How to Pack a Dopp Kit?

Travelling is fun. Adventures are fun. Packing, well, not so much. Packing toiletries is especially tedious. Maybe you tend to pack too much. Or you forget what you need on your trip, only to find yourself in the hotel room late at night without a toothbrush. It happens to the best of us. Packing is equal parts preparation and restraint.

But let us help. We've put together a list of essentials to make packing easier. Of course, every guy customizes his Dopp kit to his own preferences, so swap out or add items you personally need. 

But before you can pack your essentials, you need a bag.

We suggest opting for a high-quality toiletry bag or, our personal favourite, a Dopp kit. Why high-quality? Because the idea is to keep one for a long time, like forever.

PRO TIP: Choose one that is sturdy, will age nicely and that you'll enjoy carrying around.

WHAT TO PACK?

Here are some essentials you need to pack in your Dopp kit:

  • Face moisturizer with SPF
  • Face wash
  • Toothbrush
  • Toothpaste
  • Floss, mouthwash
  • Razor and shave cream
  • Brush or comb
  • Hair styling product
  • Deodorant
  • Band-aids
  • Eye drops
  • Lip balm
  • Nail clippers
  • Minimal sewing kit
  • Safety pins
  • Prescription medication

One rule we like to follow is if in doubt, leave it out. You don't need to bring everything you have at home to be comfortable on your vacation. Who knows, you might even learn to do with less.


olive green waxed canvas dopp kit with toiletries inside

HOW TO PACK?

Whenever you can prioritize solid items over liquids. Choose solid alternatives like soap bars or shave bars to avoid airline liquid restrictions. This will also help you avoid potential spills in your carry-on.

Also use travel sized versions of everything if possible. If you travel often, having a dedicated set of refillable travel bottles for all your essential products is smart.  This will free up the room in your Dopp kit plus you'll be TSA compliant if you only bring a carry-on.

If you'll be flying with your Dopp kit, keep in mind that pressure changes on the airplane which can cause your shampoo bottles to explode.

Here are three hacks we learned to keep your liquids securely sealed on your travels:

1. Squeeze out the air method: Before placing a bottle that holds a liquid in your Dopp, squeeze all the excess air out of the bottle right up until the liquid reaches the hole. Without the excess air, your bottles are more likely to hold onto their contents during flight.

2. Zip-Top bag method: Place your liquids in small zip-top bags. These are perfect for containing any spillage. Pro tip: keep this bag on top of your carry-on for easy access during TSA screening.

3. Plastic trap method: Unscrew the lid of your liquid container. Place plastic wrap over the opening and screw the lid back into place. This will create an effective seal to prevent leaks. This one might be a bit challenging to replicate for your return trip unless you manage to save and reuse the plastic wrap.

BROWSE OUR COLLECTION OF RUGGED WAXED CANVAS DOPP KITS

We might be biased, but we absolutely love our waxed canvas Finch Dopp kit or Olive toiletry pouch for storing your travel grooming essentials. Both are roomy, water-resistant and durable.

So go ahead, treat yourself to one - or gift one to a gentleman who embodies adventurous exploration and enduring elegance.  

Bon voyage and happy grooming!

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