17 Best Travel Soaps You Can Check Out In 2024, According To An Esthetician
Becky Sturm is a multi hyphenate beauty maven who has been in the salon and spa industry for 30+ years as a hairdresser, esthetician, as well as product development and product expert. After graduating in the HORST/Aveda Institute Advanced Training program in 1985, she went on to do an apprenticeship at The Red Carpet Salons for three years in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and then 1 year at Regis Corporation.
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Shiboli has a master’s degree in English literature from The English and Foreign Languages University, Hyderabad, and is a certified skincare coach with four years of experience. As a commerce editor, she guides her team members on the best practices to create crisp and authentic content.
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krati darak Krati is an associate commerce editor, a certified skin care coach, and a beauty enthusiast. She has a master’s degree in advertising and publishing relations from DAVV University and three years of experience in writing and editing for different niches.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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In This Article
Travel soap is one of the most essential things to pack as it helps to maintain hygiene while you are on the move. The best travel soap can effectively manage post-travel skin irritation, itchiness, and other skin issues. But, many of you may wonder why is it required when you can buy a bar of soap or use the one provided by the hotels. Well, good travel soaps help you maintain your skin health, make you smell good, and combat all the skin issues while being compact enough to be easy to pack.
There are many varieties of travel soaps available, which range from antibacterial to fragrance-free, in small sizes. Check out the 17 best travel soaps below!
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17 Best Travel Soaps You Can Check Out
1. Best Non-Comedogenic:Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar
Add the Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar to your travel kit to cleanse the skin thoroughly, while removing any dirt, oil, and impurities. This soap is clinically proven to sweep off dirt, oil, and other impurities, and contains five nourishing ingredients that gently cleanse your skin without drying or stripping it of moisture. It lathers well and makes the skin feel refreshed and clean. The dermatologist-tested soap is non-irritating and non-comedogenic and can be used for the face and the body.
Pros
- Clinically-tested for sensitive skin
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Non-comedogenic
- Moisture-locking
- Hypoallergenic
- Triclosan-free
- Triclocarban-free
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Can be used on the face and body
Cons
- Strong smell
- Leaves a residue
"The Cetaphil soap bar eliminates dead skin cell buildup and excess sebum from my skin without drying it out. The soapy foam washes off my skin without clogging my pores. My skin feels soft and looks glowing with daily use of this soap bar."
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has gained over 16,145 positive reviews on Amazon, making it an all-time best-seller.
2. Best For All Skin Types:Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Body Bar
The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Body Bar produces a rich lather that cleanses and refreshes your skin. It contains tea tree oil that has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that soothe and protect the skin. The parsley flakes gently exfoliate the skin. This soap is skin-friendly and has soothing properties with the refreshing and invigorating aroma of mint, eucalyptus, lavender, and rosemary. It is suitable for all skin types and can be used for shaving. Check this video and see how the product works on the reviewer’s skin upon the first use. You can keep this soap in your carry on bag because it is decent-sized and would not cause any issues with regard to TSA regulations.
Pros
- Contains tea tree oil
- Refreshing fragrance
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Dissolves easily
- Too gritty
Pro Tip3. Best Moisturizing: Dove Gentle Exfoliating Beauty Bar
The Dove Gentle Exfoliating Beauty Bar is a larger soap bar that contains 1/4 moisturizing cream and mild cleansers. This beauty bar effectively cleanses your skin while replenishing its natural moisture, leaving it nourished and hydrated. It does not strip your skin of its natural oils. The gentle exfoliating beads help to remove dead skin cells, revealing healthy, glowing skin. It is dermatologist-recommended, non-irritating, and can be used on both the face and the body. The product has received thousands of amazing reviews claiming its efficacy.
Pros
- Sulfate-free
- Cruelty-free
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Moisturizing
- Suitable for all skin types
Cons
- Very mild scent
Pro TipCetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar Best Non-Comedogenic | Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Body Bar Best For All Skin Types | Dove Gentle Exfoliating Beauty Bar Best Moisturizing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skin Type | All | All | Sensitive |
| Dimensions | 2.57 x 4.14 x 5.1 inches | 2.83 x 1.53 x 4.07 inches | 13.5 x 8.63 x 3.44 inches |
| Weight | 1.02 Pounds | 6.08 Ounces | 3.98 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 16,145 | 4,827 | - |
| Price | $10.99 | $11.5 | $16.33 |
4. Best Cruelty-Free:Aveda Rosemary Mint Bath Bar
The Aveda Rosemary Mint Bath Bar is a travel-size bath soap that gently removes impurities while naturally restoring the skin’s pH. This outdoor soap leaves the skin soft and fresh. It is infused with certified organic rosemary and peppermint fragrances that calm the senses and refresh the skin. This soap also lightly exfoliates your skin.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Lightweight
- Contains naturally derived ingredients
- Refreshing fragrance
Cons
- Expensive
"I like that this bar soap restores my skin’s pH level. It foams up nicely on my skin and restores its smooth texture. It leaves my skin feeling silky and smooth. It does not make my skin feel tight. The soap infuses an invigorating scent into my skin."
