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Updated August 5, 2024: This article was updated with new makeup bag selections, including TikTok-viral makeup bags, beauty pouches, and makeup organizer bags, as well as tips on selecting the right cosmetic case for your needs.
Selecting the best makeup bag for you is akin to choosing the best foundation for your skin type. With so many considerations — like size, materials, and organizational features — landing on a makeup bag shouldn’t be a snap decision.
These days, the best makeup bags for travel come in all shapes and sizes. Whether you’re looking for a large makeup case for a week-long trip or a smaller makeup pouch for touch-ups at the office, there’s no one-size-fits-all option, and the right one for you depends entirely on your beauty regimen, travel plans, and packing preferences (there’s nothing wrong with extra options, over-packers!). From compact and highly organized cases courtesy of Charlotte Tilbury and Béis to unique drawstring styles that serve as a bottomless beauty pits on-the-go and staple washable makeup bags or TSA-friendly clear makeup bags, there’s a myriad of styles to choose from for different needs.
WWD Shop editors test Charlotte Tilbury’s expandable makeup bag in our New York City office. Captured with the Leica Q3 Camera.
WWD/ Adam Mansuroglu
To find the best travel toiletry bags and makeup bags, we spoke with a slew of experts. Makeup artists Molly R. Stern, Lisa Aharon, and Kim Baker shared their expert advice from years of working with celebrity clients. Founders of New York-based organization company Twice as Organized, Michaela and Zoe Katz, as well as founder of Imagine It Done, Lisa Jacobs, divulged organizational expertise, too. Plus, WWD Shop editors took our top picks on vacation, on order to test whether they safely and securely stored our summer beauty kits. From overnight stays to weeks-long getaways, we assessed whether they were easy to clean, protected delicate bottles, resisted inevitable spills, and kept items blissfully organized.
Ahead, find our curated list of the best makeup bags to organize any size stash. Plus, you’ll discover specific tips for how to find the right bag for you and the exact features to look for.
Top Makeup Bags of 2024
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Makeup Bags of 2024
While testing makeup bags, our editors determined that there’s no one best option overall. Some are best suited for traveling with a haul of makeup and skin care, while others are ideal for tucking into a tote bag for touch ups during a long day. On top of size, it’s important to factor in your personal glam routine — those who reach for liquid foundations and blushes will want to opt for a bag that’s easy to wipe clean, while girls who can’t go anywhere without a few makeup brushes should go for a makeup bag with built-in brush compartments. WWD Shop editors rounded up the most exemplary options on the market to create this list of the best makeup bags, but we’re awarding special shoutouts to our top three favorites that appeal to different glam needs and preferences, below.
- Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Makeup Bag: If the bane of your existence is ruining a fresh manicure while digging for that one product that always gets lost at the bottom of your toiletry case, this is the makeup bag for you. Rather than one singular compartment, this makeup bag folds out like an accordion with five inner compartments that neatly house all of your essentials. Despite how much it holds, it has a relatively small footprint, making it a great makeup bag for longer vacations where you don’t want to sacrifice suitcase space or compromise on your glam routine.
- Béis The Cosmetic Case: This is the makeup bag for overpackers. It features a large internal compartment that has plenty of room for weighty liquid foundations and 10-pan eyeshadow palettes, plus an included makeup brush organizer and mirror. Note that it’s heavy when it’s full and it takes up as much space as a pair of sneakers in your suitcase — consider it for checked luggage or use it to hold your makeup and skin care essentials in a carry-on.
- Kusshi Vacationer Makeup Bag: One WWD Shop beauty editor has used her Kusshi makeup bag for four years — and it’s no worse for wear. This is one of the most durable makeup bags you can find courtesy of its sturdy nylon construction. One of the more genius ideas that the brand executes perfectly is its machine-washable lining; if your concealer or liquid blush leaks inside, all you have to do is unzip the lining and toss in the washing machine. More to love: You can customize the interior with add-on organizers like a brush sleeve and neoprene cases for glass bottles of foundation or small perfumes.
