10 Best Makeup Bags to Keep All Your Cosmetics Organized, Byrdie-Tested

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10 Best Makeup Bags to Keep All Your Cosmetics Organized, Byrdie-Tested

From cosmetics to skincare, there’s space for it all.

In This Article

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In This Article

  • Top Picks
  • Reviews
  • What to Look For
  • Frequently Asked Questions
  • Meet Our Expert
  • Why Trust Byrdie
Three makeup bags from Royce, Dagne Dover, and Beis, sitting on a counter with makeup products inside themThree makeup bags from Royce, Dagne Dover, and Beis, sitting on a counter with makeup products inside them

Byrdie

TL;DR

Our favorite makeup bag is the Béis The Cosmetic Case, which has a mirror and a removable brush holder. We also love the smooth faux leather material, which resists crushing. The Victoria’s Secret 4-Piece Makeup Bag is a close runner-up. It has spacious compartments and three additional pouches to organize your essentials. We also love the Tumi Madeline Cosmetics Bag with a wipeable lining, transparent pockets, and a hanger.

If you use makeup, you definitely need to invest in a great makeup bag. They’re designed to keep your beauty products organized and safe and come in many colors, sizes, and prints. Since there’s no one-size-fits-all option, you should consider certain features when shopping for one. “Ideally, the bag will be resilient, waterproof, and easy to wipe down,” says New York-based 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,” adds Dorman. 

We conducted hours of research and tested the best makeup bags, evaluating them on quality, design, capacity, and extra features. Our team then combined these results with makeup artist-approved picks to create this list of the top choices. From hard-shell cases with organizers and spacious pouches to hanging toiletry satchels and TSA-approved transparent totes, there’s something here for everyone.

Top Picks

Best Overall:

Béis The Cosmetic Case at Nordstrom$78

Jump to Review

Best Large :

Stephanie Johnson Belize Stellar Martha Large Cosmetics Case at Nordstrom$108

Jump to Review

Best Budget:

Meiyuuo Waterproof Makeup Bag at Amazon$9

Jump to Review

Best for Travel:

Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag at Nordstrom$75

Jump to Review

Best Small :

Glossier The Beauty Bag at Glossier

Jump to Review

Best With Large Compartments:

Victoria’s Secret 4-Piece Makeup Bag at Victoriassecret.com

Jump to Review

Best Leather:

Royce New York Double Zip Leather Toiletry Bag at Saks Fifth Avenue$275

Jump to Review

Best Clear:

Calpak Clear Train Case With Top Compartment at Calpaktravel.com

Jump to Review

Best Skincare Organizer :

Cuyana Voyager Travel Case at Cuyana

Jump to Review

Best Hanging:

Tumi Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic Bag at Amazon$225

Jump to Review


Best Overall

Béis The Cosmetic Case

Béis The Cosmetic CaseBéis The Cosmetic Case
Credit: Béis
$78 at NordstromView on Beistravel.com$78 at Bloomingdales
What We Like
  • Compact yet very spacious

  • Magnetized brush holder

  • Water-resistant

What to Consider
  • Limited color options

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

The moment we laid eyes on thischic number from Béis, we knew we had to add it to the list. Measuring 9.5 x 7 x 4 inches, The Cosmetics Case is conveniently compact but more spacious than it looks. Inside, you’ll find a magnetized removable brush holder with a pouch-style enclosure and a small zipper pocket on the back. There are also three suitcase-style pockets in the main compartment and a slip pocket on the lid with a removable mirror for on-the-go touch-ups.

The poly lining has a water-resistant finish, making it spill-proof and perfect for travel. The faux leather exterior feels smooth and resists crushing. We only wish it came in a wider variety of colors.


Best Large

Stephanie Johnson Belize Stellar Martha Large Cosmetics Case

Nordstrom Stephanie Johnson Belize Stellar Martha Large Cosmetics CaseNordstrom Stephanie Johnson Belize Stellar Martha Large Cosmetics Case
Credit: Nordstrom
$108 at NordstromView on Stephaniejohnson.com
What We Like
  • Carryall handles are great for travel

  • Comes with four clear zip pouches

  • Suitcase style design

What to Consider
  • Several colorways only available on retailer site

Dimensions: 6.5 x 8.75 x 4 inches | Material: PVC, leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, brown, ivory, blue

This mini suitcase-style makeup bag is great for beauty lovers who can never pack enough blushes, lipsticks, lip glosses, and eyeshadows…(you get the deal). The features include three removable compartments and a large, clear zip wall pocket. It also has tall handles that work great when hanging over a door.


Best Budget

Meiyuuo Waterproof Makeup Bag

Meiyuuo Waterproof Makeup BagMeiyuuo Waterproof Makeup Bag
Credit: Amazon
$9 at Amazon
What We Like
  • Made from waterproof materials

  • Holds its shape

  • Great color selection

What to Consider
  • No compartments

Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 4.5 inches | Material: Faux leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Light blue, beige, yellow, purple, pink, navy blue, marble, orange-red

If you’re looking for a spacious bag to stow all your makeup and skincare products, look no further. This affordable pick has a deep storage section that can fit your sunscreen, serums, and moisturizers, plus five brush holder pockets on the inside of the lid. It’s made of smooth vegan leather with a wipeable nylon lining, feels lightweight yet durable, and holds its shape well. The only downside is that there are no compartments to keep items organized inside. 


