travel refill jar

The 7 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Avoid spills and score style points with these liquid containers

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TripSavvy / Leticia Almeida

There’s nothing worse than arriving excitedly at your destination to find that your toiletries have spilled all over your suitcase. Or to be the person who holds up the line at security while the TSA agents discard your oversized liquids. Both of these scenarios are easily avoided by investing in a set of appropriately sized, 100 percent leakproof travel toiletry bottles. There are lots of options out there in terms of bottle quantity, size, and design, with the right one for you depending on factors such as how long you’ll be traveling and the complexity of your beauty routine. 

To help you narrow down the choices, our team of travel experts put 14 toiletry bottle sets to the test. Each one was scored for ease of use, quality, design, performance, and value, with average scores used to determine the winners of categories ranging from “best budget” to “most durable.”

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, liquisnugs premium silicone travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Very secure, with no leaks during testing

Stick to vertical surfaces

Easy to stay organized

Lack of variety

The LiquiSnugs Premium Silicone Travel Bottles offer flawless performance at a price so reasonable our tester was shocked by it. The set includes two 2-ounce bottles and two 3-ounce bottles, both of which adhere to TSA carry-on regulations. We liked the flexibility afforded by the two different sizes since there are always products we need more and less of on vacation. We were able to easily fit all four in a quart-sized Ziploc bag simultaneously without placing pressure on any of them. All bottles are made of flexible, food-grade, BPA-free silicone, making them easy to pack and dispense. 

With a dripless valve and bottleneck design, the bottles are advertised as 100 percent leakproof—a claim we can support, with no spillages even after being dropped and thrown around repeatedly during testing. We liked that the bottles’ wide mouths made them simple to fill, empty, and clean as needed. Other highlights include the suction pad on the back of each bottle (great for attaching them to the bathroom wall) and the changeable labels. Options for the latter include shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, soap, and lotion, enabling you to switch up the uses on each trip. 

Number of Bottles: 4 | Sizes: (2) 2-ounce, (2) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Vitog travel bottles kit.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Performance 4.5 /5

Multiple dispensing methods

Comes with several functional extras

Good value for money

Capacity could be larger

Retailing for half the price of our already affordable overall winner, the Vitog Travel Bottles Kit is a no-brainer for budget-conscious buyers. It includes six 1.4-ounce bottles and two 0.4-ounce bottles. The larger ones consist of two pump bottles with a removable clip to prevent accidental deployment, two spray bottles, and two flip-cap bottles. The smaller ones are miniature cream jars. All eight are made from clear PET plastic, which we found durable yet lightweight enough for travel. We also liked that we could easily see how much product was left.

We appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of a pipette, a funnel, and a spatula to help with decanting products from their original containers. They made the bottles relatively easy to fill, although we did experience some spillage when decanting thick body lotion. Nevertheless, there was no leaking or visible wear and tear after our intensive testing process. The set also includes a sheet of labels and a clear plastic toiletry bag. The only real drawback? None of the bottles are particularly big, making this option suitable for short trips only. 

Number of Bottles: 8 | Sizes: (2) 0.4-ounce, (6) 1.4-ounce | Materials: PET plastic

TripSavvy / Jessica Juliao

Cadence The Originals Set

• Design 4.5 /5
• Performance 4 /5

Unique design

Performed well throughout testing

Customizable

More of an investment than others

Limited capacity

The Originals from Cadence are small, hexagonal capsules with screw-top lids that connect magnetically together in any shape or configuration you like. Aesthetics are at the forefront of this brand, as you can choose different colors for each capsule as well as printed, switchable, magnetic labels. In fact, they look so cute that you could even buy toiletries in bulk and decant them into these capsules for use at home. Sustainable practices like these are reinforced by the fact that the capsules are made from 20 percent recycled ocean-bound plastic. 

We love that the capsules’ wide mouths and rounded interiors make them effortless to fill, use, and clean. They’re also 100 percent leakproof, waterproof, and airtight, as proven by our testing process. We found them incredibly durable and can’t imagine a scenario that would result in them being punctured or crushed. They are small (each one carries just 0.56 ounces), which could be a drawback. However, a capacity calculator on the brand website suggests you can carry approximately a week’s worth of products, depending on how regularly you use each one. 

Number of Bottles: 6 | Sizes: (6) 0.6-ounce | Materials: Hard plastic

Most Durable

Mrsdry travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 3.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

Soft yet rugged silicone construction

Effective leakproofing

User friendly

No diversity in size or design

If your primary concern when packing liquids in your hand luggage is leaking, you’ll love the Mrsdry Travel Bottles Set. It consists of four 3-ounce bottles, each made of thick silicone that feels ultra-durable, and they stood up perfectly to our squeeze and drop tests. We were particularly impressed with the bottles’ no-drip valves, which successfully prevented leaks. All four bottles use the same shape and dispensing method—a pro for those who want lots of capacity for fewer products, and a drawback for those with a more complex personal care routine. 

Having said that, we did feel that this set is so reasonably priced, there’s nothing to stop you from buying multiple sets if you have more products to pack. Instead of labels, the bottles come in four separate shades to distinguish between them. We also liked that their wide opening makes them easy to fill, even with thicker liquids and gels. And when it comes to cleaning them, the bendable silicone easily accommodates a bottle brush. All colorways include a transparent carry case. 

Number of Bottles: 4 | Sizes: (4) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

Best Variety

Morfone 16 pack travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Good array of containers

Burly silicone handles rough treatment

Jar lids are weaker than expected

Multicolored style may not suit everyone

The Morfone Travel Bottles Set caters to travelers with an extensive beauty routine. With 10 containers in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and dispensing methods, you can take a broad range of products in just the right quantities for your time away. Options are as follows: two 1-ounce spray bottles, two 3-ounce squeeze bottles, two 2-ounce squeeze bottles, two 1-ounce jars, and two 0.3-ounce jars. We were impressed by the capacity of the largest bottles, which we felt could easily hold at least four washes’ worth of shampoo and conditioner. 

The bottles are made of durable yet flexible food-grade silicone, with wide mouths for easy filling and cleaning. We appreciated the inclusion of two scoopers, a funnel, and a cleaning brush to help with these tasks, as well as a sheet of labels. Most of the containers held up well to our durability tests with no leaks or spills. The only exception was one of the jars, which suffered a broken lid. The set comes in a transparent carry bag and could fit into a quart-sized Ziploc (a TSA requirement) with some skillful maneuvering, although it was tight. 

Number of Bottles: 10 | Sizes: (2) 0.3-ounce, (4) 1-ounce, (2) 2-ounce, (2) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

Best for Larger Capacities

Insfit tsa carry-on approved containers.

Great value for money

Well-designed lids

Choice of cute color palettes

Can be finicky with certain products

The INSFIT set is ideal for those who like to keep things simple with only a handful of essential products but also tend to travel for longer and need as much capacity as TSA will allow. It features four identical 3-ounce silicone bottles large enough to hold at least one to two weeks’ worth of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and sunscreen (or similar). The bottles are squeezable, which makes dispensing simple, although we found that thicker lotions and gels were easier to squeeze if the bottle was at least half full.

Other highlights include fully removable caps and wide mouths for mess-free filling and easy cleaning, and three-layered lids that are essentially leakproof. Even during our pressure test, caps remained securely in place, and afterward, the bottles still looked brand new. In fact, we were shocked to find out how affordable this set is given its evident quality. We also liked the stylish, see-through carry bag and the fact that there’s a special place on the caps to stick the included labels so that they adhere properly. 

Best for Backpacking

Matador flatpak toiletry bottle.

Ideal for reducing heft and bulk

Thoughtful design elements

Proved durable during our testing

Difficult to fill with thicker consistencies

Made of waterproof 30D Cordura ripstop nylon with proprietary welded construction, the Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles are by far the most technical option on this list. With their flat-pack design and sturdy quality, they’re designed especially for adventures and expeditions where saving on space and weight is a priority . With a capacity of 3 ounces each, they’re five times lighter and 3.5 times more compact than standard silicone bottles, and pliable enough to fit into tight spaces: the ultimate backpacking companion. 

We found them easy to fill with any liquid that was the consistency of shampoo or thinner. Thicker gels and lotions were tricky since the mouth wasn’t as wide as that of standard travel bottles. Still, any mess is easy to clean off the waterproof exterior. They fit easily into a quart-sized Ziploc, and we love the snap hook for attaching to the outside of your backpack for on-the-go use. The loop also features a spot for writing a description of the contents with a permanent marker. As expected, the packs survived all our tests with zero leaks or signs of damage. 

Number of Bottles: 3 | Sizes: (3) 3-ounce | Materials: 30D Cordura ripstop nylon

Our overall favorite was the LiquiSnugs Premium Travel Bottles set. These bottles stood out for their durable, leakproof silicone construction and thoughtful extras including adjustable labels and individual suction pads. For the most budget-friendly option, choose the small yet sturdily versatile Vitog Travel Bottles Kit .

Upon receiving the bottles, our first step was to examine their overall quality and design and note any unique features. Then, we filled at least three of the bottles in the set: one with lotion, one with micellar water, and one with shampoo. For each one, we noted how easy it was to fill without spilling, how easy it was to clean if spillage did occur, and how appropriate each bottle would be for holding different types of liquid. We also tested how easy it was to open the bottle and dispense the product inside. 

Next, we compressed the bottles in our palms to mimic pressure. We shook them, rolled them, squeezed them, and threw them to stimulate rough handling in transit, noting how well they withstood this treatment. Our final test was to put all of the bottles from the set into a quart-sized Ziploc bag, and then inside a toiletry bag. Then, we dropped them from waist height three times, always from different angles, to see whether any breakages or leaks occurred and whether the bottles showed any signs of wear and tear. 

Each set was scored on a scale of one to five for ease of use, quality, design, performance, and value. Average scores were used to determine our category winners.

