While clear toiletry bags are only essential if you’ll be flying and need to satisfy TSA liquid rules, these toiletry bags are durable enough that you can use them on any trip. Whether you’re taking a weekend getaway or backpacking across the globe, each bag falls within TSA guidelines.
However, if you’re interested in a non-clear option, we have a Dopp Kit Guide, too. You can use a clear toiletry bag along with a traditional model, separately, or as an alternative.
If you can’t decide which model to choose, check out our answers to some frequently asked questions for more guidance. Let’s dive in!
Osprey Ultralight Liquids Pouch Review
Durability Rating: 7
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: No
Best value
The simplicity of the Osprey Ultralight Liquids Pouch makes it easy to use. The clear portion utilizes TPU film, and the sides are crafted from 40D diamond ripstop, which is par for the course from Osprey. It has a small loop on the end to assist with opening and closing the YKK zipper, and that’s really it. The pulls are the standard-issue Osprey loop with plastic on the end, which makes for easy operation when you’re digging into the toiletry pouch. There aren’t any extra features, but, for $12 at the time of writing, we can’t complain! We love the budget-friendly price, and it doesn’t sacrifice durability in the name of cutting cost.
Why We Like It- It’s budget-friendly and durable
- The zippers are easy to open and close
- There’s no dedicated loop for hanging
- The accents aren’t completely waterproof
Tom Bihn 3D Organizer Cube Review
Durability Rating: 8
Hook For Hanging: Yes
Leakproof: No
Best splurge
The TOM BIHN 3D Organizer Cube feels like a step above some of the regular 3-1-1 pouches on this list. It operates similarly and features clear urethane materials and a nylon exterior. It's more durable than many of the toiletry bags we've tested, though the durability comes at a price. This is one of the more expensive options on the list, priced at $38 at the time of writing. Still, we've been using ours for years, and it is still holding up strong.
It features two zippers, which provide quick access to either side of the pouch without opening the entire zipper every time. Plus, it has two of TOM BIHN's signature O-rings for attaching it to other pieces of gear. There's a hook, too, which saves space on the counter when there isn't much room in your hotel or Airbnb. Unlike most clear pouches, you can choose the color of the border material, which is a fun way to express your personality or make your pouch stand out from a fellow traveler's.
Why We Like It- It includes a hanging hook, which not many clear toiletry bags have
- The materials are more durable than many of the options on this list
- It is on the more expensive end
- The hook takes up space if you don't ever use it
Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof 3-1-1 Pouch V2
Durability Rating: 7
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: Yes
The Nite Ize RunOff Waterproof 3-1-1 Pouch is unique for a few reasons. First, it's actually waterproof. Seriously, you can actually submerge this thing! That means it'll keep your liquids inside from leaking out into your bag in case a toiletry bottle breaks. Second, it features RF-welded seams to ensure it remains waterproof. Stitching doesn't last forever, so sealing it with radio frequencies is a lasting solution that doesn't leak. Last, it has a very technical look. It's like something you'd store a secret lab ingredient inside. Overall, this thing is durable and will keep your toiletries safe from spills (and your other gear safe from spills from the toiletry case), which we appreciate on long-haul trips!
Why We Like It- It's leakproof, inside and out
- The materials are durable and reliable
- The zipper takes some effort to open because of the waterproof design
- You have to maintain the waterproof zipper; otherwise, it’ll lose its resistance
Gravel Pouch (3-1-1 TSA Compliant Bag) Review
Durability Rating: 6
Hook For Hanging: Yes
Leakproof: Yes
At first glance, the Gravel Pouch (3-1-1 TSA Compliant Bag) might not look very robust. That said, it has consistently been one of our favorite toiletry kits for years, and its durability is higher than it may initially seem. We appreciate the included hanging loop because it allows you to save space on the bathroom counter or carry the bag from place to place. It also features multiple holes for adjustable size, and the super stretchy and flexible material allows you to hang it from more surfaces than just a standard towel bar. The zipper is also highly water-resistant, ensuring that your toiletries stay inside the bag, even in the event of a spill. When not in use, you can roll the bag up tightly and use the hanging loop to secure it, saving space. All in all, we appreciate the versatility.
Why We Like It- The adjustable loop is handy for attaching it to things
- You can roll it up small when it isn't in use
- It isn't super durable, though it holds its own while traveling
- It can't stand up on its own
Cadence Parcel
Durability Rating: 8
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: No
When we first received the Parcel from Cadence in the mail, we weren’t quite sure what to do with it. The bag doesn’t have a zipper, isn’t leakproof, and is heavier than we’re used to seeing. Considering all that, why were we so eager to use it? Well, you don’t see different designs in this arena often, so it’s exciting to see a brand challenging what a clear toiletry bag can be. It secures with magnets and transforms into an open-top tray when undone, making it easier to access your toiletries. If you have more than one, you can snap the sides together using the magnets, which is a unique feature. Because it has gaps where the top comes together, we recommend using this with solid toiletries or those that you’re certain won’t leak. The Parcel system from Cadence certainly isn’t for everyone, but it might be for you! Especially if you already use the Cadence Capsules, as the geometric design slots nicely inside. There are a few sizes available, but not all of them are TSA-approved.
