Hanging Travel Organizer in Cotton from Vera Bradley.

Noise Canceling Headphones

Although it may be a common sense must-have, headphones are essential for most millennial and Gen-Z travelers. For business professionals, noise-canceling headphones are the best option. The noise cancellation feature makes it easy to listen to music, hear co-workers during meetings or tune into your favorite podcast without being disturbed by the moving world around you.  

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The 7 Best Travel Size Toiletries for Men

Best Travel Size Toiletries

Branded content. Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services.

Keep your body clean with the best travel-size toiletries for men. Men often get overlooked when it comes to self-care and grooming products, so we’ve gathered the best products to keep you squeaky clean on your next adventure.

When it comes to packing, we have a tip that will make your next trip less stressful – don’t overthink it. The best way to prepare for an unexpected weekend trip or a quick trip home to visit the fam is to have a TSA-approved toiletry kit that’s always packed and ready to go. (Take it one step further and keep it tucked in your overnight bag so it’s always there when you need it).

What to consider when shopping for travel-size toiletries for men:

TSA-compliance : Liquids should be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less. This includes your travel grooming kit and extras like cologne or spray-on deo. Pro-tip: When going through security, you’ll likely have to take out your travel kit, so make it easy to find and place it at the top of your bag.

Shelf-life : Buying travel-size toiletries but don’t travel very often? Ensure the expiration date and shelf life work with your travel style. If products are close to their expiration date, use them at home instead of waiting for your next trip.

Strong lids (that stay on) : When choosing travel-size toiletries for men, we recommend finding products that have strong, durable lids that won’t pop off during a flight or bumpy bus ride!

Bottles for reusability : If you’d rather buy reusable bottles instead of a small travel-size kit from your favorite brand, that’s great! Find an environmentally friendly bag and fill it with grooming products using larger at-home bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and body wash.

Our list of the seven best travel-size toiletries for men will help you assemble a travel kit with all the essentials to stay well-groomed.

1. Blu Atlas Essentials Travel Set

Blu Atlas Essentials Travel Set

Find everything you need to stay sparkling clean on your next trip in the Blu Atlas Travel Set. It’s a four-in-one grand slam with all the bathroom essentials for your hair, face, and body.

They’ve taken their best-selling grooming essentials and made travel-friendly bottles so you can take their premium products wherever you go. Travel Set comes with 3 oz bottles of Blu Atlas Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash, and Face Moisturizer. Each formula contains effective, skin-friendly ingredients that harness the power of botanicals to cleanse and moisturize you from top to bottom.

The best part? Putting this set in your favorite toiletry bag means you’ll have the perfect TSA-compliant travel-size toiletries that are good for your skin.

2. Every Man Jack Travel Body Pouch

Every Man Jack Travel Body Pouch

Every Man Jack’s Travel Body Pouch is the perfect match for men who use 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner and keep their grooming routine simple. Inside the pouch is a 2 oz body wash and a 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner.

What the kit lacks in style, it makes up for in versatility and usability. The travel-size toiletries for men contain all the basics, so you don’t have to use cheap hotel products that dry out your skin and hair. To top it all off, the products have a powerful sandalwood scent that gives you a masculine, fresh scent.

3. Oars + Alps Travel Size Everyday Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 35

Oars + Alps Travel Size Everyday Sunscreen Lotion with SPF 35

SPF is essential to maintaining skin health and goes a long way in preventing damage to the skin. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 90% of skin aging is caused by the sun. What can you do to prevent this and protect your skin? Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which is why this travel-size toiletry is ideal for men.

Oars + Alps Travel Everyday Sunscreen is a 1 oz lightweight lotion that protects skin and keeps it hydrated. The sweat and water-resistant formula lasts up to 80 minutes even when sweating, exercising, or swimming.

4. Public Goods Travel Size Shaving Cream

Public Goods Travel Size Shaving Cream

Whether you’re rocking a beard or prefer a smooth, hair-free face, a travel-size shave cream will keep your beard in tip-top shape – even when traveling to far-flung destinations. Most shave creams come in huge containers, and putting gel-to-foam products in reusable travel bottles would be nearly impossible.

That’s where a product like Public Goods Travel Size Shaving Cream comes in. It bridges the gap and meets your shaving needs whenever you’re on the go.

5. Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

Kiehl’s Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash

Instead of relying on hotel hand soap or using your friend’s face wash, have a face wash handy that you know your skin loves. Facial Fuel Energizing Face Wash is a 2.5 oz travel-friendly bottle that fits perfectly with other grooming essentials.

