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Get Away in Style with Mark and Graham Travel Bags

Make your next trip as stylish and convenient as can be with Mark and Graham travel bags. No matter how you feel about packing, these bags will inspire you to organize your outfits, bundle up your electronics, pull together your toiletries and maybe even plan a few more weekends away. Shop for suitcases, weekenders, cosmetic bags, plus all the travel accessories you need, like tech portfolios and passport holders. With colors and materials you can complement with monograms, Mark and Graham travel bags are exactly right for you to build your luggage collection.

Which Mark and Graham Travel Bags Are Best for You?

Choose your travel bags based on your destination, length of stay, why you're going and how you're getting there. Many stylish travelers select an entire suite of luggage at once, so that when an opportunity to take off comes up--whether personal or professional--you're prepared.

• For the big trips, you need wheeled suitcases. Get the carry-on size to stash it in the overhead bin on airplanes or go major and check your luggage. Distinctive colors and silhouettes make it easy to spot again at the carousel.
• When you're taking a long weekend, you can get away with a weekender bag. These oversized duffles have top zips, side pockets and a cross-body strap to complement sturdy handles. Stuff this bag with an outfit for touring, an outfit for dinner and a few ready-to-wear pieces you can mix-and-match. Your tech cases and toiletry bags fit, too.
• Pair the two kinds of luggage for ease of traveling. Coordinate details like the trunk strap details of your suitcase with the leather color of your weekender for a polished style on the go.

What's New in Travel Bags and Accessories

As travel becomes easier and more convenient in so many ways, Mark and Graham travel bags keep up with the times in all time zones. Find on-trend and updated classic styles, including accessories to take along with you.

• Check out oversized bags that bring back the glamour of travel. These options include weekenders that look like they could be high-fashion purses or leather duffles that ultimately fit as much as a suitcase.
• Outfit your personal accessories with accessories. Your passport needs a wallet. Your phone needs a charging folder or portfolio. Your keys need fobs and every piece of luggage needs a tag .
• Personalize your items for extra flair and so there's no mistaking whose they are. Put a classic monogram of three initials or a single statement initial on suitcases, tech cases, wallets, jewelry storage and more.

While you're looking for what's new and exciting, keep in mind work bags now work harder than ever, too, with briefcase functionality and handbag fashion.

FREE WEEKENDER WITH $100 PURCHASE! Sale!

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• Cosmetics + Toiletry Bags

Personalized Makeup, Toiletry & Cosmetic Bags

Custom Makeup Bags and Personalized Toiletry Bags

Don’t settle for boring makeup bags when you can create your very own personalized toiletry bag and other cosmetic totes at Marleylilly! We think you’ll love to shop our stunning selection of monogrammed makeup bags. Our beautiful, stylish and personalized cosmetic cases come in a variety of styles, sizes and colors, which makes it easy to find the perfect one that’s exactly what you need to get organized. Bonus: You’ll get to choose from multiple monogram options for the font, text color and design, allowing you to add your initials for a completely custom cosmetic bag. Choose from personalized toiletry bags, waxed canvas bags and metallic prints! If you’re looking for a great deal on monogrammed toiletry bags and cosmetic bags, you’re in the right place. We’ve got you covered with this affordable and fantastic collection of stylish products — created just for you, by you!

Keep Cosmetics Organized

Whether you’re at home, on the go or traveling, you’ll want to make sure your makeup essentials are easy to access and all in one spot (who hasn’t had to dig in their purse for that missing lip gloss?). These monogrammed cosmetic bags are perfect for stashing your lipsticks, eyeshadows, mascaras and other items in a drawer or on a shelf without losing track of anything. Want to bring along a few products while you’re out and about? Use a mini cosmetic case to pop a few items in a purse, handbag or tote. For travel, you can’t go wrong with one of our monogrammed toiletry bags. They’re ideal for makeup and other bathroom needs, like razors, deodorants, toothbrushes and toothpaste.

Customizable Bridesmaid Gifts

A monogrammed bag is a fantastic way to say thank you to your bridal party, so shower them with personalized makeup bags from Marleylilly. Our monogrammable makeup bags are perfect for giving out as gifts to your closest friends, too. Because these bags feature their initials, each one has a personal touch you won’t get with other types of gifts. Consider giving monogrammed cosmetic pouches and toiletry bags for a birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift. With high-quality products, great prices and fast shipping from the U.S., Marleylilly is the best resource for monogrammed accessories. While you’re shopping at Marleylilly, why not take a look at our additional monogrammed bags and other goodies? Whether you’re shopping for yourself or for someone else, our custom items will definitely delight!