Other Travel Toiletry Bottles We Tested

GLOBEGEAR Travel Bottles : This nine-piece set features a solid range of containers and tools made of hard plastic that doesn't feel flimsy. We deducted points for the skimpy capacity of the bottles, which would only last a few days or applications (and made filling the bottles difficult), though the affordable price makes this a good option for the infrequent traveler.

Kitsch Travel Containers : Fans of variety will appreciate the range of products included in this compact kit. It won't set you back much and, accordingly, we feel it also won't last long. We like the idea of the flat containers but found them somewhat difficult to fill.

Cosywell Travel Containers : The Cosywell Containers are all the same shape in 10- and 20-milliliter capacities. We found the plastic and silicone jars easy to fill and well-designed, but they're more suited to thick liquids such as gels and creams.

What to Look For in Travel Toiletry Bottles

Durability is key when choosing travel toiletry bottles since containers that are easily punctured or cracked will result in a mess that’s at best inconvenient and at worst potentially expensive or upsetting depending on how much product is wasted and whether any other items in your carry-on are affected. Look for options made out of sturdy hard plastic or thick, flexible silicone, then check user reviews to get an idea of how the construction holds up under real-life travel conditions. If you’re planning an extreme adventure, technical options like the waterproof flat-pack bottles from Matador may be worth the extra expense.

Leakproofness

A bottle doesn’t have to break for leaks to occur—all it takes is a poorly constructed seal or lid. Look for bottles with a triple-layered leakproof cap and jars with a secure screw top. Pump bottles should come with a removable clip that prevents them from being deployed accidentally. Again, user reviews help check how efficient these measures are (it’s easy for a brand to advertise their product as leakproof, even if it’s not). Some brands, like Cadence, actually guarantee the efficacy of their leakproof design. Just in case, we always recommend storing toiletry bottles in a waterproof bag or Ziploc as a second line of defense. 

If you plan on packing your toiletry bottles in your carry-on bag, you must make sure that none of them exceed the TSA-approved limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Some sets are made up of identical large bottles of around 3 ounces, giving you the maximum allowable capacity for each of your products. However, because all bottles must fit in a single quart-sized Ziploc bag, this limits the number of bottles to around four. 

If you have more products to pack, you may prefer a set that divides this capacity between a greater number of smaller bottles and containers—especially if you only require some of your liquids in very small quantities. The length of your trip will also dictate how big you need your bottles to be unless you only plan on using your carry-on liquids as a backup in case the full-size versions in your checked luggage get delayed. 

Toiletries can be stored in opaque, translucent, or transparent bottles of any color as long as each individual bottle does not exceed the maximum capacity limit. For carry-on bags, most authorities including TSA set that limit at 3.4 ounces. Liquids can be in their original container or decanted into any container of your choosing (even one that’s labeled incorrectly), as long as these size restrictions are adhered to. 

Most airport authorities—including TSA—rule that bottles containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes cannot exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) if you wish to pack them in your carry-on luggage . In addition, all of these bottles must fit inside a quart-sized Ziploc bag and be screened separately from the rest of your luggage at security. Containers that exceed this limit will not be permitted, even if the volume of the product inside is less than 3.4 ounces (for example, if you have a half-used bottle of conditioner). Note that these restrictions do not apply to checked luggage.

Although toiletry bottles don’t have to be labeled from a legal perspective, many people like to do so to ensure they don’t end up brushing their teeth with expensive moisturizer, or vice versa. Some travel bottles come with waterproof stickers, especially for this purpose, and you can also purchase them separately online. This is a better option than writing on a standard office label by hand since toiletry bottles frequently get wet and ink can run and cause staining or become illegible. Alternatively, a permanent marker applied directly to the bottle could be an option if you’re always going to use the same container for the same product.

Jessica Macdonald is a regular contributor of travel-related commerce articles. She has visited more than 50 countries across six continents and lived out of a backpack for several months on many occasions. As such, she knows firsthand the value of travel bottles that allow you to reach your destination without any spillages. Products featured in this article were chosen according to tests carried out by TripSavvy’s team of travel experts.

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13 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles: Editor Tested, Leakproof, & Reusable

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

Beauty and skincare products like shampoo, moisturizer, and face wash are essential on every packing list , whether you're heading to a hotel or are staying with friends or family. Since buying miniature versions of your favorite products can be expensive—and typically means purchasing a whole lot of single-use plastics—having practical and reliable toiletry travel bottles you can pull out for every trip is a must.

To make sure the reusable bottles we're throwing in our Dopp kit are easy to use and don't leak, we tested out a variety of affordable travel sets to see which ones actually get the job done. Below, you'll find 13 of the best travel toiletry bottles that will protect the contents of your luggage—and all of the creams, soaps, and serums you've shelled out for—and keep you organized on the go. Even better, all of these picks are TSA-friendly in size, so you don't have to worry about any of your favorite products being thrown out at the airport. As an added bonus, many of these travel bottles are available on Amazon Prime, so you can get your hands on them quickly before a last-minute getaway.

How we tested

I scoured the internet to find the most popular travel toiletry bottles—searching a variety of retailers, reading hundreds of reviews, and considering online ratings. After my initial research, I put many reusable toiletry bottles to the test, trying out dozens of options that range in price, size, and design. I've had some of these toiletry bottles for over a year and they've accompanied me on a mix of weeklong vacations in checked luggage and short weekend trips in tightly-packed duffel bags .

Over the last several months, I tested another batch of options: I've filled them with a variety of skincare, hair care, and body products—thick body wash, contact solution, and leave-in conditioner included. I've even left these filled containers upside down overnight to see if there were any unexpected leaks. My findings: There are many great options on the market to choose from and you don't need to break the bank to find the perfect set for you. Below, the best travel toiletry bottles to pack wherever you're headed next .

Our top picks

• Best overall: Tocelffe 18-Pack travel bottles
• Best for easy packing: Cadence The Capsule Flex System
• Best for in-shower products: LiquiSnugs silicone travel bottles
• Best for perfume: Vonovo mini refillable perfume bottles
• Best for contact solution: Cauyuan portable contact lens case

Browse reusable bottles for:

Hair and body wash, cleansers and serums, contact lens care, a variety of products.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

No matter how organized I try to stay, my bathroom counter at every hotel always becomes cluttered with my many toiletries and hair products . The LiquiSnugs look like your classic silicone travel bottles, but they feature a clever suction cup on the back that allows you to stick them onto any shower wall—freeing up limited counter space. These are great for in-shower products like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. This set of four bottles features two 3-ounce bottles and two 2-ounce bottles, so you can choose how much product you need depending on the length of your trip. Another smart design feature: Twist the top to adjust the label name so you won't forget what's inside. I've had these for about a year now and I consistently reach for these to pack shampoo and conditioner.

Pros : The unique suction cup design makes them great for shower products.

Cons : These occasionally will fall off shower walls if there's not a little bit of water to keep them in place.

This Amazon bestseller is versatile enough for every type of traveler. The 18-pack from Tocelffe features four silicone bottles of varying size (two 3-ounce bottles and two 2-ounce bottles), four small jars for creams and serums, two spray bottles, two spatulas, a funnel, labels, and a cleaning brush. These all come in a waterproof toiletry bag that you can reuse to carry makeup or tech essentials. In this set, I find myself mostly reaching for the ultra-soft silicone bottles, which are great for products like body wash, face cleanser, and micellar water. Each of these bottles feature three-layer leak-proof tops so you don't have to worry about spills in your bag. Something I love about these bottles is how they can be bent and squeezed easily to get every last bit of product out of them.

Pros: Very affordable, comes in a clear toiletry case, and the bottles' wide opening makes it easy to refill. Cons: The small plastic jars are not as reliable as the silicone bottles in this set.

If you're just looking for a few affordable no-frills travel bottles, these are for you. Available in a variety of colors, the silicone bottles do just what they say they will. They're leakproof, come in a set of four, and are easy to refill and clean. While there’s no bells and whistles, these three-ounce bottles pleasantly surprised me with just how much product they fit compared to some of the other classic silicone bottles we tested, making them an ideal option for a longer vacation. Plus, these have an average of 4.5 stars on Amazon with over 11,000 global reviews.

Pros: Versatility; available in many colorways

Cons : This set doesn't come with labels or a proper toiletry case.

Another solid choice for travelers is this set of four 3-ounce silicone travel bottles. These are squeezable, leakproof, and versatile enough to use for everything from shower products and soaps to sauces and baby food. These reusable bottles are all the same size and each a different color so you can differentiate them. Bonus: This set comes in a transparent toiletry case to keep them all organized in.

Pros : This set is available in a dozen colorways; wide opening makes them easy to refill without needing a funnel. Cons : This set doesn't come with labels.

If you prefer to bring along a bar of soap instead of using what's provided at the hotel, this compact soap box is a great travel companion. Inside, there's a soap mat that absorbs any excess water and prevents the soap from becoming mushy. I've used other plastic soap cases before without a mat and it always leaves a mess. This one features a silicone band that wraps tightly around the box for extra protection, and is about the size of a deck of cards.

Pros : Fits most commonly used soap brands, affordable, and features a simple-to-use design.

Cons : The soap box needs the band to stay secure so be careful not to lose it.

I've been a fan of Cadence's capsules for a few years now. These leakproof, airtight, and watertight magnetic capsules are unlike any other travel bottles I've used and are a true game changer when it comes to packing your own beauty products. The individual capsules magnetically snap together to take up as little space as possible in your Dopp kit and are designed without any right angles or edges, so you get every last bit of product available.

The original .56-ounce individual capsules are great for weekend trips and storing small items like daily vitamins and safety pins. The Capsule Flex System allows you to customize your own bundle with your choice of small , medium , and large sizes, as well as The Extender —an add-on that allows you to increase the size of the bottle when you need more room. This makes it so easy to customize your travel routine, whether you want to pack extra product for longer trips or bring enough body wash for you and your travel buddy. With The Flex System, you can still choose your own label for each capsule (the labels are interchangeable), as well as the color and number of capsules in your bundle.

Pros : It's easy to get every last drop of product inside each capsule and they are so easy to rinse out and reuse. The custom labels can be swapped out depending on what you're packing.