Editor’s Choice
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Makeup Bag
Size: 7.5” x 4 1.3” x 4 1.3” x
Fabric: 100% Polyester
Features: 5 compartments with interior zip pocket
Pros: Holds a lot of product
Cons: Not ideal for large bottles or tubes
When it comes to the best makeup bags, consider the Charlotte Tilbury’s the final boss. On TikTok, it’s earned over 5 million dedicated reviews, with beauty lovers deeming it “the perfect travel makeup bag” or “the best travel makeup bag I’ve ever used.” Why? Because it can safely store multiple beauty routines in a single compact case — with secure accordion-style compartments that won’t have your goodies rattling, rolling, or spilling. Its chic and simple but holds it all, plus its faux leather exterior is easy to wipe clean after you return from your trip.
Editor testing and review notes: “One of my biggest pet peeves is wasting precious time digging through my makeup bag to find the lip liner or eyeshadow pencil that always seems to get stuck at the bottom of the bag. Charlotte Tilbury’s makeup bag is shallower than similar options I’ve tested, which allows me to quickly see what’s inside — and the five internal compartments that expand when you unzip it let me keep different cosmetic categories separate for quicker product hunting, too. I use the internal zip pocket for bobby pins and cotton pads; this bag seems to have a dedicated spot for everything.” — Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor Claire Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Editor’s Choice
Béis The Cosmetic Case
Size: 9 ½” x 7″ x 4″
Fabric: Polyester and PVC
Features: Interior removable sleeve for makeup brushes; interior mirror
Pros: Spill-proof
Cons: Bulky for travel
Béis has built a reputation for innovative, affordable bags that allow you to stay as organized as possible (like the brand’s TikTok-famous weekender bag) and The Cosmetic Case is one of the best makeup organizer bags for glamming on the go. Off the bat, it’s entirely spill-proof with water resistant lining, so even if a tube explodes or powders crumble, it won’t bleed onto the rest of your luggage. Inside, it has a removable, zippered sleeve for slotting in an assortment of makeup brushes, along with a main interior compartment, and an included mirror that stands on its own for quick touchups.
Editor testing and review notes: “Hard-shelled cosmetic cases are my favorite for transporting fragile beauty goods, like perfume or liquid blush cased in glass bottles, that risk chaos if they spill. Béis is one I can count on when my bag is being thrown on a baggage claim conveyor belt — it’s tough and sturdy, keeping the contents in pristine condition no matter the conditions. But beyond its burly build, this makeup bag is genius in its special features: I love that I can remove the makeup brush sleeve for more room, and the included mirror means I don’t have to jockey for the hotel bathroom to do my makeup.” — Commerce Writer and Producer Olivia Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $68
Editor’s Choice
Kusshi Vacationer Makeup Bag
Best for: Those looking for an organizational makeup bag
Size: 7″ x 13.5″ x 5.75″
Fabric: Nylon
Features: Multiple interior pockets help keep things super organized
Pros: Roomy and bright interior make things easy to find
Cons: For cosmetics and skin care only, not recommended for travel shampoos
If you’re looking for a bag to handle holding your entire skin care routine or makeup for a full face, the Kusshi makeup bag is one of the best makeup bags for travel. On average, it holds anywhere from 25 to 30 products, and if any spills occur, can be machine washed without any issue. “It has little pockets to protect and organize delicate items and stands upright even though the bag is soft,” explains Aharon. It’s easy to throw in your tote bag and take with you on the go. “I love how wide it opens,” Stern adds.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’ve had my Kusshi makeup bag for nearly four years — it’s one of my top recommendations when friends ask for a cosmetic case that fits a lot and is easy to pack. The attachable inner organizers are convenient for keeping my makeup brush set clean and easy to find, while the large size is big enough to house multiple eyeshadow palettes, face serums, and liquid foundations. And because it’s a soft case, it’s easier to squeeze into a suitcase.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $89
Lay-n-Go Cosmo Drawstring Cosmetic & Makeup Bag
Size: 20″ x 20″ x 2″
Features: Sliding cord lock, carrying handle, containment lip, internal zip pocket and brush slots
Pros: Allows you to view all your products as you get ready
Cons: Not protective for delicate glass bottles
Listen, glamming isn’t always a pretty process. If you have a habit of haphazardly tossing your products onto your vanity while you’re getting ready, the Lay-n-Go Cosmo Drawstring Cosmetic & Makeup Bag was made for you. It opens and lays flat (kind of like a mini tarp) with a stiff border lip that keeps all the chaos contained. With three elastic slots, a small zip pocket, and a practically bottomless main compartment, it allows you to overpack without limiting compartments, and makes cleanup in the hotel easier than ever.
