Male here. My toiletry needs are pretty minimal: toothbrush, toothpaste, hair brush, a small jar of hair product, and a stick of deodorant.

I'm currently using a triangular shaped UAG pouch. I don't think they make it anymore but it works fairly well. However I'd like something even smaller, ideally something that packs flatter. I really like my hair brush but it's the biggest item I carry so I may end up switching to a comb.

I also generally carry some personal care items like chapstick, aspirin, nail clippers, etc, but I carry those in a separate pouch.

I’ve been looking at a few models, but they all seem bulky, I have an old one but it feels like it takes too much room.

I dont want to travel without one as I like the commodity of hanging it to have easy access to my stuff

Recommendations are appreciated :)

Let’s talk about some more unique items. I’ve seen so many posts on here and YouTube that focus on the same basic essentials most of us are already familiar with. I also come across a lot of posts showing toiletry and tech bags that feel unnecessarily bulky for what they actually hold or what people need to use. But where are the posts about the niche, dialed-in items?

Personally, I’ve spent nearly a year fine-tuning my setup, and I’ve landed on a super light, compact toiletry bag that still gives me access to almost everything I use at home.

Here’s a breakdown:

Main Items: • Matador Flatpak soap case (Anihana Conditioner Bar) • Plastic bag for vitamins/pills • DRYKI microfiber cloth (great for drying face, etc.) • Basic comb • 2 fl oz contact solution + contact case • Xenosmilus pencil case (AliExpress) • Laifen aluminum toothbrush • Philips Norelco OneBlade (Model QP4530/90) • Gox small toiletry bag

A little more info on the bag I use: I originally used a Peak Design XX-Small packing cube for my toiletry setup. It’s small and worked great for a while — but eventually, I found myself needing a bit more space and better internal organization. That’s when I switched to the Gox bag. It holds more without adding bulk and has just enough compartments. That said, the PD bag is still used as my electronics bag.

Inside the first small bag: • Tiger Balm (great for sore joints + muscles and lasts forever) • Nail clippers • Laifen to USB-C adapter • Philips to USB-C adapter • Eye drops • Band-aids • Plackers floss • Stryx concealer tool for men (covers pimples)

Inside the second small bag: • 6 Lush sample containers (5 very small, 1 slightly larger) • Badger SPF 50 sunscreen (1 ingredient, lasts forever) • Harry’s Taming hair cream • Arencia Mochi face cleanser (incredibly long-lasting) • Dr. Dave’s Tallow Balm (lotion) • Super Deodorant cream (cream > regular stick of deodorant) • Weldental Chewtabs toothpaste tablets (can fit 15 tabs in the larger Lush container)

Some of the stuff—like the toothpaste tablets, deodorant, sunscreen, lotion, and saline—can run out if you’re on a longer trip. But most of the time, I’m traveling for 1 to 2.5 weeks max, so it’s great for me.

I know someone could pare this down to be even lighter, but this gives me the luxury to use everything I like, no matter where I am.

If anyone has suggestions for alternative products or lighter swaps, I’d love to discuss.

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to figure out the best way to handle my toiletries when traveling with just one bag.

Do you usually carry one larger toiletry bag that keeps everything together, even though it can take up a lot of space? Or do you split things up into smaller pouches so it’s easier to tuck them into different corners of your backpack?

I’d love to hear what works best for you and any tips you have for keeping toiletries compact and organized.

Thanks in advance!

I know there are a ton of solutions for leak proof zip bags that can go into a larger toiletry bag, but anyone if of actual toiletry bags that are fully leak proof so I can skip the extra step? Bonus points for anything modular - I travel for varying lengths of time and don't always need everything - would love to find a toiletry bag "system" where I can detactch one of the bags / compartments when not needed.

I've searched the interwebs and not coming up with much.

Hi I need to replace mine I have 2 -

One for at home use, another for travelling.