Cons : These are the most expensive option on our list.

I was eager to test out the Ries travel bottles after hearing a lot of buzz about the product and seeing them make their way into retailers like Sephora and Goop. These are a more elevated, aesthetically pleasing take on the classic reusable travel bottles you may have used in the past. Ries prioritized sustainability and design with these essentials: Each bottle is made from recycled plastic and features a large opening at the top, which makes it easy to refill and clean (not to mention, they're dishwasher safe). Travelers can purchases these bottles individually (a 3.4-ounce bottle or a 1.7-ounce bottle) or in a set with both sizes . My favorite thing about these bottles is the airless pump—I feel so glamorous while doing my nighttime skincare routine with these, and it makes it easier to use products like face wash or cleanser on the road. The bottles are pre-labeled (shampoo, conditioner, body, face) and you can twist the top to the side to conceal the opening, so product won't spill out.

Pros : Sustainably made; if you prefer a pump, these are for you.

Cons : On the pricier side; the bottles are a bit bulky and take up a little more room in my makeup bag than most travel-size products I use.

Finally, a solution to my contact lens woes. I can't count the number of times I've stopped into a drugstore to buy a mini bottle of contact lens solution before heading out on a trip, or to pick up rewetting drops because I'm dealing with dry contacts while away from home. This compact case makes cleaning and caring for contacts on the go much easier—it comes with an easy-to-fill reusable dropper that gives me a long weekend's worth of solution, a contact case, and has a mirror to help get them in and out. (I don't like to fly in contacts, so this is particularly handy if I forget to switch to my glasses before leaving home.) It weighs next to nothing, and will fit in all but my smallest handbags, so I've been keeping it on me regularly, not just when traveling. — Madison Flager, senior commerce editor

Pros : It comes with a tiny pair of tweezers to make removing contacts from the case less messy. Cons : The contact solution holder isn't large enough for weeklong trips.

I admit I've also been guilty of buying mini versions of my favorite contact solution. As much as I love reusable toiletry bottles for my skincare and hair products, I've never had anything that felt right for the consistency of my contact solution. I wear daily lenses, meaning I don't need a whole lot of solution with me when I travel, so it is a little frustrating to carry around a bottle that takes up precious space in my Dopp kit. Lately, I've been carrying about the Cauyuan eye glass case which comes with a super small dropper for contact solution. This refillable dropper holds just enough contact solution for weekend trips and shorter vacations and takes up such little space (I've even found myself tossing it in my handbag in case my eyes get a little dry.) This durable case keeps all of my eye care essentials together and protected, with a separate compartment for eye glasses, and another that holds the dropper, tweezers, a contact case, and a mirror.

Pros : All of my eyewear essentials are now in once place and stay organized; the dropper is small enough to fit in a tiny purse. Cons : The compartment for your eye glasses is on the small size—if you have thick or bulky frames, they might not fit.

I've never found a reusable spray bottle for my perfume that I've liked, so I've always relied on buying miniature versions of each of my favorite fragrances. But let's be real—those travel-size perfume bottles are expensive! They're often made of glass, too, making them vulnerable to breaking in your luggage. Enter the Vonovo mini refillable perfume bottles: Each of these holds 0.2 ounces of your favorite scent, more than enough for a long vacation. This set comes with five spray bottles, so you can bring along any of your favorites—or all of them. And they are so easy to use—simply pull off the top of your full-size perfume, press the bottom of the mini bottle on top of it, and keep clicking until its refilled. Each of the bottles have a clear vial inside so you can see how much product you have left. My favorite part: These are so tiny—think the size of a lipstick— meaning I can even bring them with me on a date night when I'm only carrying a small purse .

Pros : Easy to refill and compact enough to fit in even the tiniest of travel bags Cons : These spray bottles wont match the look of your full-size perfume and don't have labels, so you'll have to remember based on the color of the mini bottle you choose. Also, these can be refilled with the same perfume, but I wouldn't recommend reusing them with another scent.

For those with a more rigid skincare or haircare routine, this 16-pack lets you bring along every last product you want—and it all fits into one reusable case. The set comes with four silicone bottles, four jars, two spray bottles, two scoopers, a funnel, and a cleaning brush. The variety means you can pack everything from soap and shampoo to serums and sprays in here, and the cleaning brush makes the bottles easy to clean and re-use. I like this set best for packing my more expensive skincare serums and creams in the small jars that have a scooper to use.

Pros : A variety of types of containers

Cons : The toiletry case the bottles come in isn't the best quality.

The Kitsch Ultimate travel set includes leakproof holders that are compact and lightweight enough to pack in a purse or tote bag . In addition to three flat pouches, this set also comes with two pump bottles, two mini jars, one mini funnel, one mini spatula, and one mini pipette. This set is best for a longer trip—say, a European vacation or a cross-country road trip —as you can store a lot more shampoo, conditioner, and lotions in the pouches without going over any TSA limits (plus, they'll get lighter as you use them).

Pros : The flat pouches are easy to pack and take up less room in a Dopp kit than bulkier bottles.

Cons : The pouches are a little bit harder to refill than bottles with a wide opening.

If you're packing toiletries for your entire family , this 21-pack of travel bottles has you covered. This package comes with four silicone bottles, four cream jars, four toothbrush covers, two spray bottles, two pump bottles, two trowels, a funnel, and labels to keep everything straight. Whether it's a trip to Disney World or multi-generational cruise , this set makes packing for the whole family easy.

Pros : These come with toothbrush covers–a nice travel accessory that none of the other options on our list offers.

Cons : Not ideal for weekend trips or light packers.

Best travel bottles 2022. The ultimate guide to the top 10 travel containers for liquids

While there are stricter or more permissive airlines, now all carriers must follow the international safety rules for liquids. We reviewed the best travel-size bottles to make it easy for you to pick the best for your needs. When we travel, we always prefer to have our favorite hair product or face cream.

At the same time, we want to protect the clothes and other travel accessories in our suitcase. This is why it’s important that our 100ml travel bottles don’t leak and are strong enough to bear a long trip.

Leakproof, TSA-approved and BPA-free are only some of the necessary features our top travel size bottles feature, making it a great travel gift idea and a must-have whether you are packing for a family trip . Refer to our detailed guide to the best travel size containers and organize a smooth and carefree trip. To help you easily navigate and compare our best travel bottles buying guide, we have created a comparison table below.

Table of Contents

Dot&Dot leak-proof travel bottles

Dot&Dot leak-proof travel containers are the best travel bottles with clear toiletry bag packaging. These leakproof travel containers are available in 3oz, 2oz and 1.25-ounce bottle sets. They are also TSA-approved. This means you wouldn’t have any problem taking them in your carry-on bag along with your travel luggage scale and other staff.

With three leakproof walls on the lid, Dot&Dot travel containers are the best travel-size bottles for toiletries to protect your personal items from leaks and spills. These bottles are made of FDA-approved 100% BPA-free food-grade silicone to ensure they are food safe.

Our 3-oz travel bottles are also easy to clean and refill thanks to their large openings. These leak-proof travel containers are squeezable/soft, reliable and strong. They are available in many colors and sizes. In order to easily identify the contents of your toiletry containers, each travel squeeze bottle has a pre-printed ID label (shampoo, conditioner, soap, sunscreen, lotion). Overall these are some of the best travel containers for liquids boasting hundreds of high-rated consumer reviews.

Valourgo silicone travel containers

With a clear bag and 3.3 oz TSA-approved travel bottle size, Valourgo are refillable travel bottles for toiletries. Many consider this the best travel bottle package. It consists of four bottles of different colors, a lanyard and a clear bag. Each one of these TSA-approved travel bottles is 5.5″ tall and 2″ wide and has a 3.3oz/98ml capacity.

These clear travel bottles are designed with a hole in one end so that you can hang the bottle on the showerhead or around your neck.

As far as the materials go, the Valourgo leak-proof toiletries travel size bottles are 100% BPA-free. This is why you can store eatable oils in these food-grade silicone bottles. The lanyard dries quickly and makes these refillable shampoo and conditioner containers easy to carry and store.

Another reason why they are the best travel containers for liquids is the soft silicone that allows you to squeeze the very last drop of content. Valourgo leakproof travel bottles also have rotatable labels to allow the user to read what is inside the travel bottle.

A few other features that make these 100ml travel bottles some of the best travel containers for toiletries are the oz numbers embossed on the bottle, triple sealing cap, wide mouth for easy filling, suction cup and no-drip valve. Valourgo leak-proof silicone travel containers are also Amazon’s Choice because they are high-rated by consumers. Bottom line is that these toiletry containers are high-quality and some of the best leak-proof travel bottles that you can find on the market.

Chica and Jo travel-size containers

On the third place in the best travel bottles review, the Chica and Jo 2oz clear empty travel size containers. The package includes a set of 6 TSA-compliant containers and a convenient clear zip-top bag. There is also a pipette included for extracting liquids with these refillable travel bottles.

In terms of material, the Chica and Jo travel containers are BPA-free and FDA approved. Therefore, in these travel-size plastic bottles, you can store your essential oils as well as cosmetic products.

These TSA-approved containers are made in the US and they are flexible so you can easily squeeze. With the cap on, the Chica and Jo travel shampoo bottles are 4″ tall and 1.4″ wide. They are compact and leak-proof which makes them the best travel tubes for liquids for traveling.

This package of travel shampoo containers is also Amazon’s Choice because of consumer top-rated reviews. If you are looking for US-made travel containers, these 2 oz travel bottles are the best refillable shampoo bottles to consider.

LiquiSnugs Leak Proof – Silicone Travel Bottles

LiquiSnugs travel bottle set is one of the best travel containers with 98% consumer 5-star ratings. These toiletry bottles come in white clear color. This makes it easy for the user to see the product inside the bottles. LiquiSnugs package is a set of three travel-size toiletry bottles and a clear toiletry bag. They are 2 three oz travel containers and one 2 oz container. so you won’t have a problem taking them inside the plane with you.

