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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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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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The Ultimate Toiletry Kit Packing List

Caroline Morse Teel

Caroline Morse Teel is the Managing Editor for SmarterTravel Media. Follow her adventures around the world on Instagram @TravelWithCaroline.

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When it comes to packing for a trip, the toiletry kit is one of the most essential items (and one of the most complicated to put together, especially if you’re flying carry-on only). A well-curated kit ensures that you have all the necessary items without weighing you down or causing potential spills. From travel-sized toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste to essential tools like a razor, nail clippers, and a travel towel, a comprehensive toiletry kit ensures you’re fully equipped for any situation that might arise on the road.

To keep everything neatly contained, I like Eagle Creek’s toiletry bag , which can be hung up or laid out flat to quickly find whatever you need. Made from a water-repellent material, this kit will contain any toiletry spills—and can be washed for easy clean-up.

I also recommend keeping your toiletry kit in your personal item when you fly—in case of delays or canceled flights, it’s nice to be able to clean up (even if it’s in an airport bathroom). Plus, if your checked bag goes missing, you’ll still have the essentials. 

Here’s what you should pack in your toiletry kit.

Dental Hygiene

Toothbrush: The Philips One Travel Toothbrush is the best travel-size electric toothbrush, and the charge lasts for 30 days.

Toothpaste: Stop buying wasteful mini toothpaste and instead use a refillable toothpaste tube . 

Floss: These floss picks come in a convenient carrying case for travel.

Mouthwash: Freshen up without adding a ton of weight to your toiletry kit with this concentrated mouthwash that lets you add however much water you want for customized freshness. One tiny bottle can be used up to 64 times!

The Ultimate Packing List

Makeup Brushes : Artis brushes have a unique double oval design that makes doing your makeup a snap. This travel-friendly set comes with a carrying case. 

Artis Makeup Wipes : Keep your brushes clean on the road with Artis’ easy-to-use makeup wipes .

Vacay All Day Beauty Value Set: Sephora’s all-in-one Vacay All Day Beauty Set offers miniature versions of mascara, lip stain, blush, and all the other makeup essentials you’ll need.

Shower Essentials

Shampoo and Conditioner: Vegamour’s travel-sized shampoo and conditioner set works on all hair types and uses a vegan B-silk protein to help promote thicker and fuller hair (that’s way better than any complimentary hotel shampoo.)

Body Wash: Dr. Bronner’s pure castile soap boasts that it can be used for 18 different things, including as a body wash or laundry detergent. 

Face Wash: Drunk Elephant’s Pekee Cleansing Bar is a gentle facial cleanser in solid form, helping you stay under that 3-1-1 liquid requirement. 

Razor: Downsize all your toiletries, even your razor, to save space. The Gillette Venus uses a regular size blade but has a small handle to keep it portable (and it includes a travel case). 

The Essential Carry-On Bag Packing List

Face Lotion: For an ultra-affordable travel-sized face lotion, pack The Ordinary’s hydrating cream , which is great for all skin types.

Sunscreen: Don’t let a sunburn ruin your trip—pack plenty of sunscreen. Supergoop’s sunscreen is a delight to wear (compared to traditional sunscreen) and comes in fun formulations that are perfect for travel, like an SPF 50 oil , water-resistant lotion , and a flatteringly glowy tinted version for the face .

Body Lotion: Solid body lotion does exist—find this unique formulation in Kate McLeod’s stone body moisturizer , which melts on contact with your skin. The subtle lavender and chamomile scent is designed to help you sleep (no matter where you are).

Eye Cream: Look photo-ready (even after a red-eye) with Luzern’s Nuit Eye Balm , which helps reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness. The cream comes with a travel-friendly applicator that provides a cooling and soothing feel.

Hair Products

Leave-in Conditioner: Vegamour’s leave-in conditioner not only fights frizz but provides heat protection of up to 450 degrees (essential if you’re using the hotel-provided hair dryer.)

Comb/Brush: Pack a brush that does double-duty as a comb and can be used on wet or dry hair, like the Tangle Teezer Compact Styler .

Dry Shampoo: Skip the aerosol dry shampoo and opt for a hair powder instead, like this one by Handmade Heroes . 

Hair Ties: Be kind to your hair and use a silk hair tie , which is less damaging to hair than traditional elastics. 

Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Review

Miscellaneous

Antiperspirant or Deodorant: Degree makes a perfectly travel-sized version.

Contact Solution and Case: For contact lens wearers, Opti-Free’s travel set includes cleaning solution and a lens case. 

Cotton Swabs: Good for everything from fixing makeup to cleaning ears, cotton swabs are essential to pack.

Nail Clipper: Revlon’s Compact Nail Clipper is ultra-portable.

Tweezers: Contrary to popular belief, tweezers are allowed in carry-on bags on a plane. Revlon’s travel set comes with a protective pouch to keep them safe in your toiletry kit.

Lip Balm: Opt for a lip balm with SPF protection to keep your lips from getting sunburned. 

Download Our Editable Toiletry Kit Packing List Here

You can also get a editable packing checklist version of this toiletry kit by clicking below:

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The Best Travel-Sized Toiletries to Pack for Your Trip

Published January 3, 2020

Written by:

Shawn Forno

If you want to learn about budget travel, minimalist carry on packing, or how to travel (and even live and...

Jenn Sutherland-Miller

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At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Topo Designs Dopp Kit

Sophisticated style, unique flat-bottom design, and enough space for every other item on this list

Who this toiletry bag is for: Minimalists and frequent travelers who want to keep all their toiletries in one place

One-of-a-Kind Design

The Topo Dopp Kit is different from other toiletries bags, and that’s why we like it. It’s the only one we tested with a flat-bottomed triangular design, which helps it sit easily on small bathroom counters (which I love). It’s also one of the few (good) toiletry bags that doesn’t come with any internal organization, again, a feature we really enjoy for streamlined minimalist packing and quick use.

Having too many internal organization pouches and pockets takes away from the overall storage space of your toiletry bag. But the real problem is how “organization” leads to overpacking. Stashing a ton of “just in case” items into your toiletry kit pockets is one of the easiest ways to pack too much stuff .

The Topo dopp kit is just one big pouch for all your stuff so you can see everything at a glance. The internal water-resistant nylon lining is even a bright contrasting color (like bright green) so you can easily locate all your stuff. It’s a small detail, but a nice touch. 

Coming in at 11 inches long, this dopp kit is big enough for full-size bottles (although I don’t recommend traveling with them), and can easily handle full-size toothbrushes, electric razors, and other larger items. However, the soft shape and lack of hard edges lets it conform to most carry on sized travel backpacks .

The 1000D cordura fabric is tough enough for whatever you pack and, while not perfectly waterproof, the nylon interior and YKK zipper are super reliable. The handle loop can work for hanging this bag in a pinch, and you can customize your bag with a leather, canvas, or even ripstop nylon exterior in a variety of colors to match your swagger.