Monogrammed-to-Order Personalized Cosmetic Bags

One of the many great things about ordering monogrammed makeup bags from Marleylilly is that our in-house team creates all items to order. We also offer the option for customers to view what their monogram will look like before purchasing with our state-of-the-art preview tool. This exclusive feature allows users to decide if they wish to monogram their initials or name and choose their monogram font style and embroidery color. Our preview tool also grants users the freedom to change their design as often as needed to ensure their monogrammed cosmetic bags are perfect before ordering.

Shop Our Personalized Toiletry Bags for Home and Travel

At Marleylilly, we know how important it is to stay organized while you travel. If you're planning a week-long or weekend trip, we have bags in various sizes to fit all of your essentials and more. Whether you need something you can pack in your suitcase like our  Monogrammed Packable Cosmetic Bags  or something for toiletries like our  Monogrammed Colorblock Quilted Train Case , you're sure to find the perfect style and color for you. Our monogrammed organizers also work well at home or in your dorm, with options such as our  Monogrammed Caddy  to help keep your shower essentials in one place. Take your style and organization skills to the next level when you shop at Marleylilly today!

15 Travel Makeup Bags To Keep Your Full Routine Organized

These are just plain—and plane—chic.

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Travel is stressful, full stop. Add losing your eyelash curler or brand new lippies in your checked bag, and it's a disastrous tale. Take the unnecessary drama out of the situation and opt for an organized travel makeup bag that easily fits in your carry-on luggage— or will at the very least leave your checked back organized amidst the chaos.

Best for a long vacation

Calpak clear cosmetics case.

Best for airport

Truffle co clarity jetset case.

Turns into a purse!

F&w style violet vanity case.

Best for pool day

Beis the terry cosmetic clutch in citron.

Dior Travel Vanity Case

Best for Small Bathrooms

Mossio hanging toiletry bag.

Kusshi Vacationer Makeup Bag

Proceeds go to charity

Pattern beauty jumbo zip pouch.

Best for full sized products

Glossier beauty bag.

Best for Traveling Couples

Sarep and rose wash bag.

Happy travels.

This two-sided makeup bag is exactly what you need for a long trip. The handled bag unzips into two separate clear compartments, so staying organized is a breeze. It’s large enough to fit full-sized products if you don’t have travel-sized versions of your favorites. Bonus: the individual sides minimizes damage from any accidental product explosions.

This see-through makeup bag makes security at the airport a breeze. The clear design allows for quick and easy access to your favorite products, ditching the endless dig-for-lipstick scene on the runway.

F&W Style Violet Vanity Case

For the fastest "get ready with me" routine, opt for this see-through makeup case. Perfect for travel, its structured shape and gold feet can stand upright on any surface. Bonus: If you’re heading to a sports game or festival, add the chain and it can do double-duty as a handbag.

This bright terry cloth makeup bag can double as a clutch (just remove the strap) so you can take it from the beach to a night out. It’s also waterproof and Shay Mitchell approved!

Covered in the iconic designer print, this hard-shell vanity case has enough space to accommodate all your top shelf favorites. The interior pocket makes for convenient brush storage and the Italian crafted top handle makes it easy to take on the go!

All the functions of your dad’s old school dopp kit but much cuter. The bag hangs from a hook (perfect for a shower rod or back of door) so you don’t have to dump out all of your makeup products into the hotel sink. There are also storage compartments, breathable mesh, and a ton of fun color options.

With 23 different prints to choose from, this vacationer makeup bag can match your suitcase. The nylon versions are machine-washable bag (and there are vegan leather versions, too)—all of them open wide enough for you to easily see each and every one of your products without having to dig!

Pattern Beauty (and Tracee Ellis-Ross fans!) will love this oversized pouch with the brand's logo. Every sale supports organizations & programs that empower women & people of color.

Calling all Glossier stans—let the world know with this gorgeous pink and red cosmetic bag. The interior pouch and three side pockets allow you to store different products separately so you can stay organized. Bonus: coated cotton material makes it easy to wipe away any stains, even ones from the messiest of foundation spills.

Handmade out of nubuck leather, this kit has a 4 interior pockets making it effortless to separate your various products and tools. And the neutral design vibes make it a great gift for you beau, too.

