25+ Things to Sew for Travel; Handmade Essentials You’ll Actually Use
Sewing your own travel accessories allows you to create pieces that fit your needs perfectly. You can choose the right sizes, fabrics, and features to suit your packing and travel style. Many of these projects are quick to make and are great for using fabric you already have on hand! It’s also a lot of fun to design and sew your very own travel essentials!
One of my favorite things about traveling is the anticipation of a new trip! I love doing all the prep work. I read the books, study the maps, and even look for a few new inspirational accounts based in my travel destination to follow on Instagram.
When I get home, I also try to take a day to journal or sketch some of the things that inspired me during my trip. Many of those inspirations have shown in my fabric designs or in projects that I’ve shared with all of you!
If you’ve been following me here for a while, you may know that I also LOVE to make something before I go on my trip. Sometimes it’s a quilt (like this one I made for my trip to Iceland); other times, it’s a cute bag or other travel essential.
If you’ve got an upcoming trip and you’re in the mood to make something cute to take with you, I’ve got so many fun ideas to share with you today!
In this article, you’ll find practical ideas for what to sew for travel, from simple pouches and bags to small organizers that make packing (and unpacking) much easier.
Zippered Pouch Tutorials
Staying organized while traveling makes everything easier, especially when you can quickly find what you need without unpacking your entire bag. I love to use a variety of small zip bags in my larger travel bag to keep small items contained.
Looking for a new zip bag? I have a few zip bag tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
- Quilted Box Zip Pouch with Ruffle Detail
- Simple Quilted Zip Pouch
- Zip Pouch Tutorial (with flat bottom)
- Zip Pouch with Canvas Base (makes it a bit more sturdy for travel)
Useful Travel Bags
Pattern and tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
- June Bag – a lightweight crossbody bag great for travel!
- Retro Travel Bag – just the right size for a weekend away!
- Drawstring Backpack Tutorial
- Oversized Beach Bag
- Saturday Duffle Bag – a fun take on an 80’s classic bag!
- Jacksonville Beach Bag Tutorial
Toiletry & Personal Care Essentials
Toiletries can easily become messy or take up more space than necessary. Sewing your own cases allows you to create something that fits your routine, keeps everything contained, and is easy to clean after your trip.
Pattern and tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
- Curling Iron Travel Case
- Laminated Toiletry Bag Zip Pouch
- Lip Gloss Pouch
- Makeup Bag with Vinyl Lining; Free Tutorial
- Roll Up Makeup Brush Organizer
Laundry Bags & Apparel Accessories
Keeping clean and worn items separate is one of the easiest ways to stay organized while traveling. A few simple fabric bags can help your suitcase stay tidy from the first day to the last.
Pattern and tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
- Fat Quarter Laundry Bag
- Drawstring Bag Tutorial with multiple sizes
- How to Sew a Braided Headband
- Snap Up Travel Infinity Scarf (doubles as a lightweight blanket)
Tech & Travel Comfort Items
Small accessories for tech and comfort often make the biggest difference on a trip. Having a dedicated place for cords, headphones, and comfort items helps reduce clutter and makes travel days feel smoother.
Pattern and tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
Just for “Fun” Small Projects
Not every travel project needs to be complicated to be useful. Smaller items can be sewn quickly and add a bit of fun to your travel adventures!
Pattern and tutorial suggestions below. Click through to the full tutorials for step-by-step instructions.
- Sunnies Sunglasses Case Tutorial
- Chapstick Holder Tutorial
- The “All Ears” Zip Bag – Disney-inspired project
- Card Holder Tutorial
- Divided Colored Pencil Pouch (great for planes or road trips)
Traveling doesn’t have to feel chaotic! Thoughtful, handmade travel accessories can simplify the way you pack, keep your essentials organized, and make it easier to find what you need when you need it.
Start with one or two small projects that fit your travel style, then build a set of pieces that work together. Over time, you’ll create a collection of items that make every trip feel a little more organized and a lot more enjoyable.
