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Pamper the beauty maven in your life with travel minis. At Macy’s, you’ll find both covetable  beauty gift sets  as well as stand-alone travel-size versions of best-selling and cult favorite products. These tiny treats make excellent perfume, skin care, and makeup stocking stuffers that will please even the most discriminating beauty aficionados.

Travel Size > Full-Size Beauty Products Why gift travel-size products? Whether you’re planning to give  skin care products  or a favorite perfume, miniature beauty gifts, and travel-size toiletries are sized perfectly for packing in a carry-on travel bag, gym duffel, or purse. Travel minis also make a fun way to introduce the recipient to  new beauty products  as a fun, low-stakes experiment. If they love it, they can get a larger size later. If not, travel-size beauty products contain such a small amount of product and come with such a minimal financial commitment that they can move on without guilt.

Give New Beauty Finds and All-Time Faves Which mini beauty products make good gifts? That depends on the recipient.  Travel-size skin care  is a safe bet, especially if you know what brands or products the giftee already uses. Upgraded everyday basics like cleansers and moisturizers are always welcome. Since skin care products like serums, eye creams, and treatments are usually more expensive, beauty minis of these formulas feel like an extra-luxurious splurge. For the giver, they add an affordable but decadent touch to any present. However, some people prefer travel-size cosmetics or  women’s perfume  over skin care stocking stuffers. Seasonal makeup colors and new scents in petite, portable sizes are just as much of a joy to open. Not sure where to start? Check out the beauty section of our  Holiday Gift Guide  for present ideas that will inspire you—and delight them.

Shop at Macy’s for travel-size beauty gifts to make the holiday season sparkle.

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Best bags for MacBook Pro in 2023

Catherine Cargill's Avatar

Roundup of laptop bags for the latest MacBook Pro

mac travel small bag

When deciding on a functional and valuable laptop bag, we recommend investing in a quality bag made of long-lasting materials and hardware. There is a wide variety of options, from budget to bougie, but choose one that fits your lifestyle and price point.

All bags in this list have models that will fit the latest MacBook Pro, but make sure you choose the correct size. This bag list is not all-encompassing but a solid starting point for different users, from business travelers to college students.

Aer City Pack Pro

The Aer City Pack Pro is a durable commuter laptop backpack that will last you for many years. It is made with durable and water-resistant ballistic nylon to protect your MacBook on rainy days.

Aer City Pack Pro

This backpack has a lay-flat main compartment with large zipper pockets for storage and organization. If you often pack a charging cable, mouse, and other gear along with your laptop, the different compartments will help you organize your tech.

The Aer City Pack Pro has a padded laptop pocket with a soft lining that fits up to a 16-inch laptop. This laptop pocket is suspended, which means the compartment ends before the bottom of the backpack. This way, your MacBook stays safely off the bottom of the bag when upright.

This bag has quality YKK zippers and Duraflex plastic hardware. It comes with quick-access pockets on the top and side of the backpack for your smaller personal items like keys or sunglasses. There are also exterior water bottle pockets for small to medium-sized water bottles.

This daily commuter backpack can double as a light travel backpack and comes with luggage straps to slide over your carry-on luggage handle. The backpack straps and back panel have ample padding to help keep your back and shoulders comfortable even if you have a fully loaded backpack.

The Aer City Pack Pro comes in black, gray, olive, or black X-Pac. X-Pac is a durable sailcloth material made with waterproof laminate. It holds up to 24 liters, so it's a roomy and durable backpack for your daily commute.

Buy this premium quality backpack for $209 exclusively from Aer .

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

The Peak Design Everyday Backpack pulls double duty as a laptop bag and a camera bag for photographers and videographers. Besides a dedicated compartment large enough to hold a 16-inch MacBook Pro , there is space with padded dividers for your camera gear.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

This backpack comes in 20 L or 30 L, so choose your size according to your laptop and gear. The 30 L fits a 16-inch MacBook Pro , but get the 20 L to ensure a more secure fit if you have a smaller laptop.

This Peak Design backpack includes various pockets and zipper compartments in this bag to keep all your gear organized. Be aware that a zipper pocket in the main compartment may scratch your LCD camera lens, so pack your equipment carefully to avoid this.

This backpack comes with three FlexFold dividers adjustable to your needs. Depending on how many camera lenses you're carrying and the size of your lenses, these dividers are helpful to keep everything organized and padded for protection.

There are two ways to access the main compartment making it easy to get what you need during a photoshoot. You can open the bag from the top flap with the adjustable MagLatch, or turn your backpack on either side and use the zipper.

Carrying a camera, lens, and laptop can quickly add weight. This backpack makes carrying a heavy load easier with a sternum strap and padded contoured shoulder straps.

The backpack material is made of water-resistant nylon canvas and can expand to fit more things. One way to expand the bag is to adjust the position of the MagLatch, and another option is to attach the included external straps to fit items like blankets on the outside of the backpack.

This handsome backpack will earn you some style points and is available in black, dark gray, light gray, and blue. Besides being good-looking, there are theft-deterrent features like looping the external zippers through the carry loops to deter pickpockets.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack retails for $279.95 and is available on Amazon , but shop directly from Peak Design for more color and size options.

Nomatic Travel Bag

This roomy travel bag comes with a laptop sleeve for remote workers traveling with a MacBook. We recommend getting the 30 L size to fit into a plane's overhead bin easier, but it also comes in a 40 L.

Nomatic Travel Bag

A laptop pocket is inside the main compartment, and the 30 L size can fit a 14-inch MacBook Pro . A thick strap secures this laptop sleeve instead of a zipper, so you can quickly access your laptop through TSA.

On one side of the bag is a zippered compartment with an array of zipper and mesh pockets for your smaller accessories like charging cables. There is also an RFID zipper pocket for items like your passport and credit cards.

This bag keeps your tech and travel accessories dry on rainy days. The bag is water-resistant tarpaulin made of 90% polyester and 10% nylon.

This versatile bag has two shoulder straps and a chest strap to use as a backpack and another pair of straps as a duffel bag.

This travel bag is perfect for digital nomads but could also be used as a gym bag if you go straight from the gym to the office. There is a shoe compartment with ventilation holes, and NOMATIC claims it can fit two pairs of US size 12 men's shoes.

Get the NOMATIC Travel Bag for $279.99 or Amazon .

Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack

The Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack is a good solution for those who frequently find themselves in the great outdoors. The external fabric has a shiny and crumpled look and is designed more for outdoor functionality than style.

Patagonia Black Hole Travel Pack

The backpack's external fabric is thermal plastic urethane film laminate, so this is a noisy bag. It is made with durable ripstop polyester, and the body and lining fabrics have a durable water-repellent finish.

It comes with an internal laptop sleeve that can hold a 15-inch laptop. Since the sleeve is lightly padded, this is best for a 14-inch MacBook with a slim laptop case for extra protection.

Thoughtfully, this space comes with a reservoir tube port at the top of the back panel, so if you decide to leave your MacBook in the cabin and go for a hike, you can insert a hydration reservoir in this space to stay hydrated while trekking.

This 25 L travel pack can hold many things, but there are plenty of pockets and compartments, so your items don't get lost in the black hole. There is a large main compartment to hold your travel and tech essentials, a small zippered mesh pocket for important things like cards, and a pocket next to the laptop sleeve for a small tablet or documents.

Since you can access everything only with the opening at the top of the backpack, we suggest strategic packing so that you don't have to keep looking for things buried at the bottom.

If you need to stuff this backpack to the brim, it comes with a lateral strap to help with weight distribution. To carry the load easier, you can adjust the strap to be a chest strap or a waist strap, depending on your size.

It's available on Amazon for $187.03, but you would find better color selections from REI with current sale prices starting at $88.93.

Kenneth Cole

This Kenneth Cole genuine leather laptop bag is classy and pairs well with everyday office attire. This bag comes in three colors: black, dark brown, or cognac.

Kenneth Cole Reaction leather laptop bag

This messenger bag features spacious interiors, with plenty of space for a 16-inch MacBook Pro , an iPad Pro, and other documents and tech accessories for your workday. The padding is limited in this leather bag, so we would recommend using a laptop sleeve for added protection.

Internal pockets include any RF ID-protected pocket and credit card slots. There are also two well-placed large front pockets under that flap for easy access to things like a cell phone or a battery pack.

The comfortable shoulder strap is adjustable up to 60 inches, so you can also use this as a crossbody messenger bag. This bag has a top handle to carry as a briefcase, but the shoulder strap is not removable.

The material is thick and sturdy full-grain Colombian leather to last you for many years. Shop this leather messenger laptop bag directly from Kenneth Cole for $260 or from Amazon starting at $175.

We highly recommend investing in a quality laptop bag for your MacBook Pro, but for users looking for the cheapest option, this budget bag delivers a host of pockets for tech users on the go. This bag comes in three sizes ranging from 18 L to 27 L.

Lovevook laptop backpack

The Lovevook bag is a nylon fabric laptop backpack with a top handle. It opens up to the main compartment with an internal laptop sleeve.

The 27 L size can easily hold a 16-inch MacBook Pro. There are many pockets inside the main compartment for your tech essentials, from a tablet to a power bank.

For a budget bag, it has thoughtfully designed compartments such as an elastic water bottle holder, an anti-theft pocket at the back of the backpack, and even a slotted pocket to hold a pack of tissues. There is also a USB port to keep charging your gear on the go.

The Lovevook bag comes in 15 colors and is available on Amazon with prices starting from $28.97 depending on the color and size you choose.

For business users who need a durable premium option, Tumi is a well-known luxury brand loved for its durable luggage solutions.

Tumi laptop brief

The Tumi laptop briefcase is made of their signature FXT ballistic nylon which is a premium-quality material. It will last well beyond your next MacBook upgrade.

This laptop briefcase comes with many compartments without being too bulky. The interior padded laptop compartment can fit a 16-inch MacBook Pro. Along with that are a padded pocket for your tablet and other pockets for your small tech essentials.

There are three zippered external pockets. Two are U-shaped pockets, the larger one being a water-resistant pocket with another zippered pocket nestled inside. There is also a slim outside pocket for your phone to slide into and maintain quick access.

It would be not very good to lose this functional bag with a premium price tag. Thankfully, this bag comes with a Tumi Tracer product recovery program for users who don't want to purchase yet another AirTag . The Tumi Tracer is a complimentary program that Tumi uses for its customers in case their bag is lost or stolen.

For added functionality, this bag has removable padded shoulder straps if you choose not to use it as a briefcase. This bag looks good in black, but you can add a pop of color for an additional price.

If you are gifting this investment piece, you can add a classic monogram for personalization and include a complimentary gift box during purchase.

Shop this bag directly from Tumi for $525.

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The maciOS

5 Best Mac Mini Cases and Carry Bags

If you’re looking for a case for your Mac Mini, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve been scouring the Internet to find some of the best cases I could get my hands on, and I’ve rounded them up here for your convenience.

“I don’t want a case,” you might be saying. “I just want it out of sight, out of mind.” Okay, so the Mac Mini isn’t the prettiest computer around, but it’s got a lot going for it—not only is it a stylish little machine that fits seamlessly into any decor thanks to its compact size, but it’s also got ample processing power, making it a great multimedia center for connected TV setups. All you need is a few cables and maybe an external hard drive or two, and you can have your movies, music and photos all in one place.