Editor testing and review notes: “Last summer, I hosted my best friend for a long weekend, and when she whipped out this makeup bag during our sacred glam session, I was instantly intrigued. We were doing our makeup on the floor in front of a mirror, and it served as the perfect surface for laying everything out and grabbing at a glance. Then, when we had to head out, she simple pulled the drawstring and packed everything away in mere seconds. I immediately ordered my own and it’s been my favorite travel companion when I don’t need to be too precise when packing my products.” — Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $29.95
Expert Pick
Jillian Dempsey Large Makeup Bag
Size: 8.5” x 2.5” x 5”
Fabric: Nylon
Features: 2 compartments, with one main compartment and one side
Pros: Durable nylon makes clean-up a breeze
Cons: Overfilling the exterior pocket will make it topple
“Jillian Dempsey makes a fabulous makeup bag with two pockets, so you can separate your smaller items from your bigger products,” says Stern. Celebrity makeup artist (and wife to McDreamy), Jillian Dempsey’s makeup pouch has two large compartments, plus a smaller exterior space for you to stash tweezers, lash glue, and a lash curler. As it’s made of nylon and super durable, this large makeup bag can be machine washed if spills occur, or wiped down if some excess powder escapes a compact.
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer
Size: 5.5” L x 5.5” W x 5.5” H
Fabric: 100% Repreve recycled poly
Features: 6 adjustable compartments, removable mesh insert, carabiner clip
Pros: Stable storage for bottles and delicate tubes
Cons: Not ideal for storing makeup palettes and flat compacts
Dagne Dover’s portfolio showcases a vast collection of functional, everyday bags that look good and perform even better. This makeup bag with removable compartments is no exception. It’s made from the brand’s proprietary neoprene fabric which is soft, roomy, and protective, with a unique cylinder shape that allows bottles to stand up in transit. Lined with easy-to-clean mesh, it offers an internal zip pocket for small compacts and tools, plus elastic slots for travel-sized tubes, and adjustable compartments for stowing potions and lotions from makeup to skin care.
Editor testing and review notes: “No-makeup makeup girls know that the foundation of a natural glam look often has more to do with great face serums and moisturizers rather than contour sticks and glittery highlighters. But the former are far trickier to pack (take it from someone who’s always putting in elbow grease to remove face oil residue in her makeup bags). Dagne Dover’s makeup bag keeps all of those tubes and vials totally upright, which prevents your bottles — even glass ones — from leaking or getting jostled around on your journey.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $50
Expert Pick
Away Hanging Travel Makeup Bag
Size: 9.6″ x 3.74″ x 6.6″
Fabric: Nylon
Features: Water-resistant nylon body with coated spill-proof interior
Pros: Hanging function and removable pouch
Cons: Not enough separate compartments
This hanging makeup bag is easy to travel with and is highly rated by Aharon. “It’s easy to organize, pop onto the back of a door, and is lightweight and water-resistant,” she says. It’s ideal when you’re traveling with little ones or in staying in shared quarters, as its interior allows you to keep things organized, even when counter space is lacking. The interior removable pouch allows you to keep your medicine, makeup, or other essentials in their own space, ideal if you need to throw them in a bag for the day. A water-resistant interior further adds protection while traveling, especially if you’ve ever ended up at your destination with shampoo all over your toiletry bag.