Key ingredients caffeine, menthol, and vitamin E revitalize the skin while clearing out dirt, grime, and clogged pores. Travel often makes the face feel greasy and tired, making this face wash the perfect travel-size toiletry for men who want to keep their face breakout-free.

6. Ursa Major Morning Mojo Bar Soap

Ursa Major Morning Mojo Bar Soap

If you’d rather skip the bottles of boogie body wash and use an eco-friendly option, Ursa Major’s Morning Mojo Bar Soap is reporting for duty. The bar is an all-purpose full-body cleanser that gets you squeaky clean from top to bottom.

Wake up your senses with the fresh mint and eucalyptus scent and remove oil and grime from the body. While it acts as a cleanser, the bar also has exfoliating volcanic rock that lightly exfoliates pores and removes buildup. Natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut, and honey ensure the skin stays healthy and moisturized as you wash.

7. Oars + Alps Travel Kit

Oars + Alps Travel Kit

Not interested in the “build a travel kit” workshop? Then, the Oars + Alps Travel Kit may be right for you. Each kit has a small see-through toiletry bag (great for going through airport security) and a 3.4 oz bottle of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and 2.6 oz deodorant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are recommended travel-size toiletries.

Travel-size toiletries should be TSA-friendly at 3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller and meet your grooming needs. Consider the products you use at home when building a travel kit and make a list.

Many basic travel kits for men include:

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  • Conditioner
  • Body wash (or bar soap)
  • Face lotion
  • Body lotion
  • Shaving tools (cream, razor, electric trimmer)

A kit should include any travel-size toiletries you’d use at home to complete your morning or evening routine.

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A Professional Packer Spills the 12 Biggest Spring Break Packing Mistakes — and What You Should Take Instead

Make the most of your getaway with these game-changing tips and product recommendations.

must have toiletries for travel

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

Travel + Leisure

They say that mistakes are the best teachers , and I’ve certainly made my fair share over the years. As a travel writer, I know firsthand how frustrating it can be to get to a destination that you’ve been dreaming about for months, only to find the excitement dimmed by the realization that you didn’t bring the right clothes (or you left something important behind). In fact, it was my own experiences with various travel packing faux pas that inspired me to start the Just Packed newsletter , where I share highly curated, expert-informed packing lists and product recommendations. 

With spring break right around the corner, I got to thinking about my top warm-weather packing tips, as well as the clothing and accessories that can elevate the entire experience. From there, I put together a comprehensive list of the biggest packing mistakes a traveler can make when preparing for this kind of trip — from bringing the wrong kind of sandals to forgetting a crucial addition to their toiletry bag . 

So whether you’ll be spending the whole week in the Dominican Republic or enjoying a quick weekend getaway to Palm Beach , read on to discover the 12 most common spring break packing mishaps, and what you need to avoid them. 

Not having a double-duty personal item

What to pack instead: a beach-friendly tote bag.

If you’re flying to your spring break destination and aren’t checking a bag, you’ll need to be clever with how you approach your allotted carry-on allowance. One of my favorite “hacks,” which I’ve used when flying to St. Barts , the Bahamas , and Anguilla, is to use a beach bag (typically made with straw or rattan) as your personal item. After all, you’re essentially carrying all of the same things in both scenarios — a book, your phone, your wallet, and small toiletries — so there’s no need to travel with two different bags. Just make sure that you choose a style with relatively strong handles, like this Freie Liebe Straw Beach Bag at Amazon.

Not protecting your valuables and electronics  

What to pack instead: waterproof pouches and organizers .

Once you know which beach bag you’re bringing, the next step is to ensure that your belongings will be tucked safely inside. To avoid any water- or sand-related accidents, keep your phone, camera, headphones, cords, and other electronic items inside a waterproof pouch. Transparent bags are preferable, as you can see what’s inside without unnecessarily exposing the contents to outside elements. This handy Amazon set comes with eight different-sized zip pouches, with the largest measuring at 15.6 inches by 11.2 inches and the smallest at 5.4 inches by 3.8 inches.

Bringing a hat that can’t be rolled in your suitcase

What to pack instead: a foldable sun hat .

When packing for a tropical trip, sun protection should always be your top priority. A wide-brimmed hat certainly falls into that category, but many styles are bulky and inconvenient to carry through the airport. While you can always invest in a magnetic hat clip that attaches to your bag, there’s another option: a hat that can be rolled, folded, or tucked into a packing cube without losing its shape. Something like this adjustable, foldable Furtalk Sun Visor is perfect — and it even protects the wearer from 99 percent of UVA/UVB rays, according to the brand. 

Forgetting a TSA-approved sunscreen 

What to pack instead: a sunscreen stick .