Best Mac Mini Cases, Bags and Hard Covers

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But if you’re planning on having this computer out in the open or taking it from room to room—and who doesn’t love watching movies in bed?—you’ll definitely want a case for it. Keeping dust away from your computer is simple enough with a case, plus there are other benefits to consider:

  • Cases add extra protection should your Mac Mini get knocked over or fall off a table

When you’re looking to protect your Mac Mini from bumps and bruises, it’s hard to find a solution that’s both functional and aesthetically pleasing. After all, the Mini is beautiful as it is; why cover it up with a bulky case? However, a slim-line case may not offer enough protection for your precious device. The best cases strike a balance between protection and style without adding too much extra bulk or weight to the computer.

Mac Minis are beautiful machines on their own—the sleek aluminum chassis gives them a sleek look that just screams high-quality craftsmanship. But one of the design flaws of the Mini (and most Apple products in general) is its build quality: the casing has been known to break if dropped even once, making it susceptible to scratches and cracks. A protective case can help safeguard your device from these external damages.

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The first question you should ask yourself when looking for a case is what you intend to do with your Mini. Will you be traveling with it? If so, you’ll want something more protective than the Seidio Convertible Advanced Case, which makes it easy to use your Mac in tablet mode but doesn’t provide adequate protection against drops.

Below are the 5 best Mac Mini Cases and Carry bags that you can buy right now

Mac Mini are an excellent compact computer which can be used as a media center or as a home server. Choosing the right case for your Mac Mini is very important. You don’t want to spoil your new Mini by putting it in an unsuitable case. Here are the 5 best mini Mac cases and carry bags that you can buy right now!

There are tons of options out there, but I’ve narrowed it down to five of my favorites.

1 RLSOCO Hard Case for Apple Mac Mini

RLSOCO Hard Case for Apple Mac Mini

One of the most popular choices for Mac Mini protection is a hard case. This is because it’s essentially like a portable suitcase for your computer, so you can take it anywhere with you that you’d take a laptop. Plus, it’s easy to pack and unpack, since many of them come with separate compartments within the case. You’ll likely want something that has a handle or straps you can carry it by, and also something that doesn’t weigh enough to be difficult to carry.

For the ultimate mac mini protection, choose the RLSOCO Hard Case for Apple Mac Mini M1 & Mac Mini. This one is compatible with both older and newer models of Mac Mini computers, so you won’t need to worry about whether or not your computer will fit in this one. It’s made of high-density EVA and excellent 1680D Materials, which means that it offers top class protection while still being flexible enough to allow you to hold other things in addition to your Mac Mini. 

2. SwissDigital Circuit BackPack for Mac Mini

SwissDigital Circuit BackPack for Mac Mini

SwissDigital is known for its stylish, functional cases and bags, and their Circuit backpack for Mac Mini and MacBook is no exception. Perfect for the business or college traveler on the go, this backpack has a padded interior ring that fits the Mac Mini perfectly, while leaving room inside the bag for a laptop up to 13 inches (and even a larger 15 inch MacBook Pro).

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The bag features an integrated USB charging port in one of its pockets, so that you can keep your MacBook charged while you’re on the road. The bag also comes with RFID protection, which helps prevent thieves from stealing your identity through radio waves emitted by your credit cards and other RFID-enabled devices.

3. Hermitshell Travel Case for Mac Mini (Best Cheap budget Mac Mini Case)

Hermitshell Travel Case for Mac Mini (Best Cheap budget Mac Mini Case)

This case is super versatile, making it the perfect storage solution for your Mac mini. The exterior of the case is made from high-quality nylon, and it also comes with a shoulder strap so you can easily tote your computer around. There are four main compartments in the case:

A few different aspects of this design deserve special mention. The case has been specially designed to fit the Mac mini perfectly, so you won’t have to worry about the case being too big or small for your computer. It also has enough room to store small accessories like a USB keyboard, mouse, flash drive, and even an Apple TV remote control.

The case is secured with two latches on the inside, as well as a zipper, so you can safely store your equipment without worrying about it getting damaged during transport. And because it’s so lightweight and portable, you can easily use this to transport your computer all over—from home to work to school or even on long trips.

4 KROSER Premium Briefcase Case for Mac Mini Under $50

KROSER Premium Briefcase Case for Mac Mini Under $50

If you love to travel, work from home, go to school, or simply need a convenient way to carry your laptop and other gadgets, the KROSER Premium Briefcase Case for Mac Mini could be the perfect fit. This laptop briefcase is made of water-repellent poly fabric, has roomy compartments for your laptop, files and notebooks, and can accommodate an iPad as well—perfect for all of your on-the-go needs!

The Premium Briefcase Case for Mac Mini fits laptops up to 17.3” in size and is ideal for taking with you anywhere. It’s spacious enough that you can easily keep a few items in there with your computer, including a tablet, pens, pens and more. The separate compartment has a special RFID pocket that protects important documents from identity theft by blocking out frequencies used at toll booths or libraries. With its simple design and sturdy construction, this laptop briefcase is sure to be a staple of your life.

5. o2CREA hard travel case for Mac Mini

o2CREA hard travel case for Mac Mini

The 41.16-cm Apple Mac mini M1 is an excellent computer; however, its small size does not mean that you can’t find a case for it. The o2CREA Hard Case Replacement Case for Apple Mac Mini is a generic hard shell case designed to protect the computer from drops, scratches, bumps, splash, and dust. This compact Apple M1 Mac mini case is shockproof and water resistant. But don’t worry! It will not impede your computer’s functionality—it has been designed specifically to fit perfectly with the Apple M1 Mac mini.

This new replacement travel case for the Apple Mac mini computers comes with more space to accommodate the computer itself as well as any additional accessories you have. It can hold up to six different accessories. Don’t be afraid to take it on your next adventure with this handy travel case for your Apple M1 computers!

You can Buy any of these recommended Mac mini cases and Bags

While the Mac Mini is a powerhouse of a computer, it can also be vulnerable and prone to damage. Choosing one of the best Mac Mini cases -or- best Mac Mini skins to give your computer protection will go a long way toward ensuring that your investment runs free from accident or mishandling. I recommend any of the options in my list to give your beloved computer extra covering.

The best Mac mini case is all about what feels comfortable to you as a user and looks stylish. If a design takes up little desk space and can be easily tucked away, that makes it ideal. I also prefer a Mac mini case with integrated features like air flow, cable ports and key lock slots.

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14 Best Makeup Bags to Keep Your Beauty Stash Organized

A place for all your go-to makeup, from blushes to brushes.

mac travel small bag

Byrdie / Alexander Huang

Every makeup wearer should have a designated cosmetic bag. Not only are they cute, but they're designed to keep beauty products organized and hygienic . There are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from everyday kits to on-the-go pouches .

Although there’s no one-size-fits-all option, there are certain features of a makeup bag that make it a worthy investment. "Ideally, the bag will be resilient, waterproof, and easy to wipe down ," says New York makeup artist Jamie Dorman . "This makes it easy to keep makeup sanitary and clean up any products that have made it out of their containers.

We conducted hours of research on the best makeup bags , evaluating them on quality, design, capacity, and extra features . Our team then combined these results with our research of fan favorites plus makeup artist-recommended picks to create this list of top-rated choices. From hard-shell cases and catch-alls to hanging satchels and TSA-approved transparent pouches, you've got lots to choose from.

Where We Stand

How we researched.

  • What To Look For

Why Trust Byrdie

Best overall, beis the cosmetics case.

Compact yet spacious

Magnetized brush holder

Water-resistant

Limited colors

We absolutely adore this simple yet chic number from Béis. Measuring 9.5 x 7 x 4 inches, The Cosmetics Case is conveniently compact but more spacious than it looks . Inside, there's a magnetized removable brush holder with a pouch-style enclosure and a sizable zipper pocket on the back. Then there are three suitcase-style pockets in the main compartment and a slip pocket on the lid with a removable mirror for on-the-go application . 

This spill-proof makeup carrier has a faux leather exterior that resists crushing, and the lining is easy-to-clean , water-resistant polyester. We only wish it came in a wider variety of colors. 

Who It’s For

This spacious bag has pockets and compartments to stash all your makeup securely. It’s our top pick for virtually everyone. 

Dimensions: 9.5 x 7 x 4 inches | Material: Polyurethane | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, Beige

Best Splurge

Royce new york double zip leather toiletry bag.

Saksfifth Avenue

Waterproof lining

Too small for some

If you're willing to shell out a little more for the perfect carrier, you won't regret investing in Royce's Double Zip Toiletry Bag. It's made of buttery-soft yet durable, genuine leather with a waterproof, stain-resistant lining . It'll fit effortlessly in any suitcase or overnight bag, but it still offers plenty of room for your must-haves . Our only complaint is that it might be a little on the small side, depending on the size of your makeup collection. 

Chic and durable, this leather toiletry bag is worth the money if your beauty budget can afford it. 

Dimensions: 7.75 x 4.5 x 5 inches | Material: Leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, Blush Pink, Navy Blue

Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag

Dagne Dover

High-quality design

Great color selection

Doesn't resist crushing

For more modest makeup collections (or when you’re just looking to take some of the key players on a trip), we recommend the small size of Dagne Dover's Hunter Bag. This thoughtfully designed pouch measures just 7.5 x 4.5 x 4 inches . It's made of water-resistant neoprene and has a removable zipper pocket, a dust bag, and three elastic loops for securing your brushes or lip products. The color options are something to admire too. 

Commerce Associate Editorial Director Jill Di Donato loves this makeup bag. She gushes often about its neoprene material—which makes it easy to clean (and keep clean) —and its zip compartments that are ingeniously designed for travel . This one doesn’t resist crushing , though, so don’t pack it in your checked luggage. 

If a petite pouch is perfect for your needs, we highly recommend this one. 

Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 x 4 inches | Material: Neoprene | Closure: Zipper, snap

Best Budget

Narwey makeup bag.

Most affordable on our list

Not the most durable

This water-resistant cosmetics bag has room for all the essentials and won't break the bank. Available in two sizes and several colors , it's got a main compartment, two side pockets, and three narrower sleeves for makeup brushes , eyeliner, mascara, lipstick—you name it. It’s not the most durable, but that’s to be expected given the affordable price point. 

If you’re looking for a makeup bag that will do the job for less money, this budget option fits the bill. 

Dimensions: 9 x 7 x 4 inches for large | Material: Polyurethane | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, Grey, Purple, Red +more

Best Waterproof

Meiyuuo waterproof makeup bag.

Made from waterproof materials

Holds its shape

No compartments

Need something that'll stand up to all spills, splashes, and maybe even a little rainfall ? This waterproof makeup bag is our colorful, cute pick. Made of smooth vegan leather with a wipeable nylon lining , it's lightweight yet durable and holds its shape well . It comes in several chic colors , too, ranging from millennial pink to mint green to marigold. The only downside is that there are no compartments to keep items organized inside. 

If you know your makeup bag will get messy, this waterproof option is for you. However, if like having compartments, it might let you down.

Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 4.5 inches | Material: Faux leather | Closure: Zipper

Best Hanging

Bosidu hanging travel toiletry bag.