Best for Travel

Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag

Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry BagDagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
Credit: Dagne Dover
$75 at NordstromView on Dagnedover.com$70 at Bloomingdales
What We Like
  • High-quality catchall design

  • Water-resistant

  • Great color selection

What to Consider
  • Doesn’t resist crushing

Dimensions: 7.5 x 4.5 x 4 inches | Material: Neoprene | Closure: Zipper, snap | Colors: Black, grey, olive green, navy blue, mauve, brown, red, light green, grey-blue

For the “less is more” makeup aficionado, we recommend the small size of Dagne Dover’s Hunter Toiletry 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. This one doesn’t resist crushing, so be cautious not to pack it in your checked luggage.

Jill, tester: “I love the neoprene material—which makes it easy to clean (and keep clean)—and its zip compartments that are ingeniously designed for travel.”  


Best Small

Glossier The Beauty Bag

Glossier The Beauty BagGlossier The Beauty Bag
Credit: Glossier
View on Glossier
What We Like
  • Stands upright so your products won’t spill

  • Removable inner pouch

  • Multiple pockets

What to Consider
  • Only one color

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

Glossier’s take on the makeup bag is this cleverly designed catchall. 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.


Best With Large Compartments

Victoria’s Secret 4-Piece Makeup Bag

Victoria's Secret 4-Piece Makeup BagVictoria's Secret 4-Piece Makeup Bag
Credit: Victoria’s Secret
View on Victoriassecret.com
What We Like
  • Very spacious

  • Removable pouches

  • Material is easy to clean

What to Consider
  • No elastic loops or brush holders

Dimensions: 9 x 15 x 6 inches | Material: Argentinian leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, cream, muave, red

This four-piece makeup bag has room for all your skincare and beauty essentials. Available in five colors/prints, it’s got a large main compartment and three removable zip pouches. It’s also durable and comes with a top handle for easy carrying. We also love that it comes with transparent panels, which makes it easy to spot the product you’re looking for.


Best Leather

Royce New York Double Zip Leather Toiletry Bag

Royce New York Double Zip Leather Toiletry BagRoyce New York Double Zip Leather Toiletry Bag
Credit: Saksfifth Avenue
$275 at Saks Fifth Avenue$275 at BloomingdalesView on Royce.us
What We Like
  • Has a dual zipper compartment design, with an additional interior zippered pocket

  • Compact

  • Durable material that’s worth the investment

What to Consider
  • Too small for larger collections

Dimensions: 7.75 x 4.5 x 5 inches | Material: Leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, blush pink, navy blue

If you’re able to splurge on a fancy makeup bag, 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.


Best Clear

Calpak Clear Train Case With Top Compartment

CalPak Clear Train Case With Top CompartmentCalPak Clear Train Case With Top Compartment
Credit: CalPak
View on Calpaktravel.com
What We Like
  • Transparent so you can find items more easily

  • Full zip-around opening

  • Equipped with elastic loops

What to Consider
  • No mirrors included

Dimensions: 7.75 x 7 x 5.25 inches | Material: Faux leather, transparent PVC | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, stone, mauve, caramel, pink

If you prefer a bag that can keep your cosmetics standing, this is the pick for you. The main compartment is fully zippered, with three elastic loops for brushes or skincare tubes and a zippered pouch. It also comes with a top handle and wide transparent PVC panels.


Best Skincare Organizer

Cuyana Voyager Travel Case

Cuyana Voyager Travel CaseCuyana Voyager Travel Case
Credit: Cuyana
View on Cuyana
What We Like
  • Doubles as a clutch and makeup bag

  • Has interior wall pockets

  • Material is easy to clean

What to Consider
  • No storage compartments

Dimensions: 9 x 15 x 6 inches | Material: Argentinian leather | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Black, cream, mauve, red

The Cuyana Voyager Travel Case is the latest addition to the travel case family, featuring a larger size to fit more items, including full-size makeup and skincare products (yes, full-size!). It’s handcrafted from smooth Argentinian leather and has gold-tone hardware that gives it a sophisticated look. The interior comes with two wall pockets and a zipper pocket. The best part? This bag looks so chic that it can even double as a clutch.


Best Hanging

Tumi Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic Bag

Tumi Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic Bag Tumi Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic Bag
Credit: Tumi
$225 at AmazonView on Tumi.com$275 at Bloomingdales
What We Like
  • Has a metal hanger

  • Transparent zip pockets with wipeable lining

  • Monogrammable patches

What to Consider
  • Limited prints and colors

Dimensions: 8 x 11.3 x 2.8 inches | Material: Nylon | Closure: Zipper | Colors: Muave, black, navy blue, dark green

With this functional Tumi Voyageur Madeline Cosmetic bag, you can avoid scattering your makeup all over the hotel sink. It features a metal hanger, three transparent interior compartments, and a detachable zip pouch for stowing smaller items. You’ll find a double-zip entry to the main compartment and a front zip pocket on the exterior. You can also customize the bag with monogrammed patches.

What to Look for in a Makeup Bag

  • Size: Are you shopping for something that will fit your entire makeup routine or just weekend essentials? Are you a maximalist who needs to travel with your entire makeup collection, or are you a mascara, clear balm, and concealer kind of person who would love something more compact? 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. 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: 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.
FAQ
  • How do you travel with a lot of makeup?

    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.

  • How can I pack my makeup without breaking it?

    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.

  • What is the best way to pack makeup?

    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 spill-proof reusable bags or smaller travel-size sealed containers.

Meet Our Expert

We contacted a makeup artist for additional guidance on what to look for in a makeup bag.

  • Jamie Dorman is a NYC-based celebrity makeup artist.

Why Trust Byrdie

Shauna Beni-Haynes is a former senior editor at Byrdie with a love for great makeup and an equally great makeup bag.

Caitlyn Martyn is a former Byrdie associate editor who specialized in skincare and makeup, including product recommendations.

Edited by
Shauna Beni-Haynes
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Source URL: https://www.byrdie.com/best-makeup-bags-4707626


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