The Best Travel Makeup Bags, Tested & Reviewed

Absolutely, my love for travel knows no bounds. However, the challenge of neatly packing sunscreen, moisturizer, skincare products, and makeup in my luggage without causing any havoc remains constant. The remedy? Stocking up on top-tier makeup bags and toiletry cases that can effortlessly accommodate my extensive 10-step skincare regimen and an assortment of neutral eyeshadow palettes, ideal for a quick three-day escapade. I'm talking about bags that not only excel in meticulous organization with dedicated compartments but also offer generous space to house all my essentials without compromise. And of course, they should be a breeze to clean and maintain.

Selecting the perfect makeup bag is a matter of personal taste and travel preferences. To make your choice easier, I've taken it upon myself to delve into extensive research, curating a list of the 19 finest makeup bags that cater to a variety of needs. This selection includes train cases that effectively shield against unfortunate incidents like perfume and nail polish leaks, compact bags thoughtfully designed for lipstick storage within your handbag, and transparent bags tailored for the most detail-oriented travelers. Yes, you read it right—there's a makeup bag for every conceivable situation. Here's a sneak peek:

Best softside

 Allow me to introduce Luxeleather Cosmetic Bag—an essential companion for your beauty and travel needs. This versatile makeup bag doubles as a travel makeup bag and toiletry bag, making it a must-have accessory for jet-setters and makeup enthusiasts alike.

The Luxeleather Cosmetic Bag epitomizes convenience, providing ample space to organize your travel makeup essentials. Whether you're on a weekend getaway or embarking on a globe-trotting adventure, this toiletry bag ensures your travel makeup stays neat and accessible. With its thoughtful design and functionality, the Rare Beauty Puffy Toiletry Bag proves to be a versatile and indispensable companion for every traveler and makeup lover. Never leave home without it!

Best Makeup Bag for Travel

Introducing the Luxeleather Cosmetic Bag, the ultimate travel companion for individuals who prioritize both organization and sustainability. This innovative makeup bag is meticulously designed to seamlessly integrate into your carry-on luggage, ensuring that all your beauty essentials remain easily accessible whenever you require them.

Equipped with dedicated compartments tailored for your entire array of makeup products, this bag proves to be an exceptional choice for both carry-on and checked baggage, offering unmatched convenience and versatility. Moreover, it boasts an eco-friendly construction, crafted from recycled plastic materials, making it the conscientious choice for those who hold a deep concern for our planet.

Experience the sheer convenience of having all the necessary compartments thoughtfully packed into one compact, eco-conscious package with the Luxeleather Cosmetic Bag. Whether your journey entails a swift weekend getaway or an extended long-haul flight, this bag guarantees that you're perpetually well-prepared to meet your beauty needs.

Best Vegan Leather

Step up your beauty game with the Rose Inc Structured Beauty Clutch, a versatile and chic accessory crafted from opulent vegan leather. This clutch is your answer to all things beauty, featuring a generously-sized main compartment that effortlessly accommodates your brushes, two foundation bottles, and the entirety of your makeup essentials.

The robust yet sophisticated vegan leather exterior not only exudes elegance but also offers the convenience of easy cleaning with a simple damp cloth, ensuring your clutch remains as lustrous as your makeup. And for those impromptu touch-ups on the go, the removable mirror is a thoughtful addition. What's more, there's dedicated space for your beloved lip balms, making this clutch the ultimate companion for all things beauty. With the Rose Inc Structured Beauty Clutch, style harmoniously meets functionality, allowing you to confidently showcase your best self at all times.

Best Makeup Bag for Organization

Introducing the Sephora Collection Pack It All Organizer—an absolute must-have for enhancing your beauty regimen. This versatile cosmetic companion has been meticulously crafted to effortlessly accommodate your complete makeup arsenal, ensuring you're consistently well-prepared for every occasion.

With dedicated sections thoughtfully designed for your makeup brushes, this organizer guarantees that your beauty tools remain impeccably stored and easily accessible, whether you're in the comfort of your own home or on the move. The Sephora Collection Pack It All Organizer proves to be the ideal companion for maintaining order and efficiency in your makeup routine.

Experience the unrivaled convenience of staying organized and elevate your beauty routine to new heights with the Sephora Collection Pack It All Organizer. It's the ultimate cosmetic bag designed to make your makeup application experience seamless, ensuring you're always ready to put your best face forward.

Best Makeup Bag on Amazon

Discover the Monstina Double-Layer Makeup Bag—a beauty enthusiast's essential and a traveler's best friend. This carefully crafted makeup bag is your ticket to impeccable organization and readiness, no matter where life takes you.