What testers say: “A hanging toiletry bag is one of my favorite items to pack…I’ve used another name-brand hanging toiletry bag previously, and it didn’t fit everything I needed until I saw yours. I’ll be purchasing these for my children’s go-bag luggage.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $75
Cuyana Leather Travel Case Makeup Bag
Small size: 5” x 8” x 2.5”
Large size: 7” x 12” x 3.5”
Fabric: Pebbled leather
Features: Unique curved shape
Pros: Microsuede interior for easy clean
Cons: No medium size available
Nothing is more luxurious than a set of leather travel cases, and this set from Cuyana is available in an array of colors. Crafted in pebbled leather, the Cuyana set is durable and less prone to showing wear and tear, meaning you can toss it around in any bag or suitcase with abandon. The interior is made of microsuede, which is super easy to clean. You can also feel great about shopping for this bag — Cuyana is part of the Leather Working Group, an organization ensuring sustainable practices are used in the tanning and development of their leather.
Editor testing and review notes: “This luxury makeup bag set has the durability of a great designer shoulder bag — I’ve used it consistently for five years and the white pebbled leather material is still in mint condition. The larger makeup case has enough room to accommodate my bigger containers of foundation and face oil, while the smaller one holds just enough (namely mascara, lip balms, and blotting papers) for what I need to touch up during a long day at the office.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $168
Refy Signature Bag
Size: 11.42″ x 6.7″ x 5.5″
Fabric: Bespoke fabric
Features: Metal snap closures, interior zip pocket, material wipes clean
Pros: Resist staining
Cons: Lacks internal organization
Spills and stains are no match against Refy’s makeup bag. While it may feel risky to store all your color in a white makeup bag, this one is made the brand’s unique fabrication that easily wipes spills and streaks clean — yes, even a red lipstick, foundation, or and pigmented liquid blush. Plus, it’s softly structured, expandable silhouette is minimalist and chic, with just two top snaps and an internal zip pocket, and it opens to a wide view for fishing out your products at a glance.
Editor testing and review notes: “I love the contemporary look of this makeup bag, but, when I got my hands on it, the first thing I wanted to do was color all over it. On Refy’s website, there’s a video that shows the clean removal of a liquid product with just a swipe of a cloth, so I wanted to test whether it’d be resistant to saturated creams, too. Spoiler alert: Like magic, a scribble of my deep lipstick disappeared without a trace. It’s the perfect bag for clumsy glam girls (like me) who’s makeup bags suffer from well-loved wear and tear.” — Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $60
WWD Shop editors use a damp paper towel to remove lipstick on the Refy Signature Bag in our New York City office.
WWD/ Adam Mansuroglu
Baggu Go Pouch Set
Size: 9 ½” × 14″ × 6″; 7″ × 10 ½” × 4 ¼”; 4″ × 6 ¾” × 2 ¼”
Fabric: Recycled heavyweight nylon
Features: Machine washable
Pros: Three pouches for different product categories and tools
Cons: Separate organization
Baggu offers an entire suite of nylon shoulder bags, tote bags, and luggage in trendy prints, and this cute makeup pouch set allows you to separate your regiments with ease. For $40, it offers a trio of machine-washable makeup bags, which you can pack all together in your suitcase for specific organization, or drop different ones into your purse, work bag, and carry-on to keep small essentials on hand wherever you roam.