Has lots of transparent compartments

Resists crushing

Zipper can be finicky

It’s always nice to have a makeup bag that you can unfold without taking up precious counter space. This handy cosmetics bag can be hung from the back of a door, on a towel hook , or really anywhere with a knob. Made of sturdy canvas with a thermoplastic interior and vegan leather accents , it's also crush-resistant and waterproof . Inside, there are multiple compartments and zippered pockets , all transparent so you can easily see all your products . The zipper can be a little finicky , so patience is key with this one. 

This hanging toiletry organizer is a must-have for frequent travelers–or anyone who prefers to keep their makeup collection hung up and out of the way.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 10 x 4.5 inches | Material: Canvas, faux leather, thermoplastic | Closure: Zipper

Best Standing

Glossier the beauty bag.

Glossier 

Multiple pockets

Removable inner pouch

Stands upright

Only one color

Glossier's take on the makeup bag is this cleverly designed catch-all. At 9.5 x 7 x 3 inches, it's tall enough to fit your brushes, pencils, and full-size skincare products yet wide enough to stand upright without support. However, it’s still somehow conveniently compact . 

There are various pockets and compartments to help you stay organized on the go, and thanks to the coated cotton exterior , you won't have to worry about spills, splashes, or stains. It only comes in Glossier’s signature color, so you need to be a pink fan for this one. 

If a standing bag with space for all your skincare and makeup essentials suits your needs best (and you like pink) then look no further. 

Dimensions: 9.5 x 7 x 3 inches | Material: Coated cotton | Closure: Zipper

MAC Cosmetics Carry All

MAC Cosmetics

Great size for home or travel

Strap for easy transport

Made from durable nylon

Reviewers say it looks cheap

If your makeup stash desperately needs a new home, the MAC Carry All Case is a sound investment. It’s roomy, with plenty of space for the average cosmetics collection, and comes complete with brush compartments, a mirror, and a strap for easy transportation. Reviewers complained that the bag looked cheap but it’s durable and easy to clean , so if you’re just looking for something simple that’ll hold everything, you can’t go wrong with this one. 

This spacious carry-all bag has space for your entire makeup collection–perfect if you’re looking for an everyday organizer.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 5 x 6 inches | Material: Nylon | Closure: Zipper

Best for Makeup Artists

Make up for ever professional bag.

Multiple compartments

Transparent mesh pouches

This generously sized carrier was designed with makeup artists in mind . Measuring roughly 16 x 11 x 6 inches, it's got multiple compartments, pockets, and zip-up mesh pouches so you can keep your collection organized and in full view while working on clients (or yourself). You can tote it around by the handles or use the cross-body strap when you need your hands free. Though it only comes in one color, black is an undeniably professional choice.

Oversized and equipped with a myriad of compartments, this bag is best for professional makeup artists––or those with an oversized collection of makeup. 

Dimensions: 16 x 11 x 6 inches | Material: Polyester | Closure: Zipper

Paravel See-All Vanity Case

Stylish design

Easy to clean

Lined in case of spills

Can be personalized with a monogram

No compartments for organization

This Paravel option is perfect for those with a penchant for luxury brands or showing off their beauty wares (we’re sure you know a few). Made from a sturdy, wipeable eco-canvas and wrap-around clear window , this clear train case is as practical as it is aesthetic . You can see exactly what you’ve packed , so there’s no digging around aimlessly searching for a hair tie or lip balm . This also makes it perfect for traveling by plane (hi, TSA agents). Plus, you can customize it with a monogram so it’s easy for people to know who it belongs to, making it a great option for a beauty gift .

This transparent case makes packing and finding all your essentials easy. We love it as a stylish and convenient travel option.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 3.75 inches | Material: PVC and leather | Closure: Zipper

Best for Travel

Stephanie johnson belize blue stellar martha large cosmetics case.

Carry-all handles

Comes with four clear zip pouches

Suitcase style design

Only two color options

This suitcase-style cosmetics case comes with four removable clear pouches and a clear zipper compartment to make traveling with cosmetics easy and organized. It might look like a suitcase, but it’s compact enough to easily fit in your carry-on. Zip everything away when you're on the go with a top zip-around closure that will keep your stash in place . We just wish it came in more than two colorways. 

Although most of the makeup bags on our list work for travel, this one is the ultimate on-to-go option thanks to its abundance of compartments and pouches. 

Dimensions: 6.5 x 8.75 x 4 inches | Material: PVC and leather | Closure: Zipper

Best Tiered

Caboodles on-the-go girl makeup organizer.

Tiered level organization

Hard plastic is durable and easy to clean

Trays make for easy access

Bulky when traveling

A Caboodle is a nostalgic way to organize your stash , and hey, we could always use a dose of nostalgia. we're fans of this model, which offers spacious storage with an auto-open tray and secure latch for no-spill travel (although, the bulky size of this one means it won’t fit in your luggage easily). The bottom of the cosmetic case has storage space to hold larger items like brushes, while the top of the organizer contains a tray divided into three compartments for makeup items. The best part: it’s available in 30 different color combinations to suit your (or a young makeup artist you love) style.

We like this tiered option for at-home use (especially if you’ve got a soft spot for the 90s). The handy trays separate and store items effortlessly. 

Dimensions: 6.5 x 8.75 x 4 inches | Material: Plastic | Closure: Flip lid

Calpak Mini Cosmetics Case

Similar to a packing cube

TSA-friendly

Transparent so you can find items more easily

Large size is very big

If you enjoy packing your clothes in packing cubes , you'll especially love these clear makeup bags from the luggage brand Calpak. The bags come in three sizes —small, medium, and large—and a variety of colorways . Each bag features a clear PVC exterior , making it TSA-friendly and easier to find items while you're getting ready. We also love that the bags have top handles for easy handling .

Simple and effective, these clear makeup cubes make it easy to organize and transport your essentials.

Size: Small, Medium, Large | Material: Faux Leather, transparent PVC | Closure: Zipper

Best Lightweight

Vera bradley featherweight hanging organizer.

Vera Bradley

Lightweight design

Water-wicking fabric 

Easy hanging design

Lots of compartments 

Design isn’t crush-proof

There's nothing quite like the organization of a hanging cosmetic case like this one, but it’s especially nice if it’s on the lighter side. Not only does it hang nicely on a towel rack or shower curtain (leaving you tons of counter space to work with), but it has separate compartments for everything you could ever need. Staying true to its name, the bag is incredibly lightweight and features a nylon fabric that wicks away water . The only downside is that this one isn't crush-proof , so be careful how you transport it. 

Makeup can be heavy enough as it is. This lightweight case will ensure you’re not carrying any extra weight. 

Size: Medium | Material: Recycled nylon | Closure: Zipper

Overall, our favorite makeup bag is the Béis The Cosmetics Case , which is water-resistant and compact yet spacious, and comes with a magnetized removable brush holder . We also loved our budget pick, Narwey’s Zipper Makeup Bag , which is water-resistan t as well and has plenty of storage space, with a main compartment, two side pockets, and three narrower sleeves .

To compile this list, our team of editors and contributors spent hours researching the best makeup bags on the market, evaluating their key features—like quality, design, capacity, and extra features —in addition to reviews from customers and other trusted sources. We then used this research to assign a star rating from one to five (five being the best; one being the worst) to certain products on the list and consulted with a professional makeup artist before naming these our favorites. 

What to Look for in a Makeup Bag

  • Size : When it comes to the best makeup bag for your needs, size definitely comes into play . Are you after something that will fit your entire makeup routine or just weekend essentials ? Are you a maximalist who needs to travel with her entire makeup collection, in which case, the Make Up For Ever Professional Bag might be ideal, or are you a mascara, clear balm, and concealer kind of person who would love the compact Royce New York Double Zip Leather Toiletry Bag ? You can always keep more than one makeup bag on hand—one for night-out essentials and another for getaways or work trips.
  • Material : According to Dorman, your best bet when it comes to makeup bags is to go for something durable and waterproof to protect you from spills and accidental leaks. She likes nylon, PVC, thick canvas materials, and leather . The Calpak Clear Cosmetic Case , for example, features clear PVC, which allows for easy navigation (we've all lost something at the bottom of our makeup bags!) and is TSA-compliant . You can also choose something more eco-friendly if that appeals to you more, such as bags made from recycled plastics or sustainably sourced leather or hemp.
  • Compartments : Another personal preference worth thinking about is the number of compartments , whether that’s zero or multiple. Compartments are great for high-risk products (think foundation, liquid blush, and the like) or smaller items like lip balm and bobby pins that are otherwise easily lost. Makeup bags with longer slots for brushes and a protective brush cover are also helpful if you take your brushes with you. We love the Glossier Beauty Bag for this reason.

If you are traveling and want to take your makeup stash , you should make sure your makeup bag is padded and sturdy. There should be a zipper closure and slots to safely and securely hold your brushes and liquid products. Using magnetic palettes can help you save space, but be sure to store them as securely as you can, so powders don't crack or crumble.

When packing your makeup bag with pressed powders, try adding a cotton ball or small makeup puff inside the case to prevent movement and secure the product.

Packing your makeup bag for trips takes some planning to prevent spilling or cracking. Try wrapping products in plastic wrap and cushioning with cotton balls or powder puffs. For liquids, open the cap and place some plastic wrap over the opening. Screw the cap back on, and add more plastic wrap around the top. You can also place things in spillproof reusable bags or smaller travel-size sealed containers.

Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in beauty, travel, and lifestyle. For this story, she interviewed a makeup artist, who offered product recommendations and pointers on what to look for in a cosmetics carrier, and then she considered dozens of models and reviewed third-party sources as well as our own testing insights to find today's best options. Since 2020, Theresa has been writing for Byrdie, where she covers makeup, skincare, and wellness gadgets.

Put it this way: Team Byrdie owns and subsequently transports A LOT of beauty products, especially makeup. Half the issue is culling down to essentials only, but the other half is finding the ideal makeup bag—a pursuit we’ve spent years perfecting. 

Additional guidance was provided by Jamie Dorman , an NYC-based celebrity makeup artist.

Byrdie contributor Esme Benjamin checked and updated this article in December 2023 to ensure every detail was correct and each product deserves its place on Byrdie’s list.

According to our  Diversity Pledge , 15% of products in our newly published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find any makeup bags from a Black-owned and/or Black-founded business. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at  [email protected]  and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

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The best MacBook Pro bags

Caleb Clark

MacBooks are expensive investments, so naturally, you should get a bag to safely carry yours around. Whether you are commuting for work or you're a student, you will want a bag that is sturdy, water-resistant, and roomy enough to fit the MacBook and its accessories . Here are some of the best MacBook Pro bags you can buy to keep your computer safe from the elements. 

A woman carrying the Timbuk2 Authority on her back.

Timbuk 2 Authority Laptop Backpack

The best bag overall.

  • Made from recycled materials
  • Air mesh keeps your back cool as you carry it
  • Tons of storage
  • A bit expensive

Why you should buy this: It's a roomy, durable, and eco-friendly backpack.

Who it's for: Anyone looking for a premium backpack to carry anything and everything for a long time to come.

Why we picked the Timbuk2 Authority:

Whether you need a bag for traveling, school, or your daily commute, the Authority Laptop Backpack from Timbuk2 will work for you. This premium backpack is a great choice for just about everyone because of its many pockets and comfortable straps.