LiquiSnugs silicone travel containers are BPA-free, TSA approved and FDA certified. You can safely store your travel toiletries in them. These travel toiletry bottles feature a triple sealing cap, easily refillable wide mouth, ID window, and suction cup. LiquiSnugs travel liquid bottles are also soft and squeezable and don’t have a drip valve.

They are food-grade silicone bottles with an anti-leak cap to prevent leaks, spills and accidental drops which makes them some of the best leak-proof travel bottles. On these refillable shampoo and conditioner bottles, the capacity is displayed so you won’t be going through any hassle in the airport. These travel-size shampoo bottles are reusable, good quality and definitely some of the best travel bottles for toiletries.

AMMAX TSA-approved toiletries containers

In this in-depth review of the best travel containers for liquids, the AMMAX squeezable travel cosmetic bottles occupy a place for multiple reasons. This package consists of four travel containers for toiletries, each of them of a size of 3 fl. oz perfect for shampoo, cream, or liquids like a face toner or eye makeup remover.

AMMAX TSA-approved travel bottles are 100% guaranteed leak-proof and BPA-free which makes them rank among the best travel containers for liquids. We recommend these top-rated silicone travel bottles due to their variety, quantity and leak-proof quality.

Oursunshine travel bottles

Next in the list of the best travel size containers are the semi-popular Oursunshine travel bottles. The package contains a 4 travel bottle kit in grey and clear colours and two travel jars for creams.

Two of the silicone travel tubes are 5″ tall and 1.3″ wide 3 oz travel bottles. The other two travel-size toiletries containers are 4.1″ tall and 1.3″ wide 2 oz travel containers. The travel jars for cream are 1.1″ tall and 1.3″ wide 10 g travel lotion containers.

Oursunshine travel-size toiletries are in Amazon’s Choice category, which indicates their quality and why they are some of the best travel bottles for toiletries.

These TSA travel bottles are BPA-free and food safe. They don’t have toxin materials and you can use these leak-proof bottles to carry your essential oils, ketchup, salad dressing etc.

Oursunshine leak-proof travel size lotion bottles have triple sealings and cross valves to make sure nothing spills out from the containers inside your luggage. With the wide mouth, these travel lotion containers are easy to refill and wash. This silicone travel bottles package is one of the best travel accessories to carry with you.

Dolovemk luxury travel bottles

In the best travel bottles review, a place is for the luxury travel bottles by Dolovemk. Without a doubt, they are some of the best travel size bottles on the market. These luxury travel bottles for toiletries are TSA approved so you can take them with you on board without any hassle.

The package contains six bottles for essential oils, perfume, serums, fragrance, cream, liquid, cosmetics etc. A zip-top clear toiletry bag is also included with these golden color, luxury travel-size spray bottles. You can easily disassemble these glass travel containers to clean or refill them.

They are also leak-proof and the travel size spray bottles feature a rubber ring all around the head to make sure they don’t leak. As far as the materials of these metallic refillable travel makeup containers go, they are tasteless, safe, durable and also reusable. While they are a few dollars more expensive compared to other bottle travel size products, they have good features and are definitely some of the best travel containers for liquids.

Beveetio travel containers

Beveetio travel shampoo and conditioner bottles are TSA approved. Each of these travel containers comes in different colors and leakproof caps to ensure there is no leakage. To make sure your bottles don’t leak, only fill the plastic travel bottles with 90% of the capacity. This way, you’ll allow room for expansion during the transportation on the airplane.

Beveetio silicon clear plastic travel bottles are flexible so you can squeeze to get every drop of the liquid out. There are five pre-labeled ID windows and also three blank labels for you to easily identify contents in plastic travel containers.

Beveetio package includes 14 leakproof travel containers, all of them lightweight and easy to carry. The package consists of 5 silicone travel bottles of 2.9oz each, 5 containers for creams, 1 spray bottle the size of 2oz, 1 pump bottle of 2oz and 1 clear bag that makes it perfect for air travel.

You can use Beveetio refillable lotion tubes to carry shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, lotions and body wash. Squeeze and release to get exactly how much you want without globs of excess oozing out. There is also a suction cup on the back of these top travel containers.

Gemice refillable travel bottles for toiletries

Another best travel accessory in Amazon’s Choice Category is the TSA-approved liquid containers by Gemice. This package has 4 3-oz spill-proof travel containers and a transparent quart-sized toiletry bag. These silicon 3.3 oz travel bottles are BPA-free and squeezable. Each travel cream container has a specific color and pre-printed label. You can also change the label if you want a different text on these refillable toiletry bottles.

Another good feature of these empty travel containers is that they are 100% money-back guarantee. So, if you don’t like these top travel lotion bottles, you can always send them back.

The Gemice small plastic bottles for travel are suitable for hair serums, oils, alcohols, salicylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, etc. There is also the capacity embossed on the bottles in case you need to show them at the airport check-in. With hundreds of 5-star ratings, these are some of the best travel jars for creams.

humangear Gotoob+ Silicone Travel Bottle With Locking Cap

Last but not least in the best travel container for liquids review is another package of 3.4 oz bottles for air travel by Humangear Gotoob+. The difference between these travel storage containers and the travel squeeze tube mentioned before is in the design. While both of the mini travel containers packages feature the same quality and materials, they vary in colour and shape.

These travel bottles are with a hole on one end of the container so you can carry them using the lanyard. The package of these travel-size bottles for airplanes includes 4x 3.3oz bottles. These silicone shampoo bottles have the same clear color on the bottle but different colors on the lids.

These empty plastic bottles for travel by Humangear Gotoob+ come in a clear travel toiletry bag which is carry-on approved. These best travel containers for toiletries are made in BPA-free and FDA food-safe silicone and feature a lock to hang on a wall through a hook. Not happy? They come with a lifetime warranty!

Things to know and reasons to use travel containers

To comply with TSA rules

The TSA has specific rules in place and if you don’t comply they will confiscate your pricey cosmetic and oils.

Mini travel bottles occupy less space

A toiletry bottle set takes less space in your bag compared to shampoo or other liquid bottles.

They are leak-proof liquid containers

Unlike other liquid bottles, there is very little chance that the travel size makeup containers leak. All our best travel containers for shampoo, oil and other liquids are leak-proof with multiple sealings in the cap/lid.

TSA’s liquid requirements?

The TSA currently allows liquids in containers 3.4 oz or smaller. Here is what TSA says : “You can bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.” Note: If you don’t want your liquid/makeup or oil to get confiscated, make sure they are in containers smaller than 3.4oz.

What is PET material?

It’s the food-grade material used in the major bottled water brands. So, if you see the term PET within the best travel bottle reviews, it means it’s safe to store food in those leak-proof travel containers. However, some of these squeezy travel bottles are not designed for food storage. You can use them only as a travel cosmetic container.

What does BPA-free travel bottles mean?

BPA, the short form of BisPhenol A is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics since the 1960s. According to some research, BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with it. Exposure to BPA is a concern because of possible health effects. That’s why we picked the BPA-free best travel containers for liquids.

Things to look for in the best travel bottles

• Wide mouth opening for easy refilling and cleaning of the travel bottle set.
• Multiple layers of sealings result in the best leak-proof travel containers.
• While most of TSA approved travel containers have the capacity written on the bottle, some travel liquid containers may not have it. Therefore, it’s better to check and make sure your travel bottles have the capacity number embossed on the bottle.
• Physical dimensions of the travel bottles are important. 5-inch tall is normal for the largest travel containers. Compact and small travel containers for cosmetics take less space.
• It’s easier to see the product in clear travel containers.
• The number of travel bottles and lid/cap options (spray cap and flip cap). Some of the refillable cosmetic bottle packages have multiple bottle sizes and options. You can use one bottle as a travel perfume container while the others for shampoo, lotion, oil etc.
• There are flexible silicone travel bottles, hard plastic travel bottle size for airlines, and glass pump bottles for shampoo.
• You can also look for the small liquid containers that have a pipette for extracting liquids, a spatula to spread or lift the products, and the funnel for easy refilling of airport travel size bottles.

Last Word On Travel Size Toiletry Bottles

While these travel bottles cost as little as $10, they can prevent several unwanted scenarios. Using any of the reviewed leak-proof toiletry bottles in this buying guide, you will be complying with TSA’s liquid rules. That means when you get to the TSA line you are not going to be told your bottles are too large. So, you won’t have to spend extra money to get them shipped or go to the airline counter for your check-in luggage or even worse, throw your favorite shampoo, sunscreen, or expensive essential oils away. Buying the travel-size bottles mentioned above will help you take your liquid on the airplane with peace of mind.

So, you won’t have to spend extra money to get them shipped or go to the airline counter for your check-in luggage or even worse, throw your favorite shampoo, sunscreen, or expensive essential oils away. Buying the travel-size bottles mentioned above will help you take your liquid on the airplane with peace of mind.

They also help you pack efficiently for years to come depending on how often you use them. While using leak-proof travel bottles, it’s also a good idea to keep your liquids in a separate compartment, preferably in your toiletry bag . When using TSA-approved quart-size bags for liquids in the carry-on, make sure they are good quality and leak-proof. Quality bags with a good seal can help to contain any leaks inside your luggage.

I'm Angela Corrias, an Italian journalist, photographer, and travel writer located in the heart of Italy's capital. Welcome to my website, your comprehensive source for your travels and expert guidance for crafting your dream travel experience.

How to Make Palak Paneer, Full Recipe of the Delicious Spinach Indian Curry

The 12 best portable travel blenders in 2022, 2 thoughts on “best travel bottles 2022. the ultimate guide to the top 10 travel containers for liquids”.

Hi, your post says “The Vumos small plastic bottles for travel are suitable for hair serums, oils, alcohols, salicylic acid, hydrogen peroxide, etc.: but the link to amazon is to a silicon set that specifically says the apposite. Do they have plastic and silicone? I need them for hair gel and creme, so important to know since I have had leaks in the past. Thanks!

