small shower travel bag

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The Best Shower Caddies for Toting to Your Dorm Bathroom

They’re basically a college-life requirement.

Portable shower caddies (not to be confused with caddies that hang from a showerhead or are permanently installed in a bathroom) are vital for communal living situations like dorms. Quite simply, they allow you to store all of your shower products together, so you can easily tote them back and forth from the bathroom each day.

The Best Shower Caddies

The Easy-To-Repurpose One

Mdesign plastic portable caddy tote.

The Best-Selling One

Attmu mesh shower caddy basket.

The Basket-Style One

Rejomiik portable shower caddy basket.

The Travel-Friendly One

Reger college dorm essentials portable shower caddy.

The Simple, Sturdy One

Anyoifax portable shower caddy tote.

The Recycled One

Pbteen recycled classic shower caddy.

The Totally Mesh One

Bags in bag portable mesh caddy bag.

The Solid One

The container store large grid tote w/ handle.

The Matching Set

Supinefoxus quick-dry shower tote bags (set of two).

The Pop-Up One

Dormify spiral shower caddy, what to consider.

Material: Portable shower caddies tend to be either made from plastic or mesh material. The advantage of these mesh bags or even those just partially mesh, is that they're malleable, so they're easier to store without taking up much room when not in use. However, with that comes a more difficult cleaning and drying process, as this material can retain any residual water (or worse, leaked shampoo or other goop) that it may pick up in the course of its carrying. Plastic shower caddies are far easier to clean and dry, often with just a simple wipe of a paper towel, but that solid structure means it takes up more room overall — and in a dorm room, saving space can be crucial.

Size/Capacity: Determining the right size and capacity for your shower caddy is an important factor to consider, especially if you know your dorm situation and how much space you have. Depending on how many toiletries you truly need to haul to the shower, you may not need a bulky basket or bag — which means that bigger isn't always better. You should also consider whether you mind all your products knocking together during that walk down the dorm hallway or whether a shower caddy with pockets or dividers is more helpful for keeping certain items separate.

Design: The best shower caddies have an open-weave structure or other openings that allow moisture to slide right off or quickly dry instead of pooling and making things gross and mildewy.

Function: We suggest getting a caddy that can be repurposed long after your college days are done, whether as storage for other household items or as travel toiletry bags.

A shower caddy can be a great way not just to get your cleaning supplies from one place to another but to keep them organized, making it easier to get your morning routine going in time for those early morning classes. Here are some of our favorite shower caddies for whatever your dorm situation might be.

Key features:

• Material: Plastic
• Compartments: Two

This hard-shell shower caddy is simple yet still very chic. It has just two equal-sized compartments and a neat, clean-line silhouette that can easily serve an alternate purpose as under sink storage when you have your own place.

It also has small drain holes at each corner, so you don't have to worry about mildew. It comes in an impressive spectrum of 16 different colors.

As we noted, a quality shower caddy can serve many purposes even outside the dorm, and this one is no exception. As one reviewer shared , “I was looking for a caddy organizer that could carry my pet grooming supplies, and this fits my needs.” Another user found a far different purpose for the caddy : “I use it to carry all of my grilling needs from the kitchen outside to the barbecue.” More: The Best Laptops for College Students

• Material: Polyester mesh
• Compartments: Eight outer compartments, one center

This best-selling shower caddy has exceptional storage space, with one center compartment and six smaller pockets on the sides. It's made of polyester mesh material, which allows water to drip right through instead of soaking it up.

Reviewers love it for its generous storage capacity. “Since communal bathrooms are dreaded, I started to look for a caddy for college. I came across quite a few, but THIS ONE IS AMAZING. It came a day early, and it fits so much!” one Amazon reviewer ecstatically noted . They added, “I’m a beauty junkie, so I love all my products with me — and this fits EVERYTHING! I even have leftover space!”

Another of the bag's over 8,000 five-star reviewers wrapped up their assessment, noting , “Great bag, great price, and if something should spill, all you need to do is rinse it off in the sink.”

• Compartments: One

If you keep your shower time simple, this plastic shower caddy is perfect for you. Available in white or blue, it has just one main compartment and two handles that angle up or down. We really like the open-weave pattern on the sides that looks great while helping to air-dry your supplies.

• Material: Oxford fabric, PVC mesh
• Compartments: Four, including two outside pockets

This pick is unique in that it zips closed, making it easier to transport to places beyond your bathroom. It also features a ton of storage: There's one large compartment with a mesh window, two side pockets, and zip-up inner and outer pockets for holding other small items. There's also a hook stored inside that you can use for hanging from a shower stall or bathroom door.

While this shower caddy is made to air-dry quickly in case it gets soaked, this one is made of softer polyester fabric and is best for using away from the spray of a shower.

This fun caddy design comes in three color-blocked choices and is as airy as it gets. While mesh bags can hold a lot, they run the risk of tearing, which is something you won't have to worry about with this one.

This shower caddy has amble drainage holes all over it, and it can easily be repurposed as a cute storage basket.

• Material: Recycled polyester
• Compartments: Four

This portable shower caddy from PBteen offers a little more of a stylish edge along with the benefit of being made of 100% recycled polyester. It has one mesh-lined main compartment and four side pockets, and it's good for someone who has a smaller stash of bath supplies.

It comes in six different colors and can even be monogrammed for an extra $12 if you're getting this as a gift for someone who's headed off to school.

• Material: Polyester

Hang this caddy from a stall hook or shower handle, and you'll be able to access all of your hair and body products conveniently in one place.

This mesh polyester bag has just one compartment, but it keeps everything corralled together neatly and zips up, so you don't have to worry about things getting strewn about.

“No more smelly, moldy Ziploc bags bringing my shampoo to and from the gym,” one active gymgoer noted . “This mesh bag is excellent for carrying my toiletries and not having to worry about them being wet and then sealed all day.”

And don't let the bag's seemingly small size fool you. It can carry quite a lot, as this other reviewer discovered : “My main worry was the bag would be too small to fit full-sized shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel, but it’s absolutely perfect for all of that. And it’s still small enough to fit in my swim backpack.”

These rigid shower totes from The Container Store may be full of holes, but that's all part of their appeal. Users love them for holding their in-shower items, their post-shower hair styling products, and face wash.

These come in two sizes, which are sold separately (you can score the small one here ), but they can be neatly stacked together if bought in a pair. These caddies can also easily be repurposed as see-through storage in an endless number of ways.

• Material: Nylon
• Compartments: 16 total, 8 per bag

Buying this set of two caddies makes a lot of sense if you have separate nighttime and morning products, different items that you use for doing your hair post-shower, or if you frequently travel between two different bathrooms.

Their colors may be different (you have a choice of seven different options!), but the setup is the same. These caddies have one main compartment bordered with seven side pockets, all made of nylon mesh.

It's possible you may have a laundry bag that looks very similar to this mesh shower caddy, so rest assured that it has the same convenient functionality!

Keep this pick popped open and neatly store up to four shower gels in it. Then when it's not in use between semesters, it can be compressed flat for easy stowing.

Michael Natale is the news editor for Best Products , covering a wide range of topics like gifting, lifestyle, pop culture, and more. He has covered pop culture and commerce professionally for over a decade. His past journalistic writing can be found on sites such as Yahoo! and Comic Book Resources , his podcast appearances can be found wherever you get your podcasts, and his fiction can’t be found anywhere, because it’s not particularly good. 

Melanie Yates is the senior service editor of Best Products, where she writes and reports pieces pertaining to the etiquette, dilemmas, and how-tos of gift-giving for different occasions. Previously, she was the site's senior home editor, covering all things decor- and bedding-related since 2015. Her digital byline can also be found on Bustle, House Beautiful , and Elle Decor . A longtime classical-music enthusiast, Melanie spends her off-hours enjoying performances big and small across New York City.

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• Deals and sales

Best Buy’s Black Friday Deals Have Begun. These Are the Best We’ve Found.

Early Black Friday sales—shopped judiciously—can be a good opportunity to get a jump on your holiday shopping.

Best Buy is leading the charge with its Early Black Friday Deals for Everyone sale , which promises deeply discounted TVs, laptops, appliances, and more for My Best Buy members and non-members alike starting today . We’ll see additional—and possibly better—markdowns from Best Buy on Black Friday itself, but if you’re looking to avoid the sales brouhaha on the big day, early shopping is the way to go.

Here’s the deal

Apple deals, smart-home deals, other great deals, best buy’s holiday sales strategy, apple mac mini desktop pc (m2, 2023, 8 gb ram, 256 gb ssd).

Apple Mac Mini (M2, 2023, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) — Our Pick Deal price: $500 ; street price: $580

What we like: Our macOS pick for the best mini desktop PC. Compact, fast, and energy-efficient. Powered by Apple’s M2 processor. Extremely quiet. Can integrate seamlessly with an iPhone or an iPad, as well as Apple services such as FaceTime and iMessage.

Other things to know: Specs include M2 processor, 8 GB of RAM, and 256 GB SSD. Memory and storage are not upgradable; we recommend getting an external storage drive. No accessible ports on the front.

Read our review of the best mini desktop PCs .

Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation) smart display

Amazon Echo Show 8 (2nd Generation) — Top Pick Deal price: $60 ; street price: $75

What we like: Our pick for the best Amazon Alexa smart display. Crisp 8-inch touch display. Big enough for viewing videos. Convenient smart-home controls. Has a 13-megapixel camera for video calls (including Zoom).

Other things to know: User interface can be frustrating at times. Fewer recipe choices compared with Google devices.

Read our review of the best smart display for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant .

Google Nest Cam (Wired, Indoor) security camera

Google Nest Cam (Wired, Indoor) — Upcoming Pick Deal price: $70 ; street price: $100

What we like: Our upcoming upgrade pick for the best indoor security camera after our retests revealed some improvements. Can shoot 1080p video clips up to five minutes long, can record 24/7 to the cloud (with a subscription), and can distinguish between people, pets, and vehicles.

Other things to know: Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Offers limited free cloud storage for recordings up to three hours after capturing motion. All three colors on sale.

Read our review of the best indoor security camera .

Google Nest Hub Max smart display

Google Nest Hub Max — Our Pick Deal price: $130 ; street price: $200

What we like: Our smart-display pick for Google Assistant fans and home cooks. Great for streaming audio and making video calls. Integrates seamlessly with Google apps (including Google Calendar for reminders). Follow along with recipes hands-free while cooking.

Other things to know: Capable of controlling smart-home devices, but fewer devices are compatible with Google Assistant than with Amazon Alexa. No physical lens cover for the camera. Not Zoom compatible, and Meet integration is limited.

Google Pixel 7a smartphone (unlocked, 128 GB)

Google Pixel 7a (unlocked, 128 GB) — Budget Pick Deal price: $375 ; street price: $470

What we like: Our budget pick for the best Android phone. Powered by Google’s latest processor. Improved 64-megapixel camera sensor, wireless charging, Face Unlock, and an upgraded 1080p display with a smoother 90 Hz refresh rate.

Other things to know: Pricier than Google’s typical budget phones. Has a recycled-plastic body, an aluminum frame, and a dual-camera setup on the rear. Comes with Android 13 OS, plus five years of security updates. Phone activation required at time of purchase to get the deal price. All three colors on sale.

Read our review of the best Android phones .

Hisense U6K Series Google TV (75-inch)

Hisense U6K Series Google TV (75-inch) — Top Pick Deal price: $700 ; street price: $800

What we like: Our new, upcoming top pick for the best 4K TV on a budget, and the 2023 replacement for our current runner-up pick. A very solid 4K HDR TV. Same picture-enhancing hardware as in our favorite premium LCD/LED TVs.

Other things to know: Forgoes extremely high brightness and skips some of the fancier trimmings (such as Wi-Fi 6E compatibility) to keep costs low. Limited to a 60 Hz refresh rate (sorry, gamers). Doesn’t have HDMI 2.1 inputs. Lowest price we’ve seen for the 75-inch size.

Read our review of the best 4K TV on a budget .

Google Pixel Tablet (128 GB)

Google Pixel Tablet (128 GB) — Top Pick Deal price: $400 ; street price: $500

What we like: Our top pick for the best Android tablet. Excellent 11-inch tablet with a bright, sharp, and vibrant widescreen display. Powered by the same Tensor G2 processor inside of Google’s Pixel smartphones. Can handle multiple tasks and high-end gaming with ease. 5,000 mAh battery lasts days on a charge.

Other things to know: Scheduled to receive system updates through 2026 and security updates through 2028. Stylus support is limited. All three color options on sale.

Read our review of the best Android tablets .

