Whether you’re heading to a workshop, a convention, or simply want to paint while on vacation, traveling with art supplies can feel like packing for a high-stakes mission. Brushes bend, panels dent, paints leak, and suddenly half your kit is compromised before you even arrive. But with a little preparation and the right tools, you can keep your supplies safe and ready for wherever inspiration strikes.
Protecting Your Brushes
Brushes are some of the easiest tools to damage in transit. Toss them in a bag, and you’ll arrive with bent bristles and broken handles. To keep them safe:
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Use a brush case or roll: A rigid case is best for flights, while a brush roll works well for short trips. Trekell’s brush wraps keep bristles flat and organized.
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Clean before you pack: Residual paint hardens during travel, making bristles brittle. Wash with brush soap first.
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Optional pro tip: If you don’t have a case, slide straws over brush heads to protect the bristles.
Panels, Canvases, and Paper
Rigid supports are ideal for travel because they resist bending, but they can still scratch or dent.
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Floater Panels travel well: They double as a built-in frame, which adds durability and makes them easier to pack than traditional stretched canvas.
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Stack and wrap: Place a sheet of glassine or parchment between panels to avoid scuffing. Stack face-to-face and secure with painter’s tape.
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Paper: Use a hard-backed sketchbook or travel-sized watercolor block to prevent creasing.
Paints and Mediums
The last thing you want is paint leaking in your luggage.
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Acrylics and oils: Tape around the lid seam or transfer into travel-size containers.
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Watercolors: Half-pan or travel palettes are lightweight and mess-free.
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Liquids and solvents: Follow TSA rules — 3.4 oz max for carry-on. Seal bottles in resealable plastic bags for extra protection.
Tools and Accessories
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Palettes: Disposable paper palettes are perfect for travel; no cleanup required.
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Easels: Compact or collapsible easels are designed with plein-air painters in mind.
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Miscellaneous: Don’t forget tape, clips, or travel-size jars for water or medium.
Final Tips
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Plan for the destination: If you’re flying internationally, research whether certain mediums or solvents are allowed.
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Pack smart: Place fragile supplies in the middle of your bag, cushioned by clothing.
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Ship ahead: For longer trips, consider shipping panels or bulkier items directly to your destination.
Traveling with art supplies doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right preparation, you’ll arrive ready to create — without the heartbreak of damaged brushes or dented panels.
👉 Ready to stock up on travel-friendly supplies? Explore Trekell panels, brushes, and brush cases!