They are leak-proof silicone, as we mention at the beginning of the review. We then call it plastic because silicone is a hybrid between a synthetic rubber and a synthetic plastic polymer so it’s often considered a plastic.

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The 6 Best Toiletry Bottle Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

These toiletry bottles proved completely leakproof after rigorous testing.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying

You May Also Need

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Every traveler knows the harrowing moment when you reach into a toiletry bag and feel the leakage from toiletry bottles that failed to do their job. To help you avoid the frustration of cleaning up potentially expensive liquids on your next trip, we lab-tested 14 sets of toiletry bottles to uncover the best, most leak-proof options for hassle-free travel. 

After we filled up each container with shampoo, lotion, and micellar water, we squeezed, shook, tossed, and dropped the bottles to see which ones prevailed, and which (quite literally) cracked under the pressure. At one point, it looked like the Bellagio fountain show in our lab with micellar water shooting every which way out of a tube. While we don’t recommend that particular bottle, we discovered six other sets that stood up against our rigorous (but very effective) testing methods.

Best Overall

Liquisnugs premium silicone travel bottles.

The durable and flexible silicone bottles prevent leaks even on long flights.

The suction cups often fall off shower walls.

Simple yet very effective, this set of four toiletry bottles comes with two 3-ounce bottles and two 2-ounce bottles. The lids can be unscrewed to easily fill the containers with all types of liquids thanks to the wide-mouth opening that makes cleaning out and drying the bottles a breeze, too. While watery liquids can be risky to pack, these silicone bottles kept oily and runny micellar water perfectly contained, even after we applied intense pressure to the bottles. Plus, the squishy silicone material is ideal for squeezing out every last drop of the product from the dripless valve, which makes them a money-saving travel product .

We tried several silicone bottles over our six-month test to determine which ones were the best. These stood out by being completely leak-proof, pliable yet sturdy, and durable. One of our favorite features is the removable sticker labels that help identify the contents of each bottle with common products like lotion, conditioner, and shampoo pre-printed. If you’ve been searching for no-frills toiletry bottles that get the job done, these are the best ones.

The Details: 4 pieces | Silicone | Removable labels | Suction cup

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Size Range

Morfone 16 pack travel bottles.

The set comes with different-sized silicone tubes, plastic bottles, jars, and accessories.

The lid on one of the small jars broke when we tossed the containers onto the ground.

For short or long trips and everything in between, the Morfone travel bottle set comes with all of the containers you’ll ever need. The 16-piece kit includes silicone bottles, plastic spray bottles, screw-top jars, a funnel, mini spatulas, and a scrub brush for cleaning but, of course, you can easily mix and match the containers to fit your exact needs. Not all of the bottles are the same size with 1- to 3-ounce capacities for storing as much or little product as desired, and all of the bottles have removable lids and wide openings for pouring liquids in or cleaning them out. Plus if you need some help getting liquids into the bottle or extracting the last drops, the mini funnel and spatulas are extremely helpful extras.

When it comes to durability, most of the bottles had no spillage with some rough handling except for one of the plastic jars where the lid did break off. Still, we brought these bottles in carry-on luggage as well as checked bags during our six months of tests and were impressed by their overall quality and the variety in bottle size.

The Details: 16 pieces | Silicone | BPA-free plastic | Bag included

Travel + Leisure / Jessica Juliao

Best Lightweight

Matador flatpak toiletry bottle.

The three containers are made with a lightweight nylon material that can be hooked to a bag or packed nearly flat.

It’s difficult to get thicker products into the baggies.

Matador’s toiletry bottles are the ultimate space-saving containers thanks to the fabric pouch design that can lie nearly flat after being filled with liquids. Our favorite part of these 3-ounce pouches is the snap hook at the end of the bag to attach to a backpack or bag . We also loved that the hooks double as labels that can be written on with a permanent marker to quickly identify the contents of each bag.

While we had a bit of trouble getting thicker creams into the bottom of the rectangular-shaped pouch, it was effortless to fill the smaller opening with watery liquids like shampoo. After beating up the bags a bit, there weren’t any spills, ruptures, or breakage so we feel confident that these rugged toiletry pouches have a long life ahead.

The Details: 3 pieces | Cordura nylon | Snap loop with labels

Best Budget

Vitog travel bottles kit.

The clear bottles make it easy to see when one needs a refill.

The largest bottle is only 1.3 ounces.

One of the best parts of testing a variety of toiletry bottles is discovering that the least expensive set can still rival a pricier alternative. This 11-piece kit has spray, pump, and screw-top bottles so you can fill each one with various liquids or use the two jars for jewelry and medication. The clear bottles are ideal for being able to see how much product is in each container and when it needs to be refilled. 

We had no issues filling each container with micellar water and shampoo but we had a bit of trouble getting the thicker lotion to filter through the funnel. However, once everything was filled up, these budget-friendly bottles stood up against our drops and tosses without even the tiniest droplet escaping. All of the bottles are 1.3 ounces so we wish there was a bit more variety in the capacities but, considering this set is under $1 per bottle, we’re plenty satisfied with the durable and easy-to-use selection.

The Details: 11 pieces | PET | Removable labels | Bag included

Best Large Capacity

Insfit tsa carry-on approved containers.

Each of the four included bottles can fit 3 ounces of liquids.

During a two-week trip, the provided stick-on labels came off of the bottles.

For longer trips, you may want some toiletry bottles that can hold the maximum capacity to be TSA-approved so we recommend these hefty 3-ounce ones. The four silicone tubes come with handy label stickers and a zippered case that fits all of the containers for excellent organization. With the wide-mouth openings, it was a breeze to fill up each bottle with shampoo, micellar water, and thick lotion. You can even see all the way inside the bottle when the lid is off which makes filling it up and cleaning it out even easier.

We put quite a bit of pressure on these easy-squeeze bottles and we’re happy to report that, even when filled to the brim, the contents remained in the bottles without any spillage. After six months of regularly using these bottles on weekend and long-term trips , we never suffered any spills and found the bottles to hold plenty of product.

The Details: 4 pieces | Silicone | Removable labels | Bag included

Best Color-coded

Mrsdry travel bottles.

The bottles are all different colors to keep track of what product is in each tube.

It’s difficult to get all of the product out of the bottle when it’s low and it can be hard to clean the bottles after they've been emptied.

The color palette of this set of four toiletry bottles is one of the prettiest and most helpful of all the toiletry bottles we tried. Each silicone tube is a different shade so it’s easy to designate a specific color to a liquid and tell them apart; and, after six months of use, we loved that we didn't have to worry about missing labels. (There are also additional sets with more colors so you're not limited to just four different hues.) The 3-ounce capacity is ideal for bringing plenty of shampoo, conditioner, or other liquids on both short and long trips, and the squishy silicone material makes it easy to dispense from the no-drip valve.

We did find it a little difficult to squeeze out the remaining product when the bottle was almost empty but that was our only slight issue. However, we’re big fans of the wide-top opening for loading up any product into the tube and cleaning it out after a trip. Best of all, the tubes didn’t leak at all after rough handling, and they’re easy to pack in the included zippered bag.

The Details: 4 pieces | Silicone | No removable labels | Bag included

Other Toiletry Bottles We Liked

While the containers below didn’t leak badly, the biggest issue we had with these still-high-scoring toiletry bottles is that their quality felt a bit lower than our top performers. 

Cosywell Travel Containers : These ultra-compact screw-top containers are ideal for thicker products like gel or creams but the micellar water leaked ever so slightly, and we wish the set came with a few other bottle types for variety.

Kitsch Travel Bottles : Designed for saving space and lying flat, these baggie-style containers are super easy to fill with product but the quality feels a bit flimsy and we worried that the bags could break open if too much pressure was applied while traveling.

We do some pretty serious testing in our New York City lab when it comes to determining the best of the best travel products and this toiletry bottle test was no exception. For this test, we poured travel essentials like shampoo, micellar water, and lotion into the toiletry bottles, tubes, and capsules to see how easy it was to fill each one up. Then, we squeezed, dropped, tossed, and shook the containers to simulate the rough handling and pressure when you travel by air, car, train, or even on foot with toiletry bottles. Did shampoo explode from one bottle and shoot several feet in the air? Maybe. But don’t worry, we didn’t recommend that one. 

After some rigorous (and occasionally messy) lab testing, we brought each set of toiletry bottles out on real trips to utilize over a six-month period. Arguably, the most important thing when it comes to toiletry bottles is that they safely contain the potentially pricey skin and hair care products held inside wherever you go, so we closely examined each bottle post-testing for any leaks or damage. Our favorite, winning toiletry bottles are easy to fill up, completely leakproof, and compact enough to pack in toiletry cases. 

Watch Us Test the Best Toiletry Bottles

Tips for buying toiletry bottles, prioritize leak-proof containers.

The most important thing to look for in a toiletry bottle is that it performs as expected which means all of the liquid remains sealed in the container. It’s hard to tell whether or not toiletry bottles are leak-proof until you travel with them so it’s important to read reviews and seal the bottles as tightly as you can before you pack them away for a trip. 

Know the types of bottles 

It’s amazing how many types of miniature containers there are for travel these days so it can be helpful to know which type of bottle you need depending on which products you’ll bring. There are silicone squeeze bottles that are ideal for shampoo or conditioner but if you’re packing any type of spray product, you’ll want a hard plastic bottle that comes with a spray cap. For pills, vitamins, or even jewelry, a capsule or container with a screw lid are a great option for storing smaller items. For face wash or lotion, a hard plastic bottle with a lockable pump lid can be helpful.

Consider the capacity 

The TSA restricts carry-on liquids to 3.4-ounce containers so if you’re planning to only carry a bag into the cabin, you need bottles at or below the size limits. Smaller 1- or 2-ounce containers can be easier to pack but that means you’ll have less product to work with so be sure to pack accordingly depending on the length of your trip and the amount of product you think you’ll need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a toiletry bottle tsa-approved.

