The essentials and checklist for your wash bag (2026)

Packing your wash bag shouldn’t feel like guesswork...but somehow, it always does. You either forget something essential, or overpack and end up lugging half your bathroom across the world.

So here’s a simple fix. This is your go-to wash bag packing list for 2026. Easy, practical, and built for real trips, from weekend city breaks to long-haul travel.

Save it. Screenshot it. Use it every time you travel.

Travel in 2026

In 2026, international travel is at an all-time high, and airports are busier than ever. With more people travelling carry-on only, the need for hassle-free packing has never been greater. Yet people are still juggling flimsy plastic bags at airport security, or rummaging through tired leather wash bags and basic cotton pouches. OneNine5 has changed that with our award-winning, Eco-Conscious Wash Bag, the original 2-in-1 design for both long-haul trips and short weekend breaks.

We get it, packing isn't the best part of a trip away but a well organised wash bag is an essential in your suitcase or backpack.

Your wash bag packing list

If you’re reading this with an unpacked suitcase in front of you, don’t panic. We’ve compiled a handy checklist below of the toiletries and cosmetics for your wash bag. We've also suggested our favourite plastic free, or eco-friendly toiletries to pack in your toiletry bag.

Dental Products

1. Toothbrush - if you prioritise light packing then opt for a bamboo toothbrush. If you prefer an electric toothbrush, maybe Suri's aluminium brush with recyclable plant-based heads is the one for you.
2. Toothpaste - toothpaste tubes are difficult to recycle so why not switch to plastic-free toothpaste tabs like these from Parla.
3. Mouthwash - like toothpaste, you can find these in tabs, making them easier to pack and carry on your travels.
4. Dental floss - look out for eco-friendly options made from natural fibres like bamboo or silk.

Skincare

1. Moisturiser
2. SPF - planning to swim in the sea? A reef friendly sunscreen like Le Rub is a must to ensure that your SPF doesn't risk coral bleaching.
3. Aftersun
4. Lip balm - with Wild offering a refillable option, that includes SPF too.
5. Face cleanser/ wipes - if you've got a trusted face cleanser at home, you can carry a smaller amount in our OneNine5 reusable silicone travel bottles. Whilst Upcircle's cotton and bamboo make-up removers pads are a great reusable option too.
6. Hand cream

Body & Bath

1. Body wash & soap - unfashionable for many years, it's time to pack a bar of soap again if you want to go plastic free in your toiletry bag.
2. Razor
3. Shave cream
4. Anti-perspirant & deodorant - made the switch to a natural and refillable deodorant yet? You are spoilt for choice with the likes of Shift, AKT, Fussy. If you're heading to a hot climate and want to minimise sweating, maybe Estrid's refillable anti-perspirant is the right choice.
5. Aftershave & Perfume - avoid heavy and bulky fragrance bottles. Grab the OneNine5 Refillable Atomisers, so you can take 50-75 sprays of your favourite scent on your travels.

Haircare

1. Shampoo - got a preferred shampoo at home? our OneNine5 90ml refillable silicone travel bottles are perfect to carry a smaller amount with you. If you're looking to ditch those bulky single-use plastic bottles in your bathroom, try grüum's shampoo bars on-the-go.
2. Conditioner - like shampoo, you can now find plastic-free conditioner bars.
3. Hair styling product
4. Hair spray
5. Comb or brush

Other Essentials for the Wash Bag

1. Painkillers & Medication
2. Bug Spray - if you're heading off the beaten track.
3. Contraception - vegan friendly and responsibly sourced latex rubber, HANX condoms won't kill the mood or the planet.   
4. Period products - whether it's tampons, pads, menstrual cups or pants the team at Mooncup have you covered with eco-friendly period products.
5. Plasters
6. Tweezers

Packing your wash bag shouldn’t slow you down. Get it right once, and it becomes automatic. Less stress, less mess...and more time to actually enjoy the trip.

History of the wash bag

The Wash Bag (often referred to as the ‘Dopp Kit’ in the US or the toilet bag in Australia) has been around for over 100 years. Originally used by US military during World War I & II, it was required to carry toiletries and grooming essentials for soldiers to maintain a high-level of hygiene.

Soldiers would pack the basics such as toothpaste, shampoo, shaving cream, razor, soap and a comb. With the wide range of cosmetics and toiletries available today, it’s fair to say the needs of the modern traveller have evolved beyond the soldier’s essentials.