Away The Cosmetics Bag

Shaped just like a packing cube, this simple, yet stylish cosmetic bag has transparent pockets and neoprene compartments for all of your products! Our favorite feature is the detachable brush holder, which makes it easy to organize all of your beloved beauty tools.

OTM Cannes Bag

The first-to-market makeup bag with heat-protecting technology is here! Need a touch-up by the pool? Leave it directly in the sun and your makeup will never melt. This bag also has spacious storage compartments and a standout gold chain, making it both dashing and durable for even the hottest of summer days.

Saie Lilac Oversized Makeup Bag

This pastel bag is the perfect home for all your basics. The wraparound zipper, this roomy bag opens wide enough for you to see the full array.

Relavel Makeup Train Case

With removable dividers, this durable case can fit palettes, lipsticks, brushes, etc. in a comfortable and customizable way.

ami cole The Pouch

Looking for a mini pouch to throw in any summer tote? Here it is! This clear cosmetic bag comes with a large zipper tag to help you grab your necessities in a flash for any on-the-go touch ups.

How do I pick the best makeup bag for travel?

Finding a makeup bag that fulfills your long list of needs can be done. When on the hunt, prioritize space. If it can’t fit all of our products then what’s the point? It’s best to look for a bag that caters to your specific makeup and preferences. Bigger full-sized items can be easily thrown in a spacious bag, whereas smaller items such as lipsticks, liners, individual shadows, etc. beg for a bag with pockets and dividers as opposed to a catch-all. At the end of the day, a makeup bag should keep you organized, happy, and sane!

What’s the best makeup bag material?

Anything water resistant! Most makeup bags are lined with water-resistant or waterproof materials such as clear plastic, nylon, or polyester.

How should I clean my makeup bag?

Beauty lovers know the danger of a loose cap. Though spills may be unavoidable, cleaning them up is something we all must learn to master. Turns out the secret is not so secret: antibacterial household spray! Any Clorox, Microband, or Cleansmart spray, etc. will do the trick. Tip: Make sure to bring makeup pads on every expedition, in case a spill decides to attempt destruction. Shop our favorite antibacterial reusable cotton rounds here .

How should I organize my makeup bag for travel?

When organizing your makeup for a trip, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

• Try to leave full-sized products at home. If it's a short enough trip, go for the minis.
• If you can, pick the combined products (for example: A bronzer + blush compact rather than bringing both bronzer and blush).
• Check the amount of product you have left before packing. Arriving at your destination with only a drop left isn’t doing anyone any good!
• If you don’t have mini versions of your fav moisturizers, primers, setting spray, shampoo, or conditioner, don’t fret. You can find travel-sized bottles here , which can save you from a last minute trip to the drug store! Plus, they’re TSA approved.
• When packing, it’s helpful to do your full routine start-to-finish and place each beauty item in your makeup bag, and nothing else. This way, you can avoid the unnecessary-yet-tempting products!

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The 9 Best Makeup Cases for Travel in 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our picks fit all of your favorite accessories and stand up to drops and shakes.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

If you wear even a small amount of makeup, you likely own some form of a makeup bag to use while traveling. But if your go-to makeup bag is hard to see into, has a janky zipper, or is just a plastic bag, it’s time for an upgrade. Lucky for you, we thoroughly tested 26 popular makeup bags in our New York City studio to find out which ones are actually worth traveling with. 

Over the course of five months of tests both in our New York City lab and during our real travels, we stuffed each makeup case to the brim with cosmetics, packed them into luggage, and threw them around the room (yes, really). And when all was said and done, there were 9 makeup cases we liked enough to permanently add to our luggage collections and recommend to you. Based on factors like quality, capacity, design, portability, value, and ease of use, here are our 9 favorite makeup bags and cosmetic cases.

Best Overall

Béis the cosmetic case.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

It’s durable, capacious, and nice to look at — plus, it has a large built-in mirror.

We feel it could benefit from interior straps to hold products down.

Reliable, stylish, and compact yet spacious, it’s no wonder this easy-to-pack cosmetic case from luggage brand Béis impressed us the most. The main compartment opens and closes smoothly, while a center compartment for brushes and other smaller items can be removed in a snap. There are even multiple additional pockets, pouches, and subtle slots in the bag, so there’s truly a place for everything. We also noticed that, because the interior of the case is so roomy, it’s incredibly easy to see every item inside when fully opened. And speaking of the interior, the bag actually boasts a large attached mirror on the inside, which comes in handy for in-transit makeup application. 

