We were visiting friends last weekend and the conversation turned to Dopp kits and women’s travel cosmetic cases. Apparently people feel strongly about this topic! I suppose having the shampoo bottle top come off and leak all over your toiletries once or twice makes you focus on what works and what doesn’t.
I’ve had L.L. Bean recommended to me by several people. This Carryall Toiletry Kit appeals to my husband. It is 5” x 5” x 10” and comes in four colors. It has a wide top opening that helps in finding items. There are spill-proof pouches and zip-closure mesh pockets to keep items organized. It is made of durable nylon and is $24.95
Many people I spoke with like the kind of toiletries bag that hang up. This Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag comes in four sizes and thirteen colors and patterns. It has external side-zip compartments and two upper zip pockets and internal mesh pockets. It is made of water-resistant fabric, and the large size can even hold a hair dryer. It has a removable mirror and shower caddy. The description of its hanging feature says “Built-in hook lets you hang it over a shower rod, towel rack or tree branch”. Tree branch?! That’s outdoorsy L.L. Bean for you, but mine won’t be seeing any tree branches. Back of bathroom door hooks are my choice. Prices range from $24.95 – $49.95 depending on size.
This Resort Hanging Organizer from the Container Store is a favorite of one man we spoke with. The clear pockets make it easy to find every item. Even when fully loaded it can be folded and packed in a suitcase. It has an integrated hook to hang in on a hook or towel bar. It is 14.75” long. $19.99
This Eagle Creek Pack-it Quicktrip is reminiscent of traditional Dopp kits. It has a large main compartment with two zippered side compartments and a carry handle. It also comes in black and green. It is 10” x 3” x 5” and $19.00.
This Tumi Journey Monaco Cosmetic Case is getting a little closer to the size I need. It comes in Emerald or Black, has side zip pockets, a top carry handle (but also hangs), a zip closure, three clear inside compartments, a detachable pouch and zip pockets. There is a metal hanger enclosed. It is 11” x 7” x 3” and $115.00.
Hadaki Coated Makeup Case fully opens up to two large clear vinyl zippered storage compartments. It comes with a zippered matching pouch for small items that are easy to lose. It wipes clean and is eco-friendly. $49.00.
I have a friend who prefers handles on her cosmetics bag, and she loves to put it into the washing machine if it gets stained. This Vera Bradley hang up quilted cotton bag might fit the bill. It is 11.5” wide and is 29” long when hanging. It has a fold up tie closure, all cotton, has 4 interior zip compartments. $48.00.
For the nautical-minded, Sea Bags has several options for men’s shave kits. This anchor shave kit is wonderful, and there are three other patterns. They are made from recycled sails and have a zipper top, a tab on one side and a handle on the other side. They are fully lined and are machine washable. 5” x 10”. $40.00.
The Container Store sells 3 oz. Soft Touch Dispensers with four different brightly colored tops so you can differentiate the contents, or assign colors to different family members. They get rave reviews from purchasers. The tops are very secure, and they store upside-down for quick and easy dispensing. They are BPA free and dishwasher safe. $1.29 each.
For those of you minimalists who travel light, try using two of these parachute dopp kits with your favorite liquid products in these GoToobs. Pack the liquids in a zip lock bag for easy passage through airport security. Separate toiletry items into two bags in distinctive colors:
Every day: toothbrush, hairbrush, medication…
Occasional use: Advil, nail kit, Band-Aid
You will be able to grab your everyday toiletries easily at each stop and the ones you use less frequently will not clutter up your bag.
Eagle Creek Pack-it Specter Quick Trip Toiletry Organizer, washable, in four colors, $24.
Three 2 fl. Oz. GoToobs, $21.95. Hint: Buy two sets – one red/orange and one blue green and put each product in a easily remembered color ‘blue=shampoo’.
*Updated May 2017 for accuracy![]()
