Packing as a remote worker is different. You need to be Zoom-ready at a moment’s notice AND prepared for surprise client meetings. After years of digital nomad life, I’ve perfected a toiletry kit that fits in a $13 Amazon bag and weighs just 3.64 pounds.
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Packing as a remote worker is different from packing as a regular traveler and presents unique challenges. (Wait until you read my bloody hotel razor story and contact lens drama below.)
Just thinking about it, you need to balance being presentation-ready for Zoom calls while being prepared for in-person industry conferences and everything else life throws your way. You have to cram all the comforts of your daily life into a travel-friendly package.
My solution? I’ve curated a list of 21 essential items that all pack neatly (maybe a little tight) into a cheap $13 Amazon toiletry bag that’s been my go-to since 2021.
Why Should I Care What’s Inside My Toiletry Bag?
I mean it’s more like why you should just straight up steal my toiletry bag secrets.
From traveling the world and then attending conference events as a marketer, I’ve become a bit of a packing pro. At least I think so.
Working remotely from Tribal Bali Coworking Hostel, Canggu
Hopefully, this list is useful during your remote work travels. Even if you’re not a frequent traveler, be sure to come back and check this itemized checklist as a handy reference to make sure you’ve got everything you need.
💡 Pro Tip: This list includes EVERYTHING I carry on my flights, 100% of the time. It’s not just the everyday items, but also the tools I need to maintain a polished appearance for Zoom/Microsoft Teams meetings.
What Should I Have Inside My Toiletry Bag?
I’ve honed my toiletry bag down to the absolute essentials. In my opinion, this is the one bag you should NEVER unpack. Instead, make sure it’s always ready to go when it’s time for travel.
I keep 95% of my items inside this bag. Yes, I calculated it. The only item I take out is my Andis T-Outliner since that is rather expensive, and it’s cost-prohibitive to buy two trimmers.
Here are my 21 toiletry bag essentials as a remote worker:
7. Andis T-Outliner 🌟
This is the most essential item inside my toiletry bag. I use this for lineups every three days. For better control, I even modified the casing—cutting off the top part so it doesn’t get in the way when trimming close around the ears.
Get replacement blades. Imagine dropping your clipper in the Azores without ability to fix it! You can’t do a clean lineup with a broken T-Outliner.
Real-World Case Studies
Case Study #1: Kyoto Cuts Deep – When Hotel Razors Attack
I learned the hard way why you should never rely on cheap hotel razors—during an impromptu overnight stay at The Royal Park Kyoto Sanjo hotel.
My hairline was busted, and I spotted a flimsy complimentary, hotel razor, in the bathroom. “What’s the worst that could happen?” I thought. I grabbed some liquid soap as makeshift shaving cream and started fixing my lineup.
BAM — blood started dripping everywhere. Now I had a half-fixed hairline AND blood on the floor that needed cleaning up.
To this day, Kyoto, that hotel, and that flimsy razor are literally forever etched into my forehead—and memory—as a permanent scar. Always pack your own razor.
Case Study #2: One Eyed in Seville
Getting replacement contacts at Óptica Delgado Canalejas, Seville
The night before my trip to Seville, one of my contact lenses tore in half—while still in my eye—at the Encore Boston Harbor hotel. After 20 frustrating minutes in the bathroom, I finally got it out, but my eyes were left bloodshot.
The plot twist? I landed in Seville with only one contact lens for a 12-day trip. Until I found an optometrist, I had to improvise—using two mineral water bottle caps filled with solution and covered with a paper towel to store the lens overnight.
Lesson: Always pack extra contacts AND a spare case!
Layover Grooming Strategy
Long layovers are perfect opportunities to freshen up, especially when you’re earning miles through strategic routing. Here’s how to maximize your grooming time at major hubs:
Regional Shopping & Travel Tips
Europe
- Stock up on Nivea deodorants (cheaper than US)
- Get contact prescriptions filled (significantly cheaper)
- Grab quality hotel soaps
- Consider buying cologne in duty-free
Asia
- Harder to find Opti-Free solution
- Biotrue more common than other brands
- Pack extra Western products
- Excellent skincare products available
The Always-Ready System
- Never unpack this bag – Keep it ready for instant departure
- 95% stays packed – Only remove expensive items like the Andis trimmer
- Double up on essentials – One for home, one for travel
- Track everything – Apple AirTag inside for peace of mind
Download the Ultimate Packing Checklist
In a rush? Download your FREE ultimate packing guide as a PDF and get ready for your next remote-work adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can this toiletry bag fit in carry-on luggage?
A: Yes! The entire kit weighs 3.64 pounds and fits in carry-on. However, you’ll need to remove scissors and use travel-sized contact solution (under 3.4oz) to comply with TSA regulations.
Q: What’s the most important item for remote workers specifically?
A: The Andis T-Outliner trimmer. Nothing says “unprofessional” like a messy hairline on a Zoom call. It’s worth the investment for maintaining your professional appearance anywhere in the world.
Q: How do you handle grooming during long layovers?
A: Long layovers are perfect for freshening up! At Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), the Air France Lounge in Terminal 2E offers showers and relaxing amenities. Over in Seoul, Incheon International Airport (ICN) features the Korean Air Prestige Lounge—perfect for recharging between long-haul flights. I use this time for quick touch-ups, especially when booking complex routes through programs like Alaska Mileage Plan.
Q: What if I forget essential items while traveling?
A: Europe is your friend for replacements—contacts and quality grooming products are often cheaper than the US. In Asia, stick to international brands like Biotrue for contact solution. Always have backup plans for critical items like contacts and razors.
Q: How often should I replace items in my toiletry bag?
A: Check expiration dates every 6 months. Replace contact solution every 3 months, toothbrush every 3-4 months, and razors when they start tugging. The key is maintaining the “always ready” system.
Q: Any tips for maintaining this system while earning travel rewards?
A: Absolutely! When booking award travel through Delta SkyMiles or Alaska Airlines, factor in layover time for grooming. Long international layovers become opportunities to freshen up before important destinations.
Complete 21-Item Quick Reference
Basic Hygiene
- Cotton Q-Tips
- Hotel soap (backup)
- Toothbrush + protector cap
- Toothpaste
- Daily moisturizer
Grooming Tools
- Andis T-Outliner trimmer
- Gillette Mach 3 razor
- Replacement razor blades
- Nail clippers (Revlon)
- Scissors
Hair Care
- Hair comb & brush
- Denman curly hair brush
- Hair ties (Scunci)
- Beard brush
- Hair pick (if needed)
Contacts & Vision
- Contact lenses (extras!)
- Contact solution
- Spare contact case
- Backup glasses
Style & Scent
- Fancy cologne (Acqua Di Parma)
- Backup cologne (Dua Brand)
- Deodorant (Nivea)
- Earrings (if applicable)
Emergency Items
- Tide stain remover pen
- Apple AirTag (tracking)
Your Turn: What’s in Your Toiletry Bag?
What are your remote work toiletry essentials? Any horror stories or genius hacks to share?
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