How a Shower Cap Saves Your Entire Suitcase

When it comes to budget-conscious travel, the best hacks are cheap and versatile — like the humble shower cap. This underrated item can do far more than protect your hair from water. From containing messes to organizing accessories, shower caps can be a luggage lifesaver. You can grab a pack of disposable caps for just a few cents each, or opt for reusable versions for $2 a piece. Some hotels even offer them for free. Here are six ways to make the most of this clever solution on your next adventure.

Shoe Cover

Whether you just finished an epic hike or got caught in the rain on a city walking tour, dealing with dirty shoes is often unavoidable while traveling. Keep your suitcase clean (and bacteria at bay) by wrapping your shoes in shower caps. Simply stretch the cap over the soles so the elastic fits snugly around the top. Most caps will fit a standard pair of walking shoes, and they’re cheaper than traditional travel shoe bags.

Laundry Separator

While a shower cap can’t haul an entire bag of dirty laundry, it’s perfect for storing smaller items, such as damp swimsuits or dirty socks. Keeping these items separated from the rest of your luggage helps everything stay fresher, especially when you’re on the go and don’t have time to do laundry. It’s a simple and effective solution to a messy, yet common, travel problem. 

Toiletry Sealer

Leaky shampoos and messy lotions can wreak havoc on a bag of clean clothes. In a pinch, wrap your toiletries in a shower cap to contain spills and moisture. For extra protection, secure the cap with a rubber band or tie it shut. Shower caps can also be used for other personal care items. Forgot a cover for your toothbrush or razor? A clean shower cap doubles as a quick and sanitary shield — no fancy case required.

Electronics Protector

Tossing a shower cap in your backpack or purse while traveling is a simple way to protect your gear if you’re caught in unexpected rain or snow. One cap can cover multiple small electronics, such as phones, tablets, and cameras, keeping them safe and dry until you’re back indoors. Plus, a spare cap is a great way to store a wet umbrella after use, protecting the rest of your bag from getting soaked. 

Accessory Organizer

Items such as hats, headbands, and hair clips tend to get lost in large suitcases, but you can use a shower cap as a pouch to keep them in one place. It’s also a clever way to store loose electronic cords and chargers, children’s toys, and even pet accessories like leashes and collars. 

Snack or Trash Holder

When you’re on the road with kids or pets, having snacks and treats on hand often makes the journey smoother. In a pinch, a shower cap (a clean one, of course) is a budget-friendly way to temporarily store these goodies. Plus, it can be repurposed for collecting wrappers, crumbs, and small trash when a bin isn’t nearby.