You may plan to buy a full-sized sunscreen bottle once you arrive at your hotel or rental, but it’s still a good idea to have a TSA-sized bottle or roll-on stick with you. This allows you to lather up before boarding (yes, it’s recommended to wear sunscreen when flying ) and reapply prior to deplaning. Roll-on sunscreen, in particular, is super easy to put on when you’re in travel mode; my personal favorites are the Beauty of Joseon Matte Sun Stick and the Shiseido Clear Sunscreen Stick SPF 50+ , neither of which leaves a white cast or greasy finish. 

Bringing uncomfortable leather or suede sandals 

What to pack instead: water-resistant sandals with arch support.

You might be excited to show off your spring break pedicure, but you won’t want to pack just any sandals for your trip — especially if you only have room for one pair in your carry-on. Any shoes made of leather or suede should sit this one out (think: blisters and achy feet). Instead, go for stylish, waterproof (or water-resistant) sandals that can seamlessly transition from the pool to lunch, sightseeing, or riding bikes. While the brand is most commonly known for the famous clog shoe, Crocs has a variety of chic sandals with cushy arch support that fit the bill, whether you want a flat pair or a trendier platform style . 

Leaving your bathing suit at home

What to pack instead: a comfortable swimsuit that does double-duty.

Sometimes, the most obvious tasks are the ones that are the easiest to overlook. When getting ready for spring break, that might mean packing a swimsuit. And nothing can burst your vacation bubble as quickly as finally making it to your hotel, slightly stressed and sweaty from your travel day, only to realize that your dip in the ocean will need to be delayed because you forgot your swimsuit. I always use a separate packing cube for my swimsuits, and I’ll usually toss an extra one-piece in my personal item bag (this Summersalt style is my favorite and its comfortable enough to wear all day and can even double as a bodysuit); that way, if my suitcase goes missing, I’ll still have something to wear by the water.

If two-pieces are more your style, check out this bikini from Amazon-favorite brand Tempt Me. Its sporty design makes it a great sports bra in a pinch, and it has the perfect amount of coverage so you can comfortably wear it to lunch. 

Choosing a flimsy and uncomfortable cover-up

What to pack instead: a do-it-all cover-up that you can wear all day long .

Spring break is a short chunk of time where you can focus on relaxing and soaking up all of the vitamin D from the sun that you missed out on during the winter — and you won’t want to waste a second going back to your room to change between activities. By packing a do-it-all kind of cover-up, you’ll be all set for the day. Whether it’s a tank dress , a button-down maxi , or a long-sleeved crochet number , the best swim cover-ups can take you from poolside drinks to sunset cocktails without requiring a complete outfit reset. 

Not bringing aftersun toiletries 

What to pack instead: travel-sized aloe vera gel.

Sunscreen might be at the top of your list of spring break beauty essentials, but it’s not the only product that you'll need. Travelers who are prone to sunburn know the instant relief that a bit of aloe vera gel can bring singed skin (as well as the regret of not having any on hand) — and this highly-rated 2-ounce bottle will barely take up any room in your Dopp kit. Haircare is also something to consider, especially if you plan on swimming in salt water or a chlorinated pool. As someone with curly blonde hair, I like to keep this leave-in conditioner from Ouai in my beach bag; a few spritzes and a quick brush keep my strands from becoming a tangly mess after a dip in the ocean. 

Showing up without a book

What to pack instead: an e-reader like a kindle.

Everyone has their own way of keeping themselves entertained on spring break; some prefer to listen to music, others play beach games. But it’s undoubtedly an excellent time to power through that New York Times bestseller that you keep hearing about. While you can bring along a physical book, an e-reader gives you more flexibility in what you’re reading and you can quickly download another page-turner if you end up finishing the first — plus, it takes up way less room than a rigid book in your personal bag. The Amazon Kindle is particularly great for spring break trips, as its glare-free, paper-like display is helpful for reading outside in the bright sunlight.

Not bringing an extra layer 

What to pack instead: a lightweight cardigan.

You might be ready to break out all of your warm-weather wardrobe favorites for spring break, but check the weather before you finalize your packing list. Depending on where you’re traveling, there’s a chance that the temperatures may not be as high as you were expecting (especially after the sun goes down). Still, there’s probably no need to bring a heavy jacket. Instead, go with an oversized cardigan, like the striped Lake Nora Cotton Cardigan or this solid-color style from Amazon . You can wear it on the plane, and it’s ideal for layering over a dress or slinky top if you start getting a little chilly when you're out and about. 

Buying clothes that you’ll never wear again 

What to pack instead: versatile everyday pieces .