The Authority has two main compartments, and the laptop compartment can hold up to a 17-inch laptop , so it will work no matter which MacBook you have. The larger compartment also has a series of pockets ideal for holding notebooks, pens, sunglasses, and anything else you might need to carry with you. There’s also a mesh pocket on the side that is perfect for carrying a water bottle.

Both the back panel and straps are built with an air mesh to help prevent excessive sweating while you are lugging it around. The straps are also padded to make carrying the bag comfortable. The Authority is made from 100% recycled pre-consumer nylon, so the bag is environmentally friendly as well.

It’s not the cheapest option on this list, but the premium build quality and universal appeal make the Timbuk2 Authority a worthwhile investment.

Peak Design Everyday Messenger

Best messenger bag.

  • Roomy interior for laptops, cameras, and other gear
  • Can be worn as a sling or over the shoulder
  • Premium construction
  • Magnetic latch
  • No side pockets

Why you should buy this: It's a surprisingly roomy messenger that can fit just about anything.

Who it's for: People on the go who need to carry a lot of things, MacBook included.

Why we picked the Peak Design Everyday Messenger:

Messenger bags are excellent travel companions, and this option from Peak Design is one of the most versatile options available. The Everyday Messenger has Mag Latch hardware with four magnetic points of contact. This lets you adjust where the bag actually closes, allowing you to pack in a lot of contents while still being able to close the bag.

There are also a variety of pockets for laptops, tablets, and even extra pairs of clothes. The roomy compartment is also ideal for photographers who need to carry their camera and a couple of lenses. The exterior of the bag is made of recycled 400D nylon to keep the bag’s contents safe and dry.

The laptop sleeve can fit a 13-inch device , but you should still be able to fit in the 14-inch MacBook Pro because it has a similar form factor to the 13-inch model. This isn't a good fit for the 16-inch MacBook Pro, however.

The v2 Everyday Messenger has a reinforced strap for added comfort. It can also be adjusted so you can carry the bag at your side or over the shoulder. The Everyday Messenger is one of the more expensive bags on this list, but its versatility and improved design make it the best messenger bag option around.

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Mosiso Laptop Sleeve Bag

Best sleeve for 14-inch macbook pro.

  • Water-resistant
  • Lots of colors and styles available
  • Additional pocket for tablet/phone
  • Cannot fit 16-inch MacBook Pro

Why you should buy this: It's an affordable and water-resistant sleeve to protect your MacBook Pro.

Who it's for: Business professionals or people who need a protective case without lugging around a bag.

Why we picked the Mosiso 14-inch sleeve:

If you are just looking for a simple sleeve to carry your MacBook, this option from Mosiso is an affordable option. This neoprene sleeve will fit comfortably in any briefcase or backpack, and it will protect your MacBook from any scratching that might occur. The sleeve is also lined with foam padding to protect the computer from bumps and drops.

It’s designed for 13-inch laptops, but it can comfortably fit the 14-inch MacBook Pro as well as the latest M2 MacBook Air because of their similar form factors. There are also a ton of colors to choose from, so you can get a sleeve that perfectly matches your style.

The Mosiso also includes a small carrying bag for charging bricks, cables, and any other accessories for your MacBook.

If you’re looking for something simple and affordable to carry your MacBook, this is the option for you.

Tomtoc 360 Protective Laptop Shoulder Bag

The best bag for the 16-inch macbook pro.

  • Corner bumpers to reduce shock damage
  • Extra pockets to carry accessories
  • Retractable handle
  • Plastic D-rings make strap flimsy

Why you should buy this: It's a tough and affordable bag designed to resist drop and fall damage.

Who it's for: Anyone who will be traveling with the 16-inch MacBook Pro .

Why we picked the Tomtoc 360 Shoulder Bag:

If you have the 16-inch MacBook Pro, you will want to get a bag that offers maximum protection. The best option for that is the 360 protective laptop shoulder bag from Tomtoc. The Tomtoc 360 has thick interior padding to protect the MacBook from drops and falls, and the ConerArmor bumpers offer further protection from that type of damage. The materials are also water-resistant to protect the bag’s contents from rain or accidental spills.

The 360 comes with a large main pocket for your computer and two smaller pockets for accessories, charging bricks, and cables. The bag can either be carried with the briefcase handle or removable shoulder strap. The Tomtoc 360 also comes in a variety of colors, so you can find one that matches your style.

The Tomtoc 360 is a little less than $40, which makes it a great deal for anyone looking for a secure and convenient bag for their 16-inch MacBook Pro.

Matein Travel MacBook Pro Backpack

The best budget macbook pro bag.

  • Very affordable
  • Plenty of room for computer and clothes alike
  • Several different colors and styles available
  • A bit too much interior room for everyday use

Why you should buy this: It's a spacious and affordable backpack that's great for travel.

Who it's for: Anyone who plans on traveling a lot or simply needs a cheap and spacious backpack.

Why we picked the Matein Travel Backpack:

If you’re looking for a large backpack to carry your MacBook but don’t want to break the bank, this Matein backpack is the best option for you. This backpack is designed with travel in mind, but that also makes it a great option for carrying a large MacBook around. The Matein is made of water-resistant polyester, and its large main compartment is perfect for packing clothes or camera gear. The main compartment also has a pocket that’s perfect for slipping your computer or accessories into.

The front has two pockets that are ideal for storing your phone, notebooks, or anything else you might carry with you. The Matein also comes with a toiletry bag that’s great for carrying the essentials, and it can also double as a dedicated case for chargers and accessories.

If you’re looking for a versatile bag or plan on doing a lot of traveling with your MacBook, the Matein is a great option.

Timbuk2 Project

The best premium option.

  • Luxurious waxed canvas
  • Luggage pass-through
  • Fits up to 16-inch MacBook Pro
  • Not much color variety

Why you should buy this: It's a premium backpack to complement your premium laptop.

Who it's for: Anyone looking for a compact yet spacious backpack.

Why we picked the Timbuk2 Project:

If you want a backpack that feels as luxurious as your expensive MacBook, look no further than the Timbuk 2 Project. This backpack has been designed with everything in mind, and it’s easily the most premium backpack on the market right now. It can fit up to 16-inch laptops, so the 16-inch MacBook Pro will fit perfectly. The backpack is comprised mostly of waxed canvas, which makes it water-repellant. It also has leather trims that heighten the overall aesthetic of the backpack.

The Timbuk2 Project has four compartments. The first one is for your laptop, and there is a larger compartment for carrying clothes or other items. The front pocket is perfect for carrying notebooks, pens, and other accessories, like charging bricks or cables. There is also a zippered side pocket that is ideal for your phone.

Despite being able to carry a 16-inch laptop, the Project is also very compact. That’s great if you don’t want to lug around a huge backpack, especially if all you carry is your computer anyway.

It’s $229, but that price is to be expected for such a high-end backpack.

Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II

The best rugged option.

  • Rugged and tactical design
  • Tons of room for cameras and expensive equipment
  • Additional straps and pouches for hiking
  • Expensive, even by premium standards

Why you should buy this: It's the most rugged and durable bag you can get. Perfect for hiking and offroading.

Who it's for: Photographers and offroaders who need to protect all their gear.

Why we picked the Lowepro ProTactic 450 AW II:

If you plan on doing a lot of offroading or want the most protection for your MacBook, the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW II is the best option for you. It’s an expensive option, but the robust protection you get may be worth the price, especially if you’re carrying a lot of expensive equipment like cameras.

The BP 450 AW II holds up to a 15-inch laptop, but the 16-inch MacBook Pro should fit just fine. The laptop compartment also has a variety of pockets for chargers and cables. The backpack also comes with a storage compartment designed for a DSLR camera.

This durable bag is resistant to rain, snow, dust, and sand, so it’s the perfect companion no matter where you are going. It also has a sternum strap and a convertible utility belt, which makes it great for hiking.

If you’re looking for the most protection while you travel, or you’re a photographer looking for a backpack tailor-made for you, the ProTactic BP 450 AW II is a no-brainer.

Herschel Pop Quiz backpack

The best for style variety.

  • Lots and lots of colors and styles to choose from
  • Dividers and pockets to store a variety of items
  • No exterior water bottle pocket

Why you should buy this: It's a roomy and stylish backpack.

Who it's for: Students looking for a backpack that expresses their personality.

Why we picked the Herschel Pop Quiz:

If you’re a student or someone looking to express themselves with their backpack, the Pop Quiz line from Herschel may be just what you need. The backpack is affordable, starting at $70, but it can still fit up to the 16-inch MacBook Pro in a relatively compact form factor. The bag is made of polyester and has a waterproof zipper, so your contents should be safe even if you’re caught in the rain.

The Pop Quiz has a 22-liter main compartment, perfect for carrying textbooks or notebooks, and the front pocket can easily house cables and chargers. The padded straps and air mesh back also make commuting and carrying the bag a more comfortable experience.

The best thing about the Pop Quiz, though, is the variety of styles it comes in. If you are looking for something to stand out on campus or show off your personality, this bag is an excellent way to do it.

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Caleb Clark

Caleb Clark is a full-time writer that primarily covers consumer tech and gaming. He also writes frequently on Medium about books and movies. He spends his free time playing Warhammer, raising nerdy children, and writing his first novel.

There's no shortage of laptop deals online, so narrowing down your choices will be an overwhelming task. Fortunately, we're here to help you out as we've gathered our favorite bargains on some of the best laptops below. These include offers on hardware from the best laptop brands like HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, Apple, and Dell, with discounts that will let you pocket hundreds of dollars in savings. Read on to figure out what your next laptop should be, and to learn other important things that you need to know before making your decision.

Today's best laptop deals HP Chromebook 14a -- $200, was $310

Whether in high school or college, the costs of being a student can add up quickly. A laptop is pretty much a necessity these days, and options among the best laptops don’t often come with discounted prices. Shopping the best laptop deals is a good idea, but we’ve also rounded up some laptop deals with students more specifically in mind. The laptops you’ll find here — for the most part — will hold their own with the best budget laptops, and offer a wide range of hardware configurations and price points. And while you may want to consult our laptop buying guide for more specifics, reading onward you’ll find along with the best student laptop deals a little information on which may be the best choice for you. HP Laptop 14 -- $215, was $269

The HP Laptop 14 is a popular choice among students because of its entry level price point. It's specs aren't going to blow anyone away, but they're good value for the price and are plenty to get the job done. This build of the HP Laptop 14 has 8GB of RAM and a quad-core Intel Celeron processor. It does check in with just 64GB of storage space -- this may not be enough for some users, but if you aren't planning on loading your laptop up with media this is one that will accompany you well around campus.

Apple has long been known to turn out some of the best laptops, with models like the MacBook Air and MacBook Pro regularly being among the most sought-after laptops. It can actually be difficult to land some decent Apple deals, as the brand's popularity keeps many of its products from seeing the bargain bin. Right now, however, Apple has a lot of options among the best laptop deals. The original Apple Silicon MacBook Air is seeing some of its lowest prices ever, and there’s even some newer MacBook Pros discounted right now. Whether you’re in search of a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro, reading onward you’ll find the best MacBook deals currently available. Best MacBook Air (M1) deals

The Apple MacBook Air (M1) started a seismic shift for Apple being the first of its Airs to have an Apple-based processor. We took a look at the differences between the M2 and M1 and the M1 is still looking pretty great. It's also a touch nearer to affordable than anything else here. Fast yet fanless so it's silent to use, you gain an 18-hour battery life, a gorgeous looking 13.3-inch Retina display along with all the effortless style you'd expect from an Apple device. These laptops are best for students or those who want something stylish yet reasonably powerful to use on the move. Nowadays, deals are becoming a little harder to come by unless you're willing to consider a refurbished/renewed model.