Lego Architecture Taj Mahal 21056

Lego Architecture Taj Mahal 21056 — Our Pick Deal price: $96 ; street price: $110

What we like: One of our favorite Lego sets for adults. The Taj Mahal is an iconic symbol of everlasting love. Pleasantly simple build. Top dome lifts to reveal central chamber; lift a second dome to reveal the crypt and tiny sarcophagi.

Other things to know: 2,022 pieces. Informative, historical tidbits are peppered throughout the instruction booklet.

Read our review of the best Lego sets for adults, according to our staff .

Sony X90L 4K TV (75-inch)

Sony X90L 4K TV (75-inch) — Another Good Option Best Buy deal price: $1,500 ; street price: $1,700

What we like: Another good option for PS5 users in our guide to the best gaming TV. Ideal for use with Sony’s cinematic first-party exclusives. Automatically syncs with the PS5 to calibrate HDR.

Other things to know: X90L is a bit on the expensive side. A mid-range TV in Sony's line, but offers surprising color accuracy.

Read our review of the best gaming TVS .

Whirlpool WFG320M0M Gas Range

Whirlpool WFG320M0M Gas Range — Budget Pick Best Buy deal price: $600 ; street price: $820

What we like: Our budget pick for the best gas range. For the price, this range has especially good functionality and quality. Recently updated with edge-to-edge, cast iron grates that are dishwasher safe. Large oven size should easily fit the largest Thanksgiving turkey.

Other things to know: Doesn’t have convection. Doesn’t have self-cleaning modes or a number pad for inputting oven temperatures or times. Broiler is located in the bottom drawer beneath the oven. Deal price for the stainless steel finish does not include parts and installation which is different depending on location.

Read our review of the best gas stoves and ranges .

Sony ZV-1 II Camera

Sony ZV-1 II Camera — Our Pick Best Buy deal price: $800 ; street price: $900

What we like: Our camera pick for vlogging outdoors and on the go. Compact, light, and able to record stabilized 4K video. Designed explicitly for vlogging. Flip-out screen is great for easily framing selfies, and built-in optical image stabilization smooths out your movements.

Other things to know: Records 4K video at 30 fps or 1080p at 120 fps. Top-mounted directional mic records stereo audio. Stacked 1-inch sensor and f/1.8–4 Zeiss lens with 2.8x zoom. Menu and button layout aren't very intuitive. New low and the first deal we've posted on this new ZV-1.

Read our review of the best vlogging cameras and gear .

The retailer is expanding its store and online support hours beginning November 6 and adjusting its price-match and return policies . But as with most retailers’ price-match policies , exclusions apply (particularly before the holidays). Best Buy won’t price-match qualified competitors from November 17 through Cyber Monday, but most purchases made between October 27 and December 30 can be returned through January 13, 2024. We’ll continue to update this article with new deals and developments as Black Friday approaches.

Editor’s note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter’s expert-approved picks.

This article was edited by Nathan Burrow and Annemarie Conte.

Meet your guide

Kaitlin Mahar

Kaitlin Mahar is a staff writer for Wirecutter’s Deals team. Her byline has appeared in Delish, Esquire, and Town & Country. When she’s not hunting for deals and fiercely defending the Oxford comma, she’s a proud cat parent, an avid yogi, and a co-producer and co-host of the podcast Crime Culture . Please tell your pets and grandparents she says hi.

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The Best Men's Toiletry Bags to Toss in Your Carry-On

By Michella Oré

All products featured on GQ are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

You probably have a toiletry bag. But do you have the best men's toiletry bag? Just how satisfied are you with your Dopp's… performance ? If your answer to that question was anything less than “extremely”, you should be in the market for a top-tier Dopp kit.

Whether you're heading out for a quick weekend or a longer soul-searching sabbatical, a Dopp that ably transports all of your grooming products can be a game-changer. Not only will it allow you to organize said products, and separate them from the clothes they could ruin with one loose cap, but it also looks a lot more grown up than a gallon-sized Ziploc bag. Think about it: You wouldn't shove the contents of your carry-on into one of those plastic IKEA bags and board a plane, would you? On a smaller scale, that's essentially the Ziploc-as-toiletry-bag move.

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The Best Toiletry Bags Shopping Guide

• The All-Around Best Toiletry Bag: Mismo M/S wash bag , $269
• The Best Basic Toiletry Bag: Rains wash bag , $34
• The Best Hanging Toiletry Bag: Calpak "Terra" hanging toiletry bag , $56
• The Best Leather Toiletry Bag: Bottega Veneta "Intrecciato" color-block leather wash bag , $1950
• The Best Splurge-Worthy Toiletry Bag: Goyard "Jouvence MM" toiletry bag , price on request

The most basic Dopp kit is just a big internal pocket with some sort of closure, but there are several different varieties differentiated by shape, material, number of extra pockets, and miscellaneous bonus features. At bare minimum though, a high-quality Dopp kit should have plenty of space (enough to fit several travel-size containers and grooming essentials like a toothbrush and a shaving kit ). It should also be easy to clean (spills happen!) and water-resistant, come with a good zipper, and pass the “would I be embarrassed if someone saw this out on my counter?” test.

The following toiletry bags and Dopp kits are a few offerings from our favorite brands that our writers have coveted, purchased, and used on trips far and wide. After neatly packing them in suitcases or tossing them in the bottom of backpacks, we can guarantee that at least one of them is certainly the best men's toiletry bag for you. Oh, and once you've got your Dopp, be sure to pack it smartly .

The All-Around Best Toiletry Bag

M/S washbag

Mismo's washbag features a ballistic nylon exterior kitted out with a water-resistant cotton lining and a sturdy zipper to ensure your grooming goods stay nice and dry wherever you're headed. The roomy interior is great for stashing your apothecary of skin care hacks without adding unnecessary bulk—slit pockets at both sides give you the option to stow necessary one-offs like razors and combs, while elegant snap-hook closures sourced from Italy open up to give you additional space, and fold down for instant handles. Franky speaking, though, its top-notch design doesn't need all those bells and whistles to prove that it's in a league of its own.

Plus 4 More Multi-Purpose Dopps We Love

The Renew transit catch-all bag

Tin cloth travel kit

Everlane's transit catch-all does exactly that—neatly stows your grooming essentials, keys, tech and whatever else you throw in it without taking up too much space. Ditto Filson's tough-as-nails tin cloth kit (reinforced with water-resistant nylon), which repurposes the brand's word-class waxed cotton in the form of a lightweight, extremely functional Dopp.

Dagne Dover

"Hunter" neoprene toiletry bag

Air's Cordura nylon-ified travel kit takes organization extremely seriously, with two separate roomy interiors for your bottles and tubes plus additional zipper compartments at the front and back. Dagne Dover's “Hunter” bag is the gift that keeps on giving—its interior is decked out with elastic loops, a mesh slip pocket, and an additional z ippered pouch you can remove when you're not using it. If you aren't able to fit everything you need into one of these, you, friend, might be overpacking.

The Best Basic Toiletry Bag

This waterproof pack from Rains features a single interior pocket making it perfect for weekend excursions that require you to preserve as much packing space as possible, or those last-minute trips where non-essentials like condition and body lotion are likely to be provided. With its no-frills, versatile exterior this bag can be repurposed to hold all you gizmos and gadgets for those days when the commutes are looking less than sunny. The last thing you need is your AirPods getting soaked before an onslaught of Zooms.

Plus 4 More Basic-But-Not-Boring Dopps We Love

"Command the Day" dopp kit

"Black Hole" cube

Made from a tough, water-resistant fabric, Lululemon's bag will make sure your hodgpodge of tech and toiletries doesn't get soaked in a sporadic April shower. But if you're planning to brave the great outdoors, you might want to opt for Patagonia's cylindrical number, which is made from the brand's legendary ripstop nylon and features an internal pocket to keep your stuff from rolling around at every twist and turn.

Acne Studios

Toiletry pouch

Topo Designs

Maybe you just watched 2001: A Space Odyssey for the first time or you're just really into grids—either way, this waterproof Acne clutch is as timeless as a Kubrick classic. If you're working with some funky packing quarters, Topo Designs' triangular dopp kit takes the guesswork out of finding the right arrangement of bags so you can focus on actually, you know, packing your stuff.

The Best Hanging Toiletry Bag

"Terra" hanging toiletry bag

If you want sprawling access to your bathroom in a matter of seconds, then you'll want to get pair up with Calpak's Terra bag. Built from a wonderfully tough ripstop blend (reinforced with waterproof coating that also gives it a little extra sparkle), this toiletry bag is packed with pockets—zipper mesh pockets for your comb and contacts, pockets for face wash, body wash, deodorant—and elastic loops in the interior and exterior so you can avoid the soggy toothbrush dilemma. It, of course, features a collapsable hook so you can hang up your goods for easy access and tuck away when it's time to hit the road again.

Plus 4 More Hanging Dopps We Love

Mark & Graham

Leather hanging toiletry bag

Sea to Summit

TravellingLight hanging toiletry bag

Just because it's functional doesn't mean it has to be gorp-ified, as Mark & Graham's generously compartmentalized toiletry bag proves by swapping out the popular nylon for a buttery soft leather. If you could care less about scoring style points and are looking to pack it in while keeping your load a comfortable weight, then Sea to Summit's bag is a worthy pick.

Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

Large toiletry bag 2.0

Sometimes, of course, you really do need to pack a load . In that instance, make sure you're not adding any unnecessary bulk without compromising storage with Narways streamlined toiletry bag that features side pockets that open out to reveal a rows of elastic loops that can hold it all. Nomatic's 10" toiletry bag is also a great contender for bringing everything but the bathroom sink, while miraculously saving you space thanks to a slender profile.

The Best Leather Toiletry Bag

Frank Clegg

Large travel kit

Made to order in their Massachusetts workshop, Frank Clegg's deceptively handsome travel kit may look too pretty to throw in a carry-on, but it's well equipped to handle whatever the travel gods throw its way. The tumble grain leather is lined with water-resistant acrylic fabric so you don't have to worry about unsightly leaks and patches, while the rust-proof brass hardware will keep your zippers in peak condition no matter how steamy the bathroom conditions.

Plus 4 More Leather Dopps We Love

Bottega Veneta

Intrecciato colour-block leather wash bag

Columbian leather toiletry bag

From bags to slides , Bottega Veneta's woven motif proves yet again how versatile it is, this time in a lather wash bag that's fashionable without being obnoxious. Royce's smooth, Columbian leather bag opens up to a spacious interior that can hold all the essentials and more while zipping down for a compact fit.

Durango dopp kit

Leather dopp kit

Nisolo, the brand behind our favorite rich-guy sandals , also makes a mean dopp kit. While this bag is a mix of waxed canvas and leather, it maintains the leather aesthetic while improving the kits weather-resistance performance. Another great contender is Double RL's burnished leather dopp kit that manages to look charmingly rustic—without getting into rusty territory.

The Best Splurge-Worthy Toiletry Bag

"Jouvence MM" toiletry bag

A IYKYK brand that's become mainstream as more people have gotten hip, Goyard doesn't need to prove itself in the travel department. The Parisian brand has been churning out stylish trunks and fine leather goods since 1792, and its attention to detail is what continues to set it above the rest 200 years later. Naturally, its toiletry bag is top-notch with a supple leather exterior that's lined with cotton to absorb any little spills and excess moisture that's throw its way. The upright design will also keep your bottles from running amok while allowing for compact packing experience. If you're going to splurge, skip the gimmicks and invest in a piece that's proven its ROI consistently.

Plus 4 More Fancy Dopps We Love

Common Projects

Toiletry bag

End Clothing

GG-Supreme and leather washbag

Other worthy selects are Common Project's tubular calf-leather bag and Gucci's washbag. The latter also knows a thing or two when it comes to swanky travel gear, getting its start as an artisanal luggage company inspired by founder Guicco Gucci's work in posh London hotels.

Grained leather washbag

Brunello Cucinelli

Hot-stamped leather washbag

If you're looking for something with a little more sex appeal, cop Tom Ford's grainy wash bag which will treat your rotating selection of top-shelf scents right, or get hot and heavy with Brunello Cucinelli's spacious bag that features a double-zipper top giving you ultimate access.

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Enjoy 20% discount - Samsung Promo Code

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The Best Toiletry Bags for Travel: Which will you choose?

LUGGAGE , TOILETRIES , Toiletries

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made on Amazon in addition to other retailers featured on the blog. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Whether you’re globetrotting or planning a short weekend getaway, a hardworking and stylish toiletry bag is essential to keep your beauty products organized and accessible. Never fear! Travel Fashion Girl has got it sorted.

