Keeping and staying organized in all facets of your life is no small feat. And while you can’t expect a complete overhaul overnight, something as simple as getting your beauty items in order —yes, that means tossing old, expired products too—is a small step in the right direction. Not sure where to start? Look no further than your current toiletry bag.
“Toiletry bags can be used alone as an organizational tool, and they can also fit within other containers used for organization to keep categories separated so you aren’t fishing around for half an hour trying to find a tiny serum,” explains professional organizer and founder of Spruce NYC, Alex Rush. For example, if you have one bin or basket dedicated to make up, you can utilize separate toiletry bags within the bin for face (foundation, concealer, highlighter, etc.); eyes, brows, cheeks, and lips to make life much easier, explains Rush.
Whether you're planning a tropical island escape, or luxury staycation, streamlining what to pack is key for any traveling beauty lover. Travel-specific toiletry bags can help ensure you have all your faves—and knock something off your to-do list as well. “Nothing makes you feel more organized and prepared for your trip than having a bag ready to go with all of your essentials, especially if you have travel anxiety,” she explains. Another pro? It helps reduce the clutter that accumulates with too many travel-size or beauty samples. “These items should not live among the things you use at home every day,” Rush emphasizes.
If your current toiletry bag isn’t up to snuff, check out these 11 expert-approved options that are equal parts functional and chic.
Pros
- Fits in gym bag, carry-on or tote
- Easy to see contents
Cons
Rush adores this toiletry bag from Hudson + Bleecker for many reasons. First, it’s transparent, so if you’re using it for travel you can easily see if something is missing that you need to throw in before you leave. "It’s also the perfect combination of structured and malleable, so it fits nicely in your suitcase or on a shelf," she explains. "And can also easily fit into a bin if you use it to keep beauty categories separated."
Pros
- Made of recycled vegan leather
- Features a wipeable satin lining
Cons
Don't sweat about your beauty must-haves toppling over thanks to this minimalist travel-case. Made with recycled vegan leather and it also features an easy-to-clean, wipeable satin lining. Five made-to-measure elastic sleeves perfectly fit RIES Essentials travel bottles or your other favorite beauty items — with extra storage to hold other items like cotton rounds, pill cases, eyebrow pencils, and more.
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Tumi Madeline Cosmetic
Pros
- Includes three transparent interior compartments
- Lay it flat or hang from a fixture when open
Cons
The TUMI Madeline Cosmetic is an organized person’s dream. "She has multiple interior compartments, and also a detachable pouch that you can fill with your on-the-go essentials and throw in your handbag," explains Rush. "I love that it has a hanging component, so you can turn it into a vanity cabinet when you’re traveling. It’s made from recycled materials—yay Mother Nature!"
Pros
- Snaps down for compact travel
- Made from 100% recycled polyester
Cons
Unzip this dopp-kit-style bag to roll down the sides, offering you even easier access to all your fleet of skin or makeup essentials. P.S.: This toiletry bag is also eco-friendly, since it's made from recycled plastic bottles (with the exception of the zipper coil teeth!)
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Pros
- Made from 6 recycled plastic bottles
- Recycled ripstop polyester with TPU laminate/coating
Cons
Cute enough to double as a clutch for out on the town, this recycled ripstop polyester toiletry bag is great for frequent travelers. Featuring a water-resistant interior, exterior toothbrush design, and top grab handle, this hanging bag will hold everything you need in sustainable style.
Caboodles On-The-Go Girl Makeup Box
Pros
- Equipped with a flip-lid, auto-open tray and mirror
- Fits in a backpack or suitcase
Cons
If you use a toiletry bag alone for organization, Rush recommends utilizing one with form and structure so it fits nicely on the shelf, vanity or under the sink. "You can even go old school and use Caboodles! They’re fun and nostalgic, but also super functional and stackable," she adds.
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Pros
- Comes in three iconic colors
- Design signed by Pierre Hardy for Frederic Malle
Cons
This limited-edition, perspective cube toiletry case is made with patent canvas and leather. The exclusive design was created in partnership with legendary perfumer, Frederic Malle, and Pierre Hardy's atelier.
Pros
- Doubles as clutch
- Leather used is audited and certified by the Leather Working Group
Cons
This monogram compact cosmetic case is chic solution to slip into your handbag or suitcase. Luxe details like gold brass pieces and real leather, make this worthy of a night on the town too.
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This spill-proof cosmetic case was designed with makeup lovers in mind. A mirror for touch-ups? Check. Removable brush holder? Check. Plenty of storage? Also check.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Built-in hanger
Cons
Take your routine on-the-go with this super affordable hanging toiletry bag complete with inner mesh pocks, tote handle, and easy-to-clean recycle polyester material.
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Pros
- Wipes clean and hand-washable
- Under $10
Cons
This cute floral cosmetic case is surprisingly see-through travel pouch. The box-shaped design holds all your essentials in style— and is made from easy-clean plastic for long-lasting good looks.
Why trust Harper’s BAZAAR?
For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.
Janell M. Hickman-Kirby
Janell M. Hickman-Kirby is a writer and editor based in New York.