For carrying liquids onto a plane, the TSA requires all containers to be at or under the 3.4-ounce size limitations. All bottles must fit in a quart-sized bag and, if a bottle is larger than 3.4 ounces, it must be checked before going through security. According to the TSA, gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols, all count as liquids and must be in approved bottles.

Do toiletry bottles have to be clear to pass TSA?

No, toiletry bottles are not required to be clear to pass TSA as long as they follow the other rules (3.-ounce bottle limitations that all fit in a single quart-sized bag). Keeping your liquids in clear bottles may speed up the screening process if there is an issue with your items during security, but you are allowed to use colored bottles if you wish. Additionally, according to the TSA travel checklist , the toiletry bag that you use to carry your bottles must be clear if you are packing it in your carry-on luggage to go through security with you. Toiletry bags that are packed in your checked luggage are not required to follow this rule, or the liquids sizing rule.

Are silicone or plastic toiletry bottles better?

In general, silicone toiletry bottles are more durable than hard plastic bottles, as they aren’t prone to cracking or breaking like harder plastic materials. However, when it comes to leaking, both can have the potential to expel liquids so it depends on the quality of each product. 

How do I clean toiletry bottles?

Cleaning out toiletry bottles can be extremely difficult depending on the style of the container. Bottles with wide mouths can be easily rinsed out and dried but other bottles with smaller necks or no cap can make it difficult to switch products. In some cases, it might be easier just to keep refilling the same bottle with the same thing but some sets will come with brushes or spatulas to clean out all of the product. 

If you're heading on a trip soon, you want to make sure you're as organized as possible. These accessories will help you keep everything in its place.

Away Large Toiletry Bag : This large toiletry bag holds more than you would expect just by looking at it. It has plenty of individual compartments to keep your things organized.

Béis The Cosmetic Case : This easy-to-pack cosmetic case from luggage brand Béis is durable, spacious, and has a luxe look. It also features a large built-in mirror, which is useful while traveling.

Port & Polish AM/PM Pill Organizer : Don't forget to take any of your pills or vitamins with this pill organizer that can fit a week’s worth of medication with clear separation for morning and evening doses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

T+L commerce writer, Anna Popp , writes most of the team's tested content where we recommend products we got our hands on in the lab or out in the world. Anna participated in this test and evaluated two types of toiletry bottles. She’s currently long-term testing the Cadence capsules while traveling and looks forward to reporting back on how they hold up over time. 

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Related Articles

The Best Travel Containers (Hint: They’re Not Travel Size)

TOILETRIES , Toiletries , Travel Beauty Tips

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Worried that you won’t have enough space for your toiletries and beauty products in your carry-on? We have the answer and they’re not travel-size! These are the best travel containers because you pack only what you need. Find out what they are, where to get them, and how to use them!

Best Travel Containers

Table of contents.

Set of 10/15/20 Gram Cosmetic Pots

Individual Pots

These are my favorite types of travel containers! I love using individual pots for items like my concealer and foundation . I don’t need to use a large quantity and they usually come in a heavy glass bottle so decanting them saves weight too. I’ve found these to be the best travel containers for small quantities.

If you need to bring toiletries like soaked cotton rounds or makeup wipes, some TFG readers use these leakproof condiment containers which have a wider diameter. A super creative option that works really well! 

Use a capsule wardrobe to pack light but create many outfits.

Set of 3/5/10/15/20 Clear Cosmetic Pots

• How to Use Them: Use them for makeup and beauty products that you won’t need often and to store individual products that you want to take in your purse. (A stack won’t do so well thrown around in your day bag or purse.)
• When to Use Them: Anytime. These travel containers  can store your bath products on short trips or on longer trips for items you won’t use often.
• At home: Have you ever used a concealer container with a pump that gives you more than what you need? Stop wasting product. You can decant the liquid or gel into one of these containers so you only get a dab of what you’ll use.

I like using the  5 gram size  for concealer, eye cream, and face scrub while I use the larger  20 gram size  for toothpaste, foundation, or face wash

Stackable travel container

Stackable Pots

This is my ultimate secret for fitting various toiletries into minimal space. Stackable pots will work extremely well for women who use a variety of different beauty products or have an extensive skincare routine.

• How to Use Them: Use one stack for shampoo/conditioner/body wash and another stack for face moisturizer/body moisturizer/sunblock
• When to Use Them: Use this strategy for weekend trips and take just what you need or if you have a longer trip and plan on buying products as you go – use the stacks for products that last a long time such as foundation , eye cream, or face moisturizer.
• At home: Use these travel containers to store jewelry, and crafts, or to consolidate half-empty products and make more room on the shelves.

Available as an individual stack or in various sizes (better value!)

GoToob travel bottle

Cylinder Soft Tubes

I prefer pots to tubes but sometimes you need a little more product or a different type of cap. These are durable but soft containers and are a fabulous choice. They tend to be leakproof and long lasting making them the best travel containers in comparison to hard, plastic bottles. GoToob is the most popular brand and has a convenient 2 fl oz size. Other popular tubes are those from the Dot&Dot store. Or, you can also pick up this 14-pack travel set that has silicone squeeze bottles AND  includes 3 pots and 2 toothbrush covers! 

• How to Use Them: Have several of each container type so you can play Tetris and make the most of the room in your toiletry bag. Use them for runny, thin liquids or for products you’d prefer not to dip your finger into.
• When to Use Them: On trips of any length based on the products that just aren’t quite right in a pot.
• At home: Using the same principles as the pots, you can maximize limited storage room in your home by decanting any product – even cooking items too!

Kitsch Toiletry Pouch Set

Flat Toiletry Pouches

Flat pouches are an amazing option, because they can fit a lot, but don’t take up any extra space if you don’t need to fill the container the whole way. They’re slim and flexible yet super secure and leakproof. What’s great about these handy space-saving containers is that the more you use, the smaller they get, so you’ll have more room in your suitcase on the way back! 

These Kitsch pouches come in a set that can be bought on their own, or grab the 11-piece set that includes pots, pumps, and a spray bottle! Readers have also highly recommended this YSUOA 12-piece set of clear pouches that come in 30ml, 50ml, and 100ml sizes. 

One reader says, “For decanting liquids, I used refillable pouches on my two last trips overseas. They worked well because they pack so flat.” 

• How to Use Them: Use them for liquids that you’ll be using often, like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, as they’ll hold a decent amount.  
• When to Use Them: Anytime, from weekend trips to long-term stays. They can store a great amount and pack slim. 
• At home: Save tons of space in your drawers or cabinet by decanting products from your bulkier bottles into these cute ones! 

Take a look at our top ten toiletry bags !

When using your own travel containers, remember these golden rules:

• Only fill 2/3 of the container in order to avoid compression leaks
•  Use a piece of saran wrap under the lid for extra leak prevention
•  Avoid water-like substances such as toner. The thinner the liquid the more likely it is to seep through.

Three more space saving “better than travel size” toiletry ideas:

• If you’re short on time and are always on the go, Convenience Kits sells one-time use toiletry sets. Buy a set and you’re good to go!
• These bulk packs are another good idea if you want to make your own one-time use sets.
•  And when you don’t have any more room for liquids just use some of these liquid-free wipes !

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
• You can 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 are the best travel containers?  Please share in the comments below!

For more ideas on space-saving packing items, please read:

• How to Use Packing Cubes to Fit Your Stuff into a Carry-on
• Packing Organizers: The Luggage Accessories that Help you Travel Light
• The Ultimate Backpack Organizer: It Will Change the Way You Travel
• Random Travel Organizers: 4 Packing Cube Replacements

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Hope you liked this post on the best travel containers. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

50 comments.

This article has been super helpful!!

Just got back from a 21-day trip – five countries! I used many of the suggestions for decanting my toiletries. My favorite is using the lip balm tubes. They are easy, potable and inexpensive. I have lotions, creams, oils etc… go into your purse or toiletry bag. I’m telling everyone!

Thanks for the great information!! I used the stacking pots on my recent 2 week trip to Colorado. Love your blog!!

These are great for travel!

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Great article on decanting for B longer trips, best trip n I’ve ever B learned!

I love the idea of using smaller containers for toiletries. My favorites are the chap stick containers and the contact lens cases. The contact lens cases are great because they stay closed and never leak. I’ve actually put clear gel Secret deodorant/antiperspirant in a chap stick container and it was enough for a 10 day trip! I am able to fit all my daily products and make up in my toiletry bag with no issues. I also have a set in my 5th wheel so I am always ready to take off in a moments notice! Thanks for all the great ideas and links!

I never thought about using these small pots for use at home, but that has now changed especially for tossing in my purse when I’m short of time. Thanks!

I love the idea of decanting products into the small pots. I was having trouble fitting everything in my 3-1-1 bag. After reading this post I ordered some different size pots to use for my facial moisturizer, hair styling cream, cream blush etc. it’s amazing how much space was saved by using these pots!

One of the first things I learned from this blog was decanting products into smaller containers for traveling light. It has been a game changer for me and one of my now normal things I do. Thanks for this amazing blog full of tips and tricks!!

After reading all of these suggestions, I actually purchased contact lens cases from Amazon and packed for my 3 week safari using them. Game changer!!

The packing list link isn’t opening for me.

Hi Rebecca, sadly we are having some access issues on the blog and are having problems solving it. 😕

But you can download TFG’s “Toiletry Packing List” right here 💻 : https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1993OivQaG9Nk4_Avu8Jzo-EzkIMfTiEM4ZXQ4CoKdGM/edit?usp=sharing&urp=gmail_link

To edit this packing list, you have two options: OPTION 1: Go to “File” in the menu above and “Make a Copy”. Open the file you copied and edit that file. OPTION 2: Go to “File” in the menu above and “Download As”. You can then download the file as an spreadsheet and edit directly in excel. To print this packing list, go to “File” in the menu above and “Print”.

Hope this helps. If you have any other problems please email us at [email protected]

I decanted my spf facial moisturizer into a pot and when I was using up the last of it, I noticed the plastic had changed texture. Has this happened to anyone else? Should I be worried about continuing to decant into this container?