5. Best Eco-Friendly: FRESH CHOICE Round Soaps
The Fresh Choice Round Soaps are formulated with palm oil and natural aroma. It delivers premium moisturizing benefits and a refreshing bathing experience. This cruelty-free bar is made with all-natural and organic ingredients. Now, add this space-saving soap to your travel essentials and never worry about hygiene.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Cruelty-free
- Vegetable-based
Cons
- Does not last long
"This soap bar offers a refreshing shower experience. It is the right size, and I like that I can grip it easily. It does not leave greasy residues on my skin. The product deep cleans my pores and lends my skin a youthful glow."
6. Best For Eczema-Prone Skin:The Yellow Bird Soap Bar Activated Charcoal Lemongrass & Lavender
This portable travel soap from The Yellow Bird is handcrafted with natural and organic ingredients that make the skin healthy and impart a natural glow. It is specially formulated for those dealing with acne, eczema, psoriasis, and rosacea. The soap contains activated charcoal that draws out dirt, oil, and toxins from the skin. Shea butter moisturizes the skin and makes it soft and supple. Lemongrass has astringent and antiseptic properties that soothe skin irritation, while lavender essential oil invigorates your senses and kills the pore-clogging bacteria. This soap bar can be used by men and women and is suitable for all skin types. Reviewers love this formula for its ability to effectively cleanse and soothe the skin at the same time.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Sulfate-free
- No synthetic ingredients
- Cruelty-free
- Invigorating scent
Cons
- Not long-lasting
- May dry out the skin
"My skin looks moisturized and glowing after I use this soap. It lathers well on my skin, and the foam spreads nicely to effectively clean my pores. It does not leave greasy residues on my skin. The soap never irritates my skin."
7. Best Exfoliating: MARLOWE. Body Scrub Soap Bar
The MARLOWE Body Scrub Soap Bar is made with premium ingredients that thoroughly wash the skin and leave it looking and feeling rejuvenated. This soap’s stimulating pumice to exfoliate and give you smooth, clean skin is one of its distinctive qualities. The energizing smell of agarwood, sandalwood, and musk in this carefully prepared soap boosts your spirits and gives you a boost of energy.
Pros
- Cruelty-Free
- No parabens
- Glycerin-based
- Sulfate-free
- Phthalate-free
Cons
- Gritty texture
8. Best Long-Lasting:Bath & Body Works Stress Relief Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Bar
The Eucalyptus Spearmint Body Bar from Bath & Body Works provides stress relief aromatherapy to relieve your senses from tension. It is made with glycerin, eucalyptus, and spearmint essential oils. Spearmint essential oil soothes and uplifts the senses, while eucalyptus oil clears the mind. Glycerin moisturizes and gently cleanses the skin.
Pros
- Invigorating smell
- Lasts long
- Soothes the body and mind
Cons
- Expensive
9. Best Fragrance-free:Neutrogena The Transparent Facial Bar
This is a dermatologist-recommended daily facial cleanser. It has a fragrance-free formula that gently cleanses the skin of impurities and removes excess oil. This soap bar is proven to deliver visible results. It is enriched with glycerin, which moisturizes the skin and makes it soft, smooth, and supple. It cleanses the face without leaving behind any residue in the pores. This unscented soap is made with the original Neutrogena formula and is hypoallergenic and free of harsh detergents, heavy perfumes, dyes, and hardeners that may cause skin irritation.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Dermatologist-recommended
- Fragrance-free
- No harsh detergents
- Dye-free
- Hardener-free
- Non-comedogenic
Cons
- Might dry out the skin
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
It has received 2,278 reviews on Amazon and is a popular choice among shoppers.
10. Best Paraben-Free:Bergman Kelly Face And Body Bar
The Bergman Kelly Face and Body Bar is infused with the soothing scent of white tea that revitalizes and awakens the senses. It is scientifically formulated to cleanse and rejuvenate your skin. Each soap is individually wrapped in a recyclable, leakproof cover to ensure freshness and hygiene. This soap is perfect for traveling due to its compact size and eco-friendly packaging.