Editor testing and review notes: “Every new item I try from Baggu becomes a holy grail — including these adorable pouches. I love that you can choose from so many patterns to match your travel gear or current aesthetic. These little pouches hold more than meets the eye, and the expandable nylon fabric easily wipes clean. I like to use the smaller bag for items like lip gloss and tiny tools, the medium one for compacts and makeup brush sets, and the larger for more bulky skin care staples.” — Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $40
Eachy Travel Makeup Bag
Size: 9.25″ x 4.13″ x 4.33″
Fabric: Waterproof materials
Features: Resistance-free, high-quality metal zippers
Pros: Easy-to-clean material
Cons: Loose interior pockets
If you’re fishing for a high-quality makeup bag without a high price tag, consider this Amazon beauty pick. The stylish cosmetic bag opens into a flat surface, which helps you access our makeup easily. And when you’re done, just scrunch it back up and store it. The design is so convenient that it has had over eight thousand purchases in the past month, and at the time of writing this article, it’s the number one bestseller in its category on Amazon.
Editor testing and review notes: “This accordion-style makeup bag has a generous amount of interior compartments to organize my makeup — there’s two large internal wells, plus pockets and zippered pouches for makeup brushes. I’m super impressed for the quality given the price point; the only issue I’ve had with mine is the internal pouch zipper getting stuck when I pull it too quickly.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $23.99
Expert Pick
Anrui Clear Makeup Bag
Best for: TSA-friendly travel
Size: 7.7” x 5.5” x 2.5”
Fabric: Plastic/PVC
Features: Waterproof and see through
Pros: Easy to clean, comes in sets of three
Cons: See through limits privacy
“For ladies who love to budget shop, the Anrui travel bag is great as a makeup and travel bag,” Baker says. If you’re looking for more organization in your suitcase or prefer to break up products by necessity, this set may be right for you. As they’re waterproof and see-through, they’re easy to eyeball. Its size allows it to stand up independently, another plus for anyone with delicate items or little ones underfoot. With over 1,000 five-star reviews, it’s a top selling Amazon makeup bag.
What testers say: “Just returned from a long multi-city trip and am glad I had this bag. Its sturdy shape allows it to stand up firmly in your carry-on, making it easy to locate and remove for security checkpoints. This feature also allows you to use it on bathroom sinks; it stands up and you can easily see all your products at a glance.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $9.99
Leatherology Small Train Case
Size: 7.5” W x 5” H x 5.2” D
Fabric: Full grain leather
Features: 4 interior open pockets, 2 interior zippered pockets, water-resistant lining
Pros: Customizable options: debossing, hand-painting, trapunto
Cons: Small iteration may not be long enough to hold brushes
Leatherology’s best makeup train case makes getting ready in a hotel (or even on an airplane) a little more luxe. Made of premium full-grain leather and available in a range of rich colorways, including this on-trend burgundy hue, it serves as a stylish and durable well for transporting all your precious cargo. Plus, you can customize it with your initials with different color and font options.
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Makeup Bag
Size: 12½” x 11½” x 4″
Fabric: Water-resistant nylon or polyester
Features: Multi-zip opportunities for storing different toiletries, detachable mirror, and shower caddy
Pros: Lots of space and can hang up to 25 pounds of product
Cons: Bulky, intended for travel
The best travel makeup bag for families, this mighty L.L. Bean bag holds literally everything. With its multi-zip compartments, this bag will hold everything from everyone – including stuff you’ve picked up on your travels. Additionally, L.L. Bean has tested this bag to make sure it’s the strongest one on the market. With lining made to stop spills in their tracks and a detached shower caddy and mirror, there’s no excuse to not look your best whilst traveling.
Editor testing and review notes: “I’m a maximalist when it comes to skin, hair, and body care, and L.L. Bean’s fold-up toiletry bag has been my go-to travel companion since college. Its design is pure genius, but maybe the best part is that the inside lining stops liquids from leaking out. I speak from experience: My shampoo exploded and not one drop got out of the bag.” — Sullivan
Price upon publish date of this article: $44.95
Expert Pick
WellInsulated Performance Makeup Bag
Size: 9” x 6.25” x 6.25”
Fabric: Metallic vegan leather
Features: High performance insulation, reflective interior for easy spot cleaning
Pros: Water-resistant
Cons: No interior pockets
Designed to keep your makeup and skin care products at an optimal temperature to preserve their quality, this best makeup case organizer from WellInsulated is the right choice for protecting your valuable beauty buys from intense temperatures. “It’s easy to clean, weather-resistant, and even doubles as a lunch bag,” says Aharon. Available in sweet pink vegan leather, the interior is also reflective, so you’re able to find what you want in a snap.