Check out our list of the best toiletry bags for travel below. Which will be the best bag for you?

Top Toiletry Bags for Travel

Here is a quick list of the best toiletry bags for travel:

• Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Travel Bag

Bago Hanging Toiletry Bag

Ebags pack-it flat toiletry bag.

• Freegrace Large Hanging Toiletry Bag

Sea to Summit Traveling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag

Buruis hanging toiletry bag, lavievert portable travel kit organizer.

• Travelon Flat Out Toiletry Kit

D&D Hanging Nylon Toiletry Bag & Organizer

Narwey portable hanging toiletry bag, gonex hanging toiletry kit.

Bagsmart Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

Bagsmart Toiletries Travel Bag

This expert travel cosmetic case is designed to keep all of your toiletries together for vacations of all lengths. Perfect for organizing your essentials, the Bagsmart travel kit bag features a convenient carrying handle and a hook for hanging, along with removable pouches and a selection of clear interior zipper pockets to keep everything in place.

The inner main pockets with elastic straps hold bottles upright, while the double zipper compartment for easy access the items even not full-opened the bag. Plus, this bag is designed to be lightweight, making it easier for everyday use.

We love that this case is so compact and simple in its design, lending to its classic look. It has all of the essentials without any unnecessary details. Buy it here!

Bago Hanging Pink Toiletry Bag

Ranking as one of the best toiletry bags for travel, the Bago hanging toiletry kit is ideal for those wanting a large carrying capacity for a full range of beauty essentials that’s still slim and packable.

This toiletry bag features nearly endless pockets and compartments so you can organize every product. Along with two mesh pockets, there are two side pockets for easy access, as well as multiple compartments within the bag to store smaller items.

Made with a durable and lightweight Rip-Stop Honeycomb waterproof fabric, this bag will last you year after year of traveling. We love the pink color, making it easy to spot among your travel partners and fun to unpack when you unzip your luggage! Buy it here!

We think hanging toiletry bags are the best!  Find out why !

eBags Toiletry Kit in Aquamarine: eBags

The eBags Pack-it Flat is the best toiletry bag for the “over packers” (we’re all guilty of it, me especially!). The flat toiletry kit is slim and takes up no more room than a pair of jeans.

As one of our readers’ favorite toiletry bags, it contains four compartments to keep your essential beauty products organized and in place, saving you the chore of uprooting everything just to find your toothbrush. The bag has the option to expand, giving you an inch of extra storage space, too! Buy it here!

Our readers love this bag so much we put together their top eBags Pack-it Flat Toiletry Bag reviews!

Freegrace Large Toiletry Bag

Freegrace Hanging Toiletry Bag

The Freegrace hanging toiletry bag features large storage capabilities in a compact, lightweight body. This is the best toiletry bag for the organized traveler, as this bag contains three compartments and 10 pockets so you can find what you’re looking for with ease.

This toiletry bag is large enough for extended traveling but it retains its shape when you pack it full so it’s easy to pack in your luggage. Perfect for on-the-go traveling, you can use the hook to hang it and easily access all your beauty essentials.

Best of all, it’s made of the most durable waterproof nylon fabric and stitched to be sturdy and dependable so it’ll keep up with you no matter where you travel. Buy it here!

Learn more with this guide on how to create the perfect travel capsule wardrobe!

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag in Pacific Blue

After the TFG Readers’ rave reviews, I finally bought this toiletry bag and love it! Similar to the Muji (mentioned below), it’s lightweight, hangs, and is a nice size for short to medium-length vacations.

This bag is perfect for on-the-go beauty, ideal for travel size containers. It can easily be hung up, giving easy access to its many pockets and compartments. When it’s time to leave, it conveniently zips back up into a travel case, slotting perfectly into your luggage.

A random bonus is that this bag includes a travel mirror – a small feature but so well done! I traveled without a mirror for so many years and I can actually see my entire face with this one. Bonus! Buy it here!

Buruis Navy Hanging Toiletry Bag

The Buruis travel bag is the best toiletry bag for packing small, travel-sized items thanks to its multiple compartments and side pockets. The bag features multiple compartments in various sizes that fit everything from toothbrushes to toothpaste tubes.

The main compartment is large enough for full-size products, making it versatile enough for short or long-term travel. The built-in heavy duty hanging hook makes it easy to hang and access on a door or rod, while the carrying handle is convenient to carry.

Thanks to its shape, you can pack this fairly flat if you don’t pack too many products, so you can easily use it for carryon travel! Buy it here!

Lavievert Purple Travel Kit

The Lavievert Portable Travel Kit Organizer is the best toiletry bag for the overpacker who wants to easily access all their essentials. The main compartment is large enough to store a towel, while you can tuck away your skincare products in the mesh slip pockets.

The outside of the bag features four side-zip storage pockets for quick access to the necessities you frequently reach for. Plus, there’s a see-through mesh pocket, a transparent pocket, and multiple elastic loops so you’ll never lose a single product.

As this isn’t a flat toiletry bag, this isn’t the most compact option for carryon travel, making it more ideal for a checked bag when you’re traveling for a longer time period. Buy it here!

Travelon Toiletry Kit in Steel Blue

Travelon Flat Out Toiletry Bag

Another flat design, the Travelon Flat Out Toiletry Kit is the perfect convertible design, making it one of the best toiletry bags for travel. It can be opened out flat for packing in your suitcase (taking up minimal precious space) or zippered into a compact case with a convenient strap handle.

The polyester case features four clear zippered compartments in a variety of different shapes and sizes that give you a viewing of all your organized beauty products, allowing you to easily see where everything is and minimizing rummaging. There’s also a front pocket zip for smaller items and elastic loops to hold cosmetic brushes and slim items. Buy it here!

D&D Wanderlust Blue Toiletry Bag & Organizer

The D&D hanging toiletry bag and organizer is one of the best toiletry bags for families, long trips, or for those who don’t like to be too far from all their favorite beauty products.

This toiletry organizer features a large main compartment that can hold full-size bottles and has several pockets for smaller items so you can keep everything organized. The large hanging swivel hook keeps your bottles upright to prevent spills and make all of your essentials easily accessible.

The bag also includes a detachable, TSA-approved plastic zip pocket to use in your carryon if you’re checking your main bag. Buy it here!

Narwey Beige Toiletry Bag

The Narwey is one of the best toiletry bags for short-term or carryon travel, as it’s lightweight and more compact than the other toiletry bags we’ve shared.

This bag has multiple compartments, including a clear zippered pocket for items like razors or toothbrushes, along with a hook for hanging the bag for easy access to all of your essentials.

We love that this has an anti-bacterial inner lining and water-resistant fabric to protect your personal items from moisture or bacteria. The beige color is the cute design of this bag! Buy it here!

Gonex Blue Hanging Toiletry Kit

Keep your personal items neatly organized and easily accessible with this Gonex hanging toiletry kit . Unlike single-compartment bags–where it takes time to rummage around looking for what you need–this toiletry kit provides multiple storage areas, so you can find what you need fast.

The Gonex hanging toiletry kit is a great choice when packing for business trips, summer vacations, or out-of-town family holidays–or for dorm rooms or simply heading to the gym.

The slim toiletry kit offers ample space like with a large-size dopp kit, yet it folds flat, taking up about the same amount of space as a pair of jeans, which is perfect for space-saving placement in any suitcase or travel bag. Buy it here!

Tired of overpacking? Read this helpful guide on how to stop overpacking !

Best Toiletry Bags Product Comparison Chart

Here is a quick review of the best toiletry bags for travel:

Download Our Free Toiletry Checklist

Start by downloading our Ultimate Packing Guide for Toiletries. It’s FREE! You can  click here  or click the image above to open the editable file.

The list features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently. It includes all the items listed in various categories and has spaces where you can fill in your own information.

With this guide, you can:

• Write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• Note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• Organize where you’ll pack each item including suggested packing organizers like these

Read this post for a  printable packing list  that includes clothes, shoes, and more!

What do you think is the best toiletry bag? Please share in the comments!

For more tips on travel gear, please read:

• How to Choose a Suitcase
• How to Use Packing Cubes
• Top Packing Organizers
• Top 20 Recommended Luggage Brands

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66 comments.

I purchased the Bagsmart hanging bag. Took it on a car trip and it worked great. However, I’m a little confused by the two rows of of elastic loops in the middle section. What am I missing?

I love the eBag pack it flat bag. No matter how much toiletries I stuff in this bag it remains flat and fits in my suitcase.

I bought the Bagsmart hanging toiletry bag medium size and it was a lifesaver! So easy to find what I needed!

Sea to Summit is a great size and very light weight. The fabric adds minimal bulk which is a huge plus for me!

Thanks for these recommendations! Packing toiletries is still my biggest challenge.

My family got me the Bagsmart travel bag for my birthday. I don’t think they even know about this blog, haha!

Hi Alex, I absolutely love the hanging toiletry bag. I bought one for me and my husband bought one for him. We love them. We purchased the TRAVELON. Very convenient easy to use and love that it hangs in the in the bathroom great tip. I also purchased the small containers for pills and make up and that has really saved room for other things in that bag. Thank you for the tip.

I always struggle to organize my toiletries. Usually I just take them and toss them into a bag and then have to search through everything to find what I want. These sound like just the thing I need to make it both easy to pack and easy to find what I need while on vacation!

Love these suggestions. Great insight!

These are great options. I’m pretty good at packing light with clothing but the toiletries are my challenge. I’m looking forward to organizing in one of these.

Highly recommend another toiletry bag by Travelon as well as I keep my liquids in a separate clear bag.

Travelon Compact Hanging Toiletry Kit

Been known to see it at TJ Maxx for a great price. Happy hunting!

Great topic. I find my travel toiletry necessities change, depending on whether I’m doing an overnight, weekend or or two week trip overseas. It’s nice to have choices and you have some very practical ideas. As well as pretty ones.

I have 3 of these but call me Goldilocks, I’m still searching! Someone gifted me the Bagsmart and I never use it – too big for my carry on. I have been using the Bago and it works fine if I don’t put anything in the sides and re-organize once I put liquids back in. Material is stiff so it doesn’t pack down much. It has lasted many years, trips and spills so I keep using it. My teenage kids use the Norway. It’s cheap and won’t last too long but it was compact and functional for a month-long trip.

Thank you for the recommendation for the Travelon Flatout toiletry bag. I took it on a 3 week trip to the UK this past summer, and it was really nice to have a hang up option in the many small bathrooms we found in our AirBnb.

It looks like this list is now 10 years old. Are these recommendations still valid? You featured this list again today in your blog/email. Thanks for your reply!!

Hi Mary, yes they are. We update this article regularly!

I love my Lug Trolley when I’m traveling for more than 2 days. It has a place for everything ( even a full size can of mousse). For shorter trips, I use my Bagsmart cosmetic bag.

Thanks for sharing your go-to toiletry bags with us Joanne. Happy travels!

Happy 10 year anniversary! Looking to replace my 20 year old toiletry bag that finally came apart on my trip last month. Will look in to these options!

Happy 10th Anniversary! I would like a new toiletry bag and appreciate the advice on this post.

Happy 10 year Anniversary! 💖

I appreciate these tips. I have spent money on a couple of different tolietry bags, only to find that they are not very useful or are too bulky. Lately I have been using Ziploc bags for certain items and a packing cube for my hair care items.

I love how all the categories for traveling carry-on are whittled down for us, complete with reviews, user comments, and tips! I get lost in your website every time I visit… in a GREAT way I mean! One subject, link, idea etc leads to another. I find that if I stick to just shoes for instance.. I’m better off not getting too distracted until I’m satisfied that I know what I want. ha Then on to luggage, capsule packing & cubes, and not to mention all the information on FaceBook that I read. Thank you for all that you do!

The Gonex Hanging Toiletry Kit was a game changer for my recent safari. Compact, lots of pockets and my quart size bag fit right inside the largest compartment so I could just pull it out to go through security.

Thank you for this thorough info!

I read every word of this article many times. Finally I bought the Travelon Flat Out Toiletry Bag. I used it for 2 weeks in Europe and 4 weeks in Latin America this summer. I saw every bathroom imaginable. I found it well made and loved the clear pockets. I loved I could lay it flat or fold it. Best was that the hook was a clippable loop. This meant I could hang or hook it in places where a hanger-hook style would not have worked. Thanks for the advice and being as obsessed as I am!

Alex. I love my D&D Hanging toiletry bag. I watched your video on downsizing items in you toiletry bag. Very helpful. I purchased the small containers I I loved them. I even have extra room for a last minute item! Thank you!