During our five months of tests, the PU leather and hardware worked together to create efficient padding that kept the contents of the case safe and intact through bumps and drops — not to mention, the bag itself still looked good through the wear and tear. On many occasions, we tossed this case in a duffel before going through airport security and boarding a flight, and it still looks good as new. Though $68 may feel a bit pricey for a makeup bag, we felt this case’s thoughtful design and durable construction is worth it. You can grab the case in eight colors ranging from beige to berry.  

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | PU leather, nylon, PVC, poly | Zipper closure

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best for Organization

Relavel travel makeup case.

It’s one of the roomiest bags on our list and it’s lightweight.

It does take up a bit of space in your luggage.

While this case is on the larger side, we felt that ended up being more helpful than hurtful while traveling. We could fit pretty much everything in this thing: a whopping seven palettes, a whole brush collection, two foundation bottles, five toiletry bottles, over 15 lipsticks, an eyelash curler, hair spray, and a travel-sized moisturizer bottle, to be exact. Despite its size, the train case actually remains quite lightweight as well as organized thanks to its adjustable dividers and stretchable pouches on the inside. During our five-month test, we even ended up using this for both makeup and toiletries, since it provides plenty of space.

The interior additionally features layers of protective foam-like material that expertly keeps makeup bottles from cracking. We also found that both the interior and exterior of this case are easy to clean, should a spill or outdoor drop occur. Because it’s a little big, though, we’d recommend packing this case in a carry-on suitcase or even checked luggage rather than a tote or backpack. You can pick this case up in 20 different colors and prints. 

The Details: 10.3 x 9 x 3.7 inches | Nylon | Zipper closure

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

• Capacity 4 /5

It’s the tiniest bag on our list, but it still fits a lot — plus, it’s easy to flatten when packing or storing.

It does, of course, fit less makeup than the larger bags on our list.

If you prefer to travel with something more compact, Dagne Dover’s Mila Toiletry Organizer is the best tiny makeup bag we tried. Though it’s by far the smallest pick on our list, we were surprised at just how much it could actually hold. Not only do plenty of palettes, lipsticks, and other essential cosmetics fit inside, but so do full-size makeup brushes. It comes with a removable mini divider set that helps hold items in place, though we liked how much more we could fit in the organizer if we skipped using the dividers. Because it fit so well in the palm of our hands, we had a good time whipping it across the room during our tests — and after being pelted against the wall and floor multiple times, we were amazed to find the organizer still looked fantastic and its contents barely budged. Even when wedged into an absolutely-stuffed-to-the-brim suitcase during our five-month test, the inside is so well-padded that all of our items remained protected and secure. We decided it’s the ultimate makeup bag for shorter trips since it takes up such little space and is super soft and squishable for easy packing. 

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | Polyester, zinc alloy | Zipper closure

Best Budget

Narwey travel makeup bag.

• Design 2 /5

It’s spacious, easy-to-clean, and more affordable than any other makeup bag on our list.

It could use a little extra padding for protection against drops.

There was something about this bag that just made us feel like we could easily access everything inside — there were no hidden pockets, no tight openings, and no unnecessary flaps that covered up the contents (other than one to protect makeup brushes, but it’s see-through). The zipper opening is easy to maneuver and appears to be well-made, while the canvas frame feels sturdy and protective. The bag got a bit dirty during our tests, but it cleaned up beautifully with minimal effort. We especially loved just how much it could fit: multiple brushes in each of its eight brush pockets, three palettes, three eyeliners, four lipsticks, a mascara, and a lash curler. Perhaps that’s why we were so shocked to discover the bag doesn’t take up much space in our luggage, and it is a fraction of what many other bags on our list cost. 

The Details: 9 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches | Canvas | Zipper closure

Lululemon Go Getter Pouch

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

It’s sleek, water-repellant, and capable of holding way more than you’d expect given its compact size. 

After five months of testing, it is showing makeup stains.

