As a beauty writer who is constantly on the move, I’ve tested more travel bags than I can count, and not all of them live up to the hype. Whether you’re packing skincare, hair supplies, or an emergency stash of sheet masks, finding the right bag can make or break your trip.
After countless flights, hotel stays, and TSA lines, I’ve narrowed it down to the 14 travel bags that are truly awesome. From sleek carry-ons to genius totes, these picks combine style, function, and serious beauty-editor approval. Let’s take a look at 14 travel bags that really work!
1. The OG: Calpak Luka Duffel
This duffel might look fancy, but it’s actually super practical! It fits perfectly under most airplane seats, keeps your toiletries separate from your clothes, and yep, it’s actually really cute. I can throw in my big ol’ hair dryer and still have space for my stash of “just in case” sheet masks, which is awesome! If you’re tired of digging through a messy bag, this one’s the game-changer you should try out.
2. Maximum Organization: Beis Weekender
This bag’s clever bottom compartment? It’s a total game-changer. It’s perfect for stashing shoes, hair tools, or keeping your clean clothes away from the not-so-clean ones. There’s even a spot for your straightener, plus tons of little pockets to keep every eyeliner, serum, and lip balm in check, even if your bag takes a bit of a beating in transit.
3. Insta-Famous Classic: Away Bigger Carry-On
There’s a really good reason you’ve been seeing this roller all over your feed; it’s really great! The built-in compression pad flattens overstuffed pouches, and the wipeable lining means that spilled makeup can be cleaned easily. It rolls through airports effortlessly, and honestly, it looks amazing!
4. Designed by a Derm: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall
This bag’s eco-neoprene material isn’t just spill-proof; it actually resists bacteria, which is a total win! It has plenty of space but still manages to look chic. Plus, since it was designed with input from dermatologists, I feel way better about packing my skincare in here instead of shoving it all into a flimsy plastic bag.
5. Flight Crew Favorite: Tumi Voyageur Tote
There’s a good reason why flight attendants love this tote; it’s made for smooth travel. Every pocket is set up to get you through TSA fast, so you’re not the one holding up the line. It slides right over your suitcase handle, stays put during airport dashes, and keeps all your beauty stuff standing upright.
6. Beauty Editor’s Backup: Baggu Cloud Bag
This bag folds to nothing, seriously! But somehow, it still manages to hold all those “just in case” extras you swore you wouldn’t pack. It’s perfect as a backup bag or for carrying your entire masking collection with ease. If you’re the type to leave with a half-empty suitcase and come back loaded with souvenirs, this one’s a total lifesaver.
7. Polarizing Pick: Longchamp Le Pliage
You might think this bag is a little basic, but when your toner explodes mid-flight, you will be super grateful for its water-resistant, wipeable body. It might look simple, but it’s surprisingly tough—fitting weird-shaped objects and still zipping without a struggle.
8. Cult Secret: Paravel Cabana See-All Vanity Case
Are you sick of digging around in our bag and not finding what you’re looking for? This transparent case is the perfect solution. It’s super easy to clean, fits into most carry-ons, and makes finding whatever you’re looking for super simple.
9. Hardcore Protection: Monos Metro Duffel
For some of those tougher journeys, this bag’s padded structure protects everything inside! You can count on this duffel to keep all of your items unharmed! The inside pockets make it so nothing crashes together, and the modern shape fits right on top of your luggage handle.
10. Convertible Cool: Lo & Sons OG 2
Traveling for a business trip or beach getaway? This bag’s got you covered for both. It’s roomy enough for extra outfits and full-size beauty products, and the side pocket keeps things like deodorant or perfume away from your nicer pieces. It’s sleek enough for the office but totally works for a weekend away.
11. Minimalist Dream: Cuyana Triple Zipper Weekender
This bag is great if you struggle with finding items in your messy bags. It has three separate compartments, ensuring that things like sneakers, serums, and sleep masks never meet. The zippers also glide like a dream and the minimalist design looks super good!
12. Makeup Artist’s Staple: Sonia Kashuk Weekender Bag
Many celebrity makeup artists swear by this bag. The removable clear pouches let you spot exactly what you need, and nothing spills onto your brushes or palettes. This bag helps your products stay nice and neat.
13. L.L.Bean Boat and Tote Zip-Top
Old-school, canvas, unbreakable, and monogrammable. This bag fits all of your beauty essentials for beach trips and handles sand and mud way better than any “fancy” designer tote. You can use it for everything. This bag is a must-have!
14. July Carry All Tote
This bag features magnetic closures, padded compartments, a laptop sleeve, and a water bottle holder that actually works! It is perfect for the airport! I usually use it for beauty, tech, and a change of clothes.