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6 Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro

mac travel small bag

Sumukh has been simplifying tech for the masses and helping consumers pick the right gadgets with his in-depth insights and reviews. He decided to hide his engineering degree in the closet to pursue his passion for writing. Over the past 5 years, he has contributed with guides, reviews, and detailed opinions to notable publications like TechPP and XDA-Developers. When not jamming his fingers on thoccy mechanical keyboards, Sumukh is busy convincing people how VR Gaming is the next best thing after sliced bread.

The new 16-inch MacBook Pro is a beautiful machine. And if you have one, you would want to take good care of it. A good way to protect your Mac when traveling or moving around is by getting a bag for your 16-inch MacBook Pro. Along with the laptop itself, you can carry a plethora of accessories and peripherals inside a backpack.

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro

This makes a backpack more useful as compared to something like a sleeve. Depending on your preference, there are several types of bags you can buy. While some may prefer a utilitarian backpack, others may want a bag that adds to their fashion quotient. The list of the best bags to carry your 16-inch MacBook Pro below caters to most needs. But before we get to the products –

  • Add an extra layer of protection to your Mac with the help of a case for your 16-inch MacBook Pro .
  • You can store your Mac inside a MacBook Pro sleeve and then put it in your backpack for added peace of mind.
  • A large backpack can even accommodate Thunderbolt 4 docks for your Mac .

1. MATEIN Travel Backpack

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro matein travel backpack

MATEIN Travel Backpack

The MATEIN backpack has close to 100,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.7. The numbers speak volumes about how good the backpack is. It’s a simple bag made with good-quality fabric and has lots of compartments.

You can pick up the MATEIN backpack in 15 different color options — something we appreciate a lot. The polyester fabric is water-resistant so even if you’re out in the rain, your MacBook Pro should be safe.

There are two large compartments at the back of the bag. The first one can house your MacBook Pro 16 or a tablet like an iPad. The second one is a bucket-like space where you can store your headphones, chargers, and other accessories.

Smaller items like earphones, pen drives, SSDs, etc. can be stored in the small compartment at the front of the bag. Despite being affordable, the MATEIN backpack for the 16-inch MacBook Pro is durable and comes with useful features like a pass-through USB port on the outside. You can connect your power bank to the port and charge your phone easily from the outside.

A few reviews say the material on the inside of the backpack feels slightly cheap and tears easily. If you can get past this, the MATEIN travel bag is an excellent laptop bag with a charging port for your MacBook Pro 16.

What We Like

  • USB port for charging

What We Don’t Like

  • Internal material feels average

2. KTMOUW Laptop Bag for Women

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro women's laptop bag

KTMOUW Laptop Bag for Women

If you are searching for a good tote bag to carry your 16-inch MacBook Pro, then the KTMOUW tote bag is a good alternative. It looks chic and professional while being water-resistant and functional at the same time. The bag’s exterior is made of PU leather and looks rather premium. KTMOUW has ensured the functionality of the bag hasn’t been compromised

Apart from the 16-inch MacBook Pro, the internal pockets can accommodate a few folders, a tablet, your phone, a wallet, and even some notebooks.

While you don’t get as many color options as the Matein backpack, KTMOUW offers 10 different colors to choose from. Given that the bag isn’t all that expensive, you can even pick up a few bags of different colors to match it with your outfit of the day.

A couple of small pockets inside the bag also have room for cosmetics. Reviews mention the KTMOUW laptop bag for women has held up well over time with little to no wear and tear. You can take it to work or even use it as a standard handbag even when you’re not carrying your laptop with you.

  • Attractive design
  • Spacious pockets
  • Not enough compartments for segregation

Also See : 6 Best Laptop Bags for Women That You Can Buy

3. Tomtoc Protective Laptop Shoulder Bag

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro tomtoc laptop bag

Tomtoc Protective Laptop Shoulder Bag

Storing a laptop inside a messenger bag isn’t a bad idea after all. And that’s what Tomtoc is trying to convey with the help of its laptop shoulder bag for the 16-inch MacBook Pro. The case is built using superior materials both on the inside and outside that offer excellent protection for your Mac.

Along with helping you carry your laptop around, the primary use case of a bag is to protect your Mac. And that’s where the Tomtoc shoulder bag does a fantastic job. It has a thick layer of microfiber cushioning on the inside to protect your Mac in case you drop the bag. The exterior also has a water-resistant layer.

Apart from the primary compartment to store the MacBook, there’s a slot on the rear for a notebook. On the front of the bag, you get two compartments. One of them is for your Mac’s charger while the other can be used to store accessories like a wireless mouse or even your smartphone.

Users in Amazon’s reviews section are highly impressed by the build quality and protection offered by the Tomtoc case. It feels premium and is easily one of the best 16-inch MacBook Pro bags you can buy of this kind.

  • Excellent cushioning
  • Compartment for a charger
  • Uncomfortable to wear for long durations

4. Bange Business Smart Backpack

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro bange laptop bag

Bange Business Smart Backpack

If you carry way more tech than required in your bag, the Bange business backpack will serve you well. Along with a compartment for your Mac, there’s a huge bucket-like compartment on the front that can house a lot of accessories.

At the same time, the front compartment on the Bange smart backpack even has adequate space for two days of clothes. And this is after you have stuffed it with your gadgets. Given the high capacity of the bag though, the Bange backpack is rather large and bulky.

As a consequence, you may find it hard to slide the bag into small spaces like under a seat on a flight. Bange has also included a USB charging port on the bag to connect to a power bank. While the Bange smart bag is a hoarder’s delight, it doesn’t have a compartment on the side to store a water bottle. This can be a deal-breaker for many, especially if you plan on using this as a travel backpack.

  • Extremely spacious
  • Bulky construction

5. Samsonite Xenon 3.0

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro samsonite laptop bag

Samsonite Xenon 3.0

Samsonite makes some of the best backpacks when it comes to quality and functionality. If you plan on getting a backpack for your Mac that you plan to use for years to come, then you should consider the Xenon 3.0 bag from Samsonite.

The brand uses premium materials that don’t wear out with time. Users have mentioned that Xenon 3.0 has survived despite being subjected to rough conditions like daily commutes via public transport or even being used during adventurous outings.

Apart from the two big compartments on the rear, one aspect of the Samsonite Xenon 3.0 is that the front compartment has multiple sections. You can segregate smaller accessories this way so if you like being organized, you’ll love this aspect.

Another area highlighted by users in the reviews section is how comfortable the Samsonite bag feels when worn. The bag isn’t very deep though so keep this in mind if you stuff your bag to the brim with belongings.

  • High-quality materials
  • Comfortable to wear
  • Unappealing looks

6. Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack

Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro samsonite leather bag

Samsonite Classic Leather Backpack

Here’s another backpack from Samsonite, but this one prioritizes form over functionality. The Xenon 3.0 wasn’t anything special in terms of appearance. However, this leather backpack looks stunning and classy — while offering good protection for your MacBook.

The Samsonite leather backpack isn’t the most spacious bag out there. While it can easily fit a MacBook Pro 16 and some accessories, bulky gadgets may not fair well. That doesn’t mean there aren’t compartments inside the leather backpack. In fact, you get plenty of them.

The meshed compartments in the bag can be used to safely store an iPad, some notebooks, and other accessories like earbuds and cables. There’s plenty of space for your Mac charger too. So, most people should ideally be happy with the Samsonite leather bag. However, those who want to travel while carrying clothes and additional belongings in the backpack itself may be slightly disappointed.

Going by the reviews, it’s apparent that individuals who want a premium backpack for work prefer this leather bag. So if you feel a standard backpack looks too casual for work, you can pick up the Samsonite bag despite the fact that it’s slightly expensive.

  • Looks classy and stylish
  • Great for work
  • Not too spacious for large items

Also See : 5 Best Leather Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro

Protect Your Mac in Style

Whether you commute to work on a daily basis or you’re a college student, a good bag for your 16-inch MacBook Pro helps you protect your Mac while also offering more functionality. Some laptop bags let you charge your phone easily, while others can help you carry around dongles, headphones, and other accessories with ease. Not to forget, you can also pick up a leather bag for its premium looks.

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Last updated on 25 July, 2023

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Best Laptop Bags for 16-inch MacBook Pro

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

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Minimalist Travel: What’s in My Bag for 4 Weeks, 2 Continents, and 1 Cruise

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Think minimalist travel is impossible? Find out how I traveled carry-on only for four weeks with just a laptop backpack plus purse!

Minimalist Travel

I traveled from Cartagena, Colombia to Lisbon, Portugal on a two-week transatlantic cruise for  four total weeks and I packed carry-on only. I’m giving you an inside look at exactly what’s inside my bag with videos directly from the Porto Airport in Portugal.

These aren’t sample videos of what you should pack to achieve minimalist travel. It’s a genuine, unstaged inside look at what’s inside my bag so you can see how it’s possible to accommodate your own items in small luggage.

The secret to packing light is to  create a  capsule travel wardrobe which can easily fit into a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing!   

Read the full details below and watch my two minimalist travel packing videos showing you the contents of my carryon and personal item!

minimalist-travel

Travelon Heritage Backpack  |  Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack

As my main bag, my carry-on suitcase , I used the Travelon Heritage Backpack . It’s an anti- theft bag but I’m using it not just for security purposes but more so because I think it’s a nice- looking bag.

As my personal item and day purse, I used the Rebecca Minkoff Julian Backpack . It’s a super stylish, yet ultra-functional purse, which I’ll be telling you more about in this post.

First, let’s have a look at what’s inside my bag:

CARRY ON ITEM:  TRAVELON HERITAGE BACKPACK

The Travelon bag is a laptop backpack so it isn’t a traditional option for minimalist travel. However, I like the design and thought I’d give it a try. So far so good. Fully packed, it weighed 6kg.

It has a total of five compartments. The front two are small and I just use them to place some odds and ends such as a few individual allergy pill packs, receipts, business cards, and tissue packets. (I experienced so many unexpected allergies in Portugal!)

There is a third, adjustable compartment on the side of the backpack meant to be used for water bottles of various sizes. However, since my flat iron is always the last thing I use before I leave my hotel room, I threw it on the outside (water bottle compartment) last minute to let it cool off.

In a fourth, larger compartment I’ve included my electric toothbrush and charger, a clutch with two belts inside, and my toiletries. For this trip, I used one of the detachable containers from this cute and practical Hudson + Bleecker Toiletry Kit.

I didn’t use any of the zippered sections although they’re a great place to store your passport or other important documents without them being easily accessible to pickpockets. In fact, the Travelon bag is anti-theft so each compartment (except the water bottle space) has a latch that protects the zipper from being easily opened by an opportunist thief.

minimalist-travel

Sunblock |  Lotion  |  Moisturizer  |  Container  |  Wipes |  Menstrual Cup  |  Travel Bottles

Even though my goal was minimalist travel, I didn’t need to sacrifice any of my regular toiletries. This is everything I took for my four-week trip:

  • 10 Innisfree olive oil makeup remover wipes
  • 5 SPF Cetaphil face moisturizer
  • Cetaphil body moisturizer in a 100ml container
  • Hair conditioner in a 100ml container
  • Eye cream in a 20 gram container
  • Face wash in a 20 gram container
  • Face scrub in a contact lens container
  • 3 oz Neutrogena 70 SPF sunblock
  • Nivea ravel size liquid deodorant
  • Menstrual cup

One of the best ways I found to save space in my carry-on luggage while also having enough toiletries to last me the entirety of the cruise was to buy 1-2 full size items upon arrival in Cartagena .