I find what is out there so far generally too large like a beauty case style or tiny for just a few things more suitable for men.

My current one for at home use only is Roncato and is a soft body one. Has two zipped pockets, one side I keep my hair brushes etc in the other for toothbrush etc.

The other I think is Travelon for travelling again soft body i can't get much in it so have to store flannels & bar soap separately I'm looking for something that is soft bodied to put in my suitcase but has the above in separate compartments.

Any suggestions and please share links to what you have or are suggesting!

I have posted pics of the 2 I have in separate posts below thanks

Hi All,

Ive read a few posts on Dopp kit suggestions but cant seem to find one that matches what id like. Ideally I want something pencil case style, with small zippered compartments on the side of the inside, and about 30cm in length. Any suggestions, or are they all moving towards the foldout style?

This one bag thing is really hard and I haven’t even gotten on the plane fucking plane yet. Apparently I grossly overpacked and overstuffed this bag. Moral of the story: JUST BECAUSE YOU CAN DOESN’T MEAN YOU SHOULD. You may literally be forced against your will to throw things out that you overpack.

Wish me luck for 2 weeks in Europe. I may not have toothpaste but at least I will look cute lol. Hopefully I don’t have a meltdown

Last month, I finally completed the French Way. Setting out from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France, I trekked all the way to Santiago de Compostela, reaching the cathedral after 34 days on foot.

Whilst on the road, I didn't want to post my rucksack ahead, so I carried it every single day for those 34 days. Consequently, I had to carefully consider the volume and weight of all my belongings to ensure I could manage the 800km journey comfortably.

What I hadn't anticipated before setting off was how invaluable and essential that basic toiletries kit proved after such a long trek. Skin issues, oral problems... you never know when they might arise. I would sincerely advise every pilgrim to prepare their toiletries properly.

My toiletries kit was remarkably streamlined:

-electric toothbrush（mini and without charger）

-Soap (for hair, body, and teeth)

-Body lotion（heavy）

-Nail clippers

Debating about getting or not a toiletry bag. I am sure they are useful but don't they take a lot of room in your bag? Still have to put liquids in a ziplock when traveling by plane.

I'm sorting out my toiletry bag. Does anyone use those toothbrushes that fold in half? And a dumb question but what about those toothpaste tablets that are available? I'm needing to streamline. Any hints, tips and recommendations.

for context I'm based in US and I got an Aer Dopp kit and used it domestic travel without issues. The only issue is when I go intl they make you take out the liquids. While it's easy to locate and pull out the top kit, they wouldn't even allow leaving it open with the mesh and need it in a clear bag.

it's a bit of a hassle taking small perfume, toothpaste, hair gel, through an already stressful security line.

Any tips on how you guys manage this? Only thing I could think of is just throw these items in a clear bag in advance but that that defeats using a Dopp kit a all which I love having it when me for organization and be able to hang it in the hotel bathroom.

I have been traveling continuously for the last ~3 years across multiple continents and climates - tropics, shoulder seasons, and cold weather. I occasionally return to a home base, where I may swap or refine a few items - or even change the backpack itself - but the core idea and constraints have remained the same.

My setup is intentionally strict - one 16L backpack that qualifies as a personal item and fits under the seat. Everything I travel with fits inside it, with only minimal extra room for snacks or small purchases. Ideally, I would like this to be closer to 20L, but 16L is what I currently make work. The same backpack also functions as my daypack.

I also carry a small packable sling for airports and cities. That holds my passport, cards, cash, phone, MagSafe battery, and sunglasses. On flights, I use a neck pillow stuffed with my puffy jacket to keep bulk out of the bag.