What We Like: Simple, Durable, Reliable

• Simple, thoughtful shape: This bag is big enough for everything you need but doesn’t encourage overpacking
• Flat-bottom design : We love how the flat-bottom design lets this bag sit on even tiny counters without tipping over and spilling stuff everywhere
• Contrasting interior fabric: See everything at a glance

What We Don’t Like: Not Great for Hanging

• No hook: The carrying loop can hang from a hook, but it’s not ideal
• Zero organization: The simple design is a plus for us, but if you need organization for makeup or medication this might not be the bag for you

Lermende Clear Quart-sized TSA Toiletry Bag

Clear, simple, spacious, and great for frequent carry on travelers who want to save time in TSA security

Who this toiletry bag is for: Frequent travelers and people with multiple (TSA-approved) liquid toiletries

A Clear Winner

TSA regulations mean that you’re supposed to store all your liquids under 3.4 oz in a clear quart-sized bag that you remove for inspection. But we don’t all do it. If you’re a frequent traveler who’s sick of getting hassled because you pack a lot of toiletries, be proactive with this regulation-sized toiletry bag and breeze through security screenings.

The Lermende clear quart-size bag is the max allowable size, yet still lightweight. It’s waterproof, well-designed, and quite simply, the easiest way to travel with liquids. We liked the strong PVC construction and simple carrying loop.

It can make a great second toiletry bag for overflow items and makeup if you can’t fit all of your toiletries in one bag.

What We Like: Clear and Lightweight

• TSA Compliant: What you see is what you get
• Affordable : At just $10 (for the 2-pack) these toiletry bags are a bargain for carry on travelers

What We Don’t Like:  Boxy

• Boxy. The square shape can be hard to pack in some smaller or slimmer carry on bags
• See-through. The see-through case is great for security, but you won’t have any privacy when you land, which can be annoying in hostels or shared accommodation

An affordable, sleek, easy to use electric travel toothbrush. It even comes with a built-in carrying case for the most reliable way to keep your teeth clean on the go

Who this toothbrush is for: People who want clean teeth without the hassle of a bulky electric toothbrush

Not Your Average Travel Toothbrush

There’s a reason the quip toothbrush doesn’t feel like a travel toothbrush. It’s because it isn’t a normal travel toothbrush.

Unlike the flimsy folding travel toothbrushes you’re used to, the quip is a powerful, portable electric toothbrush designed for everyday use. It just also happens to be built for travel, thanks to the clever carrying case/travel case and long battery life (it’s rated to last for 3-months on a single AAA battery).

I signed up for the quip refill plan (with the metal finished brush) last year, and it’s been fantastic. The 2-minute vibrating brush timer is amazing (and it keeps me honest), and I like getting a “new” brush every three months. But the best part is how well the toothbrush travels.

I like packing my “everyday” toothbrush knowing that I don’t have to compromise while traveling. And the ability to stick the case to the mirror and have it ready in the morning is a simple thing, but instantly makes anywhere I’m staying feel more like home, especially during extended stays.

I love the metallic finish option (I have slate) ($40), but at $25, the plastic handle quip is an affordable way to see if a quip electric toothbrush is right for you.

Pro tip: Save your money and skip the quip toothpaste add-on since the tube is 4.7 oz (not TSA compliant).

What We Like: Doesn’t Feel Like a “Travel” Toothbrush

• The timer: I am a bad brusher. Or, I was before the quip. The two-minute timer helps me keep good brushing habits even on the go
• The travel case : The case transforms this sleek stylish toothbrush into a badass travel toothbrush in seconds. It lets your toothbrush breathe to dry off (which is nice), and you can attach it to a mirror (the back is sticky) to keep your toothbrush handy on longer stays
• It’s a normal toothbrush: I have one toothbrush for home and for travel, which is one less thing to think about

What We Don’t Like: A Tad Heavy

• The weight : The quip toothbrush is heavier than just about every other travel toothbrush, thanks to the battery and handle. But we’re talking a few ounces. If you’re an ultralight minimalist, obviously a little extra weight isn’t ideal, but a great toothbrush is absolutely worth a little extra weight in your toiletry bag
• Price : Yes, $25 is a bit much for a “travel” toothbrush, but it’s your teeth. You can pay a little extra to keep your teeth a little longer. 

Jason Sea Fresh Fluoride-Free Toothpaste

Everything you need for a clean mouth, and none of the harsh chemicals you don’t

Who this toothpaste is for: Minimalists, frequent travelers, and people who want a natural toothpaste that actually works

Naturally the Best

Jason sea fresh travel toothpaste is a slam dunk. It’s exactly the right size for long trips (3 oz)—not too small, not too big for the TSA. It’s also a great alternative to big name brand toothpaste packed with harsh chemicals that can actually harm your enamel.

I’m obviously not a dentist, so take any recommendations here with a grain of salt, but Jason toothpaste doesn’t have any fluoride, gluten, saccharin, artificial sweeteners (which is hilarious that some toothpaste does). It’s also free of parabens, propylene glycol, and SLS, which can cause canker sores in lots of people.

Basically, Jason toothpaste is a great natural alternative to some of the bigger name brand toothpastes with stuff that you just don’t want in your mouth. But if that’s not for you, here’s what to look for if you still prefer a “traditional” travel toothpaste:

• ADA Seal : Make sure your toothpaste is approved by the American Dental Association
• SLS-free : Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS causes your toothpaste to “foam” and it can be harmful to your mouth, causing things like cancer sores
• Avoid whiteners: Whitening agents can strip the enamel from your teeth. Some experts also claim that whitening ingredients in toothpaste aren’t in contact with your teeth long enough to do much to whiten teeth anyway
• Avoid Triclosan : This antibacterial ingredient supposedly helps prevent gingivitis, but has been largely removed from all toothpastes (although not technically banned) since it can interfere with your thyroid and cause antibiotic resistance

What We Like: Not Just Another Tiny Tube of Toothpaste

• It lasts forever: One tube of toothpaste can last for weeks
• Tastes great : The natural flavor is fantastic
• No harsh chemicals : You don’t want SLS or sweeteners in your mouth

What We Don’t Like: 

• Not much: Honestly, for the price and the quality, this product is fantastic

Little Seed Farm Natural Deodorant

All-natural travel deodorant with activated charcoal (not baking soda or aluminum) for a better clean smell

Who this deodorant is for: Long-term travelers who want to stay naturally fresh

Natural Deodorant

Deodorant is one of the most important toiletries you can pack. Heck, it might be one of the most important things in your travel backpack , period. Make sure you get a deodorant that makes you smell great, but one that you want to use day in and day out.

The natural deodorant from Little Seed is a crowd favorite, but that’s not just because of the cute goats and marketing. This natural deodorant works using activated charcoal—not baking soda or heavy metals, like aluminum, to filter out your stank, for cleaner smelling travel days.

If you’ve ever had to toss out a favorite travel shirt due to sweat stains in the armpits, that’s likely to due the aluminum in your deodorant. Seriously.

Activated charcoal is a great “scent” but you can order test-size samples in each scent to find one that best works with your body chemistry. And test-size samples are perfect for short trips.