I bought a 200ml shampoo and my travel partner bought a full size deodorant when we arrived at our first destination, Cartagena. The shampoo lasted me the four weeks. I finished it in Porto just in time for my flight back.

Read these tips on how to use small travel containers to maximize your toiletries! I guarantee they’ll help you with your goals for minimalist travel!

minimalist-travel

Case |  Bag |  Sandal  |  Flip Flops |  Heels  |  Towel |  Ziploc |  Packing Cubes

The fifth, main compartment is where I’ve stored the majority of my belongings.

  • Goody Hair brush (usually in my personal item)
  • Makeup bag, a detachable small pouch from the Hudson + Bleecker Toiletry Kit . Even with minimal travel efforts, I still managed to pack all my girly makeup. Inside the makeup bag is a 10 gram container with MAC Prolongwear Foundation, Mac concealer, Benefit Highlighter, Eyebrow pencil/brush, Eyebrow gel, Maybelline mascara, MAC Espresso eye liner, MAC Harmony blush, Benefit mini shadow palette, MAC travel size blush brush, two double-sided eye shadow brushes.
  • Jewelry bag, a detachable small pouch from the Hudson + Bleecker Jewelry Bag . Inside the jewelry pouch is one statement necklace, one boho-style earrings, one round silver stud earrings, and one boho-style ring (I was wearing stud earrings and a y-drop necklace with my plane outfit).
  • Two packable hats: one sunhat and one fedora (should’ve just brought the sunhat.)
  • My second layer, the Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap (back in stock!) easily accessible so I can wear on the flight if needed or upon arrival to colder England.
  • I almost left behind my Olive color military-style vest so it was loosely in the compartment but should’ve been inside one of the packing cubes (good extra-layer if needed).
  • Three pairs of shoes in plastic bags for easy identification. Include Naot walking sandals  for Colombia and Portugal, Ipanema flip flops for Colombia and cruise, and Loeffler Randall olive color block heels (very packable!) for cruise and birthday in Lisbon. I was wearing black Nike trainers on the flight so these weren’t packed but they fit inside the bag if they needed to be.
  • Sea to Summit pocket travel towel , for scuba diving and for Cartagena accommodation. It’s a pretty bright blue color and can also be worn as a scarf or cover-up!
  • Packing cubes  including seven clothing items out of the ten-piece capsule I brought (I was wearing jeans and a tee on the flight and one item was the Olive vest mentioned above). The packing cubes also held a light cotton slip to sleep (or wear as a cover-up/top), ten underwear, one pair of socks, one underwire bikini set, one non-underwire bikini set, one light workout/sleep/layer leggings, one light workout/scuba diving top, and one underwire sport bra. My dirty laundry is inside a plastic bag within one of the packing cubes.
  • One notebook, for business workshops I attended throughout the trip

Normally, my laptop would’ve been stored in this main compartment, too. However, I always pack it in my “personal item” when flying so it’s easily accessible.

Packing cubes are the key to minimalist travel! Learn more about  how to use them to travel carryon only !

PERSONAL ITEM: REBECCA MINKOFF JULIAN BACKPACK

Usually I always pack a variation of the following items in my “personal-item” for all my trips. For this particular trip I’m using my everyday purse as my in-flight personal item: the Rebecca Minkoff Julian backpack .

I love this bag and I’ve mentioned it several times on this site and on my Youtube videos . Remember, minimalist travel doesn’t mean you have to use traditional travel gear. Even a designer purse can work if it’s the right one!

It has four compartments.  One of my favorite things about the bag is the small compartment in the back side, which is the perfect fit for my passport or cards/money.

I feel these items are very safe because of the way the compartment lays directly on my back, keeping these valuables away from pickpockets. I always travel with my passport (and Rebecca Minkoff passport cover ) in that backpack compartment.

Learn more about how to keep your passport safe while traveling!

There are two smaller compartments on either side of the main compartment in the front. On the right hand side I always carry my eyeglasses and on the left hand side I store my sunglasses.

In the main compartment I have all the items that I need to easily access during a flight or at the airport. One of the other awesome features of this bag is that the design allows you to cover the main zippered compartment with a latch, a convenient preventative measure keeping thieves from easily getting into your belongings.

minimalist-travel

Bag |  Adapter |  Pillow |  Organizer  |  Laptop  |  Case |  Wipes

Within the main compartment I have:

  • My light Zara jacket ( sold out ) that I plan to wear on the flight, this can also be layered with my  Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap for extra warmth.
  • Cabeau Air Evolution inflatable travel pillow
  • Mesh organizer bag that stores laptop and cell phone cords
  • International travel adapter (with my name on it)
  • EZpacking clear organizer bag which holds small essentials such as my chapstick, mints, tissue packets, emergency tampons, portable phone chargers, headphones lip gloss, mini-floss, medication, and gum.
  • Toilet paper roll (surprisingly necessary on this trip!)
  • Anti-bacterial wipes
  • 11.6” Macbook Air within leopard print laptop cover

Clothing:   10-Piece Essential Capsule Wardrobe

minimalist-travel

Clothing is the most important aspect to succeed in minimalist travel. I used my Essentials customizable Packing List to create my ten-piece capsule wardrobe. 

This included:

  • Print scuba bodycon dress for dressy nights, could also be layered with tops to act as a skirt
  • Versatile, black dress that could be worn casually during the day to sightsee anywhere, lounge on the cruise, or be dressed up with a belt and accessories for dressier nights. Could also be layered with tops to act as a skirt.
  • Faded black/grey tee to wear anytime, anywhere, even to sleep. When worn with jeans and heels could have a dressier appearance.
  • Black reversible top to be worn with all bottoms and over both dresses (it’s not technically “reversible” I just flipped it around because the back design was nice enough to be worn in the front)
  • Coral reversible top to be worn with all bottoms and over both dresses (it’s not technically “reversible” I just flipped it around because the back design was nice enough to be worn in the front)
  • Olive color military style vest to be worn with all bottoms alone as top (using a clothespin) or layered over tops/dresses to create interest
  • Blue long sleeve top to be worn with all bottoms or layered over tops/dresses for warmth or to create interest. Could also be used as a bikini cover-up.
  • Chambray shorts as a lighter choice to my usual denim shorts for Cartagena and cruise.
  • Ivory dressy shorts to be dressed up or worn casually in any location. (I don’t like skirts so I dress up shorts with nice flats or heels.)
  • Grey denim jeans for flights, cruise nights (and days when closer to Europe), and Portugal.
The above items made up my ten-piece capsule wardrobe but I made two changes to the above image . I replaced the black dress for ivory dress shorts and the cover-up for a black versatile dress. Because the cruise was extremely casual, these options all worked especially when paired with my lovely block heels!

In addition, I also took two light layers to be worn together or separately: a Zara lightweight faux leather jacket ( sold out ) and Diane Kroe Wanderlust Wrap . The nice thing about the wrap is that I could also wear it as a top, not just a sweater.

See? I told you minimalist travel doesn’t have equate to dull and boring travel clothing!

minimalist-travel

There you have it – everything I took on a four-week trip from Colombia to Portugal including a two-week (informal) transatlantic cruise!

While you may need to pack different things, I wanted to give you a general idea about how minimalist travel  is  possible.

For this trip, I had the advantage that I was traveling in June with mostly sunny weather and only a few cold, rainy days. However, my backpack was about 30 liters, which is 10 liters less than is allowed on most international flights…

…so if you do need to pack a few more things than I did or you are traveling in cold weather , you could easily travel with a larger-size carry-on backpack or suitcase and still have enough space for all of your belongings.

No more excuses. You can travel carry-on, too!

 If you need help to stop overpacking, read this – it’s the step by step solution walking you through my entire packing process.

Here are a few pics from my trip!

minimalist-travel

What are your tips on minimalist travel? Comment your tips below!

For more tips on how to pack light, please read the following:

  • 75 Packing Tips that Will make Your Travels So Much Easier
  • How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
  • Ten Step Packing Guide to Travel Anywhere in One Bag
  • How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

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

71 comments.

Giannis

Which flat iron do you use ?

Alex

Hi Giannis, thank you for reaching out! I use the BaBylissPRO Mini Straightening Iron: https://amzn.to/2OBu9XW

We also feature a range of other options on this post: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/dual-voltage-flat-iron/

Hope this helps! ?

ENSJ

When I travel long term I always carry 6 bottoms and 6 tops that can be used together. (two pants – one is jeans, 2 leggings on their own or layered in colder weather, shorts – which can be used for normal wear, sports or sleeping, and a skirt – which transforms in a dress when paired with the correct top). For tops I carry 2 tank tops, 1 sleeveless shirt, 2 t-shirt, and a flannel buttow down shirt.

Outwear involves 1 jacket and 1 fleece (merino). For fashionable layering I sometimes include a travel wrap that doubles as a cardigan and scarf and blanket and… you get the gist.

I also always include three shoes in my bag (aside from the one I am wearing). All my shoes include nice ballet flats (I hate wearing heels), sneakers, good walking sandals and trail shoes (which can be worn on hikes or for sports and fold down flat). If I know I am going somewhere cold I sometimes add in an extra pair of chelsea ankle boots that also fold down flat without losing quality and shape.

Plus a toiletry bag (just the basics, I don’t wear make up), it all fits in my 28l carry on backpack.

Hi Emily, brilliant job with your packing, so impressive!!! ? Thank you for sharing your packing list with us. Happy travels! ✈️

Jennifer

Ok, I just have to ask this question. On a warm weather vacation, don’t these clothes start to really stink after wearing them repeatedly? I can easily see wearing the jeans for 2 to 3 days….but sleeping in the tee, then wearing it in the day AND dressing it up at night repeatedly?

Hi Jennifer, thank you for reaching out. You might find this article helpful for tips for how to do laundry when traveling: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-do-laundry-while-traveling-3-options/ Happy travels! ?

Joan

I plan a 14 day escorted trip to Northern Spain and Portugal in June. Would love to pack light but other than lingerie that can be hand washed, how do you have clean items to wear through out the entire trip such as jeans, dress, blouse or tee shirt? Joan

Hi Joan, thank you for your comment! Have a look at this article for tips on how to do laundry whilst traveling: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-do-laundry-while-traveling-3-options/ You may also find this post helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/step-by-step-tutorial-how-to-hand-wash-clothing-when-travelling/ Hope this answers your question! Have an amazing trip next year! 🙂

Shelby

Hey Alex, how do you manage to carry two backpacks as carry ons or in transit? Seems like you’d have to wear one on your front, right? Curious because I’ve considered it but always talked myself out of it in favor of a small roller bag and small backpack for a personal item, especially if I know I’ll have long lines or treks. And, second question, do you put your laptop in your overhead bin luggage and get it out in-flight? I’ve always felt the need to have it closer to me but considering new options to optimize legroom and smaller bags!

