The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (2024)

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

You’ve packed your carry on, and everything fits perfectly. That is, until you need to fit it in your toiletry bag!

We’ve all been there, trying to travel light but not sure how to because of our toiletries. It’s a very common issue. You obviously want to include the essentials, but not overpack and weigh down your suitcase. especially since airline weight restrictions are even more stringent nowadays.

This is an issue I’ve personally tackled before myself! I made it my mission to not only choose the right clothes and shoes to downsize my packing but also do the same with my toiletries while still being able to take my favorite beauty products. Check out how I started in the video below:

Learn how to start downsizing your toiletries in this video!

First, let’s cover the basics of downsizing your toiletries, followed by a step-by-step walkthrough of how to master the art of packing toiletries.

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Toiletries make up your beauty and hygiene regimen on a trip!

What Are Toiletries?

Here’s a toiletries definition that’s simple and easy to understand: any item used to groom or clean yourself is considered a toiletry item, whether it’s soap, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, face cream, sunscreen, toothpaste, or even makeup is considered in the same category.

Most travelers bring travel size toiletries with them, either in carry on luggage or in checked baggage. Nowadays, the most popular way method of vacation is by taking a carry on suitcase on board an airplane, which means it’s necessary to minimize the size of toiletries so you don’t exceed weight or size limits.

The best way to pack beauty products is to use travel bottles for toiletries or a specific travel bag for toiletries.

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Before packing toiletries for a plane trip, check the allowed items for your suitcase.

What Toiletries Can You Bring On a Plane?

One of the most important things to know about toiletries on plane trips is to start planning before you leave by finding out what you are allowed to bring in your suitcase. To meet TSA toiletries requirements depends on whether or not you are checking your luggage.

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

Now that we’ve covered the basics, follow the step-by-step guide below on packing toiletries for travel to determine what you will and will not need to bring, along with strategies for downsizing products:

  • Step 1: Decide What Toiletries to Pack
  • Step 2: Downsize and Decant Products
  • Step 3: Replace Liquids With Solids
  • Step 4: Downsize Makeup Products
  • Step 5: Choose the Right Toiletry Bag
  • Step 6: Use a Toiletries Packing List to Organize

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Most travelers pack travel-size toiletries in their carry-on or checked baggage.

Step #1 – Decide What Toiletries to Pack

​Once you know what you’re allowed to take, you can save a lot of space and weight in your luggage by minimizing your toiletries and eliminating certain items altogether. Just stick to the basics!

Start by composing a list of toiletries and listing all the grooming and beauty products you use daily. Then, consider which ones you must take and which ones you can leave behind. Remember, a trip is temporary, so you won’t be without something forever.

Certain things might be non-negotiable, such as your favorite brand of shampoo or premium face moisturizer.

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Dr. Bronners Travel Size Soaps can double as hand, body, and sometimes shampoo for hair if you are really traveling minimally!

One of the best ways to minimize toiletries is to choose multi-use products or items.

Determine if there are any products you already own that can work double-duty. Choose between two products that serve the same purpose.

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

You’d be surprised how many products can be used for multiple needs!

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Don’t default to using travel size containers when decanting products, as that can often be more than you need!

Step #2 – Downsize and Decant Toiletry Products

The biggest mistake travelers make with carry on toiletries is not considering how much product they actually use and then overpacking the wrong sizes. This is why I suggest experimenting at home to discover the amount you use of each product.

Before packing anything, note the essentials you’ll need, such as shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, as well as your skincare and makeup products. Then, log how much you use of each product throughout the number of days your trip will last.

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These refillable Kitsch Ultimate Travel Containers are perfect for shampoo, conditioner, or creams. And since they sit flat, they take up very little room!

Measuring what you’ll need allows you to refer back when you’re ready to make the final plan.

After measuring what you need, you’ll be able to easily decant the perfect amounts into travel containers for toiletries.

Choose empty containers of various shapes and sizes, and DO NOT default to choosing “TSA toiletries size” 100 ml or 3 oz options, as they’re often too big for what you actually need. This is my ultimate secret for fitting various toiletries into a minimal space while still complying with the liquid rules.

