Toiletry bag: what is it, and should you take it with you on a trip or while backpacking?

What is a toiletry bag?

• A toiletry bag is a bag for your toiletries such as toothbrushes and shaving products. Toiletry bags are also called travel toiletry bags or care organizers.
• The bag ensures that you can keep your hygiene under control and that your entire backpack or bag does not get covered in toothpaste when you fly or travel on a bumpy road.
• Travel toiletry bags are generally made of super light and sturdy material.
• For backpackers and travelers there are special toiletry bags with a handy hanging hook so that your toiletry bag does not have to stand on a dirty surface and is easy to use.
• Toiletry bags are also handy to store your medicines and first aid supplies.
• In theory you can throw all your toiletries in a plastic bag, but in real life that often goes wrong or luggage remains a mess.

What type of toiletry bags exist?

• Roll-up toiletry bag with hook: easy to hang on a shower hook, handy in hostels.
• Sturdy organizers with compartments are made for control freaks and beauty fanatics.
• Waterproof bag is handy to use for tropical travel or leak damage prevention.
• Mini version toiletry bag (hand luggage proof) good to use for short trips or minimalist travelers.
• DIY: ziplock bag or pencil case, does the trick and is cheap and lightweight.

What can you use your toiletry bag for when traveling and backpacking?

• A toiletry bag keeps your toiletries organized and together. Prevents your shampoo from spreading like an oil slick over your clothes.
• A toiletry bag makes it easy to take everything with you to shared bathrooms or showers.
• A toiletry bag can functions as a mini bathroom if you sleep in a hut in the woods or end up in a toilet-less train.

When do you take a toiletry bag with you on a trip or while backpacking?

• Holidays: handy to take a toiletry bag with you.
• Backpacking trips: always take a toiletry bag with you.
• World travel and long journeys: always take a toiletry bag with you, consider a separate bag for medical supplies.

Where can you also buy your toiletry bag locally in the world?

• Toiletry bags can be bought in drugstores, supermarkets, outdoor shops.
• Toiletry bags are for sale at markets or in tourist hubs (quality varies).
• Consider ordering your toiletry bag online and have it delivered to your hostel or hotel.
• Alternative for a toiletry bag: make one yourself from a ziplock bag or small bag.