I purchased the BAGSMART and love it. I just bought their cord organizer bag. And, this year for birthday’s I am buying that combo for my daughters. I keep them packed and ready to go and it has made traveling so much easier.

I love the hanging bags. I wish I could find a nice clear one for tsa/ carryone.

I love my Bagsmart travel bag! Thank you for recommending it.

The best ever were Galante bags. They’d bi-or triple fold; have 7 see-through zip compartments and a big enough hanger for a towel bar or even shower rod. They offered several attractive print fabrics for the outside. And they last many years. Unfortunately I haven’t been able to reach them by phone or email, so I don’t know if they’re still manufacturing. I’m happy to submit a picture if someone wants to create more!

Hi Charlotte, thank you for sharing your recommendation of Galante bags with us, that is such a shame if they have stopped manufacturing them 🙁 Happy travels!

I compared eBags pack it flat and Bagail pack it flat. I found that any bag that folds over itself adds too much bulk. I use the eBags for my toiletries and the Bagail for my cosmetics and brushes.

I like both of these bags. Lightweight, expandable, good organizational pockets and compartments. Since Bagail is quite a bit less expensive I recommend that one over eBags. I could probably get everything into one but like having cosmetics separated from my regular toiletries. I can easily carry both of them in my personal item on the plane.

Hi Marlaine, this is a really helpful comparison, thank you for sharing it with us. Happy travels! ?

I do not use a toiletry bag. I use as many 1qt ziplock bags as I need. One for makeup, one for shower stuff, one for tooth care, one for bandaids, one for hair stuff, etc. I label each with a permanent marker and they are see-through, never very full, and really easy to tuck into tiny spaces in your carry-on bag. You can pull them out at a hotel as you need them. I have never gone back to toiletry bags because they are so bulky!

Hi Shirley, thank you for taking the time to share your insight with us! 🙂

This is a great idea! I tend to fill up all the space available in any bag, so eliminating the bag all together and just using ziplocks that can fit in random places is genius! Can’t wait to try this on my next trip!

Is there a bag that has a removable TSA regulation pouch? I hate having two bags, one clear for TSA and one with everything else. I’d love to find one that has a snap in or zip in TSA pouch. Anything out there?

Hi Michelle, I am afraid that I do not have any suggestions to share with you 🙁 To get you some ideas, I have gone ahead and scheduled your question on TFG’s FB page, our readers have great recommendations to share, so keep an eye out for their replies from Sunday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ Hope this helps!

I use the Travelon Wet/Dry quart bag (which is not mentioned in this blog post but it was recommended in another article on TFG) and it has gone through TSA checkpoints several times with no issue, even though it is not removable.

Hi I have see through zip up “sandwich bag” style bags for my toiletries as, if you are going carry on these are the weightiest items and I put them into my handbag which can be taken out when getting inspected by customs as they can see through to make sure items are only 100mls each.

I’m using roadeavour’s travel toiletry kit! The best thing i had!

Hi! Thanks for the article – always good stuff here. One things perplexes me though – I find that any toiletry bag on the market, even on this list – has the “convenience” of a hook for hanging. But, pretty much most of the time I travel there is no where appropriate to hang a bag, and if there is, everything in the bag just pops out due to the weight of the items in the bag as it loses it’s shape. Quite frustrating. I have considered alternative bags, such as fishing tackle bags or electronics accessories, but I wanted to know if you can think other bags that might avoid this problem?

Hi Sarah, we also have a list of the best hanging toiletry bags: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-hanging-toiletry-bag-for-women/

She said that hanging a bag is inconvenient but you send her to a sight for hanging toiletry bags! I too find this problem. There is no place to hang one, or if there is the place is far from convenient. Also everything falls out of the open compartment. Very frustrated.

Hi, I’ve had the same problem sometimes, so have started using an old fashioned shower curtain hook as an alternate or additional way to secure the hanging bags. It does keep it from falling over too if you attach it to tha bag’d handle.

I am also used this types of bags….my bag color is in pink with phulka dot..Its look amazing…

I need something big enough to hold big bottles of shampoo conditioner and lotion any recommendations?

Hi Rhonda, I’d suggest measuring your bottles then checking the dimensions of a toiletry bag to ensure you can find one that fits your items.

so…. nice bags but what do you do with your liquids as you go through TSA? They must be separated into a quart size bag, correct?

Yes they do, read these tips for more info: https://travelfashiongirl.com/3-1-1-liquids-rule/

I now use 2 separate, small Sea to Summit bags. They are clear plastic on one side so I can see everything. They are opaque nylon on the other side. To keep a neat appearance in my hotel bathroom, I turn the bag over on the bathroom counter and have the fabric side up to hide contents. I don’t want any more clutter in a hotel room or bathroom than is already necessary. One bag is dry toiletries, the other is for liquid. When I go through TSA, I take the liquid one out for them to look at if asked. They are two different colors. This is really working for me.

Great idea!

Ditto! And it works very well!

Love my Tumi Monaco Travel Kit, it’s a hanging bag with four sections, three with transparent faces so you can see what’s in that section, and one that’s a smaller pouch that’s solid and can be zipped of and used separately. Two of the pouches are a single space, one pouch has dividers, they all zip close. I’ve had product seep and it hasn’t made it beyond the pouch it’s stored in. Spills clean up easily.

Oh great suggestion Lisa! Glad you’ve found something that works so well for you! Happy travels!

I love my Rick Steves toiletry bag. It is similar to the ebags flat bag, but it was a separate hanging bag that holds 3 travel size toiletry items (shampoo, conditioner, face wash, in my case), and has two loops (razor and pumice stick). I can hang that in the shower for shower use even when there aren’t any shelves there.

My husband has the same bag (in black instead of my yellow) and he also loves it.

He has great products!

About your recommendation… I Really like and I would choice the “Rei Grande Shower Kit”, I hope this is practical an easy to packing in a Bagpack Foirpoint 55 L

Nice article on a subject that doesn’t much coverage. Personally, I love my Christian Dior waterproof toiletry bag. it has lots of pockets, is perfect for my mini perfumes and cosmetics and is slim and classically beautiful. They don’t make them any more but you can find them just by Googling “christian dior waterproof toiletry bag”.

Thanks! I’ll check it out 🙂

Sea to Summit makes a super light-weight hanging toiletry kit.

thanks for your feedback!

Thanks for recommending! I’m about to purchase this one based on reviews of some of these others listed and it seems actually small enough but still has capacity.

I’ve been using my L.L. Bean toiletry bag since I was 18 and swear by it. Europe, Asia and America it has held up and was a convenient design.

Definitely a traveler’s favorite 🙂 Thanks for reading and commenting!

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• Backpacks, Totes + Small Bags

The 9 Best Mini Backpacks of 2023, Tested and Reviewed

Mini backpacks from Paravel, Dakine, Dagne Dover, and more earned top scores for durability, comfort, and style.

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at Travel + Leisure where she tests, researches, and writes about travel products. Since living overseas in 2018, Anna has been a travel writer and began reviewing products in 2021.

In This Article

Jump to a Section

• Our top picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Bigger than a crossbody bag but smaller than a typical backpack, a mini backpack is the perfect hybrid that combines practicality and style. And don’t let the word “mini” deter you from investing in this style because the capacity of some of these bags will certainly surprise you.

We don’t take luggage tests lightly here at Travel + Leisure (or any test for that matter) so we thoroughly researched and identified 21 mini backpacks to try in our New York City lab to start. Then, we continued the assessment by sending out the bags to be further evaluated in everyday settings like flights, commutes, and errand runs. Comfort, durability, design, and capacity were the biggest factors we took into consideration to compile our list of the best mini backpacks and we’re certain one of these bags below can match up with your next adventure.

Best Overall

Paravel mini fold-up backpack.

• Capacity 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5
• Comfort 5 /5

The backpack folds up into a small pouch so it can easily be tossed in a bigger bag.

There are only two pockets for organization.

This uber-portable backpack from Paravel earned its spot as the best mini backpack after scoring highly in design, comfort, and durability in both lab and real-world testing. The mini backpack has a solid capacity for its size and easily fits items like a tablet, a wallet, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and a small pair of shoes. And, best of all, when the backpack isn’t needed anymore, it folds up into a compact zippered pouch the size of a small wallet so it can be tossed into your personal item or stored at home without taking up much space.

The discreet zippered pocket on the back of this bag is ideal for a passport or cash and there is a small front pocket for keys or chapstick, too. While there could be a few more pockets for organization, most fold-up bags don’t have any at all so it’s better to have two than zero.

Made out of a super lightweight nylon material, the backpack is virtually weightless which lightens your load while packing , and the pack still feels durable against daily wear and tear. The straps are woven nylon that won’t dig into your shoulders and they can easily be adjusted to fit your back and shoulders no matter where your day takes you.

Price at time of publish: $55

The Details: 12 x 10 x 6 inches (unfolded); 4.5 x 5 x 2 inches (folded) | Recycled nylon

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Madison & dakota canvas mini backpack.

• Comfort 4 /5

The main compartment is spacious enough for a water bottle, snacks, books, and a wallet.

The fabric doesn’t have any padding so the backpack might not protect fragile items if it’s tossed around a bit.

If you’re not completely sold on a mini backpack, this bang-for-your-buck Madison & Dakota mini backpack is a great way to test the waters without spending too much. This basic bag has all the necessary components for everyday use including comfortable padded straps, a large main compartment, and a helpful front zippered pocket for smaller items. There is a solid amount of space for storing bulkier items like a water bottle or a lightweight jacket, or you can easily pack it full of smaller items like pens or snacks with plenty of room left over. The polyester material is fairly thin which means you’ll want to be careful if you’re traveling with a tablet or other fragile items, but the fabric is very lightweight. Thanks to the padded and adjustable straps, the pack is easy to toss onto your shoulders and plenty comfortable. Plus, the tote bag handles on top have a snap closure so the sack can be picked up and carried by hand, which is helpful for going through the TSA security line quickly or hoisting it into an overhead bin.

Price at time of publish: $12

The Details: 13.5 x 10 x 4 inches | Polyester

Best Anti-theft

Cheruty women's backpack purse.

The anti-theft design includes discrete pockets for tucking away valuables while traveling.

There is a slight learning curve for opening up the backpack and finding all of the pockets.

Getting your phone, wallet, or passport stolen on vacation can put a real damper on your trip so we recommend the Cheruti Anti-theft Mini Backpack for its thoughtful, anti-theft design. Unlike a typical backpack, this one has a zipper in the back of the bag to open up the main compartment so you’ll never have to check behind your shoulder to make sure the zipper is closed. Inside the bag are a variety of discrete zippered pockets for organizing items like a tablet, passport, wallet, or keys. There isn’t much padding in the back or straps but the PU vegan leather material doesn’t add much weight or feel cumbersome to carry. One unique feature is that this backpack comes with a removable tote strap so you can carry the protective, stylish bag both of those ways, or use the top handles instead.

Price at time of publish: $37

The Details: 12.6 x 12.6 x 5.9 inches | PU vegan leather | Fits 10-inch tablets

Best Sustainable

Topo designs rover pack mini backpack.

• Durability 4.5 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

The lightweight recycled nylon material and ample padding make this pack virtually effortless to wear.

The front buckle and drawstring closure make it less convenient to swing the bag around to quickly grab something out.

This rugged mini backpack from Topo Designs is a champion when it comes to comfort, durability, and sustainability. Its 100 percent recycled nylon fabric is dyed from certified dye mills without harmful chemicals and the backpack has a Fair Wear certification for production, ensuring the welfare and safety of garment factory employees. Although the backpack looks small at first glance, the 10-liter capacity can fit a range of small and large items including a tablet in the back slip pocket and lip balm or keys in the small front pocket. Since the top has a buckle and drawstring closure, it’s not as convenient to grab something out of your pack but the double closure does provide peace of mind that your items are tucked away safely while traveling. With adjustable straps for a customized fit and a fully padded back panel, the backpack provides hassle-free comfort whether you’re trekking through the woods or the concrete jungle.

Price at time of publish: $79

The Details: 13.5 x 8.5 x 3.75 inches | Recycled nylon | 10 liters | Tablet sleeve

Best Classic

Dakine mini backpack.

The larger capacity and traditional design resemble a regular-sized backpack.

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded or zippered.

The 12-liter Dakine Mini Backpack offers a generous capacity for a mini backpack, as it’s able to fit laptops up to 14 inches long. Resembling the style of a typical school backpack, the timeless design makes this bag versatile for running errands or going into the office. The 600-denier recycled polyester material is impressively lightweight without feeling flimsy, and this water-resistant fabric boasts excellent durability designed for long-term use. To keep the contents of the pack safe, the bottom panel is padded for extra protection (especially if you do pack electronics).

