When packing toiletries for a trip, one of the most important things to consider is a well-constructed toiletry bag that keeps all of your travel essentials organized and helps you prevent messy shampoo or conditioner spills.
But finding the right one can be tricky.
If you're going on a long trip, you need a toiletry bag that will fit neatly in your luggage and provide enough space to store your toiletries without getting too bulky.
For short trips, you might want something compact, but still spacious enough to fit your must-have toiletries.
And if you're staying in a hotel with limited counter space in the bathroom, a hanging toiletry bag can be extremely helpful.
Here's how to choose the right toiletry bag for different types of travel:
Hiking or Camping Trips:
If you've ever read Cheryl Strayed's "Wild," which details a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, you know that it's essential to pack light. Hikers avoid getting bogged down with too much stuff, so your best bet for a toiletry bag is one that's lightweight and compact. Chances are you'll only need a toothbrush, toothpaste, and a few other items to survive in the wild, so opt for a toiletry organizer that's water-resistant (in case of any rain), can hang on a tree branch (while you freshen up by the river or stream), and can fit a few travel-size liquids (for extra hygiene).
- Recommended Gravel bags: Explorer Mini or Explorer Slim
Destination Weddings or Weekend Getaways:
If you're planning a quick weekend getaway, your toiletry bag should be compact yet spacious enough to fit all of your travel essentials. Whether it's cosmetics, contact lenses and solution, or a razor and shaving cream, your toiletry kit should have enough compartments (or "pockets") to keep everything organized and easy to find. On the other hand, getting ready for a wedding or a special event might require extra space, so if you're traveling with a carry-on or suitcase you might want to consider packing a larger toiletry bag that'll fit your curling iron, hair brushes, and other bulky items. That way, you'll have everything you need to look your best for the big day!
- Recommended Gravel bags: Explorer Plus or Explorer Max
International Vacations:
When packing for an international trip, you'll likely be dealing with lots of new and unfamiliar products. A mid-sized toiletry bag that's big enough to store all of your toiletries plus some extras (like a First Aid kit) is ideal. Take into consideration the climate of your destination and make sure to pack appropriately, as some toiletries that work in cold weather won't be necessary for a tropical beach vacation. Choose a toiletry bag with plenty of compartments to organize everything from sunscreen and bug spray to travel-size soaps and lotions. Of course, if you're backpacking or doing a lot of sightseeing, consider something lightweight and water-resistant.
- Recommended Gravel bags: Explorer Plus or Explorer Max
Day Trips:
If you're only going away for a day or two, you don't need to bring all of your toiletries with you. So, a smaller toiletry organizer should be enough, whether you're exploring a nearby city or taking a beach day. Instead of packing your entire medicine cabinet, focus on the essentials like travel-size deodorant, lip balm, sunscreen, and a few travel-size bottles. This way, you'll have what you need without having to lug around something too bulky. (Your shoulders will thank you!).
- Recommended Gravel bags: Explorer Mini or Explorer Slim
Hotel Stays:
It's safe to assume that you won't be staying at a hotel for more than a few days unless you're on a business trip, or maybe you're a socialite who loves living the high life, hopping from 5-star hotel to 5-star hotel (in which case, you do you!). Regardless of the situation, hotel bathrooms the world over tend to have limited counter space, so a hanging toiletry bag would be the best option. Not only will it provide more storage and organization for your toiletries, but you won't need to worry about taking up too much of the precious real estate in your hotel bathroom.
- Recommended Gravel bags: Combo Pack (Explorer Slim & Explorer Plus)
The Bottom Line
No matter what kind of trip you're planning — be it a weekend getaway, an international vacation, or just a day trip to the beach — there's a toiletry bag for every occasion. Choose one that fits your needs, and you'll be sure to have everything you need without having to worry about overpacking or under-packing.
Bon voyage!
