Travel-Ready: Best Bags For Cologne And Toothpaste

When travelling, it's important to have a suitable bag to hold your toiletries, such as cologne and toothpaste. Different countries have different rules regarding what you can carry in your hand luggage, so it's always best to check before you fly. Generally, liquids, gels and pastes are restricted to containers of 100ml or less, and they must fit into a clear, resealable plastic bag no bigger than 20x20cm. This includes toothpaste, which is considered a gel, and cologne, which is considered a liquid.

Slim toiletry bags for men

When looking for a slim toiletry bag, consider the items you need to carry. For example, if you plan to bring an electric toothbrush, you may need a bag with a dedicated toothbrush compartment or a larger interior pocket. If you prefer to keep your items organised, look for a bag with multiple pockets or compartments. Weatherproofing or water-resistant materials are also beneficial to protect your items and keep them clean, especially if you plan to include liquid items such as cologne.

Some popular options for slim toiletry bags for men include the Explorer SLIM™ by Gravel, which features six pockets and an adjustable hideaway strap for hanging. The Nomatic Toiletry Bag 2.0 is another recommended option, offering a slim profile and a separate exterior toothbrush compartment. The Peak Design wash pouch is also worth considering, although it may not have the same level of organisation as the other bags.

When packing your slim toiletry bag, remember to follow the guidelines for carrying liquids, gels, and pastes on planes. Generally, containers should be no larger than 100ml or 3.4oz, and all liquid items must fit into a single, clear, resealable plastic bag that does not exceed 20x20cm in size. This includes items such as toothpaste, cologne, shampoo, and shaving foam.

Packing toothpaste in carry-on luggage

Packing toothpaste in your carry-on luggage is simple, but there are a few rules you need to follow to avoid any problems at the airport.

Firstly, you should ensure that your toothpaste is in a container that is 100ml or less. This may mean buying a travel-sized tube of toothpaste, which is readily available at most pharmacies. If you are unsure about the size of your toothpaste, it is best to buy a new, smaller tube to avoid having to dispose of it at the airport.

Secondly, you need to place your toothpaste in a clear, resealable plastic bag. This bag must be no larger than 20x20cm and must be able to close without being knotted or tied at the top. All of your other toiletries must also fit into this bag, and you are only allowed one bag per passenger.

It is a good idea to keep your toothpaste tube inside a waterproof and sealable washbag once you have passed through security. This will protect your other belongings in case of any leaks.

If you are travelling on a long-haul flight, it is advisable to pack a travel-sized toothpaste tube (less than 100ml) in your carry-on luggage so that you can brush your teeth during the flight and when you arrive at your destination.

Some countries have different rules regarding internal flights, but it is always best to stick to the 100ml/3.4oz rule in a 20x20cm bag to avoid any confusion.

Packing toothpaste in hold luggage

Packing toothpaste in your hold luggage is much more straightforward than packing it in your carry-on baggage. There are no real restrictions on liquids, creams, pastes, and gels in your hold luggage. This means that you can use your regular tube of toothpaste and don't need to worry about buying a smaller, travel-sized version.

However, it is important to make sure that any liquids and pastes/gels are securely packaged in your hold luggage. A waterproof and sealable washbag is a good option to prevent any leaks and avoid the risk of your toothpaste escaping and ruining your luggage and its contents. It is also a good idea to keep liquids and pastes/gels away from any electrical items in your hold luggage.

Although the rules for packing toothpaste in your hold luggage are more relaxed, it is still worth considering a travel-sized tube of toothpaste. This is because toothpaste is not an expensive item, and a smaller tube will take up less space in your luggage. Additionally, if you are planning to bring toothpaste in your carry-on luggage, you will need to ensure it is under 100ml or 3.4oz. Most brands now offer travel-sized toothpaste tubes that comply with this restriction.

Different types of toothpaste

There are several types of toothpaste on the market, each with its own purpose and addressing specific oral health needs. Here are some of the most common types:

Fluoride Toothpaste

Fluoride toothpaste is the most common type, with approximately 500 million people using it daily worldwide. It is also the most widely recommended by dentists. Fluoride helps strengthen tooth enamel and prevent tooth decay. It is particularly beneficial for those at high risk of cavities. It is available in a range of flavours and textures and can be purchased with a low fluoride concentration for children under six.

Whitening Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is formulated to aid the removal of surface stains and lighten the colour of teeth. It is less abrasive and less expensive than other teeth-whitening methods. However, it may not be suitable for those with sensitive teeth as it can cause additional sensitivity.