While the slip pocket in the back for a laptop or tablet isn’t padded or zippered, all of the contents remained secure despite the backpack being dropped off a counter during lab testing. There isn’t much padding around the backpack but the material is soft enough that the adjustable straps and back panel don’t cause any discomfort while wearing it for long periods of time.

Price at time of publish: $35

The Details: 15 x 11 x 7 inches | Polyester | 12 liters | 14-inch laptop sleeve

Best for Hiking

The north face borealis mini backpack.

The back panel and straps have an impressive amount of padding for extra comfort while trekking.

The side pocket is slightly awkward since it isn’t quite big enough for a water bottle.

If the outdoors are calling, you’ll want to be prepared with all of your hiking essentials in North Face’s comfortable and lightweight Borealis mini backpack. Whether you’re packing items like a beanie, neck gaiter, or even a lightweight layer, the front compression straps help keep items packed tightly so they won’t shuffle around while on the trail. Although the side pocket is a bit too small to fit a water bottle, there is plenty of space in the main compartment for a bottle and you can easily use the side pocket for a phone or other small items you want to quickly access.

The best part of this athletic-style backpack is the thick and breathable padding on the back panel and adjustable straps as that adds impressive comfortability for wearing the pack for long periods of time. And, if you want to use this bag for non-outdoor related activities, there are a variety of interior pockets for tech like a tablet sleeve and slot for phone chargers.

Price at time of publish: $59

The Details: 13.5 x 8.6 x 4.15 inches | Recycled polyester | 10 liters

Best for Commuters

Bellroy classic backpack compact.

• Design 4.5 /5

This style has a variety of useful pockets for a laptop, tablet, phone, notebook, and more.

It can be a little tricky to open up the main compartment because the zipper is hidden under a hooded cover.

Heading into the office? Bellroy’s mini backpack has all the organization you need without the hassle of lugging a bulky bag around. Designed with ample storage for technology, the laptop sleeve is ideal for a computer 13 inches or smaller and there is a super convenient top pocket for a phone, too. For tablets or eReaders, there is a small slip pocket on the front of the laptop sleeve so you can pack this bag up with everything you need for work or school.

When you’re packing up tech, you’ll likely need a spot for chargers or other accessories, so we love the spacious mesh pocket for storing smaller items since you can easily see the items tucked away in that spot. While the main zipper can be a little tricky to locate because of the edged fabric that hides the zipper, it gets easier to locate the more the bag is used. Come rain or shine, this comfortable, padded backpack is made with durable, water-resistant recycled fabric so you won’t have to worry about the pack getting damaged whether you commute via bike, train, car, or on foot.

Price at time of publish: $139

The Details: 15.7 x 10.2 x 7 inches | 16 liters | 13-inch laptop sleeve

Best Splurge

Dagne dover dakota backpack.

Saks Fifth Avenue

The neoprene material is lightweight, water-resistant, and feels super premium.

Dust and dirt cling onto the material easily but it does come with a drawstring bag for storage.

The sporty Dagne Dover Small Dakota Backpack is made with a sleek, plush neoprene material that feels ultra high-end. From the gym to a restaurant, this versatile mini backpack has an impressive enough capacity for a small grocery haul, a lightweight jacket, or large 32-ounce water bottle. When it comes to comfort, this backpack truly shines thanks to its thick neoprene that adds extra cushioning in the back panel and straps so, no matter how heavy a load is, the bag won’t dig into your shoulders. Plus, the wide-tooth zipper glides like a champ even when the backpack is filled to the brim.

The pockets proved to be perfect for storing a variety of items, especially the discrete front panel pocket and slip pocket for a tablet. The key leash in the main compartment makes it easy to locate your keys without having to dig around and, when you get home from running errands, the backpack comes with a storage bag to prevent dust or dirt from clinging onto the backpack.

Price at time of publish: $155 for small

The Details: 13 x 9.5 x 5 inches | Neoprene | 8 liters

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Organization

Aotian mini nylon women backpack.

There are just the right amount of pockets to stay naturally organized without it feeling too intricate.

This is one of the smallest mini backpacks we tested.

It’s not always easy to stay organized on the go but thanks to the plethora of pockets built into the Aotian Mini Nylon Backpack, it’s easier than ever to find a spot for everything. There are three different-sized compartments for storing a variety of everyday essentials. Working back to front, the largest compartment can hold bigger items (like a tablet up to 10 inches long) in a handy slip pocket and the middle compartment is best for medium-sized items like a wallet, deodorant, or charger. Although the front pocket is the smallest, it’s ideal for miniature items including lip balm or a roll-on perfume stick. The straps are made out of sturdy nylon fabric and they can quickly be adjusted while you head out the door. This was one of the smallest backpacks we tried but it still packs a punch with a generous capacity and a durable nylon exterior and a polyester lining that showed no signs of damage after a lab test and real-world testing.

Price at time of publish: $27

The Details: 12 x 9.4 x 4 inches | Polyester, nylon | 10-inch tablet sleeve

Other Mini Backpacks We Liked

Of the 21 mini backpacks we tested, the ones below almost made our list but they ultimately fell short during testing due to slight issues with comfort, durability, and capacity.

Itzy Ritzy Mini Diaper Bag : This spacious bag has stylish gold hardware and it’s functional for being out of the house with kids thanks to the removable changing pad. However, the straps aren’t very comfortable due to a lack of padding and metal buckles that rest awkwardly on the chest when adjusted.

Gymshark Mini Backpack : The faux leather and polyester backpack has a sleek look (and a spacious capacity for sweatshirts and cameras) but, when the backpack is packed full, it looks lumpy and flimsy. Plus, the back panel and straps have no padding so the comfortability score was on the lower end.

Adidas Linear Mini Backpack : This sporty bag is very lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it the perfect pack for the gym but the other athletic and outdoorsy bags we tested had a few more pockets for organization. 

Carhartt Mini Backpack : Spacious and super durable, this canvas Carhartt mini pack certainly lives up to the brand’s reputation for durability and ruggedness. However, the straps are made out of nylon without any padding so they weren’t the most comfortable, and we wish there were a few more pockets for storage. 

T+L researched and identified 21 mini backpacks in a variety of shapes and sizes (all miniature, of course) and began by testing each pack in our New York City lab. Then, we sent the backpacks out into the world for further evaluation in everyday settings like running errands, commuting, and traveling via airplane, train, or car.

In the lab, we examined the design of each pack by looking at every pocket, zipper, and buckle to get a feel for the materials. Then, we loaded up the bags with essentials like wallets, lip balms, keys, small water bottles, extra shirts, and hand sanitizer to judge the capacity. At the end of lab testing, we tossed the packs off of a counter to see how durable they were, and if the contents packed inside remained safe while being tossed around.

While lab testing was helpful to take a magnifying glass to each pack, we continued using the mini backpacks in day-to-day life to get the most well-rounded testing notes. We used the bags for gym visits, grocery store trips, flights, and more to continue judging the comfort, durability, design, and capacity. After all of the testing was complete, the backpacks noted as having generous padding for comfort, spacious interiors that are intuitive to pack, and durable materials that will stand the test of time earned the highest average scores overall.

Tips for Buying a Mini Backpack

Look for pockets for organization.

One of the best things about a mini backpack is that it should provide a bit more space and storage solutions than a purse. To stay naturally organized while out and about, look for a bag with multiple compartments, interior pockets, and exterior pockets, too. If you like to travel with a tablet or laptop, search for a small backpack with a sleeve that will fit the dimensions of your device.

Padding equals more comfort

Mini backpacks are generally lighter in weight due to their smaller size (which helps when wearing the bag for long periods of time), but the best way to prioritize comfort is by investing in a pack with lots of padding. The back panel and straps should have cushioned or thick fabric to prevent digging in and other discomfort. In addition, more padding can also protect the contents of your bag from being damaged in case of falls or rough handling.

The typical size of a regular backpack is about 20 to 25 liters so anything less than 20 liters is on the smaller side. In general, a mini backpack will have a capacity of 8 to 16 liters with most sitting at around 12 liters. The typical dimensions of a mini backpack will be near 12 x 10 x 5 inches, give or take a few inches.

Mini backpacks might surprise you with the amount they can hold. While it ultimately depends on the capacity and dimensions of your specific backpack, you should have no issues fitting essentials like a wallet, lip balm, earbuds, a phone charger, and keys. Other larger items you may be able to fit include a tablet, small laptop, lightweight jacket, and a water bottle.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Anna Popp is a Commerce Writer at T+L where she writes nearly all of the team’s tested articles whether products were evaluated in the lab or a real-world setting. Anna participates in every travel test and, for this one, she tested the Dagne Dover Small Dakota Backpack by using it to do light grocery shopping — and discovered the bag can fit an entire loaf of bread with minimal squishing.

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Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags (Updated for 2023)

Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags – It can be very frustrating for travelers to keep all their personal items organized. There is nothing worse than digging through a disorganized bag or pouch looking for a certain item and not finding what you are looking for. Even searching for your toothbrush in a messy bag can be difficult.

Or, you may find things like leaky shampoo bottles and soaps. Cleaning this up can be a nightmare!

Also, if you are staying in a hotel where counter space is an issue, you may not even have a place to put your travel bag.

Want to skip the article – Here is my favorite one , hands down.

This is where a proper hanging toiletry bag will come in handy. Here are my top 5 recommended hanging toiletry bags.

Hang any of these bags wherever possible and you will have no problem keeping everything organized and finding what you need in a flash!

Table of Contents

In a Hurry? What We Recommend

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Our Pick – Hanging Toiletry Bag By Freegrace – Most Versatile

• 11.02’’ x 5.52’’ x 10.24’’ — 150% the size of a normal toiletry bag
• Several interior compartments for extra storage
• Manufactured with a sleek nylon material and cushioned with pearl cotton
• Available in four different colors
• Lightweight (shipping weight: 1.369 pounds) | Size: 11 x 5.9 x 9.85

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

The Freegrace Hanging Toiletry Bag keeps your personal items neatly organized and easily accessible. It is made of a premium nylon material, built with a durable metal hook, as well as a pearl cotton cushion.

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Unlike single-compartment bags, where it takes time to rummage around looking for what you need, the Freegrace toiletry bag provides multiple storage compartments, so you can find what you want fast and easy.

This toiletry kit is the perfect choice when packing for long-term travel , business trips, summer vacations, out-of-town family holidays, or even for dorm rooms.

It features three separate compartments and a strong hanging hook to make organizing your accessories, cosmetics, and travel essentials easier than ever before! You’ll have a lot of room for your belongings.

The bag folds flat, taking up about the same amount of space as a pair of jeans, perfect for space-saving placement in any suitcase or travel bag.

What We Like

• 150% the size of your typical toiletry bag
• Affordable and high quality
• Lots of storage space

What We Don’t

• Not much we don’t like about this one

Vetelli Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men – Best Bag for Men

• 4 spacious inside pockets
• Sleek high-quality leather
• Easy to use with stainless steel zippers and buckles
• Weight: 1.24 pounds
• Size: 12 x 8 x 2 inches

The Vetelli Hanging Toiletry Bag for Men is multi-functional and it makes the perfect travel accessory.

Use it as a toiletry wash bag, a travel bag, a shaving kit bag, and much more. 

The stainless steel zips and buckles secure your belongings. This high-quality durable toiletry travel kit is big enough to store all your essential items. It’s made of cruelty-free water-resistant leather, which is easy to maintain.

The unfolded dimensions are 20.9″ x 12″ (53cm x 30.5cm). When closed, this bag measures 8″ x 12″ (20.5cm x 30.5cm). It’s big enough to store all your essential items and will hold up to the wear and tear of traveling.

• Love the look of this one
• 4 large inside pockets
• Sleek high-quality leather that’s easy to clean
• Lightweight
• Relatively expensive

D&D Hanging Toiletry Bag – Most Spacious

• Built with waterproof nylon
• Six zippered pockets and three interior compartments
• 2 side compartments for small items
• Easy to use on the go
• Available in six colors/styles
• Weight: 1 pound | Size: 11.4 x 11.4 x 1.6 inches

The D&D Hanging Toiletry Bag is an incredibly versatile bag. It features a metal swivel hook that turns 360º, which gives you complete flexibility to hang your bag anywhere. It also includes high-quality YKK Zippers, which are the best in their class.

Also, this toiletry bag is incredibly lightweight at only 10.6 oz. It’s suitable for ultralight backpackers and other travelers who want to keep their luggage weight at a minimum.