Try switching to a natural deodorant that not only smells great, but doesn’t use harmful chemicals or cruel production practices. You might want to transfer this deodorant from the glass container into a lighter plastic screw top container or an empty tin.

What We Like: It’s Naturally Good

• Lasts forever: A container can last for several months (I’m on month six)
• No aluminum: Don’t ruin your shirts (or your body!) with harsh chemicals and heavy metals

What We Don’t Like: It’s a Little Different

• Takes getting used to: Unlike roll on or spray deodorants, you have to spread this one by hand (or wooden applicator). It takes a little getting used to

Dr. Bronner Pure Castile All-in-One Soap Bar

Bar ($5) It’s Dr. Bronners. It’s amazing. What else do you need to know?

Who this soap is for: Long-haul travelers and people who want a natural all in one soap that actually works for all the things

The Dr. Is In (your bag)

If you don’t know about Dr. Bronner’s All-In-One soap, I don’t know who you are or how you’ve managed to avoid this fantastic product.

Dr. Bronner’s is literally the “do everything” soap since you can clean just about anything with it including your hair, skin, clothes, and I’m sure any funky mess you happen across.

I prefer the Dr. Bronner’s soap bar to the ever popular Dr. Bronner’s liquid soap simply because it lasts forever. Sure, it’s heavier than the liquid soap, and you need to carry a soap container or ziploc bag to keep it from gooping up your toiletry kit, but aside from that, you can travel with absolute confidence knowing that whatever mess you make, you can clean it up.

5 oz bars are all they sell, which can be a bit much for shorter trips. So I recommend cutting a bar in half to lighten the load. 

What We Like: One soap to rule them all

• Use it for everything: I use this for hair, body, and clothing
• That smell : That smell, tho. Mmmmmm… 

What We Don’t Like: Soap bars are a bit annoying

• Soap bars : Like any bar of soap it can be a hassle to pack. If you’re taking a short weekend trip, snag a tube of the Dr. Bronner liquid soap in a 3 oz bottle

Sea to Summit Hand Soap Flakes

Featherweight soap in your pocket for when you really need to wash your hands

Who this travel soap is for: Germaphobes and people that really need a little extra (lightweight) soap on the go

Forget Hand Sanitizer

Here’s the thing about travel—it’s messy. Not everywhere you go will have soap in the bathroom (or a bathroom for that matter). If you’re a germaphobe, or know you’re traveling off the grid and need to keep your hands clean, the Sea to Summit soap flakes are one of the only “just-in-case” toiletry items I heartily recommend.

The easy to use click-shut case contains 50 leaves of “soap” so it will last a while if you ration them out. Great for dirty bathrooms or sketchy places when you just need a quick wash.

Honestly, they make a whole line of travel soaps, from body wash to laundry soap, but the hand soap is the only useful item. One leaf is enough to lather you up for a quick wash, just make sure that you take out the soap leaf before you get your hands wet, or you might use the whole thing in one go. Seriously.

What We Like: Weighs Nothing

• Lightweight: This featherweight container weighs next to nothing for ultralight cleanliness on the go
• Pocket-size : You can put this in a purse, fanny pack , or your pocket without adding any bulk
• Easy to use : Just open it up, grab a flake, click the case closed, and lather up

What We Don’t Like: Not a Ton of Use

• Single use: Each soap flake is pretty small, so you’ll need multiple flakes for truly messy situations
• Don’t get wet : Not great if you’re already wet (or muddy) as the leaves will stick together if you touch them with wet hands

Harry’s Truman Shave Kit

Get an easy, accurate shave from a lightweight travel razor that costs less than $20

Who this razor is for: Minimalists, frequent business travelers , stylish budget backpackers

You need a razor if you’re traveling for more than a few days. Sure, growing a vacation mustache seems like a good idea, but you still need to trim and shape that lip caterpillar if you want to pull it off.

The choice to go with a travel (disposable) razor or an electric razor is a personal one, and has a lot to do with the frequency you need to shave (daily vs weekly), and how long you’re traveling. However, a good disposable razor with a few extra blades and a good case can last for weeks or even months.

Are disposable razors allowed in a carry on bag?

• Disposable razor w/ extra blade heads: YES
• Electric razor: YES
• Straight razor: NO
• Safety razor (the old school ones with removable blade heads): NO

The Truman travel razor from Harry’s is a solid choice that you can get cheaper than most Gilette or other disposable razors at your local drug store. Plus, the weighted core handle and rubber grip are actually a pleasure to use.

To get the most bang for your buck, skip CVS and order the Harry’s Truman Travel Kit for $30 to get a razor handle, three five-blade razor heads, 3.4 oz shaving gel (which is way better than bulky shaving foam), travel cover, and a pretty decent dopp kit bag all for the price of a 3-pack of regular blades at the store. 

What We Like: Affordability in a Travel-Sized Package

• Just the right price: For $15, you get a travel-ready razor and shaving gel that will last for weeks
• Portability : No charging or batteries required

What We Don’t Like: Not Great for Long Trips

• Still disposable : If you have to shave everyday, this isn’t a great setup for long trips, since even great disposable razors only last so long

Braun M90 Mobile Shaver

The best lightweight electric travel razor for minimalists and business travelers on the go

Who this electric razor is for: Long-term travelers, minimalists, business travelers

A Reliable Shave

I don’t always use an electric razor when I travel. Mostly because they’re heavier than a disposable razor, and I don’t have to shave all that often. Plus, it’s one less thing to charge.

However, the Braun M90 travel razor has me rethinking my old-timey shave options.

This  travel-friendly, compact razor only weighs 3.2 ounces and is packed with useful features. The blade guard protects the shaving foil during travel and also locks the razor into “off” mode so it won’t turn on in your bag. And when you flip the guard down to use the razor, it turns into an extension for a better grip, which is partly why the razor is so compact.

It’s washable which makes it easy to keep clean, and the wider foil prevents you from those painful nicks and scratches you can cut with budget electric razors. There’s also a convenient sideburn trimmer (aka “mustache shaper”) that flips out from the side, which I really enjoy.

This is a thoughtful travel razor that packs a serious punch for the small size. Personally, I like that it runs on (2) AA batteries, not rechargeable USB, because you can’t always find a plug in the bathroom, and charging a razor isn’t my top priority. 

Affordable, compact, and packed with travel-friendly features—the Braun M90 is a solid travel razor for guys that just need to keep it clean on the go.

What We Like: Powerful and Portable

• Long battery life: You can run this thing for weeks on (2) AA batteries (120 hours of run time)
• No charging: Batteries mean you don’t have ever have to charge it
• Portable : It’s only 3.2 ounces and fits in the palm of your hand

What We Don’t Like: Still a Portable Razor

• Lacks some power : It’s a portable razor, so there are some trade-offs with power and closeness; you can tell when the batteries are running low

SunBum SPF50 Tinted Sunscreen Face Stick

Hands down the best zinc-based sunscreen for your face—especially if you’re active or in the water

Who this sunscreen is for: Active travelers who regularly spend time in the sun or surf

Professional Grade Zinc Protection in a Portable Package

Yes, sunscreen is a “toiletry” item, and yes, you should use it every day.