Pros
- Compact
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Durable
- Eco-friendly
- Recyclable
Cons
- Strong floral scent
"This soap bar removes impurities from my skin and restores its natural smoothness. It revitalizes my senses. The soapy foam does not clog my pores or build a greasy layer on my skin. It has a pleasant scent that never overwhelms my senses."
11. Best Natural Ingredients:La Chatelaine Lavender Travel Soap
The La Chatelaine Lavender Travel Soap is made in Provence and formulated with high-quality organic and natural ingredients that replenish the skin while cleansing it. This vegetable-based soap contains organic shea butter and calendula that hydrate, cleanse, and soften the skin. It does not contain any BHT, parabens, phthalates, gluten, soy, or GMOs.
Pros
- BHT-free
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- Gluten-free
- Soy-free
- GMO-free
- Not tested on animals
Cons
- None
"The soaps lather well on my skin and deep clean my skin. The soaps come individually wrapped in an elegant floral printed wrap. The soaps do not leave my skin feeling dry and rough."
12. Best For Gentle Use:Dial White Antibacterial Deodorant Soap
The Dial White Antibacterial Deodorant Soap produces a rich and creamy lather that gently removes all dirt and impurities from the body, leaving the skin hydrated and clean. It cleanses the skin thoroughly without drying it out or leaving any residue. This dermatologist-approved soap offers long-lasting deodorant and antibacterial protection that eliminates bad odor and keeps you smelling fresh all day long.
Pros
- Antibacterial
- Long-lasting deodorant protection
- Mild scent
- Dermatologist-tested
Cons
- May dry out the skin
"My skin looks cleaner and softer, thanks to this soap bar from Dial. It fights germs and bacteria and soothes my skin. The formula also hydrates my skin and improves its texture. It creates a creamy texture that spreads nicely on my skin."
13. Best Value For Money:Pre de Provence Artisanal Soap Bar
The Pre de Provence is a luxurious soap that creates a rich creamy lather and cleanses the skin, leaving it revitalized and fresh. This soap comes in unique fragrances to suit everyone’s preferences. This can be your perfect travel hygiene solution if you desire only natural products. This soap is made of all-natural ingredients and is quad-milled to give you a smooth, impurity-free formula.
Pros
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
- No GMOs
- Mineral oil-free
- Petrochemical-free
- Phthalate-free
- Shellac-free
- Plasticizer-free
- Micronized titanium dioxide-free
- Lead-free
Cons
- Very mild scent
- May dry the skin
"I love the strong, tangy scent of this soap bar. It cleans my pores and reduces their appearance. It creates a rich lather that feels soothing on my skin. My skin looks clear and smooth after I shower with this soap."
14. Best Organic:Tom’s of Maine Natural Beauty Bar – Orange Blossom With Moroccan Argan Oil
This Natural Beauty Bar from Tom’s of Maine has a refreshing orange blossom scent. It is made with a blend of Morrocan argan oil, virgin coconut oil, and raw shea butter. This soap cleanses the skin of germs and bacteria. It is dermatologist-tested and proved to maintain the natural moisture levels of the skin. The bar does not contain any artificial colors, parabens, fragrances, or preservatives and is cruelty-free with hygienic packaging.
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Paraben-free
- Preservative-free
- Cruelty-free
- No artificial coloring or fragrances
Cons
- May make the skin dry
"The best thing about this soap bar is that it fights and neutralizes bacteria. It strengthens my skin barrier and boosts its moisture level. It soothes my skin and reduces itchiness. I like its orange scent as well."
15. Best For Psoriasis:Naples Soap Company Natural Shea Butter and Olive Oil Soap Bar
The Naples Soap Company’s Natural Shea Butter and Olive Oil Soap bar is rich in nutrients and minerals which help in restoring and repairing the skin. It is fortified with natural ingredients to hydrate and moisturize the skin and make it soft and supple. It is perfect for people with skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. This soap bar protects the skin’s natural barrier while fighting against bacteria.
Pros
- Cruelty-free
- Paraben-free
- Formaldehyde-free
- Phthalates-free
- Silicone–free
- Triclosan-free
- Sulfate-free
Cons
- Mild fragrance
"This soap smoothes out my skin and protects it against radical damage. It smells pleasant but never overwhelming. This bar lasts for several washes. It detoxifies my pores and restores my skin’s youthful texture and tone."