The feature we found most interesting about this bag is that, when empty, it appears very thin and compact. However, once stuffed with makeup, it actually holds a crazy amount of stuff, including larger items like perfumes, dry shampoos, lotions, and creams. We love the pouch’s nylon construction, which looks sleek and allows dirt and liquids to slide right off. The bag’s lack of padding keeps it lightweight and flexible; we wouldn’t recommend keeping any glass bottles or jars in it, but it’s also not likely to tear, stretch, or snag (that’s lululemon for you!). Because there’s no true framing, the bag is easy to flatten or mold to any space or suitcase. While there is a small exterior zip pocket and an interior mesh one, the pouch really has no built-in organization — though we don’t think that’s a deal-breaker. Get it in gray sage or black.

The Details: 8.7 x 3.3 x 6.3 inches | Polyester, nylon | Zipper closure

Best Train Case

Leatherology train case.

Leatherology

The leather exterior is soft to the touch and the interior is deceptively roomy.

During our five-month test, we found the tall design to be awkward for packing.

Easy to clean and pack, we’re obsessed with this cute and compact train case from ultra-reliable Leatherology. It zips open in a way that allows you to see everything inside, plus there are interior pockets of all sizes to help keep everything organized. Though we felt it was slightly flimsy when we first picked it up, we quickly realized it’s sturdier than it looks, and only becomes more so when filled with makeup. Its subtle padding is also no joke, as it completely protected the contents while being thrown around, shaken, and dropped. The exterior leather is soft and supple, the interior lining is high quality, and the main compartment is deep and spacious despite its overall compact size. If you’re looking for a smaller makeup bag that’ll still fit more than just the essentials, we recommend this train case in one of 14 available colors. 

The Details: 7.5 x 5 x 5.2 inches | Leather, nickel | Zipper closure

Best Hanging

Boacay hanging travel toiletry bag.

• Quality 4 /5
• Capacity 3.5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

It holds so many products, and it folds up nicely and easily. 

Even when folded, it takes up more space than most makeup bags on our list.

Travel hanging organizers are a whole different ball game — and once you use one, you may never go back. This one opens up into four large sections, each with a transparent, zippered sleeve to store (and easily see) your makeup and toiletries. Two of the sections have straps to hold products in place, and a hook on the top section allows you to hang the bag anywhere. During our tests, we discovered the bag is sturdy and easy to clean in addition to being large enough for different types of products, from makeup brushes to hairspray.  Even when we packed it to the brim, it still folded up with minimal effort and kept our makeup in place during drop tests. While it’s relatively thin, it is somewhat long and space-consuming, so we’d probably only pack this in a checked bag rather than a carry-on, or use the makeup bag itself as a personal item. Throughout our five months of testing, we did notice that bottles can easily slip out of the plastic pockets if the case is hung up without first zipping the pockets.

The Details: 11.4 x 3.8 x 7.5 inches | Zipper closure

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

During our five months of tests, all stains and smudges were easily cleaned to keep the case looking new.

It doesn’t have organization features or particularly thick cushioning.

Upon testing, this stood out for two reasons: it comes with not one, but two luxe pouches, and the interior is lined with the same soft leather featured on the exterior. We appreciated how wide both bags open, despite their top-zip construction, making it easy to see everything inside. The larger of the two bags is so spacious, we were able to fit an impressive amount of makeup inside — in fact, we felt we realistically probably wouldn’t even need the smaller bag for makeup, and could instead use it for small toiletries or loan it to a travel companion. There aren’t any dividers or straps inside these bags, so the products inside may shift in-transit if not packed to the brim. Still, we loved the set because it’s one of the nicest-looking options we tried (plus, it comes in 14 gorgeous colors). 

The Details: 12 x 7 x 3.5 inches (large), 8 x 5 x 2.5 inches (small) | Leather | Zipper closure

Best Splurge

Cuyana travel beauty case.

• Quality 4.5 /5
• Portability 4.5 /5

It has a pocket for everything and will hold up through years of travel.

It’s on the heavier side and the most expensive bag on our list. 

If you’re looking for something that does it all and is built to last, consider Cuyana’s Travel Beauty Case. It’s the most expensive option on our list, but after putting it to the test, we believe it’s worth the hefty price tag. The zipper glides smoothly when opening and closing it, the construction is super sturdy, it’s not bulky, it’s packed with pockets as well as a removable pouch, dirt and scuffs are easy to wipe off — we could truly go on and on about this case. But let’s go back to the interior: Though the case is on the smaller side, it boasts plenty of slots for products, including a dedicated pocket and four straps for makeup brushes, a leather flap to protect contents, a small removable pouch for your tiniest cosmetics, and an additional elastic pocket. We felt the leather was quite stiff, which prompted us to get a little rougher with it during our drop and shake tests. Sure enough, it effectively protected the many palettes, lipsticks, tools, and more we placed inside. Even after five months of using the case during our travels, it still looks good as new and has protected all of our items.