What testers say: “I’m already a huge fan of WellInsulated. I’ve been eyeing the gold for a while and am so glad I bought it! The color is beyond beautiful in person and I’ve put all my supplements and medications in it and now leave it on my kitchen counter. Makes me so happy just to look at it!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $115
Expert Pick
Calpak Clear Makeup Bag
Size: 11.5” x 5.25” x 9”
Fabric: PVC
Features: A transparent exterior and wrap-around zipper offer ease of use, and interior mesh pockets hold everything in
Pros: Transparent exterior allows you to easily locate what you need
Cons: Transparent exterior doesn’t offer privacy
One of the best travel cosmetic cases around, this Calpak bag “comes in nice colors and makes an awesome travel makeup bag as well,” explains Baker. If you’re someone who likes to be reminded of what they’ve brought (and maybe forgot), this bag offers organization with an interior mesh pocket for smaller items. Two separate slots allow you to section out your products so if something splashes in one, your entire collection won’t be compromised. Additionally, as it’s made in a PVC material, Aharon notes that it’s “super easy to spot what you need and keep clean and rinse out.”
What testers say: “You can literally fit everything you could possibly need for travel into this case – shower stuff, hair stuff, a 10-step skin care regimen, etc. The case is made really well and I can tell it will look just as good in years to come as it does now.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $95
Glossier The Beauty Bag
Size: 9.5” x 7” x 3”
Fabric: Coated cotton
Features: Removable interior pouch
Pros: Four smaller interior pockets and one large interior pocket
Cons: Could be bulky for packing
Glossier makeup bags are cult-favorites. This one is made in coated cotton with a detachable interior pocket in a smooth felt lining that’s soft to the touch. It’s large enough for full-size bottles to stand completely up on their own and with four interior pockets on the side, you can store small tools and brushes safely. There are also two zippered pockets on the exterior for you to place your immediate go-to’s on the outside.
Editor testing and review notes: “This bag is so cute and surprisingly super functional. Inside, there are tons of compartments that hold different sized tubes, tools, and jars, and I was easily able to fit a weekend’s worth of makeup products inside a little extra space. It’s sturdy, too, with strong zippers and stiff construction that holds everything safe and secure.” — Cigliano
Price upon publish date of this article: $45
Expert Pick
Sonia Kashuk Square Clutch Makeup Bag
Size: 6.25” x 9” x 3.5”
Fabric: PVC
Features: Metallic zip closure, see-through bag
Pros: Easy to wipe down if any messes occur
Cons: Singular pouch, no pockets
“I still love my Sonia Kashuk clear makeup bags that are affordable and come in a variety of sizes available at Target,” Baker tells us. Its metallic zipper closure spans the entire top of the bag, so you’ll have no issue fitting in items of various sizes. Made with triangular sides that gradually get larger as you reach the base, this bag lets bottles stand upright or brushes to lay along the bottom. If you’re someone who craves interior pockets and organizing, this bag may not be for you, but as an everyday, easy makeup bag, it’s one of the best makeup bags at Target for storing your must-haves.
What testers say: “I bought this for a vacation to put all my toiletry items in. I’ve used it twice in my carry-on and TSA has never said it’s too big. Fits a lot of items & seems sturdy!”