Hi Lindsey, I have personally never had an issue with this so I am not sure if you should carry on using the same container. I think this has happed to a few of our other readers though. I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there about: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. ?

Same thing happened to me. I read online in another forum that it’s the sunscreen that reacts with the plastic. I read suggestions that it won’t react with nalgene plastic (I have not tried this personally yet). They sell these in travel size at the Container Store and on Amazon.

Regarding packing liquids: I always use plastic wrap under the top. If it’s an “oily or greasy” type product, I use a snack size ziplock bag to hold each. I either use ziplocks in addition to cubes when I pack, or I take an assortment of them so I can easily pack for a day trip or overnight stay without having to take a large bag with me.

Hi Terri, thank you for taking the time to share how you like to pack your liquids with us, your travel hacks are fantastic!! 🙂

as im watching the packing cubes video, where are the socks, undies. bras packed? thanks sue

Hi Sue, have a look at this TFG article for some help: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-packing-cubes-8-step-strategy-to-travel-carry-on-only/ Hope you find it useful! 🙂

Can anyone recommend small spray bottles that don’t leak for hair products?

Hi Cindy, thank you for your question! Have a look at the recommendation for small containers on this TFG article: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-travel-with-perfume/ Also I have gone ahead and published your question on TFG’s facebook page to get you the best suggestions. Our readers have the best tips so keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ hope this helps!! 🙂

I am traveling to Ghana in June. This is my first international trip and I will be gone for 3 weeks. I’m anticipating checking 1 bag but want to pack my toiletries (shampoo, conditioner and stuff) but would rather not re-purchase them in Ghana. Any suggestions

Hi Sharon, thank you for your comment! We have a variety of articles featuring different ideas for travel toiletries. Take a look: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-toiletries/ https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/downsize-toiletries/ Hope this helps. Have a wonderful time 🙂

Does anyone know where to find lightweight swimsuits without the awful foam cups they all seem to have? I am trying ( rather desperately!) to find a suit that will pack flat! I could also do without all the multiple heavy layers that most suits seem to have these days. HELP please??? Connie

Hi Connie, thank you for your comment! Take a look at this post https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-swimwear/ Hope you find it helpful 🙂

Hi Alex, I finally found those swimsuits at “ Title Nine” last year. I think the weight was about half of those I’d tried before. I ended up with all mix and match…with black or blue bottoms (one is the paddleboard short), and two colorful tops. All work very well!

Connie, have you looked at Lands End?? Their “tugless tank” swimsuit is just the ticket…comes with or without cups. Otherwise, if you want a simple one-piece suit, check out a sporting goods store for a Speedo or Arena swimsuit. During the warm months, Costco often has a large quantity of these suits for sale.

How do you label the containers? From one trip to the next, I do not remember what is in each container. Everything I have tried gets wet and peels off.

I have a Brother P-Touch labeler. It has several size choices for printing labels. The trick to keep the print from rubbing off is to put a piece of wide packing tape (like scotch tape, but wider) over the label. It works for anything, except items going directly into the shower.

Great idea Linda!

THANKS!!! That was my question also!!!

I use a sharpie on the outside or top of the lid. Once I’m back home, I wipe it off with some rubbing alcohol.

I’m a nurse, and I use the white paper tape meant for wound dressing. It’s a great all-purpose tape for travel. You can write on it with a sharpie, and still read the words even after it has been in the shower. The tape is easy to remove when you are done. I normally keep a sharpie and a roll of paper tape in my kit instead of duct tape. Check your Dollar Store for paper tape in the medical section.

Hi, I usually use the P-touch since you can make the letters very small. I also leave a bit of extra tape on each end so the ends overlap on round bottles and pots. Hope this helps…. Connie

Loved the tip on stackable and individual pots! I ordered them through the link – but got the ones with colored lids – pink and purple, woo hoo!

Great idea! Love using different colors 🙂

This is sort of a random question, but have you ever successfully packed coconut oil without having it leak and get your other toiletry bottles all greasy? If so, what containers have you used? I only need a very small container for it – it’s my face moisturizer and I use only a tiny amount every day. I’ve tried small pots, and I’m not sure what brand they are as I got them as a gift a long time ago, but they have leaked every time no matter how tightly I screw on the lid. Recently, I tried using a plastic travel bottle – the type you would normally use for shampoo – and just unscrewing the lid to dip my finger in… it only leaked a little, but it’s way too large, and it’s also not exactly convenient to have to try to stick your finger into one of those bottles when the oil is solid, haha.

Any thoughts on pots or other small containers that would be easy to access but leak-proof even when the oil melts?

Hi Joanna, I use the small pots featured in this post to travel with coconut oil. However, I have the cold pressed kind that’s in solid form not liquid. A tip is to place saran wrap between the pot and the lid – it keeps liquids from leaking 😉

get it as unrefined as possible and just freeze it in a gootube use the saran wrap trick. By the time it melts you will most likely be at the hotel if you pack it right. I made it on a 16 hour flight in a hot September (From Atlanta) this way. It was 75% solid when I used it the next morning, no leaks.

I have a few empty half-ounce bottles which originally held hand sanitizer. They have a secure top, and are tiny. If you were to warm the oil slightly, it would melt enough to decant into the container. Coconut oil is liquid at body temperature. If the oil is solid, you could melt it by running water from the hot tap over the bottle. I normallly use a one-ounce Nalgene bottle from the mountain supply store. I always use a piece of plastic bag or Saran under my caps for flying.

I use screw top contact lens cases for my eye and face creams, foundation, concealer, and any other “liquid” makeup item. They are small, typically won’t leak, and very packable. I have been doing this for years

Great idea Kimberly!

Kimberly, Ditto here! I mostly use tinted gel type make up, so one lens container has two colors of gel blush with the other carrying two shades of face gel. A little of this stuff goes a long way if ( as I do) applied with water and moisturizer at the same time. No leakes at all! For the rest I save every tiny bottle of eye drops etc. for lotions, shampoo and conditioner.

The GoToobs are terrible, actually. 🙁 They leaked from about the third time I used them, but I kept giving them another chance since I haven’t had time to find other containers. This time I arrived at my destination with the contents of all three containers everywhere. I’ve lost a huge quantity of product and had to clean up progressively larger messes.

oh no that’s too bad. the best way to avoid spills is to only fill any bottle 3/4 and add a piece of saran wrap in between the lid and the bottle. see if that helps out 🙂

I use 3 oz. containers from U.S. Plastics. Inexpensive, commercial grade, wide mouth/easy to refill.

Great tip! Thank you for reading!

I love the Go Toobs – after 3 years, the tops were no longer clicking shut tightly. I checked online to see if I could just purchase the tops. Turns out the Go Toob company has a lifetime guarantee for their products, so I emailed them and they sent me a batch of new tops! How amazing is that!!!!

WOW even more of a reason to love them!

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13 Things To Do In Saint Petersburg | Russia’s Most Beautiful City

By Author Christian L.

Posted on Published: January 17, 2021  - Last updated: September 11, 2021

Categories Europe , Destinations , Russia

Once known as Leningrad and before that Petrograd, Saint Petersburg, Russia, is the country’s second-largest city. Set next to the Neva River, close to the Baltic Sea, this city is home to over 5 million people.

It’s the world’s northernmost city, founded by Peter the Great and named after Saint Peter the apostle. Once home to the Tsars of Russia, it is today known as the country’s cultural capital.

With iconic sights such as Hermitage Museum, Nevsky Prospect, Peterhof Palace, and so much more, it has a fascinating heritage ripe for exploration. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 13 best things to do in St. Petersburg. 

Top Things to do in St. Petersburg, Russia

St. Petersburg, Europe, has grown into one of the top tourist destinations on the continent. Although it might get very cold in winter, there are still plenty of things to do – and the summers are absolutely perfect! Saint Petersburg is one of the prettiest cities in all of Europe .

Keep reading for some of my favorite choices. 

1. Visit The World Famous Hermitage Museum

One of the city’s most popular attractions (with over 3 million items in its esteemed collection), State Hermitage Museum showcases everything from fine art to ancient artifacts. 

Even if you don’t plan on entering inside, the exterior is an architectural gem in itself. The columns are all in white with green/gold facades that can be viewed from the river or Palace Square.

If you’re visiting St. Petersburg, Russia, your trip would not be complete without stopping past this world-famous landmark. It’s also a great activity to do no matter what time of year you are visiting – and a perfect way to escape those cold Russian winter days. 

There are six buildings in the museum complex in total. Five of which – Winter Palace, Small Hermitage, Old Hermitage, New Hermitage, and Hermitage Theatre – can be accessed by the public.

Within, you’ll be treated to Egyptian collections, artifacts dating from ancient Mesopotamia, and classical Greek jewelry, pottery, and sculptures. This is any historical culture lover’s dream. 

Keep exploring, and you will find collections of prehistoric relics from the Palaeolithic era to the Iron Ages, European fine arts, Impressionist works, Catherine the Great’s personal collections, and so much more.

In fact, you’ll need an entire day or possibly longer to explore this incredible museum complex. If you only have limited time in St. Petersburg, be sure to add this museum to your itinerary! There are also guided tours available if you want a more educational experience. 

Did you know? The Hermitage Museum is the world’s second-largest art museum.

2. Take in a Performance at Mariinsky Theatre

The Neoclassical Mariinsky Theatre is home to Russia’s revered opera and ballet companies.

The theatre – named after the wife of Tsar Alexandra II, Empress Maria Alexandrovna – has been here since 1860 when it was known as the Kirov Theatre.

This magnificent building, since it opened, has hosted stage performances and premieres from Tchaikovsky and Mussorgsky and famous ballets such as Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. 

Today, in addition to hosting live performances, the theatre has its own record label, which focuses on releasing music by Russian composers Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and Rachmaninov.

If you enjoy the arts and are going to be in St. Petersburg for several days, book tickets to see a world-class performance – you won’t be disappointed.