As a former surf instructor, I’ve been applying sunscreen to my forehead, cheeks, and (pretty big) nose for decades. And I’ve always had three big problems with most sunscreens:

• They’re not travel-friendly : Liquid sunscreen can’t fly carry on  
• They’re super obvious: Most zinc sunscreen looks like you smeared your face with paint, which is fine in the surf, but not great for walking tours 
• They get in your eye : I can’t handle sunscreen that runs when you swim or sweat

Luckily, SunBum zinc sunscreen isn’t any of that.

The lightweight, easy to pack case is perfect for tossing in your bag or daypack. The SPF zinc goes on clear (with a tiny tint) so you don’t even know you’re wearing it. And it won’t run in your eyes no matter how hard you sweat.

This sunscreen is easy to apply, works like a charm, and honestly lasted me for months. Literally. I used this sunscreen on my face in Spain , Portugal, Indonesia, Malaysia , Singapore, and Thailand . And it comes in a 0.45 oz container.

I can’t explain it, but it just plain works like a charm and will last until the heat death of the universe. Well worth the upfront cost. However, if $18 is a little steep, you can get the 1 oz SPF 50 clear zinc sunscreen (not a stick) for just $10.

What We Like: Never Runny, Easy to Use

• It lasts forever: I used this stick for months
• No harmful chemicals: Reef safe and doesn’t contain any oxybenzone or petroleum
• Sweat proof: You can swim, surf, and sweat in this sunscreen
• Small package: This is a face sunscreen. You can put this elsewhere, but it won’t last nearly as long or work as well
• Cost : $18 is a bit steep for a sunscreen stick, but it’s worth it

All Good Organic Zinc Sunscreen Butter

Natural zinc for unbeatable natural sun protection

Who this sunscreen is for: Long-term active travelers and minimalists who want a little extra daily sun protection

Everyday Zinc Protection

All Good is a sunscreen company from California that’s dedicated to making the best reef safe zinc sunscreen you can buy. And they nailed it. This tiny tin of zinc has been with me on multiple adventures, and it’s still going strong.

Seriously, just a dab of zinc for my face and hands is all I typically use for long surf sessions and outdoor activities like driving my moped (on my arms and neck). It’s so effective because there’s no filler in the formula.

In fact, they only use six ingredients to make this stuff: organic beeswax, organic coconut oil, organic calendula flowers, organic jojoba oil, vitamin E, and 25% pure zinc oxide.

One tin will last you for months, and it’s easy to fit in the waist belt pocket of your backpack for easy use on the go. 

You have to make sure you rub this zinc in, since it doesn’t go on clear, and yes, you will have a bit of a pale tint if you really lay it on thick, but if you’re going hiking, swimming, sailing, or just out walking all day, toss this little tin in your day bag for easy effective sun protection on the go.

What We Like: Good for You & the Environment

• It lasts forever: One container can last for months (I’m on month six with half a tin to go!)
• Reef safe : Made with natural ingredients that not only keep you safe, but also the delicate aquatic life around you
• Ghostly. It can be a little pasty if you put on too much; start with just a dab, it’ll last longer
• Cost . $21 seems like a lot for sunscreen, but not when you see how long this lasts

What Not to Pack: Toiletries to Avoid

Avoid silicone travel-sized bottles.

Silicone reacts with all kinds of ingredients including alcohol and salicylic acid (which is in more than you think)

Aerosol Bottles

Aerosol gels and creams are notorious for malfunctioning, especially in pressurized cabins and flights not to mention hot bus compartments and other “non-optimal storage environments.” Avoid any pressurized cans if you can.

Anything 3.5 oz & Above

The TSA caps carry on liquids at exactly 3.4 oz (100mL). Don’t try to sneak your favorite full-size toiletries on or you might land with nothing.

Leather Dopp Kits

For some reason, bespoke leather bathroom bags have become popular. They shouldn’t be. Leather is heavy, and holds the smell of liquids and gels for longer. You can’t air out leather if something goes wrong in your toiletry bag, and honestly, leather bags are heavy and more expensive than better travel fabric alternatives like waxed canvas and ripstop nylon.

How Were These Toiletries Tested?

If you want to learn about budget travel, minimalist carry on packing, or how to travel (and even live and work) in dozens of countries all over the world, Shawn is your guy. Shawn is not a New York Times bestselling travel author, but he is a full-time freelance blogger, copywriter, and content manager and is also a published photographer. He likes to rock climb, trek, surf, ride his bike, and read a bunch of sci-fi books.

I’m currently on my second around-the-world trip, and I’ve had a blast testing all of these toiletries and grooming products for you guys. I’m obsessed with discovering and testing quality products to create the ultimate minimalist, carry on -friendly packing list that’s lean enough for budget flights, yet tough enough to keep up with my active traveling lifestyle.

I surf, climb, bike, and hike all the dang time, and I need toiletries that can keep me smelling fresh and clean no matter what I get into.

My secret wish is to travel with nothing more than a fanny pack and a cool hat, but until that magical day happens I’ll keep winnowing down my carry on packing list until I can fit all my gear in my pocket.

Not all of these products have been with me for the entire trip. I’ve purchased a few items along the way, obviously, and some of the items I quickly tested before settling on a favorite that lives in my bag. But every item has been battle-tested in real world travel environments including:

• And more 

Key Concerns While Testing

• Portability: How does the product travel, and is it TSA-approved for carry on travel?
• Ease of Use: Can I pack and use this product on the go with relative ease?
• Performance: How does the product actually work in hot, cold, sweaty, stinky, real-world travel conditions?
• Value: Is the product worth the price, and would I pack this for any specific type of trip?

Portability and performance are my top concerns, because at the end of the day, you’re only going to pack the items that actually fit into your bag. And you’re only going to use the items you packed. However, I always make sure that the toiletries I test and recommend are useful for most people and simple to use while traveling. And it never hurts to get a good deal.

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The Best, Most Surprising Travel Minis

Perusing the travel-toiletries aisle is a very specific kind of joy, whether you’re at a Duane Reade near your home or a pharmacie in the 5th Arrondissement. There’s the visual pleasure of something big made small as well as the chance to try a pricey item for a fraction of the cost of the full size. (Finding out that a shampoo makes your hair frizzy instead of fluffy is far less painful when you’ve spent $10 rather than $25.) It makes packing your Dopp kit or toiletry bag feel like a little treat instead of a crazed puzzle.

So I’ve rummaged through the metaphorical travel aisles to find minis of dozens of Strategist-approved brands. Everything is either under 3.4 ounces or a solid so that you can take it through TSA. I’ve mainly focused on stand-alone products (many of which are from brands you might not have realized make travel-size products), but I’ve also included some sets that are particularly good value. From skin care to shampoo, it’s a treasure trove of tinies.

