The Best Make Up Bags for Travel

Whether you are a makeup artist with an oversized collection or just need a case for weekend trips, there’s a bag out there for you. This professional-sized makeup bag has a ton of pockets and compartments.

This large travel makeup bag fits in a backpack, weekender or carry-on suitcase and is easily cleaned. It also folds up nicely and lays flat.

1. Calpak Cosmetic Case

Designed for the beauty enthusiast who refuses to leave behind any of their full-sized beauty staples, this hard shell travel vanity case is the stuff of dreams. Featuring a see-through design, large interior dividers, a shoulder strap, luggage sleeve to slip on your roller, and two spacious compartments—this toiletry bag for travel is the answer to your prayers.

Available in both classic and limited-edition colors, the cult-favorite makeup travel case can fit up to 26 products (both full and travel-sized) while still meeting TSA carry-on requirements. I’ve been able to pack my entire beauty routine in this little clear makeup case, from the skincare regimen to my favorite face creams and eyeshadow palettes.

The Calpak Cosmetic Case is a beauty must-have and is rated 4.9 stars on the brand’s site. While the small size is always sold out in classic shades, there are four limited-edition colors and a new medium version that just came in stock this month. Sign up for a notification to receive updates when the makeup case returns in stock.

2. YSL Vanity Case

For the past couple of years vanity cases have become a highly coveted handbag shape, popping up season after season among our favorite designer’s assortments. While the sometimes structured, top handled silhouette was never intended to be a handbag, its unique shape has piqued our interest. Thankfully, designers have begun to release less literal versions of this coveted style, some of which include a crossbody strap.

This Gaby vanity bag from Saint Laurent is a perfect example. While it is a bit smaller in size and more north-south in shape than most traditional vanity cases, the bag still features the best make up bag iconic YSL logo hardware that makes this piece stand out. The zip-around vanity bag is crafted from lambskin leather with diamond-quilted overstitching and bronze-tone hardware. It includes a leather top handle and adjustable and detachable strap designed for shoulder or crossbody carry.

This piece elite hair care tools also features one main interior compartment and a slot compartment.

3. Burberry Cosmetic Case

Burberry beauty products are inspired by the fashion house’s runway themes, making them a favorite amongst beauty enthusiasts. The Fresh Glow highlighter, foundation, and lipstick are especially popular. The brand’s gunmetal grey and tartan case is sleek, heavy, and luxurious.

The cosmetic pouch comes with a zippered top closure and the iconic all-over repeated brand archival check pattern. It also features an applique tag with the iconic brand monogram and a single interior compartment.

The bag is made with bio-based materials that are derived from renewable natural resources and castor oil. The zipper is made with recycled plastic and the applique tag is crafted in leather. The pouch measures 10” x 5″ x 2.75”. It is available in black or metallic gold color. It is packaged in a Burberry gift box and makes a great gift for any occasion.

4. Bloomingdale’s Cosmetic Case

If you’re a makeup or skincare fanatic who tends to carry around your entire routine in your suitcase or weekender bag, you’ll want to select a large cosmetic case that can hold all of your beauty essentials. This woven travel makeup bag is a popular option with reviewers saying that it’s super spacious and opens up flat (no more creased lipsticks or crinkled foundation). Plus, it has side pockets and elastic pouches to organize those tiny brushes that are prone to getting smashed or lost in your other toiletries en route.

Molly Stern, a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with stars like Reese Witherspoon and Maya Rudolph, suggests selecting an easy-to-clean fabric such as nylon or PVC for your bag so that it can be easily wiped down when it gets dirty or wet. Other common fabrics for makeup bags include terry cloth, canvas, and leather.

5. Lululemon Makeup Pouch

Taking its cues from customer feedback, Lululemon’s makeup bag merges style with function. Its sturdy construction and thoughtful features make it a versatile accessory for women on the go. Its spacious interior and multiple compartments ensure that you can keep all of your beauty essentials together. It also features a convenient space for brushes, a separate pocket for liquids to comply with airport regulations, and dividers to prevent delicate powders and eyeshadow palettes from breaking apart in transit.

The cosmetic case’s lining is made from water-resistant fabric, which makes it easy to clean. This lining also helps to protect your products from spills and other travel mishaps. Its sleek and minimalist aesthetic also gives it an edge over its competitors. In addition, its commitment to environmental sustainability aligns with the brand’s core values.