Why We Like It- You can fit large items inside it
- The materials are durable, and the design makes it easier to grab your gear
- It doesn’t have an actual sealed closure, so items can leak out
- You'll have to lay most of your bottles down horizontally, since it's not that tall
BAGSMART TSA Approved Toiletry Bag
Durability Rating: 7
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: No
The Away Clear Toiletry Bag is the Cadillac of this list: it’s big, luxurious, and expensive. While it's not for everyone, you’ll be comfortable using it if you’ve got the space. It has two compartments—one larger than the other—and an adjustable handle that stays out of the way when you aren’t using it. The bag features two sides; one appears to be 3-1-1 safe, but the other is quite large. We’re not certain you’ll get through airport security with this bag every time, as the 3-1-1 section is attached to the larger section. However, it’ll depend on the TSA officer working on the date of your departure. Due to the design, the size is prohibitive if you’re only bringing a personal item or a travel backpack, but if you have rolling luggage, it might be better suited for your trip. There are multiple colorways available, which we appreciate for customizing your carry. If you’ve got a lot of toiletries to bring on your next trip, the Away Clear Toiletry Bag can likely fit them all!
Why We Like It- It’s large enough to fit all your toiletries and toiletry tools
- There are multiple colorways available
- It’s massive, so it’ll eat up space in your bag
- We’re not certain that it’s TSA-approved if you use both compartments at once
Away Clear Toiletry Bag Review
Durability Rating: 7
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: No
The Away Clear Toiletry Bag is the Cadillac of this list: it’s big, luxurious, and expensive. While it's not for everyone, you’ll be comfortable using it if you’ve got the space. It has two compartments—one larger than the other—and an adjustable handle that stays out of the way when you aren’t using it. The bag features two sides; one appears to be 3-1-1 safe, but the other is quite large. We’re not certain you’ll get through airport security with this bag every time, as the 3-1-1 section is attached to the larger section. However, it’ll depend on the TSA officer working on the date of your departure. Due to the design, the size is prohibitive if you’re only bringing a personal item or a travel backpack, but if you have rolling luggage, it might be better suited for your trip. There are multiple colorways available, which we appreciate for customizing your carry. If you’ve got a lot of toiletries to bring on your next trip, the Away Clear Toiletry Bag can likely fit them all!
Why We Like It- It’s large enough to fit all your toiletries and toiletry tools
- There are multiple colorways available
- It’s massive, so it’ll eat up space in your bag
- We’re not certain that it’s TSA-approved if you use both compartments at once
Ziploc Quart Sized Bag
Durability Rating: 4
Hook For Hanging: No
Leakproof: Yes
Best budget
Of all the options listed, this is likely the most commonly used clear toiletry bag. Still, while we appreciate the simplicity of the Ziplock bag, we also realize that it isn’t for everyone. So, who is this for? People who don’t want to pay for a dedicated 3-1-1 toiletry bag, those who already have a Dopp Kit that isn’t 3-1-1 approved, and people who have airport security clearance like TSA Pre-Check that doesn’t require them to take their toiletries out of the bag. Yes, even those people should be carrying a backup in case they have to go through the regular line or when traveling globally where the same rules don’t apply!
Why We Like It- It’s cheap and easy to use
- You likely already have these at home
- They aren’t very durable
- You might not realize that it has a hole until it’s too late
Others We Considered
The BAGSMART Clear Toiletry Bag is budget-friendly, but it wasn’t durable enough for our liking. That said, it’s still a solid option for those who are gentle with their gear. The EzPacking TSA Approved Toiletry Bag is on the cheaper end, too, with loads of fun and vibrant colorways available, so you can pick one that suits your style.
Why You Should Trust Us
Since Pack Hacker was founded in 2017, our team has traveled tens of thousands of miles around the globe. On 99.9% of those trips, we utilized a toiletry pouch. This experience, combined with our extensive gear testing expertise, enables us to understand what works and what doesn’t when it comes to packing a clear toiletry bag and navigating airport security. From knowing when to remove the bag to understanding what’ll pass security and what won’t, we’re here to help!
How We Tested It
Test 1: We tested the durability of each toiletry bag to ensure that it won’t break open inside of your bag and spill shampoo all over your clothing.
Test 2: A hanging hook is an essential tool for traveling, as it allows you to hang your bag in the bathroom, eliminating the need to take up valuable counter space. We test the strength of each hook, ensuring it’ll hold the weight of a full toiletry bag.
Test 3: We tested all of the openings to see whether or not the closure is leakproof, ensuring your toiletries stay inside your toiletry bag and don’t get all over the inside of your travel backpack or daypack.
What size toiletry bag is TSA-approved?
For a toiletry bag to be TSA-approved, it needs to be clear and quart (or liter) size. All of your liquids need to go inside this bag—though not all toiletries need to be here. You can store bar soaps, solid makeup, and other non-liquid items elsewhere in your bag.
Does my toiletry bag have to be clear for TSA?
No, your toiletry bag does not have to be clear to get through airport security. However, your liquids need to be in a clear bag, so some travelers use a clear toiletry bag by itself or in tandem with a Dopp kit.
Can I put non-liquid toiletries in a TSA-approved 3-1-1 bag?
You can absolutely put non-liquid toiletries in your liquids bag. That said, just because it’s allowed doesn’t mean you should. If your shampoo leaks all over your hairbrush, you’ll be in for a tough cleaning job rather than exploring the city when you land. We prefer to stow our liquids separately from our toiletry tools, but you do you!
Knowing which 3-1-1 toiletry bag to go with can be stressful, so hopefully, this guide has helped you on your journey. Enjoy your trip!