These are the best travel containers because you pack only what you need:

  • Stackable Pots: These work extremely well for women who use various beauty products or have an extensive skincare routine. Use one stack for shampoo/conditioner/body wash and another stack for face moisturizer/body lotion/sunblock.
  • Individual Pots: Use these for makeup and beauty products you won’t need often; I especially love using individual pots for items like my concealer and foundation. I don’t need to use a large quantity, and they usually come in a heavy glass bottle, so decanting them saves weight, too.
  • Cylinder Soft Tubes: Use these for runny, thin liquids or for products you’d prefer not to dip your finger into. They’re also ideal for when you need a larger amount of a certain product, such as body lotion or shampoo. They tend to be leakproof and long-lasting, making them the best travel containers in comparison to hard plastic bottles. GoToob is the most popular brand and has a convenient 2 oz size.

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The 14-pack Teapile Travel Containers are designed to be leakproof, and they’re durable and BPA-free!

When using your own carry on toiletries size containers, remember these golden rules:

  • Only fill 2/3 of the container to avoid compression leaks.
  • Use a piece of saran wrap under the lid for extra leak prevention.
  • Avoid water-like substances such as toner. The thinner the liquid, the more likely it is to seep out.

Tip: We often get asked how to label toiletry containers. It can depend on what you’re using, be it a cylinder tube, stackable pot, or the newer, popular flat containers. You can purchase labels specifically for travel containers or use something simple like a permanent Sharpie marker to identify your products. The flat containers usually have an area for you to write with a marker. Whatever system you decide on, make it easy for you and aim to only do it once, so you can always have your labeled containers ready!

Keeping these tips in mind, here’s a list of products you may or may not need; you’ll find a list of toiletries examples below. Remember: be vigilant in eliminating what’s not necessary!

Sample Travel Toiletries List:

(Click any item for product suggestions)

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

​Find out the most creative ways readers pack their creams, toners, and foundations for travel!

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Solid toiletries are more sustainable because you can reduce wasteful packaging.

Step #3: Replace Liquids with Solids

If you’ll be packing your toiletries in your carry on luggage, note the TSA restrictions on bringing liquids on board. The TSA requires that liquid products be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) each and that all liquids fit inside a clear, quart-size bag when traveling with a carry-on.

Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes must be inside the quart-size bag. This is known as the TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule, which was discussed above.

Limiting your toiletries to one quart-size bag means you’ll need to get creative with what to bring. This is where solid toiletries come in!

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Popular with readers and travelers, this Ethique Solid Shampoo and Conditioner Variety Pack saves space and helps the environment!

While not necessarily helping you downsize, replacing liquid beauty products with solid toiletries will help you meet the carry on liquids requirements. And you can put them into a smaller travel toiletries bag and separate them from your liquids.

There are some fantastic products on the market, from solid shampoo and solid face cleanser to insect repellent and sunscreen to even toothpaste, that can all help you abide by the TSA liquids rule but still look, feel, and smell your best while traveling.

​Check out the most popular solid toiletries that TFG readers swear by!

For specific items and requirements, always check the airline and airport websites or contact them and ask them directly.

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You can not only decant certain makeup products but also buy travel size or solid products to reduce your liquids allotment.

Step #4 – Downsize Makeup Products

Besides considering travel sized toiletries, another essential aspect of packing light is downsizing your makeup! Of course, you want to look somewhat polished on vacation, but remember that makeup can take up a lot of space.

Because a lot of readers have asked me how I travel with makeup, I thought I’d share how I downsize my everyday makeup to a simpler travel routine. (I also share my skincare routine in this post and how I make it work for travel.)

Check out the video below to see how I organize my makeup items and get them downsized for a trip!

Watch this video to learn how I downsize my makeup for travel!

As you learned how to pack toiletries for a flight, the same applies here. Create a travel capsule makeup collection that includes only the essentials and eliminates the clutter. Travel mascara, brow liner, eyeliner, blush, and travel size lip color are the most visually enhancing products, giving you the biggest bang for your buck.

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The Vera Bradley Cotton Cosmetic Bag has a washable lining and is great for holding cosmetics! Or you can use a small travel bag for toiletries for makeup too!