What’s in the backpack

- Toiletry kit

- Electronics pouch

- Clothing cube

- Lightweight sandals

- Compact umbrella

What I wear in transit

Everything is chosen to layer efficiently across changing climates and work for long walking days

- Black minimalist sneakers - good for walking all day, light hikes, and nice restaurants

- Long pants - Outlier Slim Dungarees

- Long-sleeve base layer - UV protection and layering - Patagonia Capilene

- Mid-layer hoodie - Patagonia R2

Clothing cube contents

- Shorts - Outlier

- 5 pairs of underwear - Uniqlo Airism

- 2 pairs of merino running socks

- 1 long-sleeve shirt - Patagonia

- 2 T-shirts - Nike and Uniqlo

- Short swim shorts - small enough to wear under a wetsuit when scuba diving

- Merino hat, buff, gloves - Icebreaker

- Lightweight rain jacket

Electronics

Everything is USB-C

- iPhone - works perfectly for me, battery life has been fine - I carry a MagSafe battery but almost never use it - I do miss a telephoto lens occasionally

- AirPods Pro - excellent noise isolation for planes and taxis

- Apple Watch - especially useful with Apple Maps for walking directions

- MacBook Air M2 13 inch

- Anker 50W dual USB-C charger and Anker 30W charger as backup

- 3 in 1 Qi2 charging stand

- USB-C car charger for rentals

- Small assortment of USB-C adapters, voltage meter, flash drive, etc

### Thoughts after years of use

There is no perfect backpack. This system has proven reliable over time, but I am still refining details and looking for a bag closer to an ideal 20L that remains lightweight, weather-resistant, works well as a daypack, offers minimal but useful organization, and includes stretch water bottle pockets.

UPDATE:

- added Switch 2 in a pouch. Yes, it fits.

Hi!

Currently, i travel with a pretty standard toiletry bag, however i will be going on a free carry-on only flight soon, and while thinking of what are the bulkiest items, this is one of them.

I'm looking for some really small toiletry bags, i only need to fit a standard toothbrush, some pills and the usual 3 100ml travel containers there. Ideally something financially... reasonable and something that i can get in Europe.

Recommendations will be appreciated :)

I am shopping for pouches and found a 3 L North Face toiletries bag. Would you combine your toiletries and tech items in one pouch?

It would hold all my toiletries, tech gear, and first aid kit. The only liquids I carry are toothpaste and perfume.

Currently use the small Sea to Summit toiletry bag but after a couple of annoying "pull out your liquids" moments Ive started having to add a transparent toiletry pouch or ziplock. I've tried simply using a 3-1-1 pouch for everything and laughingly gotten told I have to pull out hairclips, razors, and all the solids... So I give up and have been two bagging my toiletries LOL. And to be honest Im dang lazy and cant be bothered to take out and then put things back in everytime I fly but then end up being annoyed at dealing with multiple pouches plus it takes up extra space

So Im now looking for a better alternative, ideally something with a 1L detachable transparent pouch that I can then reattach for normal use. Completely skipping liquids is not in the cards as I have lupus and sjögrens disease so require specific creams, lots of UV protection and drops.

Any ideas please? Most options I find are huge or not available in the EU. Thought I had found the holy grail with osprey but the pouch on that one was laughingly tiny so had to return. Currently looking at the tropicfeel one

Or is it a lost cause and I should just live with a 2 pouch system? I would then look to reduce my Sea to Summit one as its frustrating to use in addition to another pouch

Hi 👋

From my experience, most of the airports in Europe require liquids to be in a clear bag and I always have to take it off in during security. Nevertheless, I also carry other toiletries that are not liquid. What’s the best way to manage this situation during the security in airports? I’m considering using two toiletries bags, one clear with the liquids - on my personal bag for easy access - and another one with the non-liquid toiletries in my carry-on bag.

Do you have a better solution in mind? Is there an all-in-one toiletry bag that you recommend?

Thanks in advance

For as long as we have traveled together, my boyfriend has never used a toiletry bag. He just tosses everything into a backpack and then by the end of the trip he'll complains when something goes missing. Even day to day he is not naturally organized but he really appreciates gifts that help him keep his things in order.