Boasting separate compartments, this makeup bag offers a dedicated home for your beauty treasures, ensuring they stay perfectly arranged and at your fingertips. Whether you're packing your cherished beauty essentials or a petite moisturizer for your travels, this versatile bag has got your back.

Experience an elevated beauty routine with the Monstina Double-Layer Makeup Bag, the ultimate choice for those who demand order and convenience for their beauty essentials. Be it in the comfort of your home or while you're on the move, this makeup bag stands as your trusted ally, ensuring you're always prepared for a flawless look.

Best Makeup Train Case

Meet the Relavel Travel Makeup Train Case—the ideal solution for streamlining your travel makeup collection. This cosmetic case has been designed to meet the discerning needs of beauty enthusiasts who prioritize organization and ease.

Equipped with dedicated compartments and space for up to four makeup brushes, the Relavel Travel Makeup Train Case ensures that your travel beauty essentials are impeccably stored and easily within reach. Whether you're embarking on a short weekend getaway or a lengthy journey, this adaptable cosmetic case has your back.

When it comes to your travel makeup needs, don't compromise on style or functionality—choose the Relavel Travel Makeup Train Case. Its sleek design and ample storage space make it the perfect companion for your beauty adventures.

Easiest to Clean Makeup Bag

Discover the Meiyuuo Zippered Faux-Leather Makeup Bag, a fusion of style and practicality that sets a new standard for beauty accessories. This makeup bag offers both elegance and functionality, making it a must-have for makeup enthusiasts.

Exquisitely crafted, this makeup bag is the ultimate choice for storing and organizing your cosmetics and makeup brushes. With designated compartments for your brushes, you can keep them orderly and easily accessible. The faux leather exterior not only adds a touch of sophistication but also ensures long-lasting durability.

Whether you're a makeup aficionado or simply in search of a reliable makeup bag, the Meiyuuo Zippered Faux-Leather Makeup Bag is the versatile selection that seamlessly blends style and utility. Elevate your beauty routine with this luxurious makeup bag that's designed to withstand the test of time.

Best Standing Makeup Bag

Introducing Beis The Dopp Kit—the modern makeup enthusiast's ideal travel companion. This sleek and versatile kit has been meticulously designed to house all your beauty essentials, including makeup brushes, with unparalleled ease and sophistication.

Inside The Dopp Kit, you'll find ample space to securely store your makeup brushes, ensuring they're easily accessible for quick touch-ups while you're on the go. Whether you're a frequent traveler or simply seeking an organized solution for your cosmetics, this kit offers both ample space and functionality.

Experience the ease and organization that Beis brings to your makeup routine. Travel in style and keep your beauty essentials within arm's reach with Beis The Dopp Kit—an essential accessory for beauty lovers.

Best Makeup Bag Set

Introducing the Didida 3-Piece Makeup Bag Set—a comprehensive solution for versatile and well-organized travel. This set includes everything you require, from a spacious travel makeup bag to two essential toiletry bags, making it the ultimate choice for your travel needs.

With the Didida 3-Piece Makeup Bag Set, you'll always be well-prepared for your journeys. Whether you need a travel makeup bag for your cosmetics or toiletry bags for personal care items, this set covers all the bases. It's designed with practicality in mind, catering to the needs of most makeup bags available.

Stay organized, stylish, and ready for your adventures with the Didida 3-Piece Makeup Bag Set. Elevate your travel experience with this comprehensive set that addresses all your beauty and toiletry storage requirements, whether you're jet-setting or simply on the move.

Best Clear Makeup Bag

Meet the Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case—a Best Clear Makeup Bag that combines style and functionality, designed for jet-setters and beauty enthusiasts alike. This cosmetics case adds a touch of luxury and practicality to your travel essentials.

The Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case offers ample space for your beauty products and cosmetics. Whether you're preparing for a brief weekend escape or packing it into your carry-on, this case ensures that your essentials are easily accessible and well-organized. Its transparent design not only adds a trendy flair but also simplifies security checks at the airport.

Additionally, this versatile cosmetics case is perfectly sized to accommodate your favorite hairspray, ensuring your travel beauty routine is complete and hassle-free. Elevate your travel experience with the Calpak Large Clear Cosmetics Case, your go-to choice for stylish and organized beauty on the move.

Best Large Makeup Bag

Introducing Glossier The Beauty Bag, the ultimate accessory for beauty aficionados on the move. This chic and versatile beauty bag is designed to cater to the needs of modern, on-the-go lifestyles.