So, how do you build a capsule makeup collection? Here are the best ways you can downsize your cosmetics:

  • Decant products where you can: Things like foundation and concealer can be transferred to smaller containers; that way, if you lose your makeup bag, you won’t lose everything and have to start all over again.
  • Exclude duplicates and pack multi-use products: Determine if there are any products you already own that can work double-duty. Avoid makeup similar in purpose or color, and only choose one to pack.These travel size multitasking face makeup palettes might be small, but they offer a lot of options!
  • Opt for solid stick products: Makeup products, including liquids, gels, and creams, will need to go inside the quart size clear bag, along with the rest of your toiletries. Buying products like stick foundation and compact cream blusher will help maximize space.
  • Use Double-Sided Makeup Brushes: Bringing a bunch of brushes can be a pain. Instead of having many different eyeshadow brushes, I just use one that’s double-sided. My favorite is from EcoTools, and it’s one of the best multi-use makeup tools.

Another thing to consider is removing makeup—wipes or liquids can take up space. I use a makeup remover cloth, like the Original Makeup Eraser Cloth, which only needs water and removes waterproof mascara!

With these tips in mind, here’s a list of products you may or may not need; you’ll find a list of makeup examples below. Remember: be vigilant in eliminating what’s not necessary!

Sample Travel Size Makeup List:

  • Primer
  • Foundation
  • Concealer
  • Highlighter
  • Powder
  • Blush
  • Bronzer
  • Eyebrow pencil
  • Eyeshadows
  • Eyeliner
  • Mascara
  • Eyelash curler
  • Lip liner
  • Lipstick
  • Lip gloss
  • Oil absorbing wipes
  • Makeup brushes

​Learn all the ways I downsize my makeup for travel here!​

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The wrong toiletry bag can make it difficult to organize products or be too bulky for a carry on, so choose what’s appropriate for your trip!

Step #5 – Choose the Right Toiletry Bag

Along with downsizing, a carry-all toiletries travel bag can keep your beauty care products organized while traveling.

Toiletry bags are travel pouches designed to hold everything from toothbrushes and toothpaste to shampoos and conditioners to skincare and makeup! These bags will keep all of your toiletries organized and mess-free and allow for easy packing in your suitcase, trip after trip.

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The Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag is #1 for readers due to its numerous water-resistant pockets, which keep everything organized!

Not all toiletry travel bags are created equal, and there are many different styles to choose from depending on your packing style, products, and the trip you’re planning. Here are the most popular types:

  • Hanging toiletry bags: Are the most popular style among readers, and I myself typically avoid toiletry bags that don’t have them! Hung up rather than sitting on a wet counter, hanging toiletry bags saves space and keeps things tidy and organized. The Vasco toiletry bag has been my go-to lately. It initially grabbed my attention with its slim, flat design that won’t take up a lot of space in a carry-on suitcase or personal item.
  • Non-hanging toiletry bags: Some travelers prefer a classic, non-hanging toiletry bag. They’re often more compact, polished, and sometimes more versatile than their hanging counterparts. If you’re staying at an accommodation where you’re not worried about counter space, then these bags are great. A popular one is the Away Large Toiletry Bag.
  • Dopp kit for women: Typically slim and rectangular, dopp kits are practical when it comes to packing. They feature a simple main compartment that makes it easy to see everything and have plenty of versatility in terms of what fits inside. Readers love the Quince Nappa Leather Toiletry Bag!
  • Cosmetic Bags: While excellent for storing makeup, travel cosmetic bags also make great toiletry bags if you’re looking for a nice open space to organize your products. It’s a simple, fuss-free way to keep your toiletries packed away. TFGs really love Longchamp, and many have sung the praises of their compact cosmetic bag for makeup or small toiletries.

Tip: If you’re traveling carry on only, keep that quart-size ziplock bag (storing your liquids) easily accessible when you get to the airport. Once you get through security, place them back into your toiletry bag.

Check out all the best toiletry bags for travel in our ultimate guide!

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No matter how long a trip is, a toiletries packing checklist can make planning and organizing less stressful!

Step #6 – Use a Printable Toiletries Packing List

To ensure that you don’t forget to bring anything on your trip, we’ve created a helpful printable toiletries checklist. Click here or click the imagebelow to open the editable file.

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The list features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently and includes all the items listed in various categories above and has spaces where you can fill in your own information:

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

Read this article for a printable packing list for clothing and shoes!

What are your tips for packing toiletries for air travel? Share with us in the comments!

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We hope you enjoyed this article on travel-size toiletries rules and how to downsize toiletries. Please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

  1. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (17)

    Rhondaon October 6, 2024 at 10:51 am

    Your travel bag in the video has been discontinued. Have you found another one that allows you to put the quart size liquids bag in the bottom like in the video?