The main compartment is perfect for larger items and has a mesh inner structure that will keep everything upright and securely in place. The transparent inner pouch is the ideal storage space for cosmetic items, makeup, shaving gear, medicine, and jewelry. 

At 10″H x 10″W x 4″ D, this bag is large enough to even fit full-sized bottles.

• Manufactured with waterproof nylon, ideal for outdoor use
• Spacious with three interior compartments and two side zipper pockets
• Lightweight at just 1 pound
• Comes with a metal swivel hook so you can hang it on your bathroom door
• Ideal for small items
• Zipper pockets are not as deep as some bags

BOACAY Premium Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag – Best Bag for Women

• Durable metal zippers
• Available in 4 colors
• 5-year warranty
• Double-sewn handles for added durability
• Two side pockets
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 4.7 x 10 inches | Weight: 11.2 ounces

The BOACAY Premium Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag is carefully made with durable materials, including metal zippers and double-sewn handles to make the bag extra sturdy. It’s a sleek bag for men and women, available in six different colors.

This bag features a spacious interior compartment with two side pockets. It makes for a cute and affordable gift option for anyone you know who loves to travel.

• Two spacious side pockets
• TSA approved
• Only ideal for short trips

How to Use a Hanging Toiletry Bag on The Road or at Home!

Pro Packing Cubes Travel Toiletry Bag – Most Compact

• Available in 5 different colors
• Water resistant
• Ultra lightweight
• Compact, easy to store
• Weight: 7 ounces | Size: 9″ height x 16″ length x 3.5″ depth

The Pro Packing Cubes Travel Toiletry Bag has four separate compartments to keep your shaving essentials, personal hygiene products, and makeup perfectly organized. It is highly durable, constructed from ultra light-weight, water-resistant ripstop nylon fabric with high-quality YKK zippers and manufactured with double-reinforced stitching.

The versatile design means this toiletry bag can also be used as a packing cube. Think of a swimming bag, workout bag, diaper bag or an overnight bag for any light traveler.

• Incredibly lightweight
• Compact – can lay flat and fold to just a 3.5” tall
• Water-resistant
• Includes a waterproof pocket

What we don’t

• Not very deep – difficult to store larger items

What Should You Look For In A Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag?

There are three main characteristics that you should look for:

Organizational Features

You want to make sure you can keep your personal items neatly organized and easily accessible. Most single-sized compartment bags will take too much time to rummage around looking for what you need. So, look for multiple storage compartments so you can find what you want fast and easy.

Related: What Size Luggage Can Hold 50 LBS

Type Of Material

Most often, you won’t have to worry about your toiletry bag being waterproof. They usually are. Look for one that is also made out of tear-proof material. This will make it more durable and able to handle any abuse they endure during travel. Normally, the good-quality bags will have extra padding and lining to help protect against leaks. An antibacterial lining is great to help protect against bacteria which can form due to moisture.

Design Features

Most toiletry bags will have a hook or straps for you to hang them properly. Make sure these are strong and will be able to hold the weight of the items you put in it. I find the hook design to be the best choice. They are very easy to use and reliable. I have never had an issue with any hook design toiletry bag. If the bag is compact with many different-sized compartments, you will find it much easier to keep organized and take with you on your travels.

As you can see, there are many options for choosing a hanging toiletry bag. You have a great selection of colors, sizes, materials, and price to choose from. For the most part, they are inexpensive and will save you money in the end by protecting your toiletries. You really can’t go wrong with any of the items mentioned. Choose the one that suits you the best, it’s one of those purchases I’m so glad I made years ago!

Some Additional Questions

What size is a tsa-approved toiletry bag.

In your carry-on bag, there is no restriction on the size of your toiletry bag. However, when it comes to the liquid contents in your toiletry bag, the TSA says you may take one clear plastic quart-sized bag containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. Each item cannot exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in volume.

Note – I always travel with a gallon size Ziploc bag instead of the quart sized ones and have never had an issue getting through TSA. These are the ones I use.

Can I put full-size shampoo in checked luggage?

3.4 ounces maximum is the maximum size of the container for liquids, gels, aerosols, and all containers must fit into a 1-quart plastic bag. Bags checked do not have those limits, so you can pack full-size containers of shampoos, lotions, toothpastes, and other restricted items.

What’s the difference between a Dopp kit and a toiletry bag?

Dopp kits are toiletry bags. But you probably already knew this, right? These small travel bags are used to store bathroom items by men and women. All your toothbrushes, shaving creams, moisturizers, etc., go in this bag to help you stay organized.

Does makeup need to be in a clear bag TSA?

You are permitted to carry on or check bags with solid or powder makeup, regardless of the amount or size and they don’t need to be in a clear bag. The only requirements for liquid makeup packed in carry-on bags are that it must be in a clear bag and that lotions, gels, pastes, or creamy forms must be in containers smaller than, or equal to 3.4 ounces (100 ml).

So, Best Hanging Travel Toiletry Bags

Hopefully you have found the right toiletry bag for you from this list! We looked at some of the highest quality toiletry bags on the market that are affordable, spacious, and durable.

Thanks for reading!

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The 10 Best Shower Caddies for College Students, Hands Down

Ranging from portable totes to rust-proof hanging caddies.

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Whether you’re embarking on your freshman year, heading back to the dorms with a smarter plan , or *finally* making the switch to an off-campus apartment, there’s one thing you’re going to need : a really good shower caddy. That said, it’s all about looking for the right size and materials (so it can hold a 32-ounce shampoo bottle without falling/giving you a heart attack in the middle of the night). Below, find expert advice on how to choose the right one, plus 10 of the best shower caddies for every type of bathroom situation—from oversized, portable options that can hold every toiletry imaginable to corner caddies that’ll make your new apartment feel like a slice of home.

The Best Shower Caddies At a Glance

• Best Overall : Funambulist Portable Shower Caddy
• Best Budget : Attmu Mesh Shower Caddies
• Best Hanging: Smartake Hanging Shower Caddy
• Best Portable: Reger Shower Caddy Bag
• Best Free-Standing: Rebrilliant Eisenman Shower Caddy
• Best Corner: Allzone Rustproof Shower Caddy
• Best Adjustable: Simplehuman Adjustable Shower Caddy
• Best Wooden: Umbra Barrel Shower Caddy
• Best Plastic: iDesign Shower Caddy
• Best Mesh: Pbteen Recycled Shower Caddy

Meet The Expert

Steve Gehrmann is a remodeling contractor and partner in Redblock Industries, a shower fixture manufacturer based out of Bellingham, WA.

What Are the Best Materials for A Shower Caddy?

If the caddy will stay in the shower most of the time, opt for chrome-coated aluminum or stainless steel designs. “The more economical metal shower caddies are made of powder-coated or plastic-coated [metal], so they can rust if the coating chips or cracks. The more expensive, rust-proof shower caddies are made of corrosion-resistant metals such as aluminum and stainless steel ,” Gehrmann explains. “The aluminum ones are often coated with chrome, [so] they do not chip as easily. Stainless steel caddies are the highest quality because they have no coating to chip or crack.”

As for portable caddies, however, you want to focus on two keywords: lightweight and quick-drying. Keep an eye out for materials like mold-resistant plastic, quick-drying nylon or easily drainable mesh that are built to be waterproof and ultra-durable (bonus points if it’s machine-washable, too).

If you prefer the look of a wood caddy, search for ones made of “bamboo and teak, which are very strong yet mold and mildew resistant.” And finally, per Gehrmann, “Hanging (corner) caddies are mostly rigid plastic and wire containers made to hold small items like bar soap or razors. They have temporary suction cup attachments for the shower glass, so they can be easily relocated (but I don’t use this type of caddy myself, preferring to go with the more secure options mentioned above).”

What Is the Best Size For A Shower Caddy?

Naturally, the size of your caddy all boils down to how much space you have, plus whether you need it to be portable (here’s to you, communal bathers). Yet, if you’re looking to make sure everything will fit, Gehrmann has a breakdown: “The height of most shampoo bottles is between 7½ to 9½ inches. Larger pump bottles can be between 9½ and 10½ inches, so you’ll need a (caddy height of) at least 12 to 13 inches for good access.”

If you’re looking for something lightweight and portable to tote to a communal shower area, you want to make sure there are plenty of exterior pockets to separate your razors, toothbrush, combs, etc. from the shower essentials.

How We Chose the Best Shower Caddies

Thanks to Gehrmann’s insight, we vetted each caddie to make sure it was constructed with the following:

• Materials: stainless steel, aluminum, plastic, mesh, quick-drying fabric (like nylon or oxford cloth) or bamboo
• Size: at least 9 inches tall (to fit most full-sized bottles)
• Compartments: includes extra storage or hanging compartments for razors, brushes, loofahs, etc.

The Ultimate College Checklist with Every Essential Needed

Best Overall

1. funambulist portable shower caddy.

• What We Like: ‎portable, separate wet and dry design, foldable, waterproof phone pocket design, extra large capacity
• What We Don't Like: not as quick-drying as metal or plastic
• Material : ‎ waterproof Oxford cloth
• Size: ‎7" D x 11" W x 14.5" H

Freshmen, listen up: This caddy is going to be your savior for communal living. First and foremost, it can hold six full-size shampoos and body washes in its 11-inch main compartment, it has two zippered mesh side pockets for your smaller items and a bottom layer (which will stay dry, thanks to its plastic barrier) that can house your clothes and towels.

Add to that, the fact that it features a hook that attaches to the showerhead—and the entire exterior of the caddy is constructed from ultra-durable, ultra-waterproof Oxford fabric. But of course, the coolest (most Gen Z) feature of this one has to be its waterproof front pocket for your phone; it’s thick enough to prevent water from creeping in, yet thin enough to let you swipe up the home screen, listen to music or answer texts while you lather up.

“OH MY GOD! This has been all that I was looking for,” one reviewer raves. “I wanted a bag that would hold EVERYTHING: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, facewash, hairbrushes, facial tools, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc. It holds all of that plus more…AND THE BEST PART?! It has a clear storage portion on the bottom. I was able to fit shirts, leggings, socks, underwear and a bra in there! It has a hook on the inside top portion so you can hang it wherever you want, and it comes with a buckle to keep it from sagging when you have it open.”

Best Budget

2. attmu mesh shower caddies.

• What We Like: includes two caddies for less than $15, portable, ample exterior pockets, waterproof nylon, multiple colors and patterns, handle for easy hanging, machine-washable
• What We Don't Like: taller bottles may peak over the top
• Material : nylon
• Size: 9.8” H x 8.67” W x 8.67” D

Looking for the best bang for your buck? This set of two quick-drying caddies is the answer. It has everything you need, including eight outer compartments, one large center compartment and sturdy reinforced handles that won’t rip or tear. The 9-inch height also ensures that your full-size bottles won’t topple over—and thanks to its machine-washable design, you’ll never have to worry about mold or mildew (just pop one in the wash and use the spare while it’s drying).

“I was easily able to fit my body wash, shampoo, conditioner, face wash, makeup remover toilettes, razor, toothbrush and toothpaste—and a variety of other lotions and potions that are part of my routine. Even with the weight of all these items, the caddy was able to hold it all. The mesh fabric is very quick drying, (which is better) than something that's plastic that can have grooves and holes that hold the water/don't dry. The mesh fabric is also a great weight, and while it feels very sturdy, isn't something that adds a ton of heaviness. It cleans easily, and because it dries quickly, I haven't noticed any issues with mold or mildew,” one reviewer writes.

Best Hanging

3. smartake hanging shower caddy.

• What We Like: rust-resistant, ultra-grippy to the showerhead, good for roommates, multiple heights, hanging slots for razors and loofahs
• What We Don't Like: a third shelf would be great for larger households
• Material : stainless steel
• Size: 4.7" D x 12.6" W x 28.2" H

Here, a caddy that this editor’s had in her bathroom for over a year. Let me just start by saying, this thing is great if you have roommates. Not only does it have two spacious shelves that can fit 5+ bottles (on each shelf) at a time, but there are also different heights on the bottom shelf for smaller items, like combs or loofahs. I also love how there are individualized hanging slots at the bottom that allow you to hang multiple razors.

What’s more, after a year of daily showers, this thing is still 100 percent rust-free. The steel is just as shiny as the day I got it and it’s shown almost zero signs of wear. The cherry on top? The caddy adheres to the top of the showerhead and stays in place—no matter how much weight you put on it. It has a super-tight gripper at the top of the hanger that locks onto the shower head, preventing it from crashing down with a pump of a bottle. And it can hold up to 40 pounds at a time, so each roommate can fill the shelves to the brim with bottles galore.