The Beauty Bag by Glossier isn't just a travel makeup bag—it's a fashion statement that seamlessly marries style and functionality. Expertly crafted to house all your cosmetic essentials, this bag fits effortlessly into your travel makeup bag or handbag, ensuring that your beloved beauty products are always within arm's reach.

Elevate your beauty game and make a statement with Glossier The Beauty Bag, the ultimate choice for those who appreciate both aesthetics and practicality in their beauty accessories. Whether you're jet-setting or simply in need of an organized cosmetics bag, this beauty bag has you covered.

Best Drawstring Makeup Bag

Introducing the Euow Barrel Travel Makeup Bags, your ideal solution for convenient and stylish makeup organization on the go. These versatile bags are designed to cater to all your makeup needs, ensuring you can carry your makeup products and brushes effortlessly.

With dedicated compartments for makeup brushes, the Euow Barrel Travel Makeup Bags keep your brushes neatly arranged and easily accessible whenever you need them. Additionally, these bags offer ample space for all your makeup products, making them a perfect choice for beauty enthusiasts who value both organization and convenience.

Whether you're jet-setting or simply need a well-organized makeup bag for your daily routine, Euow Barrel Travel Makeup Bags are your trusted companion. Elevate your makeup game with these chic and practical bags, ensuring you're always ready to showcase your best look.

Best Lay Flat Makeup Pouch

Meet the Lay-n-Go Drawstring Makeup Bag, the ultimate choice for those who want the best makeup experience without the hassle of searching for essentials. This innovative makeup bag is designed to simplify your beauty routine by allowing you to focus on just the essentials.

With dedicated compartments for your toiletry bottles and ample space for all your best cosmetic products, the Lay-n-Go Drawstring Makeup Bag ensures that you have everything you need within arm's reach. The convenient drawstring design allows for quick and easy access to your cosmetic essentials, making it perfect for busy mornings or on-the-go touch-ups.

Say goodbye to rummaging through your makeup collection; the Lay-n-Go Drawstring Makeup Bag streamlines your beauty routine and keeps everything organized. Elevate your makeup game with this practical and efficient bag, and enjoy the convenience of having just the essentials at your fingertips.

Best Hanging Makeup Bag

Meet the Away The Hanging Toiletry Bag, the ultimate choice for those who want the best makeup experience without the hassle of searching for essentials. This innovative makeup bag is designed to simplify your beauty routine by allowing you to focus on just the essentials.

With dedicated compartments for your toiletry bottles and ample space for all your best cosmetic products, the Away The Hanging Toiletry Bag ensures that you have everything you need within arm's reach. The convenient drawstring design allows for quick and easy access to your cosmetic essentials, making it perfect for busy mornings or on-the-go touch-ups.

Say goodbye to rummaging through your makeup collection; the Away The Hanging Toiletry Bag streamlines your beauty routine and keeps everything organized. Elevate your makeup game with this practical and efficient bag, and enjoy the convenience of having just the essentials at your fingertips.

Best Personalized Makeup Bag

Introducing the Paravel See-All Vanity Case, the ultimate solution for organized beauty storage on the go. This stylish and functional vanity case is designed with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring you have a dedicated space for all your beauty essentials.

With compartments to accommodate your storing brushes and room for up to five toiletry bottles, the Paravel See-All Vanity Case ensures that all your beauty products are neatly arranged and easily accessible. No more rummaging through your luggage to find what you need; this vanity case has all the compartments you require for a seamless beauty routine.

Whether you're jet-setting around the world or heading to a local getaway, the Paravel See-All Vanity Case is your trusted companion for keeping your beauty products organized and in one place. Elevate your travel experience with this comprehensive vanity case that takes care of all your beauty storage needs, so you can always look and feel your best.

Best Hard-Shell Cosmetic Case

Introducing the Caboodles Beige Lifestyle Train Case, the perfect cosmetic case for those who value both style and functionality. This versatile case is designed to meet the needs of beauty enthusiasts, whether you're on the go or need a compact solution for larger bags like carry-on suitcases.

The Caboodles Beige Lifestyle Train Case is not just a cosmetic case; it's a statement piece that combines fashion and practicality. Its spacious interior provides ample storage space for all your beauty essentials, making it perfect for use on its own or as an organized addition to your larger bags.

Whether you're traveling with a carry-on suitcase for your journeys, this train case complements your lifestyle by keeping your cosmetics organized and easily accessible. Elevate your beauty routine with the Caboodles Beige Lifestyle Train Case, your trusted companion for a well-organized and stylish travel experience.

