The term Dopp Kit confuses a lot of people, but when it comes down to it, it’s just a bag to keep accessories organized when traveling, such as toiletries and other smaller items. It can also be referred to as a shower bag or, in the military, a ditty bag. Either way, it’s a small bag for some travel necessities.
Dopp kit is a term particularly in use in the US for toiletry bags. The name derives from the early 20th-century leather craftsman Charles Doppelt, whose company designed the case in 1926. Dopp kits became widely known during World War I and World War II when they were issued to soldiers by the US military. The Dopp brand name was purchased by Samsonite in the early 1970s and was acquired by Buxton in 1979. – Wikipedia
I remember my dad’s old school leather Dopp kit he used when traveling for work. My next introduction to Dopp kits were when I entered the military out of high school. Although they didn’t call it a Dopp bag, it was the same thing. We called it a ditty bag. We carried our shaving kit, aftershave, toothbrush, toothpaste and a bar of soap. Ah the memories….
The first thing you need is a good quality bag. You can purchase one at most stores, but you get what you pay for. I prefer to get something a little outside the norm that will last me a while. While leather is the go-to for a classy gentleman Dopp kit, I have recently switched to a new product from SOE Tactical Gear. It is marketed as a Duel Tool Tote, but it can easily fill the role of a dopp kit. When opened it lays flat and provides access to two zippered pouches. Instead of tools, as its intended use is, I load it out in the following way when I travel.
Pouch 1
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Deodorant
- Johnny Slicks
- Ibuprofen
- Emergen-C Drink mix
Pouch 2
- $2,000 of emergency cash
- Passport
- Burner phone
- Discreet Stabbing Tool
I keep my Dopp kit inside my carry-on bag when traveling by air. This way if I get stranded at an airport due to a flight delay or cancellation, I can at least freshen up and feel human. Those sitting next to you on the plane will appreciate it too.
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