Price upon publish date of this article: $10
The Different Types of Makeup Bags
You can find various kinds of makeup bags, so choosing one boils down to what you’ll use it for. “People often use makeup bags for many different purposes: to bring to work, for traveling, to keep in a locker at a gym, etc. It is important to pick a makeup bag based on these needs,” says Jacobs. “If you’re like me, and not a bag lady, I only need one for my purse and one for travel,” notes Baker. “It’s important to know the size of the makeup products and the amount of makeup you want to put in the bag,” the Katz sisters explain. “This will help you decide what kind of makeup bag you need, whether it’s large vs small, many pockets vs no pockets, or vertical vs horizontal.” Below are three popular makeup bag categories to shop.
- Makeup bags with compartments: Great for those who like to keep things neat and tidy, these big makeup bags and travel makeup cases include special features like built-in zipper pockets, mesh sleeves, and pouches to keep your best makeup brushes in mint condition. These organizational makeup bags and makeup cases are larger than other options, which can be bulky to travel with, but they make it easier to carry a load of products without needing to dig around to find what you’re looking for. Some larger options work well for the gym too, as their open interior allows more room to store deodorant or dry shampoo.
- Designer cosmetic bags: Luxury makeup bags are investment pieces because of the their high-quality materials. Expect buttery leather makeup bags, quilted makeup bags, or luxury canvas makeup bags crafted with durable hardware and long-lasting materials. Designer makeup bags are created to stand the test of time, so they also make great gifts for women, gifts for girlfriends, and gifts for moms.
- Makeup pouches: Pouches are handy for everyday use — the mini makeup bags keep your items easy to reach when you’re at the office or heading to the gym. They’re also great weekender makeup bags when you’re traveling with just the essentials. Makeup pouches are also ideal for holding items you use to touch up throughout the day; keep your best setting powder and best lip gloss inside to refresh when necessary. These small makeup bags are typically budget-friendly, so they’re a great option for brides looking for makeup bags for bridesmaids.
- Travel makeup bags: While most makeup bags are friendly for travel, some are specially designed to withstand wear and tear from being crammed in a suitcase, tossed on a conveyor belt, or squeezed into a shoulder bag. Soft cases are generally easier to fit in a suitcase, however hard-shell makeup bags offer more protection for those who travel with liquids or palettes.
Best Materials for Makeup and Toiletry Bags
Material is by far the most important consideration when you’re selecting a reliable makeup bag that’ll last you years to come. The material of a makeup bag determines its finish and overall aesthetic, stiff or soft structure, and, of course, its durability. If you can’t travel without your favorite liquid highlighter and best cream blush, an easy-to-clean material like nylon is key. If your case is going to sit on your vanity, then a pretty leather bag might be up your alley. Here are the most common fabrics and materials you can choose from.
- PVC makeup bags: If you’re someone who travels a lot and gets anxious about TSA-friendly options, you may want to consider a clear, PVC option that shows what’s inside. These bags are also a great choice because they are easy to wipe down if a leak occurs in transit. One caveat: Typically, PVC pieces lack interior organization, depending on their size.
- Vegan leather makeup bags: This material is created using more sustainable practices and can be cleaned with less difficulty than traditional leather, but visually will appear similar. Vegan leather products can be more cost-effective as well, yet still can be personalized or monogrammed, depending on the designer.
- Leather makeup bags: One of the more luxurious options for makeup bags, leather is also surprisingly durable. However, a downside can be the eventual cleaning, which often is recommended to be done by a professional. The interiors are typically easier to clean than exteriors.
- Canvas makeup bags: These bags are perfect for gift giving and customization — they’re a popular choice for brides shopping for makeup bags for bridesmaids. Available in a wide variety of sizes and at reasonable price points, they’re a versatile choice.
- Nylon makeup bags: Much like canvas, nylon is one of the easiest fabrics to wipe down if any spills occur, and can be ideal when traveling with children and babies. Waterproof and man-made, nylon is a sustainable option, as many nylons are produced out of recycled bottles and other objects.