Hi Shelby, I carried the Travelon backpack on both shoulders like a normal backpack, and then I carried the Rebecca Minkoff backpack over just one shoulder, sort of like a cross body purse. See the photo above of me and the cruise ship to see how I’m carrying them both. For my laptop, I always pack it in my “personal item” when flying so it’s easily accessible.

To help you with choosing the best personal item for you, this article might be of interested to you: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/carry-on-personal-item/

Happy travels!!!

Sandra A. Johnson

I am going on a 8-Day Adriatic/Med Cruise from Venice-Rome and a 14-Day Transatlantic from Rome-Miami. This isn’t my first cruise; I am a seasoned cruiser but I tend to overpack. Please give me a few new tips on how to pack less and do more coordination of my warerobe. Thanks Sandra Johnson

Hi Sandra, thank you for reaching out! Have a look at our ultimate guide for packing for a cruise vacation for tips on what clothes to pack: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/what-to-pack-for-a-cruise-vacation/ You may also find this post helpful for tips for what to pack for Italy: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/10-step-packing-guides/10-step-packing-guide-italy/ Hope you find this helpful. Your itinerary sounds awesome, have a wonderful time!! 🙂

Jen Crowell

Love all your tips! Just got back from a week in Costa Rica with a 5 year old and my husband and we flew with only our carry on bags! It was so liberating! So grateful for your website. So many of your pointers came in handy. Many thanks!

alex

That’s amazing Jen! Happy to help 🙂

Joanna

I don’t travel a whole lot, but I’ve been taking more trips in the last few years and have really been working on paring down what I bring so I can go carry-on only whenever possible. I’ve enjoyed reading all of your tips!

I use a flat iron too, and because it was always one of the last things I used before leaving (no matter how hard I tried to plan my getting-ready time differently), I ended up doing some pretty ridiculous things when I couldn’t pack the hot flat iron… including, almost every time I was leaving my apartment for a trip, sticking the flat iron in the freezer for five minutes to cool it off. (Probably not very good for it. ;)) But someone told me about this case, and it made my life SO much easier! It’s by Lug – and I haven’t travelled without it since I bought it a couple of years ago. Not sure if you would find it useful, but just wanted to pass that on!

Great tip Joanna! I SO NEED THAT. I always end up sticking my flat iron on the outside of my backpack (in the water bottle) compartment. Thanks for the recommendation 🙂

Julie Knowles

I just recently purchased the Travelon Heritage Backpack for my trip to Russia and I absolutely love it!

Thanks Julie! I’m glad you’re enjoying it as much as I do 🙂

Mishele

Wow this was a great post! Only those 2 small bags for 4 weeks, you must be a magician. I’m trying to transition to a more minimal life and this post has definitely given me some tips for my next trip. Thank you.

Thanks Mishele – good luck with going minimalist 🙂 Read this post for my secret: https://travelfashiongirl.com/functional-and-fashion-packing-list/

Another Carrie

Hi! I was wondering if your thoughts about the RM Bag have changed at all… have you had any concerns about pickpockets being able to get into the bag during travel? I imagine you’d likely keep the clasp clipped to the upper portion when in crowded places. I love the bag but am concerned about its practicality in NYC. Love your blog and vids!

Hi Carrie, still love the bag – I only own two purses and that’s one of them 😉 Yes, I do use the top closure not the bottom.

Diana

Would love to know what your other purse is! Also do you carry a wallet, any recommendations? I love your style :)))

Hi Diana, thank you so much for your lovely comment. The other purse is the Travelon Heritage anti-theft backpack. 🙂

Janice

i am currently on a month visit to Oahu Hawaii. Since I am staying at my daughters I mailed my capsule wardrobe + liquids ahead and had one large handbag with my Kindle, phone, book, pillow, ID + a jacket with me on the plane. We love to visit thrift stores & then I donate whatever I don’t want before I come home. However, this trip there will be more mailed home as it was my birthday and family bought me 7 pieces of clothing. I have back issues so unable to carry a heavy backpack so mailing things is wonderful.

Bluu

Hey there, I am a seasoned road warrior who can pack for two continents and five countries of business travel without batting an eye. I am stumped how to deal with a upcoming 24 day vacation. Here it is: Three days hiking on Easter Island, three days of museums and sights in Santiago, three days of museums, cathedrals and sightseeing in Buenos Aires, ten days on an Antarctica cruise with two landings on a zodiac everyday and multiple days in flight. Your thoughts on covering all these varied needs?

Travel Fashion Girl

Thanks for your comment Bluu! Mixing & matching will certainly be your friend as will layers! Find pieces that can be layered for warmth for the Antarctica leg but separate for the warmer Chile part. Use the examples in this post! I don’t know about an Antarctica cruise specifically, so to get you more recommendations I am going to post your question on our Facebook Page so make sure to check there for responses from our readers! Thank you again Bluu and that sounds like an amazing trip!

Kristina S.

Thank you for the updated packing list. I started carrying on a few years ago when I stumbled across your site and have never looked back!

Thanks for reading Kristina! So happy that the packing lists have helped you! That’s the goal is to provide simple examples and easy piece ideas so you can go out and find clothing that works for you! Glad you’re finding packing success! Thanks again!

Nina

You’re so inspiring! Each time I travel I keep your tips and examples in mind, I’ve already came a long way towards packing lighter but I’m still quite a few steps behind you 😉 Happy travels!

Thank you for reading Nina! Glad to help!

Kandy

Awesome videos and I love the breakdown of what you have. I will have to try this on my next trip!!!! Thank you so much!

Thank you Kandy! Love that you love them! Enjoy your travels!

Thank you for sharing! I always try to carry a light load, but I think yours is a lot more organized than mine! Hee hee! I’ll have to follow your lead on my next trip. Love all the information you share! Thanks again!

Thank you for the kind words Kandy! Happy travels!

Alet

It’s amazing with how little you can get by with and once you’ve made that mind switch, it makes packing and traveling so much easier. Gone are my days of lugging a heavy bag anywhere, let alone on an extended vacation with multiple transits.

I totally agree 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Linda McCann

Wow! that is efficient packing.

I love both those bags particularly how well packed they are. Some day I will become this efficient. One problem for me is I am usually carrying a couple of camera lenses and a body. The backpack that carries those would leave me with only one other bag if I were to travel carry-on only.

Super envious.

Those extras always make a difference but it sounds like you’re doing pretty well anyway 🙂 Nice work!

Wow that is efficient packing to say the least! I am totally envious and love both of those bags.

Thanks Linda 🙂 Anyone can do it!

Cathie

I enjoyed your videos. It’s quite an accomplishment to be so organized for 4 weeks. I am asking you to please put captions on your photos telling where you are so that I can know exactly where to go to see the things in your photos.

Hi Cathie 🙂 Thank you! That is a great idea for future posts! Thanks!

Penelope

Thanks, Alex, these are great videos. A real inspiration. I guess you have to unpack all the toiletries (inc your make up and lip gloss!) for the inspection in one ziplock bag through security at the airport ?

Hey Penelope 🙂 The seethrough toiletry bag is always the best way to get it through airport security!

MD Kennedy

Yeah, I am not the only one who travels with her electric toothbrush. Although for short trips (less than one week), I will take a super-soft toothbrush I got from a dentist in Greece – it helps keep my sensitive gums safe. I am surprised at how much makeup you bring. I am much more conservative: Paula’s Choice brow color, Benefit PoreFection, Paula’s Choice Shine Stopper. I won’t travel anywhere or via any means where I have to be dressy, but I do like to look pulled-together and these three items do the trick for me. Have you ever tried going make-up free for a trip?

I love my electric toothbrush 🙂 I don’t always wear all my makeup but I do love it!

Rebecca

Great post! I love that you keep proving to us how it IS possible to be minimalist. I love Diana Kroe clothing too and when I go to the Greek islands, take 3 or 4 items of hers that can be used up to 10 different ways!

Thanks Rebecca 🙂 It really is possible! Especially with Diane Kroe clothes! I love them 🙂

LeighAnn

I love minimal packing! I have found another way to extend my wardrobe is to try wearing pieces in fun new ways- like wearing cardigans backwards for a sexy button up the back top!

Such a good idea 🙂

Tina

Thanks so much for all your tips. I truly enjoy reading your blog and I have already used some of your tips.

Yay 🙂 Thanks Tina!

Bea

It’s purely amazing how many things you can put in these tiny bags. True inspiration. Aiming for the same on my next travel. Thanks for keeping up the blog.

Thanks Bea! 🙂

Lea Forster

Love the real time/super honest airport videos this is so great. I have a possibly stupid question… i am really curious how you physically carry two backpacks? Does one of the bags have shoulder straps as well? And why did you go for two backpack styles rather than a shoulder bag or duffel + backpack? I always do the backpack/duffel or backpack/tote combo for carry-on only travel and am just curious how you make this work and actually move through the airport. Thanks!!

Hi Lea, glad you like the videos, thanks! I choose to carry two backpacks because I need the even distribution of weight – I can’t use duffles or shoulder bags because I have back issues and having the weight on one side more than the other can cause quite a strain. For my full-time travels I use wheels plus a daypack to carry my stuff but since this trip was “short” then I just took my daypack and my purse.

However, I mostly carry the purse backpack slung on my shoulder if it’s for a short period of time 🙂

Chrissy

That’s really amazing, all the stuff in two small bags. I like the backpacks you choose. They look great, not that boring style the luggage for traveling usually have. Which kind of black versatile dress did you bring? Was it the lovely Chrysalis Cardi?

Hi Chrissy, Glad you like the bags! Ended up just choosing a regular black modal dress for this trip not a convertible one 🙂

Angel Guadamuz

Thank you for sharing your packing list Alex! I am glad to know that I am not the only one who travels with and electric toothbrush… 😉

Hehe I am sure there are plenty of people who do 🙂 Why not when they work so well!

Elle

Love the Rebecca Minkoff backpack, I will have to keep an eye out for a similar style.

I Love it 🙂 The Nordstrom sale has some great deals http://bit.ly/2a2yyLQ

Emily

Thanks so much for this post! I just got back from 15 days in Europe – backpack only. I want to try and get my backpack a little lighter so this is great inspiration. I know you have posted before on the photo of the clothing, but I can’t find it. Who is the coral top by? It’s so cute!

Hi Emily, glad you liked the post 🙂 The coral top is by Nordstrom Brand Chelsea28. The top is now sold out and I looked everywhere for something similar but couldn’t find anything 🙁

Stephanie Craig

Love the bags! They look super cute.

Yay! I absolutely love them too!

Carrie

Great tips for toiletries. I’ve got the capsule wardrobe down, but I always over pack my toiletries.

Yay 🙂 Glad you found it useful, hopefully this will help you to reduce your load 😉

LuLu Haynes

Howdy, I gorge myself on your website and tips weekly. Was waiting for your recent 4-week trip post – but I don’t see the videos!?

I’m a mixed-media artist and I’ve REALLY pared down my weekend road trip items (from 6 bags down to 3 bags) thanks to you! Now I’m working on my Paris/RTW carryon. I’ve always enjoyed carrying backpacks. I’m searching for a rolling backpack for RTW/Paris trips. Enjoy your site so much, I subscribed ages ago.

Yay! I love this 🙂 Sorry the videos weren’t working, but should be all okay now! Well done on reducing your list!