The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments , rolling luggage , pillows for side sleepers , natural anxiety remedies , and bath towels . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Mini must-haves: great travel toiletries.

We outlined some of the best travel toiletry bags (click here to check them out)  and the mini must-haves: great travel toiletries to keep stashed in your wash kit. 

Skin Logic under-eye patches

Get rid of puffy eyes after long flights

These soft, moist patches reduce dark circles and puffiness for a quick refresh.

Batiste dry shampoo

Pint-sized and pretty

This product smells great and is hugely convenient if you can’t get to a shower before that business meeting or while backpacking in Thailand. This travel toiletry concept is similar to using baby powder in your hair.

R36,99 for 50ml bottles.

Nivea Creme

Great all-purpose travel toiletry

Keep a tiny tin of this unscented cream in your wash kit – a small and practical travel toiletry.

Kiehl’s Creme de Corps body wash creme

Kiehl’s has mini versions of many products

Kiehl’s offer a variety of travel-sized toiletries for men and women. This compact 75ml body wash is creamy and a safe size for your inflight carry-on luggage.

Colgate travel-sized mouth wash and tooth paste

Keep fresh with these mini must-haves

These are perfect for short trips.

R6,99 and R3,99 from various shops including Checkers and Dischem.

Don’t forget!

If you don’t buy travel sized toiletries, you need to decant all liquids in accordance with airline regulations for flights. Only 100ml bottles are allowed in your hand luggage (maximum of ten containers). This rule doesn’t apply to medication if you have a script.

Woolworths sells great squeeze tubes for shampoo and conditioner and they’re easy to transfer product into.

Travel toiletry bottles.

Two pack of easy squeeze tubes cost R75.

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

By Teddy Minford and Paris Wilson

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

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

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

Editor favorites

Amazon bestsellers.

• More recommendations

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

Used by: Madison Flager , senior commerce editor

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

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

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

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

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

Used by: Meaghan Kenny , associate commerce editor

How long I’ve been using it: Eight months

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

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

Used by: Talia Abbas , senior commerce editor at Glamour

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

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

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

Used by: Paris Wilson , commerce producer

How long I’ve been using it: 10 months

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

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

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

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

Cons -The space inside is very compact

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pros -Easy to clean -4.1 stars

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

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

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

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

More Dopp kits we recommend

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

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

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

Cons -Only two compartments

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

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

Cons -Things tend to rattle on the mesh side

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cons -Bulky

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cons -Slightly less storage space overall

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

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

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

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

Pros -Small and packable -Choices in colors -Versatile

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

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Travel Toiletries | Ultimate Guide

• Travel Toiletries

Here’s Chris @ Gravel's Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries.

Chris here - why listen to me? Well I've been designing & selling toiletry bags for years and have collectively have tested hundreds of toiletries. We reluctantly admit that we’ve spent crazy hours scouring the aisles at WalMart, Target, boutiques...& online retailers for the best travel toiletries. We even had a toothpaste brushing session where we tested 25 toothpastes to see which one we’d like best. 

Most of these travel toiletries are linked to Amazon so you can pick these up quickly before your next trip. At the bottom of the page there is also a section dedicated to Women’s Travel Toiletries.

My current travel toiletries load-out

Quip Toothbrush, Harry's deodorant, David's toothpaste, QTips, Toenail clippers, pill bottle with mini pharmacy (Tylenol, allergy medicine, Ibuprofen, etc), Travel Bottles with Dr. Bronners & Harry's Body Wash, Band-Aids, Ear Plugs...and it's not pictured but I typically have some sort of lip balm.

Toothbrush  Chris' Pick! Quip ($25)

Why Chris loves it - It’s compact & electric! There are beautiful colors to choose from. They come with a travel case to protect the bristles. It uses AAA batteries that last what seems like forever. They have monthly subscriptions  The only drawback is that the bristles don’t spin, it’s more of a vibration.

They fit nicely in any of our toiletry bags - either the Explorer SLIM toiletry bag or Explorer PLUS toiletry bag.

To be honest though...you can get a cheap toothbrush from WalMart and it'll probably perform just as well. I wish the Quip bristles moved more like a spinning brush head. I just love the design, feel, etc.

At the end of the day just bring what travel size toothpaste you have so you don’t have to go out and buy something that’s probably super similar. After trying SO many...they are all pretty similar to be honest. I do know some people that will take a larger tube and transfer over toothpaste into their travel toiletries...you could try that with toothpaste but that just doesn’t sound fun to me.

Davids 1.75oz ($5/tube). I look forward to brushing every time with Davids. They’re expensive but it makes brushing a joy and I justify the price because toothpaste lasts so long and the "price per brush" (PPB?) is still super low. We were worried the aluminum toothpaste packaging would cause a toothpaste explosion after getting smashed while traveling but alas...that doesn’t happen! 

Best Bang For Your Buck

Crest Gum Restore .85oz ($2/tube). We love this one because it’s inexpensive but tastes good & is a little cheaper. 

Dr.Tung’s Smart Floss - Cardamom Flavor ($3.98/ea). I splurged on this to see what the buzz was all about. Seriously, check the reviews...who leaves reviews for FLOSS!? I now know why - it’s the perfect floss. It expands a little and its texture gets the job done better than any other floss we’ve used.

Placker’s Dental Floss   (10.62/Pack @ $0.02/each). You probably know about these but they’re great to just toss a handful into your toiletry bag and then you’re set. The best part about them is the “toothpick” mode where the little pointy part can get food out of those hard to reach places. 

As with all travel toiletries...if you already have some floss at home they all really do the same thing so you can just buy some of these when you are ready.

Electric Razor For Men

Braun Series 3 ($54.99). Low profile & just works. It fits SUPER well in our Explorer PLUS toiletry bag .

Razor For Women

Harry’s ($26.98 for a handle & 13 razor heads) These razors aren’t marketed specifically towards women… but wow are they a steal for the price and quality. Each razor head lasts me 3+ months.

Shampoo For Men

When traveling with shampoo...or any liquid travel toiletries for that matter...reality is instead of buying some travel toiletries...just take what you already have. We made travel bottles that fit together to make the most of the vital space in your toiletry bag - Soft 3oz (89 ml) Liquid Bottles (Two Pack) . Fill them, change the label to whatever’s inside, and pack them away so you don’t have to worry about showing up to your hotel with that teeny bottle of shampoo you all have to share.

Dr. Squatch - Fresh Falls 12oz ($18.95) You may have seen the Dr. Squatch commercials...they’re hilarious. The first time I tried Dr. Squatch was when I showered at a friend’s house and used his. I instantly loved it! 

Shampoo For Women

OUAI Shampoo & Conditioner Set ($56.00) There are 3 different options to choose from depending on your hair: Fine, Medium and Thick. They each provide different benefits based on what your hair-type needs. Like all of their other products, they are cruelty, paraben, sulfate, and gluten free.

Deodorant For Men

Chris’ Pick - Harry’s Odor Control ($16/3 pack). I hate standing in the travel toiletries aisle at WalMart and smelling 20 different deodorants. Buy this three pack - they all smell good. Harry’s is notoriously good at nailing all their scents. I’ve given up anti-perspirant and it took me a while to finally settle on a deodorant I love.