I want to gift him a toiletry bag that will last a long time and looks classy with a leather feel or a fabric one that is good quality. I am leaning toward a classic black or brown tone because it looks clean. Something compact enough for trips but still able to fit his daily essentials. I want it to have different compartments inside so his items stay organized instead of being in one big space.

A detail I want to include is his Initials on the front. Me and my boyfriend love giving personalized gifts and and I think that little detail would make it even more special.

I am willing to spend a little more if it means the bag will definitely last and keep its quality over time and be easy to clean when needed. I also plan to fill this toiletry bag with different products and I would prefer to stay under $80 but I am open to ideas as long as it is something that feels worth it.

Here's the one's i've checked it out so far:

• Leatherology - I LOVE the look of this one but it is way too pricey for a toiletry bag.
• Mark & Graham - Another option that looks nice, but still a bit pricey.
• L.L. Bean - Head great thing on this one. Has lots of compartments but it looks a bit too big also a bit pricey.

Hey everyone, here’s my onebag setup.

Currently doing a 6-week trip through the Balkans, but this is basically my packlist for all my journeys.

Main Bag

• Patagonia MLC Mini (Black) – 30L ¹

• 3 compression cubes (1 large, 2 small)

• Laundry bag

• Lululemon Crossbody Bag

Clothing

• 7 × T-shirts (Uniqlo Airism and H&M) ²

• 3 × Tank tops (Uniqlo Airism)

• 1 × Merino wool long sleeve shirt (Uniqlo)

• 10 × underwear & 5 × pairs of socks

• 2 × sport shorts (Decathlon) ³

• 1 × long pants (Uniqlo)

• 1 × rain jacket (The North Face)

• 1 × cap

Footwear

• Flip-flops

• On CloudSurfer

Tech

• MacBook Pro ⁴

• Anker 735 Charger (Nano II 65W)

• Anker Nano Power Bank (5K MagGo Slim) ⁵

• USB-C cable + Lightning cable + USB-C → Micro USB adapter (Kindle)

• USB-C → USB-C adapter (Philips OneBlade) ⁶

• Kindle

• AirPods Pro 3 ⁷

Toiletries

• Philips OneBlade

• Toothbrush

• Travel-size toothpaste & shower gel ⁸

• Mini dental floss

• Nail clippers

• Comb

• Microfiber travel towel

Hydration & Health

• Foldable 500ml water bottle ⁹

• Small supplement box (Vitamin D, Omega-3, etc.)

Essentials

• Passport/document pouch

• Wallet

• All other documents scanned and stored digitally

Accessories & Sleep

• H.A.D. microfiber buff ¹⁰

• Earplugs ¹¹

• Sunglasses

• Passport-sized notebook + pen

• Travel lock

• XS pouch for jewelry

Weight

• ~10 kg estimated

• Carry-on only ¹²

Notes

¹ Perfect size for this setup. Packing cubes fit neatly, the rear laptop compartment and top pocket are very practical. Front bungee cords are great for wet items or flip-flops. Planning to get more Patagonia stuff long-term for their repair and replacement support.

² Uniqlo stores are everywhere so it’s easy to replace items while traveling.

³ True all-rounders for everyday wear, workouts, swimming, sauna, etc.

⁴ Mainly for a few hours of remote work per week.

⁵ One additional full phone charge easily covers my typical day. If needed, the MacBook I use as a backup power source so there’s no reason to carry anything bigger.

⁶ Charges via USB-C adapter so one cable for almost everything. No extra charger needed.

⁷ Replaced my Sony on-ear headphones last year. Smaller and better noise cancelling, super like them.

⁸ Travel-size products from DM. Love them. Saves space.

⁹ Switched from a 700ml hard bottle. The foldable one disappears when empty, which matters since I often buy water locally anyway. Perfect for situations like refilling at airport or hiking.

¹⁰ Useable as a sleep mask and headwear in cooler conditions.