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Take your Mac Studio to go with the new WaterField Designs Travel Bag

Three Waterfield Designs Mac Studio Travel Bag

What you need to know

  • WaterField Designs has announced a new bag for taking your Mac Studio whenever you go.
  • The new Mac Studio Travel Bag has space for your Mac, keyboard, mouse, and more.
  • Pricing starts at $179.

The Mac Studio might not be the first Mac you think of when you consider buying a machine for portable use, but that doesn't mean it needs to be anchored to your desk. The small powerhouse is surprisingly portable when it needs to be, especially when you pair it with the stunning new Travel Bag from WaterField Designs.

Starting at $179 and available in three stunning colors, the new Mac Studio travel bag is definitely a looker. But it's functional, too, with more than enough space for your Mac, cables, keyboard, mouse, and more. If you bought a Mac Studio to use all of that Apple silicon power but need to sometimes work from different locations, this is the bag for you.

The protective compartments in Mac Studio Travel Bag organize and protect your Mac Studio, keyboard, mouse, hard drive, and other accessories while in transit. The portable, compact case lets power users carry their full setup to take on location.

Buyers can also add one of a couple of different types of straps to their order, and the case Travel Bag itself is "made of indestructible ballistic nylon or waxed canvas with a full-grain leather." Color options include Black Leather and Chocolate Leather but it doesn't matter which you go for, it'll look great.

Who knew that a bag could make the Mac Studio the best Mac for portable work? You can keep your MacBook Pro , a Mac Studio will do just nicely! Sure, you'll need a portable monitor but you'll be the talk of Starbucks the next time you want to get some work done!

Jokes aside, there are plenty of reasons to need to move a Mac Studio around. If your job involves hybrid working, you can take a Mac Studio to the office and back home again while keeping it and its accessories safe and sound — and look stylish while you do it!

Features include:

  • A plush-lined Mac Studio compartment, padded with ¼-inch closed-cell foam, disperses external forces and resists compression.
  • Chambers padded with ¼-inch closed-cell foam flank the Mac Studio compartment and stow cords, a sizable mouse, and a hard drive.
  • An internal protective pocket stows a Magic Keyboard.
  • Waterproof YKK zippers open on all three sides with dual custom zipper pulls that overlap to accommodate a lock (not included).
  • A full-sized front zippered pocket fits a numeric-pad add-on, a Magic Trackpad, a medium Wacom Tablet, or other necessities.
  • Two leather-lined handles distribute weight evenly for a lightweight feel.
  • Metal D-rings attach to an optional strap to carry the case over one shoulder.
  • 6 mm of high-grade neoprene and 1/4 -inch close-cell foam cushion the bottom for extra protection when the bag is set down.

If that sounds like something your Mac Studio needs you can order your bag right now direct from WaterField Designs . Orders are expected to ship imminently.

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Oliver Haslam

Oliver Haslam has written about Apple and the wider technology business for more than a decade with bylines on How-To Geek, PC Mag, iDownloadBlog, and many more. He has also been published in print for Macworld, including cover stories. At iMore, Oliver is involved in daily news coverage and, not being short of opinions, has been known to 'explain' those thoughts in more detail, too. Having grown up using PCs and spending far too much money on graphics card and flashy RAM, Oliver switched to the Mac with a G5 iMac and hasn't looked back. Since then he's seen the growth of the smartphone world, backed by iPhone, and new product categories come and go. Current expertise includes iOS, macOS, streaming services, and pretty much anything that has a battery or plugs into a wall. Oliver also covers mobile gaming for iMore, with Apple Arcade a particular focus. He's been gaming since the Atari 2600 days and still struggles to comprehend the fact he can play console quality titles on his pocket computer.

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The 9 Best Mini Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

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

mac travel small bag

In This Article

Jump to a Section

  • Our top picks
  • Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

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

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

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

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

Best Overall

Paravel mini fold-up backpack.

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

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

There are only two pockets for organization.

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Madison & dakota canvas mini backpack.

  • Comfort 4 /5

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

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

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

The Details: 13.5 x 10 x 4 inches | Polyester

Best Anti-theft

Cheruty backpack purse.

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

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

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

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

Best Sustainable

Topo designs rover pack mini backpack.

  • Durability 4.5 /5
  • Value 4.5 /5

During our tests, the lightweight recycled nylon material and ample padding made this pack virtually effortless to wear.

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

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

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

Best Classic

Dakine mini backpack.

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

The laptop sleeve isn’t padded or zippered.

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

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

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

Best for Hiking

The north face borealis mini backpack.

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

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

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

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

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

Best for Commuters

Bellroy classic backpack compact.

  • Design 4.5 /5

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

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

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

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

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

Best Splurge

Dagne dover dakota backpack.

Dagne Dover

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

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

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

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

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

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Best Organization

Aotian mini nylon backpack.

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

This is one of the smallest mini backpacks we tested.

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

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

Other Mini Backpacks We Liked

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

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

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

Herschel Supply Co. Mini Backpack : This compact backpack is a very cute style and shape, with plenty of color options to choose from. However, the front pocket zipper is covered by a security flap that makes it too difficult to get things in and out of an already very small pocket.

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

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

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

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

Tips for Buying a Mini Backpack

Look for pockets for organization.

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

Padding equals more comfort

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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I think I read somewhere that large bags have to be checked in at a cloakroom when visiting the Kremlin, what counts as a large bag or do all bags have to be checked in? Do you need to do this before you queue for tickets?

We had small backpacks and they had to be handed in. Then you go and queue for your tickets.

Handbags (ladies' purses and small camera bags) are permitted, but backpacks and larger bags must be checked. When you go through security, the officer will glance inside your handbag to make sure all is OK.

Checking my husband's backpack was no problem. The check room outside the Kremlin is large. There were no lines either at check in or at pick up.

mac travel small bag

Leave them at the hotel if you can. AIM.

we were in the Kremlin 10 days ago and we had to check out backpacks. The one thing to remember is the bag check in closes at 6 p.m. so it is up to you to make sure you are back at the baggage check by that time. Also, towards the end of the day, the line to retrieve items can be quite long because everyone is waiting until the last minute to pick up their bags. Depends on how crowded they are

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Very Small Array

Moscow, Russia to Kiev, Ukraine

The helpful lady who sells train tickets from the hotel lobby cannot sell us tickets to Kiev. She tells us to go to the Belorusskaya metro station, so we do. At the ticket window we point to the page in the phrase book asking for train tickets and slide a piece of paper on which “Kiev” has been blindly copied in Cyrillic under the window. The helpful lady who does not speak English gives us this answer: Four. And she points. “I think she means four meters away,” says Mister Chen. “Or four hundred.” We enter the next building over, which may or may not be four meters away. The ticket windows are closed and the waiting room is empty. The bare octagonal room at the center of the building has eight walls covered in glass cases full of nesting dolls. The only other room is narrow and dark with walls coated in the chipping remnant of the most depressing shade of yellow I have ever seen. There is a narrow staircase with an iron railing and so we climb it. One flight up we find ourselves in a brightly lit room with walnut furniture and wall to wall carpeting. To our left is the receptionist’s desk. Across the room is the elevator bank. It is the lobby of a hotel. Outside once again, we walk what is closer to four than four hundred meters. We look up at the next building. It has a number on it. Four.

We wait on line again. “Ticket – Kiev?” asks Mister Chen, sliding our sad scrap of paper through the window. “Do you speak English?” asks the lady behind the counter.

We buy tickets on an overnight trains from Moscow to Kiev. The train leaves from the Kievskaya station. The Kievskaya station is undergoing repair. We walk around the station, past the platforms and the outdoor departure board. Inside people wait on wooden benches in a warm yellow glow. Outside vendors offer gyros that smells like dill. Like all the street food we’ve eaten in Moscow these are prepared upon your order and then microwaved. It’s the only way to keep things warm. It is freezing outside. We never found our way inside the train station.

The train car is set up like a narrow, tightly packed diner. On the left two benches covered in red vinyl face each other across the small table attached to the wall underneath the window. A red vinyl bed folds down above each bench. Across the aisle two single-person bench seats face each other over a table, and a bed parallel to the car’s wall folds down above them. Flimsy walls divide each set of beds and benches, the self-contained cells repeating themselves down the open corridor until they reach the end of the car where the bathroom is. Mister Chen and I have the top bunks of one cell on the left wall. By the time we reach our seats a stout, elderly Ukranian couple is occupying the lower benches like they’re East Berlin. We put our bags in the storage space under the seats. We gingerly occupy a small amount of space on the bench.

When the train begins moving the conductor collects a couple of rubles from everyone. We don’t know why, but we pay up. The conductor passes by again some time after 10pm to hand everyone shrink-wrapped bed linens. The passengers collectively decide that it is time for bed. Across from us the two half-benches fold down and meet with the underside of the table turned 180 degrees to reveal a red vinyl cushion. We crawl up into our top bunks, passing the pillows and blankets stored there to the Ukranians. I don’t take my shoes off until I get to the bunk, and then I place them above my head. Just in case. Because everyone has warned us. The Russians will steal your shoes.

In the morning we are trapped in the top bunks, sitting with our backs in parentheses so our heads don’t bump the ceiling. As long as the Ukrainians and their bedsheets stay on the bottom bunks our language barrier leaves us little choice. The Ukrainians stay in bed.

MOSCOW METRO ONE WAY TICKET 17 RUBLES (ABOUT $0.65USD) TRAINS FROM BEIJING ARRIVE AT YAROSLAVLSKY STATION (METRO: KOMSOMOLSKAYA) TRAINS TO KIEV DEPART FROM KIEVSKY STATION (METRO: KIEVSKAYA) METRO MAP mosmetro.ru

TRAIN 003 ONE WAY TICKET PLATZKY (THIRD CLASS SLEEPER) 776.20 RUBLES (ABOUT $29.01USD) DEPARTS MOSCOW DAILY 9:36PM ARRIVES KIEV NEXT DAY 10:17AM SUGGESTED ACTIVITY: Lying prone. eng.rzd.ru

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6 Comments on "Moscow, Russia to Kiev, Ukraine"

Sounds kinda rough.

we are going to Kiev.. next month.. good read. .it gave me a picture.. give me any other ideas as well. things to be carefull about?

Greeting Dear

My name is Zanyar,I am in Moscow,I have visa Russia.I am Iraqi.

I want visit Ukraine by Train.

Can I visit Ukraine with out visa Ukraine by Train? after 5 day I return to Moscow.

Not probelm, I buy ticket arrival and leave.

I wish you lcuk

You guys are always so negative about everything that’s not like what you are used to. Actually Russian/Ukrainian trains are much better than those they have in Western Europe.Everybody just loves them. You go to bed soon after the train leaves the station and next morning you are right in the city center, whether it is Kiev or Moscow. I feel sorry for your inability to enjoy anything.

Do they serve Starbucks coffee on the train? :P

You are funny about the starbucks question. I traveled from Sumy to Kharkov. I was in a cabin with 4 beds (2 bunkbeds) No one shared the cabin with me. It was a very smooth and comfortable ride….approximately 4 hours. The attendants were very nice and helpful…even with my limited Russian speaking ability. I also took express train from Kharkov to Kiev…approximately 6 hours. This was in the seated area. Again, very smooth and comfortable. The Ukrainian people are wonderful and a delight to be with.

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