Deodorant For Women

Caitlin’s Pick - Hey Humans Natural Deodorant ($12.41). This brand is amazing. They’re vegan, cruelty free, and paraben free. Even aluminum free! So no more stains on white or tighter fitting shirts. Thank the heavens. Just when you think it couldn’t get better, their packaging is made from recyclable paper too. It’s great for your pits and for the planet! 

Chris’ Pick For Men

Dr. Bronners Castile Soap 2oz ($4.99/ea). The first time I used castile soap I was shocked how it was so liquidy but quickly learned a little bit goes a long way. It’s even cheaper to buy a larger 8oz size of Dr. Bronners or even larger 25oz size of Dr. Bronner s and use our Soft 3oz (89 ml) Travel Liquid Bottles (Two Pack) to fill them up. You can even pick these up at WalMart.

Caitlin’s Pick For Women

Method ($6.99) This brand has some of the BEST scents. It will literally leave you smelling fresh all day. They have a few different options (even a line for men) and they never disappoint. If they had candles in the same scents, I’d hoard them all. 

Caitlin’s Pick For Women 

Travel bottles.

Gravel’s Pick ($14) Soft 3oz (89 ml) Liquid Bottles (Two Pack)

We scoured the internet for bottles to carry our liquid travel toiletries...we couldn’t find anything we liked so we made our own. They fit together nicely and you can fit 2 in the Explorer SLIM toiletry bag & up to 7 in the Explorer PLUS toiletry bag.

Travel Toiletries To Always Have (just in case)

Mack’s Ultra Soft Earplugs ($10.79) Inexpensive and you might as well buy these in bulk just to have in case your hotel has an outside karaoke bar that goes until 4am. Yes, Chris here speaking from personal experience. I now include these with my travel toiletries list as small yet essential.

Band-Aid Pack of 100 ($6.88). You never know when you’ll get a little cut so I always keep a few stashed in the fleece pocket on the back of our Explorer SLIM toiletry bag

Toenail Clippers/Fingernail Clippers

HAWATOUR Toenail/Fingernail Combo ($9.97) Amongst all your travel  toiletries...this is a must have. You don’t want to be snuggling and catch your sharp eagle claw toenail on your significant other. 

QTips - SUPER useful to have some stashed in your toiletry bag for any potential cleaning or just getting out of the shower with itchy ears. C'mon...we all LOVE that.

Portland Bee Balm Subtle all natural scent & the bee wax helps it stay on longer so you don’t have to re-apply every 20 minutes. I just got the Yuzu and LOVE it.

You probably have a ton of these in your pen drawer though.

Ache/Pain Relief

Tiger Balm (11.30) When traveling you’ll be walking and moving muscles you don’t always use...so you might end up with sore muscles. This stuff is expensive but lasts a long time and works wonders for sore muscles.

Pill Containers & Medicine Carry

EZY Portable Pill Case ($3.49/2) An essential part of my travel toiletries is bringing a little case with an assortment of Tylenol, allergy medicine, etc. so I have a portable little pharmacy in my toiletry bag. These are small, compact, & just nice to have.

Tweezerman Mini Slant Tweezers ($10.99) These take up little to no room and always find a way to be useful. They even come in handy as an impromptu screwdriver (long story).  

Manta Sleep Mask   ($35.00) These are perfect for getting some shut-eye on those extra long flights or even road trips.

Aveeno Active Naturals   ($6.90) This one is perfect for daily use and is gentle enough for sensitive skin.

Chris’ Pick QP Collections ($34) I was introduced to beard oil from a friend and...IT MAKES A DIFFERENCE. If you are growing out a beard if you start using beard oil from the start of growth your beard will be super soft & cuddle-able. I’ve been using this oil for years now and just love it.

Women Specific Travel Toiletries

We wanted to have a section dedicated to women’s travel toiletries so you ladies can stay flawless.

Glow Recipe Blueberry Bounce Gentle Cleanser ($10.00-34) A great cleanser that is good for any skin type. It rolls a bunch of great ingredients into one so that you can pack light. It removes makeup and is packed with antioxidants, hyaluronic acid and gentle AHAs.

La Roche-Posay Purifying Foaming Face Wash (14.99) A must-have for oily or sensitive skin.The foam makes your face feel extra clean after a long day. This cleanser is paraben and sulfate free with no synthetic fragrances.

Dry shampoo

Batiste 1.6oz ($8.99) It absorbs a lot and doesn’t make your hair feel dry or brittle.

IGK First Class - Charcoal Detox ($29) A more expensive option but it gets the job done with less uses.  Salon-approved and won’t leave you with a white-cast. 

Feminine Hygiene

Tampons /Menstrual Cup  - Whatever works for you! Good to have something while on the go.

Face Masks and serums -- if you’re feeling extra

Brooke’s Pick - Travel-Sized  Glow Recipe Mini Watermelon + AHA Glow Sleeping Mask ($22.00) Brooke swears by this on long flights. It prevents dry skin, smells great and protects you from that gross feeling after a long plane ride. 

Paula’s choice skin perfecting 2% BHA liquid exfoliant ($29.50) This is the number one product for Paula’s choice. It unclogs pores, smoothes wrinkles and evens out skin tone. 

Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask ($22.00) Another great “travel toiletries” option for long flights or layovers. Slap this mask on and have soft lips for the rest of the day. 

Women's Hair/Long Hair

Curling Iron/Straightener

6th Sense 2-in-1 Mini Flat Iron/Curling Iron ($24.95) This product still seems unreal to me. It’s genius. Why pack your straightener and curling iron when you could have 2 for the price of 1? Seriously take my money.  

Conair - Cordless Petite ¾” Ceramic Multi-Styler ($29.99) No more cords with this  multi-styler. It still heats up to a max of 400 degrees, but takes up half the room. Conair offers this as a flat iron too! 

Hair Oil/Hair Mask

Olaplex Bonding Oil ($28.00) Olaplex No. 7 is a life saver for dry ends. It won’t weigh down your hair and a little bit goes a long way. It’s amazing on flights because the bottle is already small enough for TSA (it’s 1oz) and it has a stopper so that it never spills. 

Briogeo mini don’t despair, repair! ($14.00) After a long day of traveling, give your hair some extra TLC with this mask. It’ll help to suck some moisture back into your locks and add shine - a must have for your travel toiletries list. 

We've been designing toiletry bags for years & know that everyone packs so different. We made different size toiletry bags so you can match your load-out to your trip needs. We took photos with the same toiletries so you can see how each bag packs a little different (and one has 2x storage volume).

Recognize toiletries from the post? You can see we put in the Harry's deodorant, Mack's earplugs, Dr.Tung’s Smart Floss, Gravel's travel bottles, etc.

Explorer SLIM Toiletry Bag - Pack in a ton of travel toiletries while staying super compact. You'll be able to pack a ton but it's made to be super slender & compact in your travel bag. If you like to travel with an electric razor, electric toothbrush, & bulkier items you'll want to check out the Explorer Plus toiletry bag.