Best Mini Makeup Bag

Introducing the Mented Mini Leaflet Makeup Bag, your go-to solution for compact and stylish makeup organization. This miniature makeup bag stands out from the crowd, offering a unique design that sets it apart from other makeup bags on the market.

Perfectly sized to fit in your purse or travel bag, the Mented Mini Leaflet Makeup Bag is your ideal companion for keeping your beauty essentials in check while on the go. Whether you're carrying a travel-sized moisturizer bottle or a carefully curated brush collection, this bag has been thoughtfully designed to accommodate your needs.

With its chic and practical design, the Mented Mini Leaflet Makeup Bag ensures your beauty products and tools remain neatly organized and easily accessible wherever you venture. Elevate your makeup game with this mini marvel that combines style and functionality for a flawless beauty routine.

Best Color Options

Introducing the Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set, a symbol of sophistication and efficiency for your beauty essentials. This exquisite collection reimagines luxury travel with its carefully handcrafted leather design and flawless functionality.

Included in this set is a generously sized cosmetic case, meticulously designed not only to accommodate your favorite makeup palettes but also to hold all your other makeup essentials. With ample space to spare, this case effortlessly accommodates two makeup palettes, ensuring you have quick access to your signature looks no matter where your travels take you.

The Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set seamlessly marries timeless elegance with practicality, offering the ideal solution for your beauty storage requirements. Whether you're globetrotting or simply seeking a sophisticated way to keep your cosmetics organized, this set is the ultimate choice. Elevate your travel experience with the Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set and leave a lasting impression wherever you venture.

Best Makeup Pouch

Introducing Bloomingdale's Little Brown Cosmetics Case, the ultimate choice for organized and water-resistant beauty storage. This compact yet incredibly versatile cosmetics case sets a new standard for travel convenience, letting you pack light while safeguarding your essentials.

Crafted from water-resistant materials that outperform standard cases in withstanding the elements by up to four times, this Little Brown Cosmetics Case is designed to keep your makeup secure and dry, no matter where your journeys take you. Be it a beach getaway or a sudden downpour, your beauty products stay protected.

With ample space for your makeup essentials, including lip liners, this case ensures you're always ready for a flawless look on the go. The Bloomingdale's Little Brown Cosmetics Case perfectly combines style and functionality, making it an essential addition to your travel accessories collection. Travel confidently, knowing your beauty essentials are safe with this water-resistant gem.

Other Makeup Bags We Liked

Away's Sleek Cosmetics Bag: We admire the sleek, streamlined design of this makeup bag, and its soft-molded cube shape fits easily into various backpacks and suitcases in our tests. While it accommodated a generous amount of makeup, we encountered a minor issue during our shake and drop trials, as some product caps came loose, raising concerns about potential spills while traveling. We also found the $75 price tag somewhat steep compared to similar bags in our test.

Calpak's Durable Terra Toiletry Bag: We were impressed by the sturdiness of the material used in this bag, not to mention its charming appearance. Its compact size makes it highly portable, and its vertical hanging capability is a real space-saver. Although it held a considerable number of products, we did experience a few makeup items slipping out during our shake and drop assessments, suggesting the possibility of makeup breakage and spills. Priced at $56, it stood as a slightly more expensive option compared to other, more secure bags we evaluated.

Mark & Graham's Versatile Cosmetics Case: Once again, we appreciate a two-in-one offering, and Mark & Graham delivers with this cosmetics case set, available for $119. The classic and sophisticated design is a standout feature. The option to detach the smaller zipper pouch and use it separately is a fantastic addition. While the larger case is user-friendly for packing, we would have preferred more organizational features to securely separate our items. Unfortunately, after subjecting it to a few shake and drop tests, we noticed some caps came loose on certain bottles, with one compact even breaking.

Vera Bradley's Recycled Makeup Organizer Set: Nostalgia washes over us with the iconic Vera Bradley prints. We appreciate the durability and ease of cleaning the recycled plastic material used. This $44 set represents great value, capably holding and safeguarding a substantial quantity of beauty products during our assessments. There were no incidents of makeup breaking or spilling. However, there is limited internal organization in both bags, which occasionally made it challenging to locate specific items buried at the bottom.

Our Testing Process

In our comprehensive laboratory testing of all 26 makeup bags, we left no detail unchecked. To ensure a thorough and accurate evaluation, we meticulously loaded each bag with an assortment of props: four makeup brushes, two makeup palettes, one foundation bottle, an eyelash curler, mascara, lipstick, four pre-filled toiletry bottles, and a hairspray. This rigorous examination aimed to determine the true holding capacity of each bag.