The Details: 10.2 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches | Leather | Zipper closure

Other Makeup Bags We Liked

Several other makeup bags almost made our list, but were cut due to issues revealed during testing.

Béis The Hanging Cosmetic Case : This bag is super sturdy, protective, and well made. However, the actual makeup section of this multi-paneled case managed to feel both bulky and too small to fit all our makeup products. 

Away The Cosmetics Bag : We liked the sleek, minimalist design; a unique interior that features makeup storage with a clear zippered divider; and five heavy-duty makeup brush slots on the opposite side. But during tests, it fit considerably less makeup than many others on our list and it didn’t keep products very secure.

Vera Bradley Women's Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Cosmetic Makeup Organizer Set : This set proved to be spacious, easy to clean, and convenient thanks to two transparent side panels on the larger of the two bags. Still, we feel the design is very basic and it lacks organization features, straps, and pockets.

To thoroughly and accurately test each of the 26 makeup cases in our lab, we filled them with various props (including four makeup brushes, two makeup palettes, one bottle of foundation, one eyelash curler, one mascara, one lipstick, four pre-filled toiletry bottles, and one hairspray) to see how much they could truly hold. We then placed the filled makeup bags into both a half-packed backpack and carry-on luggage, making note of how much space each bag took up. Next, we took the makeup bags out of the luggage and dropped them, shook them, and tossed them in the air to test how much the contents inside moved or if there was any damage. 

Throughout our tests, we rated each makeup bag based on ease of use, quality, capacity, design, portability, and value. The makeup bags included in this article are the picks that scored highest in each category. Testers will continue using the bags and collecting insights for six months following our initial tests.

Tips for Buying a Makeup Bag for Travel

Decide how much space you need.

If you like to wear a full face of makeup on your travels, you should seek out a larger makeup bag with built-in organization (think pockets, brush straps, dividers, and removable pouches). If you’re more of a mascara-and-go kind of person, a super roomy cosmetic case is unnecessary — it’ll just take up extra space in your luggage, and your few makeup products inside will likely move around too much, increasing their chances of breaking.

Prioritize organizational features

While a makeup case with one large, main compartment might sound sufficient, you may want to reconsider. If you plan on packing multiple types of products (like palettes, brushes, bottles, and tubes), a makeup bag with organizational features, such as a train case , will come in handy more than you’d think. As explained above, bags with extra slots, pockets, straps, and compartments help you keep track of all your cosmetics and do your makeup quickly. 

Determine the best material

Before buying a makeup bag, think about potential travel mishaps that could occur. Are you prone to spills? Do you tend to overpack? What if your luggage takes a beating in the cargo hold? Keeping that in mind, choose a cosmetic case material that works for you. Leather and nylon handle makeup spills and dirt well, while cases made of neoprene or mesh will keep your luggage lightweight. It’s hard to completely avoid scuffs and scratches, but materials such as polyester and high-quality leather hold up better than others. And if you’re someone who hates rummaging through a dark makeup bag? Go for a clear material or a bag that opens like a clamshell so you can easily see all of its contents. 

It’s important not to overstuff or understuff your makeup bag. Overstuffing can cause spills and stretching/ripping of the makeup bag itself, while understuffing allows your makeup bag’s contents to move around more, increasing their chances of breaking. It’s also wise to take special care of more delicate items like brushes and glass bottles. Brushes should be strapped down and covered by a flap if possible, and you shouldn’t have to bend the bristles to make them fit. If your cosmetic case has smaller interior pockets or slots, keep glass bottles in there — if not, stand them up straight rather than laying them down, and pack other products around them to keep them from sliding around. 

Yes — just keep TSA liquid rules in mind. Like any other liquid container, makeup containers (like liquid foundation bottles, moisturizer tubes, etc.) should not exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each. If your liquid makeup goes over that limit, you’ll have to store it in your checked luggage.

Use a wet cloth, a wipe, or even an antibacterial spray and a paper towel to wipe your makeup bag clean. Just make sure you’re not using anything with bleach!

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin used her extensive knowledge of makeup bags, makeup products, and traveling, as well as the T+L team’s extensive makeup bag tests, to compile a list of the best options on the market. 

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