Explorer PLUS Toiletry Bag - Great for packing bigger items like electric razors, electric toothbrushes, & liquids. It comes with a clear & removable TSA approved bag for quick scans at security checkpoints & it doubles as nice hanging shower bag.

If you are looking for travel toiletries - we hope this list helped you find new ones to pack inside your toiletry bag! If you are using anything that isn’t on this list that you think should be - leave a comment below and we’ll check it out! 

Best, Caitlin McGee, Chris Livingston

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Thank you for including ear plugs! I would always advise travelers to take some ear plugs with them!

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The 15 Best Toiletry Bags for Spring Travel: Cosmetic Cases, Dopp Kits and More Starting at $10

Make packing for your next trip that much easier with these impressive toiletry bags for men and women.

As the warmth of spring sets in, this time of year is perfect for exploring new destinations and embarking on unforgettable vacations. Whether you're heading near or far, kick-starting your packing preparations well in advance can be essential to guarantee a stress-free experience.

There are all kinds of travel packing tips that can ease the difficulty of preparing for your voyage, but one travel gear essential that is often overlooked is the toiletry bag. The right toiletry bag means no more worrying about spilled shampoo or skincare products all over your clothes while also keeping everything perfectly organized.

There are so many  bags , pouches and containers that will help you transport your belongings securely. From hanging toiletry bags that save counter space to a portable Dopp kit for men, there’s a bag for all your travel needs. Since you're already busy planning your spring vacation, we've rounded up the best toiletry bags for men and women from around the web.

Below, check out the best toiletry bags that offer space, durability, and organization for every kind of adventure.

Best Toiletry Bags for Women

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Ensure your precious skincare products stay put during travel with this handy organizer.

Beis The Cosmetics Case

For those who tend to overpack, you can keep your entire beauty ritual super organized. Inside, there are three slip pockets for storing products and a separate removable sleeve specifically for makeup brushes.

Calpak Terra Hanging Toiletry Bag

This travel bag can hold all of your essentials in one place, helping you save space in your luggage. Plus, it's water-resistant and can hang on the wall using the hanging hook for easy access to your toiletries. 

Away The Large Toiletry Bag

Made with water-resistant nylon, this toiletry bag has an exterior zip pocket for grab-and-go items, plus a coated spill-proof interior to keep your cosmetics in check.

Bagsmart Toiletry Travel Bag

This handy toiletry travel bag with multiple compartments keeps all your makeup, toiletries and accessories in one convenient place. Plus, it's water-resistant and comes with a hanging hook.

Morfone 16-Pack Travel Bottle Set

This clear toiletry bag comes filled with colorful travel bottles that all fit neatly inside. It is a great solution for storing your cosmetics inside your luggage without worrying about spills or leaks.

Narwey Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag will make life easier for anyone who's always on the go. The multiple storage compartments allow for the ultimate organization of toiletries, makeup, brushes, and more.

Best Toiletry Bags for Men

Herschel chapter toiletry kit.

Keep all of your travel essentials organized on your next getaway within the zippered compartment of this Herschel Chapter Toiletry Kit.

Bagsmart Toiletry Bag

Featuring a dry wet separation waterproof PVC zipper pocket in the back and a full-open zipper pocket in the front, you can sort your tooth brushes, razors, electric trimmer or other toiletries perfectly. 

WandF Toiletry Bag

For a budget-friendly option, the WandF toiletry bag can fit travel-size and large products, and the mesh pockets offered space and easy visibility for smaller toiletries.

L.L.Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag

An L.L. Bean favorite, this medium-sized travel bag in over 10 colors and patterns. Everything on this bag is durable, even the high-quality ykk zippers, which can handle 20,000 zips and unzips.

Vorspack Hanging Dopp Kit Toiletry Bag

Don't be fooled by the size. This bag fits more essentials than expected, thanks to the polyester fabric. It's perfect for stowing away your phone, passport, cards and small accessories while traveling. 

Samsonite NuRoad Lay Flat Toiletry Kit

Keep all your toiletries together and accessible in this flat-laying toiletry kit. It has water-resistant coating for easy clean up in case any of your products spring a leak. 

Vetelli Leather Toiletry Bag for Men

Unwrap this Vetelli leather toiletry bag to uncover three rows of organizational compartments. You can lay it flat or hang it up with the attached hook.

Aaron Leather Goods Vegan Leather Toiletry Travel Bag

Travel in style with this sleek vegan leather toiletry bag.

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Touring the Top 10 Moscow Metro Stations

By Claudia Looi 2 Comments

Komsomolskaya metro station looks like a museum. It has vaulted ceilings and baroque decor.

Hidden underground, in the heart of Moscow, are historical and architectural treasures of Russia. These are Soviet-era creations – the metro stations of Moscow.

Our guide Maria introduced these elaborate metro stations as “the palaces for the people.” Built between 1937 and 1955, each station holds its own history and stories. Stalin had the idea of building beautiful underground spaces that the masses could enjoy. They would look like museums, art centers, concert halls, palaces and churches. Each would have a different theme. None would be alike.

The two-hour private tour was with a former Intourist tour guide named Maria. Maria lived in Moscow all her life and through the communist era of 60s to 90s. She has been a tour guide for more than 30 years. Being in her 60s, she moved rather quickly for her age. We traveled and crammed with Maria and other Muscovites on the metro to visit 10 different metro stations.

Arrow showing the direction of metro line 1 and 2

Moscow subways are very clean

To Maria, every street, metro and building told a story. I couldn’t keep up with her stories. I don’t remember most of what she said because I was just thrilled being in Moscow.   Added to that, she spilled out so many Russian words and names, which to one who can’t read Cyrillic, sounded so foreign and could be easily forgotten.

The metro tour was the first part of our all day tour of Moscow with Maria. Here are the stations we visited:

1. Komsomolskaya Metro Station  is the most beautiful of them all. Painted yellow and decorated with chandeliers, gold leaves and semi precious stones, the station looks like a stately museum. And possibly decorated like a palace. I saw Komsomolskaya first, before the rest of the stations upon arrival in Moscow by train from St. Petersburg.

2. Revolution Square Metro Station (Ploshchad Revolyutsii) has marble arches and 72 bronze sculptures designed by Alexey Dushkin. The marble arches are flanked by the bronze sculptures. If you look closely you will see passersby touching the bronze dog's nose. Legend has it that good luck comes to those who touch the dog's nose.

Touch the dog's nose for good luck. At the Revolution Square station

Revolution Square Metro Station

3. Arbatskaya Metro Station served as a shelter during the Soviet-era. It is one of the largest and the deepest metro stations in Moscow.

Arbatskaya Metro Station

4. Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station was built in 1935 and named after the Russian State Library. It is located near the library and has a big mosaic portrait of Lenin and yellow ceramic tiles on the track walls.