Sensitive Toothpaste

As the name suggests, this type of toothpaste is designed for those who experience tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet sensations. It contains ingredients such as potassium nitrate or strontium chloride, which work by blocking nerve endings in the teeth or forming a protective layer over the exposed dentin. It should be used in conjunction with a soft-bristled toothbrush and gentle brushing techniques.

Tartar Control Toothpaste

Tartar control toothpaste helps prevent the formation of tartar, a hardened form of plaque that can build up on teeth and contribute to oral health issues such as gum disease and tooth decay. It contains ingredients like pyrophosphates or zinc citrate to reduce tartar formation. However, it cannot remove existing tartar, which must be done by a dentist or dental hygienist.

Herbal Toothpaste

Herbal toothpaste is a more natural option for those who want to avoid chemicals. It contains only natural ingredients, making it biodegradable. However, it may not be as effective as conventional toothpastes in preventing tooth decay and cavities, and it may not contain fluoride, which is essential for preventing tooth decay.

Powder Toothpaste

Powder toothpaste is another option for travellers as there are typically no restrictions on powders in hand luggage.

Best toiletry bags for travel

Travelling with a toiletry bag is a great way to keep all your essentials in one place. Whether you're looking for a bag to hold your cologne and toothpaste, or you want to pack your electric toothbrush and deodorant, there are a few things to consider when choosing the best toiletry bag for your needs.

Firstly, think about the type of bag you want. Do you want a hanging bag or a standing bag? A hanging bag is great if you're limited on space and weight, while a standing bag might be better if you want to keep your toiletries organised and easily accessible.

Next, consider the size of the bag. If you're only bringing a few essentials, a small bag will do. But if you have a lot of toiletries, or you're travelling with full-size bottles, you'll need a larger bag. Keep in mind that if you're flying, you'll need to follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids, gels, and aerosols. This means that each liquid item can be no more than 3.4 ounces or 100ml, and they must fit in a clear, plastic bag no larger than 1 quart or 1 litre.

Now, let's look at some specific bags that might suit your needs.

Best Overall:

The Away Large Toiletry Bag offers a great combination of features. It has multiple compartments, including a clear cosmetic bag, a zippered pouch, mesh linings, and an exterior pocket. It also has a wide opening for easy access and is made of durable, water-resistant nylon.

Most Packable:

The Aer Travel Kit 2 is a compact bag that can fit in your carry-on or personal item. It has a hook for hanging and several interior and exterior pockets for organisation. During tests, it was able to fit travel-size hairspray, dry shampoo, conditioner, lotions, deodorant, a small electric toothbrush, toothpaste, perfume, toner, and medications.

Best Waterproof:

The LINE+ARC The Dopp Kit is a spacious bag that can fit large items such as eyeshadow palettes. It has a wide-open mouth for easy access and a loop for hanging. The bag is also waterproof, which is a great feature if you plan to keep it on wet surfaces.

Best Organisation:

The Peak Design Wash Pouch is perfect if you want to keep your toiletries organised. It has a wide base to keep it upright, an open compartment for larger items, and several mesh pockets for smaller items. It also has a separate pocket for your toothbrush and a hanging hook. The bag is made of water-resistant nylon and has a lifetime warranty.

Best Dopp Kit:

The Béis The Dopp Kit offers extraordinary space and can fit the capacity of three standard toiletry bags. It has an extra compartment beneath the main one, providing ample room for all your essentials. However, you can only open one compartment at a time, so keep that in mind if you want to access multiple items at once.

Best for Men:

The Bagsmart Toiletry Bag for Men is designed to fit shaving and grooming products. It has a main compartment with a double zipper for wide access, as well as side pockets for smaller items and a separate pocket for wet items. The bag is made of canvas, which gives it a rugged look, and it's water-resistant.

Best Hanging Bag:

The Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag is a lightweight and portable option. It has multiple pockets to keep your items organised and easily accessible. It also comes with a detachable mirror, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. The bag is made of ultrathin, water-resistant nylon and is available in two sizes and three colour options.

Best Budget:

The WANDF Toiletry Bag is an affordable option that offers multiple compartments and side pockets with mesh pockets. The main compartment is spacious, but it could benefit from an additional divider for better organisation. The bag is water-resistant and comes in over 20 colour options.

Best Splurge:

The Tumi Response Travel Kit is a luxury option made from durable ballistic nylon. It opens like a clamshell, with two distinct compartments for easy access. There are four pockets, including a water-resistant one, and two elastic loops for holding items like toothbrushes or razors. The bag is ideal for travel-size products and short trips.

Frequently asked questions