    Reply

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      Alexon October 9, 2024 at 1:25 pm

      Hi Rhonda, this ​Vasco waterproof toiletry bag​ has been my go-to lately: https://rstyle.me/+6MFfh3MRjZPV84cOaokjWQ

      It initially grabbed my attention with its slim, flat design that won’t take up a lot of space in a carry-on suitcase or personal item. It checks a lot of my other boxes, from its quality nylon fabric to its sealed zippers to the multiple lined pockets that allow you to see your things clearly.

      Reply

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    Janon September 26, 2024 at 7:38 am

    Would love to know what products you use, facial, toothpaste, ect

    Hard to tell on the downsize travel video

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (20)

      Alexon September 27, 2024 at 1:41 pm

      Here you go!

      https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/beauty-routine/

      Reply

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    Rhonda B Rogerson August 27, 2024 at 4:58 pm

    Thank you for your lists. So helpful. I also love the contact lens containers for foundation, cleanser and a few other things. Really has made a difference.

    Reply

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    Maxx Walskeon August 25, 2024 at 9:24 am

    This is FANTASTIC! I was able downsize my toiletry bag size and weight to a third of what it was. TFG always has the best suggestions and solutions! Thank you!

    Reply

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    Shari Eliceon August 20, 2024 at 12:31 pm

    Thank you so much for these tips! I travel frequently, and keep travel sized products in my kit ready to go. It means that it is one less thing for me to have to think about.

    Reply

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    Deniseon August 19, 2024 at 12:02 pm

    What a great article! Thank you.

    Reply

  7. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (26)

    Deniseon August 19, 2024 at 12:01 pm

    What a great article!

    Reply

  8. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (27)

    Shannonon August 19, 2024 at 3:46 am

    Wow. So much great information here. Toiletries are always where I struggle with packing!

    Reply

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    Salon August 18, 2024 at 11:19 am

    I loved the tip to downsize beyond the usual travel sized products. I tried the contact lenses case for my liquid foundation. It saved so much space and weight in my toiletries bag.

    Reply

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    kim burrillon August 18, 2024 at 11:08 am

    I love all the advice wit toiletries!

    Reply

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    Peggy Weatheringtonon October 1, 2023 at 10:28 am

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

    Reply

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    Vera Kozlowskion September 28, 2023 at 1:34 pm

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

    Reply

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    Charlotte Hickson September 26, 2023 at 5:22 pm

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

    Reply

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    Tabitha DePaoloon September 23, 2023 at 11:11 am

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

    Reply

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    Laurie Brownon September 19, 2023 at 6:18 am

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

    Reply

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    meghan brunnockon September 18, 2023 at 8:42 am

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

    Reply

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    Melissa J.on September 18, 2023 at 8:15 am

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

    Reply

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    Molly Hillmanon September 18, 2023 at 7:49 am

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

    Reply

  19. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (38)

    Doton March 1, 2023 at 9:41 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (39)

      Alexon March 1, 2023 at 11:18 am

      Very good point, thanks for sharing Dot!

      Reply

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    NutmegsMomon January 29, 2023 at 10:14 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (41)

      Alexon January 30, 2023 at 7:55 am

      So glad you found this guide helpful!

      Reply

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    Rebeccaon September 8, 2022 at 4:18 am

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

    Reply

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    Allisonon September 6, 2022 at 9:04 pm

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

    Reply

  23. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (44)

    Zoey Blueon September 6, 2022 at 8:47 pm

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

    Reply

  24. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (45)

    Kelly Settleon September 6, 2022 at 9:18 am

    Great tips. Toiletries are the most challenging for me.

    Reply

  25. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (46)

    Kimberly G. Carteron September 6, 2022 at 5:35 am

    Great info – toiletries are always a challenge for me!

    Reply

  26. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (47)

    Sallie McFarlaneon September 5, 2022 at 6:38 am

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

    Reply

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    Jennie Woodson September 4, 2022 at 7:27 pm

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

    Reply

  28. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (49)

    Kim Wallaceon September 1, 2022 at 6:14 am

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

    Reply

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    Cherion August 31, 2022 at 4:56 am

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

    Reply

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    Karen Rothwellon August 29, 2022 at 3:18 pm

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

    Reply

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    Christine Campbellon August 29, 2022 at 10:36 am

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

    Reply

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    Charlotteon August 28, 2022 at 6:55 am

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

    Reply

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    Molly Zimmermanon August 28, 2022 at 6:41 am