I’ll be the first to admit that I often suffer from pre-vacation shopping panic, the phenomenon where you hurriedly order a ton of clothes, shoes, and accessories that you think you'll need for your trip. While this may occasionally be effective, there’s a high chance that the frenzied shopping spree leaves you with a closet full of pieces that you’ll wear on your trip, but never touch again once you're back home. Instead, approach your spring break purchasing with versatility (and sustainability) in mind.

If you do need some freshness within your vacation wardrobe, consider pieces that can be worn in your everyday life or later on in the summer. I always find that linen trousers get the most use during my spring and summer trips; this pair from Athleta is machine-washable and goes with everything, and these flowy drawstring pants Amazon come in seven different colorways. 

Wearing your valuable jewelry out and about

What to pack instead: faux jewelry that you're okay with losing or damaging .

There’s a time and a place to wear your heirloom jewelry or that sparkly diamond bracelet — and spring break is not it . All of that stress that you managed to shake off by the beach will immediately return, three times over, when you realize that you’ve misplaced your grandma’s priceless ring or your favorite necklace fell off in the ocean. To avoid losing any irreplaceable pieces, your best bet is to leave them at home. In their stead, bring a small selection of more affordable, fun accessories — like these chunky gold teardrop earrings and turquoise studs , or this simple, elegant choker necklace set . 

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COMMENTS

  1. The Complete Travel Toiletries List

    A few of these items are personal preference only like hand cream or cotton buds. For guys, this is basically you whole toiletries list for men. Shampoo - Packed in GoToob Travel Bottles if you're traveling less than 2 weeks or traveling carry on only. Conditioner - Packed as above. Hair brush / comb.

  2. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist)

    How to Pack Toiletries for Travel. Step 1: Planning and Preparation. Sample Travel Size Toiletries List: Printable Toiletries Checklist. Step 2: Eliminate. Step 3: Downsize. Step 4: Travel Containers. Travel Toiletries Comparison Chart. Toiletries are a serious struggle for many travelers.

  3. 25 Best Travel Toiletries (for Your Next Trip in 2024)

    Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0. The above hanging toiletry bag is a good all-rounder; it's not too expensive and does the job nicely. However, for those who do mess around with their toiletry packing, there can be only one toiletry bag: the Nomatic Toiletry Bag (2.0). It's a toletry bag so serious it got a second edition.

  4. 21 Top Toiletries Packing List Items for 2024 + What NOT to Bring

    1. What toiletries can I bring on my carry on bag? You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the security checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.

  5. The 19 Best Travel Toiletries of 2024

    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 ...

  6. The 17 Best Travel Toiletries

    Sephora. View On Nordstrom $95 View On Verishop.com $95 View On Spacenk.com. Maisons Pariente has partnered with Tata Harper Skincare —an upscale natural luxury skincare line—to offer the beauty company's products at several of its five-star boutique hotels, including Crillon Le Brave, Lou Pinet, and Le Coucou.

  7. Travel Toiletries Packing List

    Travel toiletries have posed a challenge to just about every traveler — specifically, how does one strike the balance between packing what's needed and packing way too many toiletries. ... A quality toiletry kit is a must-have because it helps keep all your stuff organized and easily mobile between your bag and the bathroom.

  8. 20 Essential Toiletries for Travel You Should Never Forget

    Hairbrush. You don't want your hair messy during your entire trip, so find a travel-sized hairbrush, like this small wood hairbrush, and bring it with you. 17. Hand Lotion. Even though this may be an extra toiletry item for many people, others can't go a day without a hand lotion.

  9. The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List (+ Free Printable Check List)

    8.85 x 3 x 6.3 inches & 6.9 x 2.4 x 5 inches. Check Reviews & Prices. TRAVANDO Hanging Toiletry Bag "FLEXI" + Reusable Bottles. $$. *Most versatile. 11 x 8.5 X 3.4 inch when folded but fully extends to 31 x 11 inch. Check Reviews & Prices. Narwey Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag. $.

  10. The Comprehensive Toiletry Packing List for Trips: with PDF

    Check to see if your accommodation provides this to pack lighter. Top Trip Tip: If packing toiletries in your carry-on hand luggage ensure each bottle is no larger than 100ml/3.4oz and placed together in a clear zip-lock bag. A few basic medical items you may like to include are: Sunscreen. Insect repellent.

  11. 21 best travel toiletries of 2023

    This option from Moroccanoil is one of the best out there, especially for those with fine hair, according to experts. Not only does it come in a full-size option, but also in this travel-friendly ...

  12. The Ultimate Toiletries Packing List

    Sunscreen (must-have items if you are travelling to tropical regions) Razor. Nail Clippers & File. Tweezers. Hair gel, hair clay and comb. Razor, shaving cream and aftershave (must-have items for a men's toiletries packing list) Cotton buds / cotton pads.