Best Portable

4. reger shower caddy bag.

• What We Like: lightweight and breathable, under $20, prevents moisture from creeping in, multiple storage compartments, hanging hook for showerhead
• What We Don't Like: could use some more mesh that allows for drainage
• Size: 5.7" D x 8.7" W x 11" H

Headed home for Thanksgiving (or looking for a more budget-friendly option to number one on this list )? This travel-friendly pick features a collapsible, water-resistant nylon construction with an inside hook that allows you to hang it from shower stalls and bathroom doors alike. It also offers tons of storage, including an oversized front compartment, two side pockets and zippered inner and outer pockets that can house all your smaller cosmetics. Not to mention that the 11-inch height ensures your full-sized bottles will fit when the top zipper is closed.

One self-appointed clean freak reports: “Breathable for when I return [home]. Nothing is moist—the inside stays dry and cool. You don't get that mist/condensation like you do with other travel bags. I like that everything fits and is easy to find. The compartments are placed well for easy access… As a neat freak. I'm very sensitive about keeping things fresh and clean (and this one does the trick).”

Best Free-Standing

5. rebrilliant eisenman shower caddy.

• What We Like: corner design is great for smaller showers, anti-rust, sturdy and won’t topple over, shelves have a basketweave design, bronze finish
• What We Don't Like: no extra storage options
• Size: 26'' H X 11.5'' W X 7.5'' D

Made from durable, anti-rust stainless steel—this free-standing shower caddy is begging for a spot in your off-campus apartment. It features a three-tiered corner design with 26 inches of storage height—and the 7½-inch depth makes it great for smaller spaces. The wire shelves are also a draw, where they have a basketweave construction that allows you to hang razors or lay them flat without falling through. The real kicker, however, is the bronze finish that can make your bathroom feel more ~adult~ (without it rusting by the time finals roll around).

One reviewer writes, “This item is sturdy with plenty of room for everything, even larger bottles of shampoo and conditioner, not to mention my [housemate’s] items. Fits perfectly in the space I have and puts all items easily within my reach. No more bottles taking up space on the shower floor! I love it!” Plus, another person adds: “Caddy is stable and rust-free in my shower. Holds everything I need it to and does not fall over.”

Best Corner

6. allzone rustproof shower caddy.

• What We Like: wide and adjustable shelves, tension rod can accommodate multiple ceiling heights, easy to clean, great for smaller showers, multiple storage options, towel rack at the bottom
• What We Don't Like: expensive
• Material : stainless steel and powder-coated plastic
• Size: 9.44" D x 12.99" W x 114" H

Speaking of convenient corner caddies; this rust-proof option is another life-saver for crammed bathrooms with multiple roommates. It features four metal tiers, which can each hold up to 62 ounces and adjustable shelves that slide up and down a reinforced steel pole. Plus, each shelf features a safety bar that prevents products from sliding off and the bottom features a towel bar, razor holder and hooks (making a great spot to hang your dry brush and your roommate’s washcloth).

One reviewer says, “The shelves are made of smooth plastic with drain holes; previous models I have owned had ribbed bottoms on the shelf bottoms, and over time they were gross and difficult to clean,” one reviewer shares. “The shelves are HUGE—each can hold three liter-sized shampoo/conditioner bottles, plus a normal-sized (actually even a little wider that normal) bottle. They’re not kidding that these hold a ton of bottles.”

Another reviewer confirms that this style is well made and sturdy, adding that the “corner shape of the shelves works really well in my small shower and [is] easy to adjust so I can make room for my elbows when I wash my hair.”

Best Adjustable

7. simplehuman adjustable shower caddy.

• What We Like: rust-proof and built to last, adjustable shelves, ample storage, screws to showerhead and suctions to walls, easy to reposition shelves with a dial for taller bottles
• Material : stainless steel and anodized aluminum
• Size: ‎5.9" D x 14.5" W x 27.6" H

Sure, this guy is pricey. But when you take a look at its 4.6-star rating with more than 4,400 reviews, you might find that it’s worth the spend. What makes this caddy different is its solid, stainless steel and anodized aluminum construction, which gives it more of a built-in fixture feel (and will definitely fancify your shower). The shelves also slide up, down and sideways to make room for taller bottles and you can easily reposition them with a quick turn of the dial. Plus, it helps keep smaller items from falling over with dividers that keep everything in place—and it even includes storage hooks on the side that can hold razors, loofahs and accessories galore. Oh, and did we mention that it screws around the shower head and suctions to the wall for extra stability?

“I have a small but tall shower, so to have everything hung out of the way is so helpful. It was quick and easy to install, and I love the double stability of both screwing it around the shower head and suctioning it to the wall. The adjustable shelves make it easy to fit everything ,and the soap dish and hook for razors/loofahs/shower caps are also helpful,” one person writes.

Another reviewer also raves: “I have owned and used this shower caddy (granted a slightly older version) for the past 12 years. I haven't had any issues. Haven't needed to replace it. Still works just as well as day one (with zero rusting).”

Best Wooden

8. umbra barrel shower caddy.

• What We Like: stylish and modern, sturdy metal bars, hooks for hanging, can be mounted over the bathroom door for extra storage,
• What We Don't Like: bamboo is prone to mildew in low-ventilated areas
• Material : bamboo
• Size: 13.25” L x 4.5” W x 25.25” H

Yet another caddy you can hang from your showerhead to create ample storage? This modern bamboo number. Not only do we love it for its sturdy metal bars and functional features—including ledges for razors and hooks for other hanging items—but the caddy also features a 2-in-1 design that allows for it to be mounted over the bathroom door (in case you need some extra bathroom storage).

One person raves, “This shower caddy had so many more features than I anticipated. It comes with two hanging options: one for a glass door and the other for over the shower head. I used the shower head option and I liked that it has a rubber piece to protect the shower head from the metal hanger. Other notable appreciated features were hangers for bath poufs and razors. Also, the option to have items upside down for easy dispensing is amazing.”

Best Plastic

9. idesign shower caddy.

• What We Like: nine storage compartments, tall handles, durable plastic keeps it mildew- and mold-free, sturdy and easy to carry, multiple color options
• What We Don't Like: handles have sharp edges
• Material : plastic
• Size: 11.75" D x 6" W x 12" H

With a 4.4 out of 5-star rating and over 3,800 reviews, we’re calling this caddy a must-have for dorm living in 2022. It features two sturdy handles and nine storage compartments to store everything you need—from razors and soap bars to shampoo and conditioner. The real selling point, however, is the durable plastic design, which ensures that your products will stay mold- and mildew-free, all semester long.

Take it from one parent, who bought this for her daughter’s freshman year: “[My daughter] uses this shower tote to carry her essentials for a.m. and p.m. trips to the bathroom…face cleanser, toner, lotion, toothbrush, toothpaste, etc. The soap holder with drain holes is perfect for her beauty bar, which tends to get mushy if kept in a closed soap holder where it can't dry out. The tall handles make it easy to carry and its sturdy design can hold multiple products easily. Also, love that it comes in several colors and is a very low price.”

10. PBteen Recycled Shower Caddy

• What We Like: oversized design, six exterior pockets, mesh bottom drains water easily, quick-drying, eco-friendly fabric, customizable with three colors and monogram options
• Material : 100 percent recycled polyester (RPET)
• Size: 11" W x 5" D x 9" H

While schlepping to the shower with your shampoo, hair mask, body scrub and skin-care item in tow is a necessary evil, this oversized, super spacious caddy can make the whole process more manageable. It features sturdy handles for easy hanging, one large interior pocket and six exterior pockets for ample storage. The real selling point, however, is that its breathable mesh-designed bottom allows water to drain easily and dry quickly and it’s available in three designs—including quarry, slate grey and charcoal—that you can customize with a name or monogram on the front. It’s also worth mentioning that the mesh is composed of recycled polyester, crafted from over 14 recycled plastic water bottles, so you can hit the shower in eco-friendly style.

The 25 Best Dorm Room Essentials

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Sydney Meister is PureWow’s Assistant Lifestyle Editor. Along with covering the latest interior design trends and home hacks, she writes about everything from relationships to travel, must-have wellness products and what's happening in the world of celebrity design. Before PureWow, Sydney worked for various interior designers across NYC—primarily as a content creator focusing on trend forecasting and reporting. She's a go-to resource when it comes to interior styling tips and product recs to keep your home looking au courant (hint: it's time to ditch the modern farmhouse look).

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Independent Travel to Moscow and St. Petersburg

My wife and I have traveled independently to many European countries and, after reading many of the comments in this forum, feel like we may be able to do so in Moscow and St. Petersburg as well, although we feel somewhat less comfortable than the other countries where we have traveled in Europe.

My biggest question is how much we will miss by visiting the main sites without a tour guide. In the other European countries we have visited on our own we have been comfortable and satisfied with the level of knowledge we have gained by studying and visiting on our own, although we believe a tour guide or tour company in any country would normally be able to provide greater insight than visiting a site on our own, but about in Moscow and St. Petersburg?

Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Unless you speak at least some Russian and read the alphabet it would be difficult without a guide. Very few signs in English especially in Moscow. Also not too many people speak English there.

I visited St Petersburg last Autumn for a protracted period , and did not find it anymore daunting than any other European city . As Ilja says , learning the Cyrillic alphabet is a big plus . I also found that it was fairly easy to grasp . It will , among other things , enable you to read signs with relative ease . I would answer the main part or your question ( about tour guides ) thus - I am not enamored of tour guides or tours. While I only use a tour under duress ( A sites rules prohibiting an independent visit - ie Glasgow School of Art , Municipal House in Prague , etc ) . Doing your own preparation and homework is the best way , in my opinion . My wife and I ventured through St Petersburg with nary a concern ,and made two day trips outside of the central district ( one was twenty five miles away , and no English speakers in sight ) Figuring out the logistical details , did not present any difficulties . While I never use tours , I am an inveterate eavesdropper , have done so many times , and find , that on balance , the information that they impart is fairly elementary . If you want greater detail , they are unlikely to supply it . I also prefer to go at my own pace , not being rushed and being able to dwell on things that most other visitors barely give a passing glance . If you are interested , let me know . I would be happy to provide you with information that will enable you to travel independently

Thank you, Steven. I am encouraged by your comments and feel the same way you do about tour groups. We are very much willing to prepare in advance and learn the basics of the Cyrillic alphabet to help us have a better experience.

I would be very interested in learning more about your experience in Russia and receiving any additional information you can provide on independent travel there, starting perhaps with obtaining the visa.

I am not opposed to hiring a private or small group guide for a specific site or for a day trip outside St Petersburg and Moscow, but, like you said, I much prefer the freedom of staying at places as long or short as I want and seeing the sites that interest me most. For example, neither my wife nor I are big into shopping, yet most tour itineraries leave afternoon time for just that. Not interested!

Please provide whatever you may feel would be helpful for us.

Russ , I see you are quite near San Francisco - you can start by looking at the VISA procedure , it's fairly straightforward . Since there is a consulate in San Francisco - look here http://www.consulrussia.org/eng/visa-sub1.html

And here - http://ils-usa.com/main.php

Having always traveled independently, we thought we could do a better job than any tour. How misguided (pun intended) we were. Now that we have had the experience of having someone native to the area walk us around and explain things through a personal perspective we realize how much we missed. For St. Petersburg I highly recommend http://www.peterswalk.com/tours.html . This is not a traditional guided tour, but an opportunity to receive some orientation to the area as well as insight into the "Russian soul". I think if you did this upon arrival the rest of your time would be much more meaningful. We really liked the http://www.pushka-inn.com . The location is superb (just around the corner from the Hermitage square), the rooms lovely, the included breakfast at the restaurant next door ample and overall an excellent value. We used this company to get our visa: https://www.passportvisasexpress.com/site/san_francisco_customer_service Note that it costs about the same for a 3-year visa as a one-year, and you never know if you might want to return within that more extended window of time. It is not cheap, so factor that into your planning.

If you like traveling without a guide in other countries and find this satisfying, the same will be true in Moscow and St. Petersburg. Of course it's not either/or - you can certainly take a guided walk or boat tour, for instance.