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

    Reply

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    Nikki Hollieron August 24, 2022 at 3:05 pm

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (57)

      Nancy Roachon August 28, 2022 at 8:48 am

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

      Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (58)

      Laura cyron August 29, 2022 at 2:10 am

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

      Reply

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    Terrion August 24, 2022 at 7:57 am

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

    Reply

  36. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (60)

    LeeAnnon August 24, 2022 at 4:02 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (61)

      Tracy Orr Smithon August 28, 2022 at 10:08 am

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

      Reply

  37. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (62)

    Denise Beiselon August 23, 2022 at 8:18 pm

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

    Reply

  38. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (63)

    Jimmie Sue Colletton August 23, 2022 at 6:53 pm

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

    Reply

  39. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (64)

    Kristaon August 23, 2022 at 6:53 pm

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

    Reply

  40. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (65)

    Laurie Con August 23, 2022 at 6:48 pm

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

    Reply

  41. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (66)

    Nancy Willmoreon August 23, 2022 at 12:42 pm

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

    Reply

  42. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (67)

    Sheilaon August 23, 2022 at 11:20 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (68)

      Julieon August 18, 2024 at 2:14 pm

      I am constantly working on perfecting my toiletry packing. I use solid items such as Bite toothpaste bits and Lush shampoo bars. I like to put liquids in the smallest containers possible. My favorite small containers are one ounce Nalgene bottles and 10 ml. lip gloss tubes.

      Reply

  43. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (69)

    Leanneon August 23, 2022 at 10:23 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (70)

      Nadja Jacksonon August 23, 2022 at 1:50 pm

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

      Reply

  44. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (71)

    Lisa Bamburgon August 23, 2022 at 10:04 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (72)

      Heatheron August 23, 2022 at 12:20 pm

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

      Reply

  45. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (73)

    valerie mudrowon August 23, 2022 at 10:02 am

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

    Reply

  46. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (74)

    Christineon August 23, 2022 at 8:30 am

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

    Reply

  47. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (75)

    Sandraon August 23, 2022 at 7:48 am

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

    Reply

  48. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (76)

    Dianeon August 23, 2022 at 7:25 am

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

    Reply

  49. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (77)

    Simoneon August 23, 2022 at 6:15 am

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

    Reply

  50. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (78)

    Sandraon August 23, 2022 at 6:12 am

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

    Reply

  51. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (79)

    Anneon August 23, 2022 at 5:31 am

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

    Reply

  52. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (80)

    Robin Politoon August 23, 2022 at 5:14 am

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

    Reply

  53. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (81)

    Fern Rabilon August 23, 2022 at 5:03 am

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

    Reply

  54. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (82)

    Tracy Trencher Morraon August 23, 2022 at 4:58 am

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

    Reply

  55. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (83)

    Karenon August 23, 2022 at 1:16 am

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

    Reply

  56. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (84)

    Katrina Gilletton August 22, 2022 at 10:33 pm

    Thanks for the list!

    Reply

  57. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (85)

    Vicki L Pattersonon February 5, 2021 at 7:56 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (86)

      Alexon February 10, 2021 at 12:09 am

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

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

      Reply

  58. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (87)

    Rickon June 16, 2019 at 10:06 pm

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (88)

      Alexon June 18, 2019 at 7:06 am

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

      Reply

  59. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (89)

    Barbaraon March 7, 2019 at 7:39 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (90)

      Alexon March 7, 2019 at 11:47 pm

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

      Reply

  60. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (91)

    Jessicaon May 6, 2018 at 4:43 pm

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (92)

      Alexon May 7, 2018 at 5:18 am

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

      Reply

      • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (93)

        Elena Garciaon August 30, 2022 at 9:08 am

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

        Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (94)

      Gabriellaon June 25, 2018 at 12:46 am

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

      Reply

  61. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (95)

    Kay Lewison April 17, 2018 at 5:00 pm

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

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (96)

      Alexon April 17, 2018 at 10:39 pm

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

      Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (97)

      Sierraon June 6, 2020 at 1:54 pm

      🙂 sounds great! Thanks.

      Reply

  62. The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (98)

    Connieon April 17, 2018 at 11:04 am

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

    Reply

    • The Ultimate Guide to Travel Toiletries (with Printable Checklist) (99)

      Alexon April 17, 2018 at 10:40 pm

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

      Reply

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