An illustration of the Moeraki Grey Eco-Conscious Wash Bag in the bathroom next to hand soap and a plant in a gold pot

The essentials and checklist for your wash bag

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.

Travel in 2023

In 2023, international travel is expected to return to similar levels seen pre-pandemic. When passing through busy airports, the need for hassle-free travel and efficient packing is a must. Yet the original wash bag, over a century on, is still unchanged. Those tired black or brown leather wash bags for males or floral cotton pouches for females, still dominate most shop shelves and online stores. OneNine5 have changed this with our award-winning, Eco-Conscious Wash Bag, ready for you to get back out there on your next trip away.
Whether you’re travelling round a continent, planning a long weekend in a city or just heading home to visit family for a couple of days, the wash bag is an essential in your suitcase or backpack.
Female hands packing cosmetics and toiletries inside the OneNine5 Moeraki Grey Eco-Conscious Wash Bag

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 OneNine5 wash bag. To help do your bit, we've also suggested any 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
  4. Dental floss - look out for eco-friendly options made from natural fibres like bamboo or silk.

Skincare

  1. Moisturiser
  2. SPFplanning to swim in the sea? A reef friendly sunscreen is a must to ensure that your SPF doesn't risk coral bleaching.
  3. Aftersun
  4. Lip balm
  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 Dock & Bay's reusable make-up removers are a great reusable option too.
  6. Hand cream

Body & Bath

  1. Body wash & soap - the trusty bar of soap was unfashionable for many years but if you're looking to go plastic-free in the bathroom, it is the one for you on your travels too.
  2. Razor
  3. Shave cream
  4. Anti-perspirant & deodorant - have you made the switch to a natural and refillable deodorant yet? You are spoilt for choice with the likes of AKT, Fussy and Wild out there. However, if you're heading to a hot climate and want to minimise sweating, maybe Life Supplies' anti-perspirant is the one for you. 
  5. Aftershave & Perfume - typically bulky and heavy to carry, here's our top tip for you. Grab yourself a refillable atomiser so you can take your favourite scent with you on your travels.

Haircare

  1. Shampoo - if you've got a preferred shampoo at home, our OneNine5 refillable silicone travel bottles should come in handy. 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 product
  4. Hair spray

Other Essentials for the Wash Bag

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