Complete Toiletry Packing List

Toiletries and clothes are often the two categories people overpack most. And honestly, it can be hard to estimate what you really need. But whether you're going away for two weeks, two months, or two years, you’ll often need the same essentials. And if something runs out, most things can still be bought on the road.

Kind of toiletry bag
A good toiletry bag also makes a difference. Many people on TikTok say you need a hanging toiletry bag with several compartments. Sure, that’s sometimes handy, but I’ve only actually hung mine up about twice on all my trips. That’s why I now prefer a sturdy standing toiletry bag. Often, there’s not much space on a bathroom sink, so I always look for one that fits there. Mine has compartments on the sides, front, and back, so I can keep makeup and other essentials nicely separated.

Below you'll find all the items with explanations on why I bring them. Prefer a simple overview without the details? Download the complete checklist as a PDF

Packing List – Toiletry Bag

• Makeup
  You really don’t need a full makeup bag while traveling. The longer you're on the road, the less you’ll use. Still, it’s nice to have a few basics for when you feel like dressing up — concealer, blush, and mascara are my go-to.
  

• Beauty blender
  

• Deodorant
  Most deodorants contain aluminum, which removes odors but is harmful long-term. I always bring a roller from Alka, it’s aluminum, and perfume-free, skin-friendly, and long-lasting. I pack one full-size for my toiletry bag and a mini version for my daypack.
  

• Cotton pads
  Bring a few for makeup removal — you can always buy more on the road.
  

• Makeup remover
  In Asia, many products contain bleach; in South America, it’s hard to find good skincare. So if you're traveling long-term, bring a big bottle from home. Yes, it takes up space, but it’s better than putting bleach on your face.
  

• Tampons and pads
  In many parts of the world (especially Asia), tampons are expensive or hard to find. If you’re traveling long-term, stock up — or refill when you're in a big city.
  

• DEET (insect repellent)
  Dengue mosquitoes are common in many places, and there’s no widely available vaccine. Apply DEET regularly. Keep a small bottle in your purse and a bigger one in your toiletry bag for refills.
  

• Water mist spray

• Razor

• Cotton swabs
  

• Sunscreen
  In Asia, most sunscreens contain bleach and don’t offer strong protection. If you're traveling for a long time, bring a high-quality bottle from home.
  

• Toothbrush
  I use a foldable one to save space and keep the brush head clean.
  

• Toothpaste
  

• Soap, shampoo, conditioner & shaving bars
  These often contain bleach in some countries. I use solid bars (soap, shampoo, conditioner) to prevent spills. They last a long time — I once used one shampoo bar for four months in Asia! I recommend buying aluminum tins to store them properly.
  

• Hair gel

• Curl cream

• Mini hairbrush

• Face powders

• Small hair clip

• Large hair clip

• Nipple covers

• Bobby pins