16. Best For Skin Nourishment:Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Peppermint Pure Castile Soap
Dr. Bronner’s 18-in-1 Hemp Peppermint Pure Castile Soap is formulated with the purest organic ingredients. It is scented with organic peppermint oil that cools the skin and clears the sinuses. Sustainable and fair-trade ingredients contain nutrients that nourish the skin. This concentrated liquid soap is biodegradable and can be used for your face, body, hair, and laundry. It does not contain any synthetic preservatives, detergents, or foaming agents.
Pros
- Contains organic ingredients
- Detergent-free
- All-in-one soap
- Foaming agent-free
- No synthetic preservatives
Cons
- Makes the skin dry
17. Best Multipurpose:Everyone for Everybody 3-in-1 Shampoo, Body Wash, and Bubble Bath
The Everyone for Everybody 3-in-1 Soap can be used as a shower gel, shampoo, and bubble bath. It can also be used as a shaving gel. This product is formulated with gentle coconut cleansers, organic plant extracts, and vitamins E and B5 and scented with pure essential oils. It is infused with the soothing scent of lavender and refreshing aloe vera essential oil to uplift your senses. The soap does not contain gluten, parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, dyes, or harsh detergents. It is EWG verified and cruelty-free.
Pros
- Paraben-free
- Phthalate-free
- No synthetic fragrances
- Dye-free
- No harsh detergents
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- EWG verified
Cons
- No lather
"This body wash bubbles up nicely and elevates my shower experience. It soothes my itchy skin and eliminates build-up dirt. It does not make my skin feel tight or greasy. I like the pleasant scent of this body wash."
Listed below are some pointers to help you choose the right travel soap for your needs.
How To Pick The Right Travel Soap
- Size: Decide what size of soap you would require depending on the length of your travel. Choose one that lasts through the length of your travel.
- Ingredients: If you have sensitive skin, check the ingredients and opt for a dermatologically tested formula to ensure the product is safe for you. If you are going camping, opt for an antibacterial soap that will keep you protected. If you have anxiety, migraines, or stress, pick essential oil-based soaps. If you are staying at a hotel, go for a fragrant soap.
- Texture: If you are hiking or camping outdoors, liquid soap is better. But if you are staying indoors, you can opt for either of the two.
- Skin Needs: Check the soap to make sure it suits your skin type and issues. For instance, if you have oily skin, using a moisturizing soap can cause excess skin hydration, leading to breakouts.
Remember to take a leakproof travel soap case along to ensure the longevity of the soap.
Infographic: Key Ingredients To Look For In Travel Soaps
The right travel soap for you is the one that caters to your skin’s needs but comes in a compact size so that it is convenient on-the-go yet ensures your skin care routine remains unaffected. Take a look at the infographic below to learn which ingredients to look for in a bar of soap to ensure this.
Illustration: The Bridal Box Design Team
The Bottom Line
Your skin undergoes changes when it is exposed to environmental conditions, pollution, and water while traveling. Generic soap bars may not cater to the skin concerns caused during traveling. You need to take extra care of your skin while traveling, which is when you need travel soaps. If you want to pick up a cleansing formula from a trusted brand, go for the Cetaphil Deep Cleansing Bar. The Paul Mitchell Tea Tree Body Bar delivers the intense benefits of tea tree oil, while the Yellow Bird Soap Bar Activated Charcoal Lemongrass & Lavender offers a soothing and refreshing experience. These soaps help to maintain the skin’s health. Travel soaps with anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties wash away and prevent the growth of unwanted bacteria and diseases. Consider investing in a hypoallergenic traveling soap to keep your skin irritation-free. You can also purchase a travel soap holder to maintain your soap’s hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many oz is a travel size soap?
A travel size soap comprises 1 oz, which is 28 grams.
How do I keep my bar soap dry when traveling?
Keep your soap bar in a leakproof pouch or a ziplock bag to keep it dry while traveling.
Which is better for travel, liquid soap or paper soap or bar soap?
Paper soaps are convenient to use and do not take up a lot of space in the luggage. However, liquid soaps with good packaging in airtight containers seem more hygienic.
Is bar soap a liquid for air travel?
No, a soap bar is not considered liquid during air travel.
Does a bar of soap need to go in a clear bag at the airport?
Yes, keep the soap bar in a clear ziplock bag at the airport.
Is bar soap okay for TSA?
Yes, carrying soap bars in carry-on or checked-in baggage is TSA-approved.
Why Trust StyleCraze?
Shiboli Chakraborti is a certified skin care coach. She understands the importance of travel-friendly products and has thus scoured several websites to bring you this list of the best travel soaps. These soaps are ideal for maintaining your skin health while helping you deal with post-travel skin woes. She has also included a detailed buying guide to help you pick the right one for your skin.
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