What to Consider When Shopping for the Best Makeup Bags
Beyond the best materials to look for in makeup bags, you also want to keep in mind some key factors to help you nail down a holy grail:
- Size: It’s important to be honest with yourself when considering the size of your makeup bag. Are you an over-packer? Then a full-on makeup tote or an organized makeup bag with an expansive shape is likely your best bet. If your routine is precise and streamlined, like say just one of the best lipsticks, eyeliner, and a concealer for acne, then there’s no need to add bulk to your luggage with a makeup bag that’s too big — you can get away with a mini makeup bag that will hold these smaller items.
- Shape: Makeup bags truly come in all shapes and sizes these days, from classic pouches to expandable accordion styles, and drawstring bags that lay flat on your vanity. Choosing the right one is entirely dependent on the beauty products you plan to travel with. More structured (and ideally padded) silhouettes are best for glass bottles and delicate packaging, while pouches are simple for rounding up smaller tubes like lip oil and mascara. And, bags that seemingly have no shape act as a grab-bag for all kinds of beauty goods, from brushes to small mirrors, grooming kits, eyeshadow palettes, and more.
- Organization features: In the best makeup organizer bags, everything should have a place. Whether its a wide open compartment for large compacts, a small zip pocket for tweezers and eyeliner, or customizable walls that hold bigger bottles upright in transit. Will you be carrying your a blush brush along with your favorite powder? If so, you’ll need a makeup bag with a brush holder. Otherwise, the delicate bristles will be vulnerable to friction and could become frizzy and brittle, or even worse, break entirely.
How to Clean Your Makeup Bag
No matter which style of makeup bag you choose, you want something that’s simple to clean, according to Stern. She says that easy-to-wash materials are ideal, while Aharon notes that “fabrics that can be tossed in the wash or safely sprayed with rubbing alcohol are key.” PVC makeup bags are the easiest to clean; you can simply wipe them down with an antibacterial wipe or damp paper towel. Small cloth makeup bags are a great option because you can simply toss them in the washing machine; same goes for terry cloth makeup bags and canvas makeup bags. Most leather makeup bags — particularly designer options — require professional cleaning. Pack liquid and oil-based products carefully, as these can permanently stain your bag if they leak.
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Meet the Experts
Michaela and Zoe Katz are the founders of New York-based Twice as Organized, a lifestyle organization company offering full-service in-home organization.
Lisa Jacobs is the founder and CEO of Imagine It Done, a New York-based exclusive organization company, providing services to clients in the New York tri-state area.
Kim Baker is a New York-based commercial makeup artist and former Wilhelmina Model who specializes in working with celebrities and models. She is the founder of Glamazon Beauty.
Lisa Aharon is a New York-based, Vancouver-born makeup artist. She has worked with Florence Welch and other celebrity clientele such as Rachel Brosnahan, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Camila Mendes. Aharon has worked with major brands and photographers such as Alexander Wang, Ralph Lauren, Annie Leibowitz, and Jurgen Teller.
Molly R. Stern is a celebrity makeup artist based in Los Angeles. She has worked with celebrities such as Reese Witherspoon, Maya Rudolph, Lily Collins, and Nicole Kidman on the red carpet and editorial opportunities.
Meet the Authors
Claire Sullivan is the Senior Beauty and Lifestyle Commerce Editor for WWD and Footwear News. She’s spent over five years researching, reporting on, and writing about the beauty industry for publications like Martha Stewart Living, Martha Stewart Weddings, InStyle, and Byrdie. She’s tested hundreds of products during her time as a beauty editor, including many a makeup bag. Sullivan wrote the updated version of this best makeup bag story with the newly released product picks for 2023 and more helpful advice on selecting the best cosmetic bag for your needs.
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes and edits shopping content across fashion, beauty, footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Cigliano received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She is currently based in New York City. She updated this guide to the best makeup bags in July in 2024 with new and exciting product picks, additional editor testing, and more information on what to consider when shopping for makeup bags.