Lenin's portrait at the Biblioteka Imeni Lenina Metro Station

5. Kievskaya Metro Station was one of the first to be completed in Moscow. Named after the capital city of Ukraine by Kiev-born, Nikita Khruschev, Stalin's successor.

Kievskaya Metro Station

6. Novoslobodskaya Metro Station  was built in 1952. It has 32 stained glass murals with brass borders.

Novoslobodskaya metro station

7. Kurskaya Metro Station was one of the first few to be built in Moscow in 1938. It has ceiling panels and artwork showing Soviet leadership, Soviet lifestyle and political power. It has a dome with patriotic slogans decorated with red stars representing the Soviet's World War II Hall of Fame. Kurskaya Metro Station is a must-visit station in Moscow.

Ceiling panel and artworks at Kurskaya Metro Station

8. Mayakovskaya Metro Station built in 1938. It was named after Russian poet Vladmir Mayakovsky. This is one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world with 34 mosaics painted by Alexander Deyneka.

Mayakovskaya station

One of the over 30 ceiling mosaics in Mayakovskaya metro station

9. Belorusskaya Metro Station is named after the people of Belarus. In the picture below, there are statues of 3 members of the Partisan Resistance in Belarus during World War II. The statues were sculpted by Sergei Orlov, S. Rabinovich and I. Slonim.

10. Teatralnaya Metro Station (Theatre Metro Station) is located near the Bolshoi Theatre.

Teatralnaya Metro Station decorated with porcelain figures .

Taking the metro's escalator at the end of the tour with Maria the tour guide.

Have you visited the Moscow Metro? Leave your comment below.

January 15, 2017 at 8:17 am

An excellent read! Thanks for much for sharing the Russian metro system with us. We're heading to Moscow in April and exploring the metro stations were on our list and after reading your post, I'm even more excited to go visit them. Thanks again 🙂

December 6, 2017 at 10:45 pm

Hi, do you remember which tour company you contacted for this tour?

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Christmas gift guide to Moscow surroundings

Visitors from America and Western Europe might be surprised to discover that Russia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. That’s because the Russian Orthodox Church follows the Julian calendar. After the end of the Soviet Union, some Russians have begun celebrating Christmas on December 25 in accordance with the Gregorian calendar. But many Russians still observe the tradition of fasting on January 6th, breaking the fast with a large feast on Christmas Eve after the first star has appeared in the sky.

During the Soviet era, Christmas and religious traditions were banned in Russia. Santa Claus was replaced by Ded Moroz, or, Grandfather Frost, an old man with a long white beard who would bring gifts to children on New Year’s instead of Christmas. According to Russian tradition, Ded Moroz is accompanied by his granddaughter, Snegurochka, the Snowmaiden, who helps him on his journey to give presents to children.

Although the tradition of having a Christmas tree, known as a yolka in Russian, was also banned during Soviet times, Russians got around this by having New Year’s trees from which they hung homemade decorations. Today, the restrictions of the Soviet Union have faded into history, and during the Christmas season visitors to Russia can even purchase Christmas ornaments in the shape of matryoshka dolls, or religious icons that depict nativity scenes.

Heading counterclockwise around the Golden Ring this holiday season, northeast of Moscow, your first stop will most likely be the city of Vladimir, home to some of Russia’s most striking churches and cathedrals. The Vladimir region is known for its fine crystal. Stop by the Crystal, Lacquer Miniatures, and Embroidery Museum ( 2 Bolshaya Moskovskaya ) for an overview of traditional crafts before visiting the gift shop in the museum to browse the crystal selection. Vladimir Chic ( 2 Dvoryanskaya ) also sells local glass and crystal work.

Typical souvenirs are also for sale in Vladimir’s old town, especially by the Golden Gate, a triumphal arch and defensive tower that is one of the last-remaining parts of the wall that once surrounded ancient Vladimir and a sure stop on any tour of the Golden Ring.

Just 63 kilometers from Vladimir lays the nearby city of Gus-Khrustalny , the ‘Crystal Goose,’ also home to a rich glass and crystal making tradition. You can visit the glassmaking factory in Gus-Khrustalny and buy gifts ranging from plates and vases to decanters, or visit the outlet store back in Moscow ( 4 Ilyinka ) just east of the Kremlin.

North of Vladimir, you’ll arrive in Suzdal, one of the Golden Ring route’s more tranquil towns. Suzdal boasts a number of small bazaars and stands outside the main tourist sites where visitors can purchase local honey mead, called medovukha, along with traditional crafts, like a pair valenki, or Russian woolen boots, which make an ideal Christmas gift for friends and family back home. The shopping stands outside Suzdal’s Museum of Wooden Architecture and Peasant Life ( Ul. Pushkarskaya ) are also highly recommended. Market Square ( Torgovaya Pl ) houses a number of shops where visitors can search for arts and crafts.

Following the Golden Ring north of Suzdal, many tours will stop in the city of Kostroma, a former trading outpost on the immense Volga River. One of the city’s highlights is the Museum of Linen and Birchbark ( 38 Tereshkova ), where visitors can view exhibits on traditional Russian crafts woven from flax and bark. A gift shop in the basement sells tablecloths, napkins, baskets, linen dolls, and traditional clothing typical of the region.

South from Kostroma, stop in the city of Rostov-Veliky for enamel jewelry, a craft which allows artists to produce small paintings on metal that are then fired to produce a thin glaze over the image. Rostov became famous for its tradition of enamel work. Today, visitors can purchase rings, earrings, bracelets, brooches, and jewelry boxes in the gift shop of the Rostov Enamel factory ( 3 Borisoglebskoye Highway ).

While you’re in Rostov, visit the House of Crafts ( 16 Vtoraya Tolstovskaya Naberezhnaya ) for local pottery and the Souvenirs shop ( 5 Ul. Kamennyi Most ) for ushanka hats—Russian fur caps with earflaps—paintings, and samovars for tea lovers.

The last two stops on a tour of the Golden Ring are the cities of Pereslavl-Zalesskiy and Sergiev Posad. Pereslavl is most famous for its embroidery work, available at the Art Salon ( 12 Ul. Sovetskaya ) along with souvenirs made of wood and stone. Nearby Sergiev Posad is considered the place where Russia’s matryoshka dolls were first invented, and was the chief production center of the dolls before Soviet times. Visit the city’s Toy Museum ( 123 Pr. Krasny Armii ) to get a better sense of the birthplace of one of Russia’s most recognizable toys, then head over to the market alongside the Trinity Monastery of St. Sergius—one of the city’s most important sites—to load up on matryoshka dolls, painted eggs, and icons before going home.

If you’ll be in the Golden Ring during New Years, the city of Vladimir hosts an impressive Christmas fair, with an iceskating rink and performances by local artists, in the main square ( Sobornaya Pl ). In most other Golden Ring cities you’ll find similar events in the center square as Christmas nears.

Most shops and markets in the Golden Ring are open year round. If you’re coming to Russia for a short period of time, whether in winter or summer, consider a trip to this stunning part of the country, and bring an extra bag if you plan to go shopping for Christmas gifts.

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