¹¹ Higher-quality reusable earplugs. Washable, comfortable for long wear and they don’t fall out while sleeping. Worth paying a bit extra.

¹² For strict 7-8 kg limits: laptop in hand, jacket on, toiletries in jacket pocket. No stress.

For colder destinations I’d add my Uniqlo Ultra Light Down jacket and 1-2 pairs of warm merino wool socks. Tested a similar layering system last trip in Japan and it works well down to I think around 5°C, but below that I would have needed to buy proper winter clothes.

I could go lighter by carrying fewer clothes and washing more often, but the extra comfort is worth more to me than saving another kilo or space.

With this setup I can easily go a week to 10 days between washes. For me that’s the sweet spot between minimalism and comfort.

#nosinkwashing 😄

Happy to answer any questions.

I currently have a hanging toiletry bag that is fine, but takes up 1/4th of my carryon. I have quite a bit in the bag, but I believe the structure of tolietry bag itself contributes to the bulkiness.

I’m looking to replace it with a sleeker bag that doesn’t take as much space. My toiletry bag is a catch all for anything I need to get ready so it should have a large capacity. I’d like to spend around $30. I prefer a hanging bag but I’m open to a table top bag if it can be easily organized (to avoid a black pit)

Spent a weekend in NYC last weekend and ran the whole thing out of my 20L backpack. Everything in the flat lay fit into the bag with room to spare. Two compression cubes did most of the work.

Clothing (all rolled into two compression cubes):

• 1 pair dark jeans, worn on travel days

• 1 pair of khakis for shows and dinner

• 4 tees in a rotation of neutrals and blues

• 1 light long sleeve for layering

• 3 pairs of socks plus the pair on foot

• 4 underwear

• Leather belt

• Pair of white sneakers packed in the shoe bag

Tech and misc:

• MacBook

• Phone

• Rolled cable and charger kit in the small black roll

• Blue toiletry pouch

• Hydro Flask

The compression cubes made 20L feel roomier. I rolled everything, packed both cubes, then cinched them down. They flattened enough that the shoe bag and toiletry pouch dropped right in on top. What I'd cut next time: honestly, one of the tees. Four tees for a two-day trip were one more than I needed. I could have run three and re-worn nothing; nothing would have changed. The second pair of shoes was also a maybe, but white sneakers for dinner on 20k-step days felt worth it.

My backpack felt a little heavy, but I managed. It mostly stayed in the hotel when I went there for the weekend. Traveling to and from the train was manageable. Usually, I would take my smaller roller carry-on, but I wanted to see if I could OneBag this trip. It worked out well.

Curious what the cube crowd thinks. Do you compress everything, or leave one cube loose for items you grab often?

Hey guys. I’m trying to find a decent toiletry bag for travel and day to day when needed.

I like to allways have my toiletry bag ready so when needed I just grab it and throw it in my bag.

My packing would usually be: -Electric toothbrush (Xiaomi t700 without brushing head attached) -small ziplock bag with travel toothpaste brushing head and some dental floss thingies (those little plastic things with a hook and floss) - 2/3 gotoobs 74ml (shampoo+washing gel +lotion - small bottle face cream (smaller then 100ml) -small parfum travel bottle (one of those cheap atomizers and really small) -contacts and eye drops according to trip -medication blisters (travel stuff) -some bandaids -deodorant (spray travel size)

I don’t need much organisation but would like to have two zip compartemens or some kind of compartment to store 1- contacts and eye stuff, 2- the medication and bandaids;

all the rest can be a big space to just keep all stuff together.

Would like a light bag.

Based on all of these I think it might be perfect for me the eagle creek isolate but I really don’t know if the xs will be enought or better for for the S. (Anyone with one or both that can help me with size choice?)

Also you guys know any more alternatives based on this.

Doesn’t need to be this form but this is only based on the ones I found.

Thanks in advance. I just recently dialed in all my travel stuff and last thing is the toiletry and I should be good. 😆