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of learning Cyrillic if you're going on your own. The book I used was Teach Yourself Beginner's Russian Script, which was great. It breaks down the alphabet into letters that are the same as English, letters that look the same but are pronounced differently, etc. It's out of print, but you can get used copies on Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Teach-Yourself-Beginners-Russian-Script/dp/0071419861/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1459701143&sr=8-2&keywords=teach+yourself+russian+script

Russia is indeed a bit more "foreign" than say, Italy. However, in Moscow and St. Petersburg, I found enough English to be able to get by. Many restaurants had English menus and/or English speaking staff, for instance. This was most emphatically not true in Vladimir and Suzdal (two cities in the Golden Ring outside Moscow). I went with my sister, a Russian speaker, and if she hadn't been there, I would have been in big trouble. So, if you want to see places outside these two big cities, use a guided tour (even if just for that part). Also, Moscow and St. Petersburg are huge cities. Coming from New York, I wasn't intimidated, but those not used to a megacity may not be so cavalier (even I found them overwhelming at times, especially Moscow).

I found both Lonely Planet and Rough Guide to be helpful, and both to have various errors. Look at both, buy whichever one has a more recent edition, and then be prepared to have to discard some of the advice therein. Also, these places change more quickly than places in Western Europe. Be very careful of outdated advice. For instance, I was there in 2001 and 2010, so I won't give you any specifics on getting a visa - that changes constantly.

Just as a teaser, two things I saw and loved that I doubt would be included in any escorted tour are the Gorky House in Moscow (an Art Nouveau wonder) and the Sheremyetov Palace in St. Petersburg (it's now a museum of musical instruments, and the decor is amazing, particularly in the Etruscan Room).

Thanks for all the good advice. Any additional thoughts are welcomed.

One of history's seminal works pertaining to Russian history and culture and a MUST for anyone contemplating a visit or simply interested , is this fine work from 1980 - http://www.amazon.com/Land-Firebird-The-Beauty-Russia/dp/096441841X

This is about you and not about Petersburg. Do you like guided tours? We don't and didn't find that a guide added to our experience in China where we did hire private guides mostly for the logistics; it was easy to have someone drive us places. But once at a site, we didn't need the guide. I felt the same way about our 9 nights in Petersburg. We did hire a guide for the trip to the Catherine Palace again for the ease of logistics for us Olds. Here is our visit: https://janettravels.wordpress.com/2016/01/23/an-easy-trip-to-the-catherine-palace/ There are also snapshots of the Church on Spilled Blood in this photo journal. Having someone pick us up at the apartment and get us in without line ups and shepherd us through the palace steering clear of the tour groups was lovely. But we didn't need commentary because we can read and prepare.

You certainly don't need a guide for the Hermitage (we spent 4 days there), the Russian Museum, the Kazan Cathedral or Church on Spilled Blood or the Faberge Museum. We enjoyed a number of self guided walking tours including a couple from Rick Steves guidebooks. We took the canal cruise suggested by RS that had an English commentator. I would not take one without that as you will be totally clueless. The commentator was not all that good but at least we had some idea what we were seeing. So for people like us who like to do our own thing and can read a guidebook and don't particularly like to be led about, a tour is not needed. If you enjoy tour groups, then go for it. Petersburg is easy to negotiate. It helps if you can read the cyrillic alphabet and it is also useful to have the google translate ap on your phone. We found ourselves translating packages in grocery stores with it and the occasional museum sign or menu. I have one food I need to avoid and so it was handy to have the translator to talk with waiters (I could either show them the sentence, or play it for them or play it to myself and then repeat it to the waiter -- that all worked well)

Dear Russ, I cannot help you with Moscow, but about four years ago, my husband and I went to St Petersburg on our own. But, we did use a private guide for 4 half days. We both feel that our guide absolutely made our trip (we stayed 6 or 7 nights). We used a company owned by Tatyana Chiurikova, www.tour-stpetersburg.com I cannot say enough good things about her and our experience. I emailed her and we worked out a schedule/ sights that was tailored to our interests. She also offered some recommendations, which we took. The guide will meet you at your hotel. And frequently, at certain places, with the guide, we were able to skip the long entrance lines. We had an half day driving tour of the city (car, driver, & guide). You are taken to & go in places such as Peter & Paul Fortress, some of the cathedrals, etc. We had a half day with the guide at the Hermitage which ensured that we would see the major sights there. And, of course, you can stay after your guide leaves or return another day. Also, we had the guide for Peterhof (a must & go by boat) and Catherine's Palace. I hope that you will go to the website. As I said, our guide made our trip. I am positive that we would have missed quite a bit on our own everyday. And I'm sure we would have wasted a lot of time trying to get to various place.This was the best of both worlds, a guide where needed and plenty of time on our own. Whatever you do, I'm sure that you will love St Petersburg! Ashley

I am curious about the lines as we encountered no lines on our trip -- but it was in September. We got tickets for the Hermitage at machines and skipped those lines and our guide for the Catherine Palace which was our only guided experience (as noted before, chosen for the logistics of getting there) had arranged tickets and we didn't have a line, but then we also didn't see lines. We did not find lines at any other site.

Both Moscow and St Petersburg I've done on my own, that is together with the Dear Partner. I can't remember any problem getting where we wanted to go. The Metro systems are well signed, and with a little exercise and patience you can recognize the station names. With a good map and a good guide - we had the Rough Guides - that part of the logistics is solved. The language is a major problem, but the usual tricks of pointing, looking helpless, and making a joke of it all do wonders. I would hate to be led by a guide, but for others it is a comfortable thought.

We also did both cities on our own. I found the DK Eyewitness guide for Moscow has the best map. I used the one from our library (kept the book at home). Took the smaller RS book for St. Petersburg ( his book on northern cities). His map and restaurant ideas were all good. We also downloaded the Google maps in our Android Samsung tablets/phones for both cities and then could get directions to any place we typed in. The blue ball guided us everywhere. I'm sure we missed somethings by not having a guide, but we just enjoy walking around and getting a sense of a place. If you like art, The Hermitage is great. We went 3 times and still missed alot. In St. Peterburg we stayed at the 3 Mosta which we loved (quite and not far from the Church of Spilled Blood.) We also loved the Georgian food in both cities. There's a great Georgian restaurant near the 3 Mosta hotel. We're now in Belarus- very scenic. Enjoy your trip!!

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10 Soviet buildings inspired by Le Corbusier

In October the world began celebrating the 130th birthday anniversary of Le Corbusier (1887-1965), arguably the most important and influential architect of the 20th century. In his time, this great urban planner determined a significant part of the future of world architecture. His followers worked throughout the world, developing the famous Five Points of Architecture: the necessary presence of supporting columns, a flat roof, horizontal windows, a plain façade and a freely-designed ground plan.

The USSR, which hosted the architect three times, implemented only one of his building designs – the Tsentrosoyuz (Central Union) Building. However, the ideas of the Frenchman with Swiss origins were widely popular among Soviet modernist architects. Russia Beyond remembers their most vivid constructions in the Soviet Union. 

1. Narkomfin Building in Moscow

Narkomfin building. Exterior view.

This is the most famous monument of Soviet Constructivism in the capital. The communal house designed by architects Moisei Ginzburg and Ignaty Milinis was built between 1928 and 1930 for employees of the People’s Finance Commissariat (Ministry). The construction was overseen by Finance Commissar Nikolai Milyutin, for whom the first penthouse in the world was erected on the building’s roof. Architects called the project a building of a transitional type, since it symbolized the transition from the traditional way of life to a new, socialized existence. Three kinds of apartments or “living cubicles” were planned for the residential block. On the bottom level there were the two-tiered, three-room apartments with a surface area of 60 sq. m. with a kitchen and a toilet (cubicle K), which were used for traditional family habitation. Above were experimental cubicles for two people — dual, two-tiered apartments (2F) with a surface area of almost 30 sq. m. Most of the cubicles in the building have a small surface area of 15 sq. m. (F), and are designed for only one person. A separate communal block was built for the residents of these cubicles. It contained essential household services such as a laundry room, a cafeteria and a library.

2. Communal House on Gogol Boulevard in Moscow

Demonstrative Construction complex.

The Demonstrative Construction complex for construction workers also combined features of the old and new ways of life, the so-called “machines for living.” The building was designed by the architects who had conceived the Narkomfin Building in the same period. The complex consists of two residential buildings intended for both individual and family habitation and a two-story communal block for socialization.

3. Communal House of the Textile Institute

Communal House of the Textile Institute.

In 1929 emerging architect Ivan Nikolaev planned the Communal House of the Textile Institute in accordance with Le Corbusier’s ideas. Two thousand people were supposed to live and study in this building following a very rigid order. The building has the shape of the letter H. Six-meter-square cabins served as bedrooms, plus there were student shower rooms, a cafeteria and finally a study area. At the end of the 1960s the building’s interior was partially restructured and given over to the Institute of Steel and Alloys as a dormitory.

4. Tsentrosoyuz Building in Moscow

Myasnitskaya street. The Tsentrosoyuz Building or Centrosoyuz Building constructed in 1933 by Le Corbusier and Nikolay Kolli.

Le Corbusier’s only structure in the USSR was finished in 1936, when modernist architecture was accused of formalism and became unfashionable. The plan for the building that was being constructed for the Central Union of Consumer Cooperatives was chosen in an open competition, in which not only the best Soviet architects but also the stars of European architecture participated, including Peter Behrens, Max Taut, London’s Vernet & Tate Studio and Le Corbusier himself. The co-authors were his cousin Pierre Jeanneret and Soviet architect Nikolai Kolli, who had worked for two years in Le Corbusier’s studio in Paris. He was the one who supervised the construction process.

The complex was built in accordance with Le Corbusier’s five rules. Ramps instead of stairs became the project’s most prominent feature. They were set up throughout the structure. Furthermore, the first open space offices were installed in the building. When completed, it was the largest office administrative building in Europe.

5. Chekist Town in Yekaterinburg

The Chekist Town.

The complex was built between 1929 and 1936 according to a design by architects Ivan Antonov, Benjamin Sokolov and Arseny Tumbasov as a small dormitory for young state security employees. The complex consists of 14 buildings of various height. Besides the residential building, service buildings, a kindergarten, a clinic and a cafeteria, there is also the 11-story Iset Hotel, a palace of culture and an administrative building. The plan was based on the idea of the communal house. During the Soviet years the complex functioned as a “town within a town.” It was surrounded by control points and entry and exit into the town was allowed only with a special pass.

6. Gosprom in Kharkov (Ukraine)

The House of Governmental Industry.

This was one of the USSR’s first skyscrapers and it was perhaps the only example of a high-rise constructivist building in the country. The House of Governmental Industry was built between 1925 and 1928. Project development was in the hands of a group of architects who were among the first to apply Le Corbusier’s principles to an administrative building (in general, the Swiss-French architect planned private villas and multi-apartment buildings). The building is included in UNESCO’s preliminary list of monuments.

7. Engineer Building of the Ministry of Roads in Tbilisi (Georgia)

The building of Ministry of Roads.

This is another example of a free interpretation of Le Corbusier’s ideas by Soviet architects. The building, constructed in 1975, basically symbolizes a branching out road network. Its body consists of five horizontal two-story blocks that are supported by three vertical rods attached to a cliff. In 2007 the structure was recognized as a national architectural monument.

8. Friendship Resort in Yalta

The Friendship holiday hotel in Yalta on the Black Sea coast.

This is the most unusual example of modernist architecture. It was designed by architects Igor Vasilevsky and Yuri Stefanchuk in 1985. Since the structure had to stand on uneven terrain – a mountainside – its creators devised a particular construction, which people nicknamed “the UFO.” The building’s concrete bodys in the form of a ring with an 80-meter diameter is supported by three towers that contain an elevator, stairs and utilities. An innovative solution was the use of heat from the Black Sea for the heating, air conditioning system and hot water supplies for the buildings.

9. Vyborg Library

Alvar Aalto Library in Vyborg.

This showpiece construction, designed by modernist architect Alvar Aalto, was constructed between 1927 and 1935, when Vyborg (850 km northwest of Moscow) was part of Finland. The large rectangular building made of white concrete with free layouts, continuous glazing and (Aalto’s trademark) funnel-shaped windows in the ceiling is an example of the international style, one of whose followers was Le Corbusier. In 2013 the library was reopened after a 12-year restoration project and is now considered one of the city’s symbols.

10. National Historical and Archaeological Museum in Osh   (Kyrgyzstan)

A museum on the sacred mountain of Sulaiman-Too in the city of Osh.

This is one of the most remarkable structures of Soviet modernism. Constructed in 1978, it was carved into the side of Sulayman Mountain. Although externally this building hardly resembles Le Corbusier’s typical structures, the principles according to which it was built are representative of the modernist view. The structure mimics the adjacent cliff: the entrance in the form of a concrete arch with continuous glazing and longitudinal beams blends with the mountainous relief. Behind the gate stands a two-story cavernous complex that houses the exhibits.

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