  13. 30+ Solid Travel Toiletries (To Pack In Your Carry-On!)

    You may have heard the rumors but solid travel toiletries are the must-have item! A long-standing favorite among frequent travelers and Eco-warriors around the world there are so many reasons to fall in love with these fab travel toiletries, many of which are packed with natural ingredients to nourish and soothe.

  14. 13 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles: Editor Tested, Leakproof, & Reusable

    Best overall: Tocelffe 18-Pack travel bottles. Best for easy packing: Cadence The Capsule Flex System. Best for in-shower products: LiquiSnugs silicone travel bottles. Best for perfume: Vonovo ...

  15. Complete Packing List of Travel Toiletries

    Essential Travel Toiletries for Women Shower Toiletries. It's easy to bring your favorite shampoo, ... My 'must have' items are just about everything I use on a regular basis and have come to realize, as I packed my pillow (and a top sheet, in case the hotel didn't use 100% cotton bed linen), I should really stay home.

  16. Travel Toiletries Packing List for Ladies

    First - get yourself an all-in-one makeup palette. Ideally something that includes eyeshadow and cheek color. Bonus points for foundation. This way, you'll have almost everything you need all in one spot! Second, look for solid alternatives to liquid makeup, so that you don't have to stuff liquid makeup in your one-quart toiletry bag.

  17. 18 Travel-Size Toiletries That We Always Pack

    Toiletries can be a pain to pack. Unless you've mastered a bunch of life hacks—or love checking a ton of full-size toothpaste and shampoo into your luggage—it can be a hassle to find travel-size items that will keep you feeling fresh on the road. To make your next trip a little easier, AFAR staffers share the tried-and-true travel-size toiletries—all 3.4 ounces or less—that they ...

  18. The Ultimate Packing List: 43 Must-Have Travel Items (by a Full-Time

    Here are the non-negotiable travel safety essentials that come with us on every single trip: Money Belt & Bra Pocket: Carrying a wallet in your pocket is pretty much an open invitation for pickpockets. Stash your cards and cash away in harder-to-reach places, like underneath your clothing, instead!

  19. A Travel Toiletries Guide and Item List For Travelers

    Travel Toiletries are the essentials for travelling people needed to clean, groom, or take care of our bodies — for example, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant, and many others. Toiletries can be from basic needs like toothbrush, soap, hairbrush, or it can be a little more like dry shampoo, loofah, and eye cream.

  20. How To Pack Toiletries

    Mini hair spray or gel. Contacts — only enough for the trip. 1 multipurpose lipstick and blush. 1 eyeshadow (or a small duo) — opt for a neutral hue that could double as a brow powder. 1 foundation or BB/CC cream. Loose powder in a small travel container. 1 eyeliner. Not sure how to pack or what to pack when it comes to toiletries for your ...

  21. 35 Best Essential Toiletries for Travel for Women

    35 Essential Toiletries for Travel. Travel Essentials for Women: Luggage and Organization. 1. TravelPro MaxLite 5-Lightweight Underseat Carry-on Travel Tote. 2. Samsonite Pro Soft Side Duffel Bag. 3. BagSmart Hanging Toiletry Bag. 4.

  22. 20 Travel Makeup Essentials 2022 to Pack for Your Next Vacation

    Draw realistic brow hairs in sparse areas with makeup pro Dani Kimiko Vincent 's ultra-fine pencil, or comb hairs in place with a brow gel like Ilia's to volumize and thicken with flexible ...

  23. What To Put in a Toiletry Bag for Summer Travel Plans

    When packing toiletries in your carry-on bag, separate all liquids and gels from other items, and place them in a clear plastic bag. This step will make it easier for TSA agents to see what you have when you take them out. Try to keep your toiletries bag separate from any clothing or important items.

  24. 5 Must Have Items For The Traveling Black Business Woman

    Here are five must-have items for the travel Black businesswoman. ... Keeping everything organized may be difficult, so a hanging travel toiletries holder is a must-have for women on the go. Not ...

  25. The 7 Best Travel Size Toiletries for Men

    Travel often makes the face feel greasy and tired, making this face wash the perfect travel-size toiletry for men who want to keep their face breakout-free. 6. Ursa Major Morning Mojo Bar Soap

  26. A Professional Packer's 12 Spring Break Hacks

    Not bringing aftersun toiletries What to pack instead: travel-sized aloe vera gel . ... I'm a Travel Writer, and These Are the 40 Must-pack Spring Break Items You Need From Amazon — Starting at $8.