3. See Jewelled Eggs at the Faberge Museum

The House of Faberge was founded in St. Petersburg in 1842 by Gustav Faberge. Originally a jeweler, he became famous for designing jewel-encrusted eggs for the Tsars of Russia and is arguably the most famous goldsmith of the modern era. 

Today, you can view these iconic collection pieces in the Faberge Museum. It showcases 4,000 items in total, including Faberge Easter eggs, jewelry, silverware, home decor, and fantasy-themed objects.

The incredible jeweled eggs are famous all over the world, and there are several museums dedicated to them. But if you want to learn about Gustav Faberge, his family, and how it all began, this is the museum to visit. You can purchase a ticket in person or online. 

4. Spend an Hour Canal Cruising

St. Petersburg is built on 42 islands, and once upon a time (before bridges were constructed), cruising was the only way to navigate the city.

On a Golden Ring boat tour, you’ll see some of St. Petersburg’s iconic sights along the Kryukov Canal, including St. Nicholas Cathedral, Saint Isaac’s Cathedral, and the Mariinsky theatre.

You’ll dip beneath the famous colored bridges on Neva River whilst enjoying views of Peter and Paul Fortress, Vasilyevsky Island, and the Summer Garden. This is truly one of the most breathtaking ways to take in all the beauty that St. Petersburg has to offer. 

This tour also only takes around an hour, so you’ll have plenty of time to revisit your favorite spots throughout the day!

5. Discover Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood

One of St. Petersburg’s architectural masterpieces is the Church of Our Savior on Spilled Blood.

This former Russian Orthodox Church was completed in 1907 and is built in Baroque, Neoclassical, and Russian Revival design. It is one of the city’s main attractions, with ornate domes, intricate frescoes, and 7,500 square meters of mosaics inside. 

If you don’t wish to enter, you can gain incredible views from Griboedov Canal. But if you do venture inside, you’ll be rewarded with interior frescoes and mosaic works depicting biblical scenes and figures created by celebrated Russian artists of the time.

The Church of the Saviour of Blood is built on the spot where Emperor Alexander 2 was assassinated in 1881 – hence the name. So, not only will you be able to appreciate the fine architectural designs, but also explore an important part of Russian history. 

6. Take a Rooftop Walk-in St. Petersburg

If you have viewed the city from canals and rivers, try it from the rooftops! You can take a guided rooftop walk in the city, seeing streets and skylines from an elevated perspective.

One particular tour to highlight is the Official Rooftops Excursion of St. Petersburg. Just a few minutes from Nevsky Prospect, these sites offer vistas of Fontanka River and Trinity Cathedral – and that’s just the first roof.

The second roof boasts views of St. Petersburg’s old center, St. Isaac’s Cathedral, Kazan Cathedral, and the Church on Spilled Blood.

This is a truly incredible way to see the city in all its glory, plus the tour provides you with binoculars so you can see everything in great detail.

7. Admire Nevsky Prospect’s Magnificent Architecture

The main street of St. Petersburg is Nevsky Prospect. Begin at the intersection at Stroganov Palace before venturing to Kazan Cathedral. While you walk, take in the monuments dedicated to Catherine the Great and browse goods at The Passage – Nevsky Avenue’s premier department store.

This store was quite the trailblazer. It opened its doors in the late 1840s and was one of the first buildings in Russia to use gas for lighting. Then, in 1900, an electric station was installed on an underground floor.

Once you’ve finished shopping and enjoyed a fresh cup of coffee, continue to the Russian National Library – the oldest public library in Russia – and Alexandrinsky Theatre (which was built for the Imperial troupe of Petersburg).

8. Visit the Island of Peter and Paul Fortress

Set on an island connected by bridges, Peter and Paul Fortress is instantly recognizable from its needle spire, which dominates the skyline. The fortress was originally built to defend the maritime city from Swedish invaders.

However, Peter the Great defeated the opposition before it was even completed! It has since served as a military center and prison for political dissenters and, latterly, as a museum.

Inside the vast complex, you can see Peter and Paul Cathedral, visit the resting place of the Romanovs, and watch military processions or the firing of the noon-day gun.

It’s a great day trip for anyone interested in Russian, maritime or military history. There are also plenty of group walking tours available. 

9. Sample Russian Vodka in a Ryumochnye

A visit to Russia wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local drink – vodka, and the best place to do this is in a Ryumochnye. This is a specific style of 19th-century Russian drinking house that not only offers some of Russia’s best vodka but also a short history lesson.

You could call it a bar, but it’s more than that – most mainstream Ryumochnye have a definite Soviet vibe and are places for working men to kick back and enjoy vodka with their buddies.

Beverages come in bottles or shot form, and some places offer self-service and snacks.

If that sounds too hardcore for your taste, there are updated versions of Ryumochnye in the city, like Mayak in St. Petersburg, where you can gain a similar experience. 

10. Enjoy local Saint Petersburg Craft Beer

Although most people think of vodka when visiting Russia, you can also enjoy some of the best craft beer in Saint Petersburg . Russia’s second-largest city has an exciting, rapidly growing craft beer scene, in part due to its history and geography.

Historically, the Russian empire was influenced by Northern Europe, and the Dutch & English beer-drinking culture eventually made its way here. Today, Saint Petersburg is home to a growing number of modern microbreweries, cool taprooms, and stylish bars.

Saint Petersburg is also home to Stepan Razin Brewery, the oldest brewery in Russia (now, of course, owned by Heiniken). It opened in 1795, but today the building is known as the Saint Petersburg Beer Museum, showcasing the history of beer in Russia and the Soviet Union.

Russia’s largest and most popular brewery, Baltika, is also located in Saint Petersburg, and it’s possible to take a tour of their huge brewery.

11. See the Majestic Catherine Palace

A stately palace of blue and gold, Catherine’s Palace is located 26 kilometers south of St. Petersburg. Named after the wife of Peter the Great, this place was originally a two-story modest building commissioned in 1717.

The exterior, which stretches for one kilometer in circumference, is surrounded by woodlands, lawns, gilded balconies, and reliefs. However, the interiors are even more impressive.

With great halls, a white dining room, an amber room, and more. It’s the perfect place to step back into history and discover what life was like as a Russian aristocracy.

12. Explore Peterhof Palace

If you’re going to visit Catherine Palace, you should tour Peterhof too. It’s a 40-minute drive away, but you can even take a hydrofoil speed boat from right behind the Hermitage in Saint Petersburg center.

Sitting close to the Baltic Sea, Peterhof Palace was constructed by Peter the Great to be Russia’s version of Versailles. The opulent residence surrounded by sculptures, fountains, and tiered staircases leading to the grand entrance evokes mystery and the history of a bygone era.

Inside it is lavishly decorated with dazzling chandeliers, one-of-a-kind artworks and beautiful ceiling frescoes.

On a guided tour, you can learn more about the palace’s history. Discover the Throne Room, Portrait Hall and Peter the Great’s Oak Study. You’ll see dining rooms set for dinner, grand ballrooms where dancing and gatherings would take place, and décor which defies time.

The palace offers great insight into his life and legacy, and if you are interested in history, art and interior design, you’ll love it.

Want to know more about Peterhof?

13. Spend a Day by the Finnish Border at Vyborg

Just over an hour from central Saint Petersburg by train is the city of Vyborg. It sits on the Gulf of Finland and was first settled back in the 12th century. The city has been occupied by Finnish and German forces and suffered extensive damage during the Second World War. However, it has since been rebuilt. 

It’s a charming center to wander around, with narrow cobbled streets, a medieval castle, and Finnish art nouveau structures sprinkled throughout. An easy day trip from St. Petersburg, it can also serve as a stop-off point if you’re crossing into Finland to continue your adventure.

Want to know more about Saint Petersburg?

Where is St. Petersburg | Is St. Petersburg in Europe?

If you want to know “Where is Saint Petersburg?”, you’ve come to the right place. Beautiful St. Petersburg is located in northern Russia. Russia is a massive country, so it is no surprise that many people want to know “Is Saint Petersburg in Europe?”. The answer is yes. 

How to Get to Saint Petersburg

The maritime city is well linked to Europe by air, sea, rail and road. Depending on where you’re traveling from and the rest of your itinerary, you can use one of the following ways to arrive at St. Petersburg.

You can fly into Saint Petersburg through Pulkovo International Airport. There are around 1,100 international flights a week and 1,200 domestic flights operating in and out of the local airport.

Although many flights from European cities to Saint Petersburg are direct, you may have to change flights if flying from further afield.

It’s also possible to travel to St. Petersburg by train. The most popular (and most frequent) routes operate from Moscow, Helsinki, and Tallinn. However, there are options to travel from other areas in central Europe, central Asia, and eastern Europe by rail.

There is a central bus station in Saint Petersburg, with services to and from Moscow, Pskov, Novgorod, Vilnius, Riga , Tallinn and Helsinki. Some of these journeys can be long and arduous.

Therefore, thorough research and choosing the right bus company is important.

Baltic Sea Cruises also operate to St. Petersburg as part of a larger itinerary, and St. Peter Line Ferry sails from Helsinki in Finland and Tallinn in Estonia.

Exploring Saint Petersburg, Russia

Saint Petersburg is the 5th most populous city in Europe and also a leading tourist destination. Although people sometimes forget about Russia, this city is breathtakingly beautiful and provides plenty of cultural and historical attractions.

Now that you know where to go, I hope you have an amazing time in Russia’s most beautiful city.

Friday 19th of January 2018

Thank you! So great review about our St. Petersburg!

What to do in St. Petersburg in 1 day - Probe around the Globe

Thursday 11th of May 2017

[…] more about the beauty of St. Petersburg from the Unusual […]

Friday 17th of June 2016

Which hostel did you stay at? I am potentially thinking of going to Russia for World Cup 2018 after my World Cup trip to Brazil two years ago. Saint Petersburg is one of the host cities, and so I am very interested in learning more about this city and recommendations from fellow travellers who have been.

Christian L.

I stayed at Soul Kitchen Junior, and I will go so far and say its by far the best hostel I have ever stayed at!! Anywhere in the world, no other hostels even get close to it:)