13 Makeup Bags That Will Help You Travel in Style
Oh the places you’ll go.
Updated Oct 11, 2018 1:35 PM
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Whether your ideal soon-to-be-summer getaway is popping champagne bottles in the Swiss Alps, taking a dip off a Jamaican beach, or skipping down the Champs-Élysées, you’re going to need a tight edit of beauty must-haves, from sunscreen to face wash to the perfect red lipstick. And the key to keeping all your travel-size cuties in one place? An equally chic cosmetic bag. Sure, you might have an old standby case, but in celebration of exploring new horizons, here are 13 makeup bags to suit every destination and the beauty essentials to pack inside.
Boating in Newport
You’ll enjoy The Breakers mansion and sailing while in the gorgeous tiny state of Rhode Island. So choose a case that fits the mood like this perfectly festive pink satin number with embroidered lobsters. A classic red lipstick is a must to channel Jackie O (who grew up summering in this historic spot).
Skiing in the Swiss Alps
Whether you love flying down the slopes or are just a big apres-ski fan, this Montblanc clear nylon bag looks right at home in a cozy cabin. Ski bunnies: Don’t forget to bring a super-hydrating lip balm for the blistering winds.
Eating in San Francisco
Channel the startup spirit of San Francisco with Cuyana, the accessory and clothing brand that can personalize any bag, like this perfect leather travel case. Add your initials and slip in a multipurpose highlight stick so you can touch up before drinks somewhere near the bay.
Sightseeing in Milan
Ciao, bella! Invest in a bag that can be used as a cosmetic case and, in a pinch, an evening clutch. No brand shouts Italiano like Bottega Veneta, thanks to its signature intrecciato technique. Don’t forget your liquid eyeliner for a cat eye that would make Sophia Loren proud.
Admiring Hong Kong
While taking in the extraordinary beauty that is Hong Kong, you’ll need a cosmetic bag that channels the adventurous vibe of the city. This Anya Hindmarch design has got something to say, and a turquoise eyeliner or an orangey-coral lipstick is equally statement-making.
Being a Local in Paris
This bag has that enviable je ne sais quoi and pays homage to France’s national colors. Make it personal with a hand-painted monogram on this Clare V. case. And go with a red lip, like the bold shade Domino cover girl Garance Doré created with sustainable French makeup brand La Bouche Rouge.
Adventuring Through the African Savanna
A trip of a lifetime deserves a cosmetic bag that you’ll treasure forever. This safari-inspired design with embossed animals is the perfect item to bring along while admiring the landscape. A tinted face oil with SPF allows you to pack ultra light.
Sunbathing in Jamaica
Channel the tropical beauty of Jamaica with a colorful PVC makeup bag. (Bonus points for matching with your beach towel and swimsuit.) Don’t forget a powerful sunscreen and reapply every hour or so.
Drinking Spritzes in Positano
Visiting the famed village on the Amalfi Coast? You need a makeup bag to match the sun-soaked tones of the seaside town. This striped set from Baggu packs entirely flat, allowing you to fill it with the beauty treasures you’ll score at the Italian drugstores for that authentic la dolce vita look.
Museum Hopping in Tokyo
The city of the future deserves a unique accessory, so bring along this stunner from Topo Designs. It can tag along to a sushi bar followed by a modern art show. The beauty item of choice: a lip stain that mimics the wildly popular “popsicle lips” trend in Japan.
Basel’ing in Miami
Doesn’t your heart just skip a beat every time you lay eyes upon Caboodles? This unique hard-cover case from the famed ’80s and ’90s brand mimics the pastel tones of Miami’s Art Deco architecture. Bring along a glossy lip and your favorite bronzer and enjoy the sunshine.
Partying in Berlin
This isn’t a cosmetic bag, per se, but it highlights one of the most underrated packing tips: Have your cosmetic bag serve as a handbag. You’re already packing this Raf Simons for Eastpak, so you might as well fill it with skincare and makeup. Try out a dark lip for a vampy, punk-inspired vibe.
Tea Sipping in London
No brand has a stronger association with London, so celebrate English heritage with this unique case. (An investment for sure, but it will put you in a Foggy London Town state of mind…) Fill the bag with a voluminous mascara to get those mod Twiggy lashes.
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