Subsequently, we placed these filled cosmetic bags into both a partially filled backpack and carry-on luggage, taking careful note of the space each bag occupied. Our objective was to assess their compatibility with different travel scenarios.

But we didn't stop there. To gauge the resilience and integrity of these makeup bags, we subjected them to real-world tests. We removed them from the luggage and subjected them to drops, shakes, and even tossing them in the air. These tests allowed us to evaluate how effectively the bags contained their contents and whether any damage occurred.

Throughout this rigorous evaluation process, we diligently assessed each makeup bag across various criteria, including ease of use, quality, capacity, design, portability, and overall value. The makeup bags featured in this article are the cream of the crop, selected for their exceptional performance in each respective category.

Our commitment to delivering valuable insights doesn't end with the initial tests. Our dedicated testers will continue to use these bags and gather additional data for six months. This ongoing evaluation ensures that our recommendations remain reliable and informed by real-world usage.

Tips for Buying a Makeup Bag for Travel

Decide how much space you need

Start by evaluating how much space you need for your makeup essentials. Consider the size and quantity of products you'll be taking with you on your travels. Having a clear understanding of your space needs will help you choose a makeup bag that's just the right size for your requirements.

Prioritize organizational features

Look for a makeup bag that offers effective organizational features. Compartments, pockets, and dividers can help you keep your makeup neatly arranged and easily accessible. Prioritizing organization ensures that you can quickly find what you need without rummaging through a cluttered bag.

Determine the best material

Pay close attention to the material of the makeup bag. Factors like durability and ease of cleaning are crucial for travel. Nylon is a popular choice as it's both sturdy and water-resistant, protecting your makeup from potential spills or leaks during your journey. Opt for a material that aligns with your travel needs and ensures the longevity of your makeup bag.

By considering these key factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting a makeup bag for your travels, ensuring that it meets your space requirements, offers effective organization, and is constructed from the most suitable material for your needs.

How to choose the best makeup bag?

Determine the size you need

Evaluate the number and size of beauty products and tools you typically use. Choose a makeup bag size that comfortably accommodates your essentials without overcrowding or excessive bulk.

Consider your organization levels

Prioritize a makeup bag that offers effective organization. Look for compartments, pockets, and dividers to separate different types of products. Choose a bag that aligns with your organizational preferences, whether you prefer dedicated spaces for brushes, liquids, powders, or skincare items.

By following these steps, you can choose the best makeup bag that suits your specific size requirements and organizational preferences, ensuring that your cosmetics remain tidy, protected, and easily accessible.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the best fabric for makeup bags?

The best fabric for makeup bags often depends on your specific needs. Nylon is a popular choice, especially for linings, due to its durability, water resistance, and ease of cleaning. However, other materials like canvas and faux leather can also be suitable, depending on your preferences.

What is the difference between a makeup bag and organizer?

A makeup bag is a portable case designed for carrying cosmetics, typically when traveling or on the go. In contrast, a makeup organizer is a stationary storage system used to keep cosmetics neatly arranged and easily accessible in one designated place, often at home.

How many makeup bags do I need?

Generally, it's recommended to have at least two makeup bags: one for daily use and organization, and another for travel. The exact number may vary based on your personal preferences and needs. Some individuals opt for multiple bags to accommodate different scenarios or to maintain

What is the best way to pack makeup?

When packing makeup, aim for efficiency and simplicity. Consider multi-purpose products to save space. Organize your makeup by grouping similar items together, such as brushes, liquids, powders, and skincare products, in separate compartments or pouches within your makeup bag.

What’s the best way to clean makeup bags?

To clean makeup bags, first check the care instructions provided for your specific bag. As a general practice, you can use a damp cloth with soap or a makeup wipe to wipe down the interior and exterior of the bag. Alternatively, Clorox wipes can be used for sanitizing purposes. Regular cleaning helps maintain the hygiene and longevity of your makeup bag.

What to look for in the best makeup bags?

• Size and Storage Capacity: Ensure the size of the makeup bag meets your needs without being too bulky.
• Built-in Organization: Prioritize makeup bags with effective organizational features.
• Durability: Opt for a makeup bag made from durable materials.
• Ease of Cleaning: Consider the ease of cleaning the makeup bag.

Why do you need a makeup bag?

A makeup bag serves several essential purposes:

• Organization: Keeps your cosmetics and beauty tools neatly organized in one place.
• Protection: Provides a protective barrier, safeguarding your products from damage, spills, or leakage, especially during travel.
• Portability: Allows you to carry your beauty essentials wherever you go, for daily use, travel, or touch-ups.
• Hygiene: Maintains hygiene by preventing contamination from other items in your bag or purse.