best travel mirror 2023

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The 10 Best Travel Mirrors in 2023 [Compact, Lighted, Folding]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

823 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

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Table of Contents

Things to consider with travel mirrors, the 10 best travel mirrors, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether you travel for work or for leisure, you’ve likely faced the frustration of getting ready using a poor-quality hotel, train, or airplane mirror.

That’s why travel mirrors can make a huge difference. These mirrors are essential tools for some people to make sure they look their best while on the go.

Picking a travel mirror isn’t always as simple as just finding the first option you see and buying it. There are a lot of details that differentiate different mirrors on the market. Here are a few details you should consider.

Size and Weight

The first thing you need to consider is the size and weight of a mirror. Since travel mirrors are meant to be portable, you don’t want to purchase one that’s cumbersome to carry. However, if you get a mirror that’s too small for your needs, it’ll essentially be useless.

If you just want to be able to check your reflection, a small mirror you can fit in your pocket will likely be fine. If you want to apply makeup or get a close look at your skin, look for a larger option.

Since you’ll be traveling with your mirror, you’ll want to make sure you pick one made from the right material.

If you purchase a fragile mirror, it’ll likely break at some point during a trip. Many mirrors are made out of plastic that won’t shatter or break easily.

Hot Tip: You might want to consider a mirror that has a leather case. That type of material can usually act as a shock absorber so your mirror won’t break if it’s jostled around in your bag or dropped.

Storage Design

You should also consider how you’ll be storing your mirror while you travel. Many options are foldable, so they become more compact when not in use. This helps save room in your luggage. It also makes them easy to just toss in your bag.

There are also options that come with a carrying case for added protection and organization. Other mirrors, instead, must be packed as-is. These mirrors are usually small and thin, but they can add some stress to packing if you worry about scratches or are trying to save room.

Magnification

You’ll also want to determine the amount of magnification you want in a travel mirror and if you want any magnification at all.

A magnified mirror will mostly help if you’re applying makeup or doing a skincare routine. So, depending on how close of a look you want of your skin will narrow down your options.

If you don’t want a magnified mirror, make sure you look closely at the descriptions of the options you’re considering. You can purchase a standard mirror or a dual-sided model that has a regular reflection side.

Other Features

You should also consider whether or not you want any other features in your travel mirror. The most common extra feature people look for in mirrors is lighting. A lighted mirror can drastically help if you intend to use your mirror to get ready.

Some travel mirrors come equipped with LED lights for this purpose. As opposed to “stationary” lighted mirrors, these options are usually battery-powered and cordless.

Dual mirrors are another common feature people look for. This usually gives travelers different reflection options to suit different mirror needs throughout a trip.

Hot Tip: Make sure to drop your mirror into one of our picks for the best toiletry bag , best makeup bag , or best Dopp kit !

There are thousands of portable mirrors out there, and any one of them could be the right option for you. However, hundreds of them might not be a good choice for your needs.

To help you figure out what mirror to get, we’ve looked at the best options available on the market and compiled this list.

1. A Close-up Mirror for On-the-Go

15x magnifying handheld mirror.

Being able to get ready on the go is the main driver behind this magnifying mirror. It has 2 sides, 1 with a regular reflection and 1 that offers 15x magnification for an up-close look. While the mirror is marketed as being handheld, you aren’t restricted to just that use.

If you need both hands free, you can fold the mirror’s handle to create a convenient stand that you can adjust to suit your needs. It can even be hung up and used as a small wall mirror.

When the handle is fully folded, the mirror only measures 12 centimeters across, which is nearly doubled when the handle is extended. It’s also lightweight, so it’s easy to carry in any bag.

What We Like:

• Multiple setup options

What We Don’t Like:

• Easily scratched

2. A Strong Mirror You Can Set Up Anywhere

Fancii 10x magnifying lighted makeup mirror.

When you’re traveling, you aren’t guaranteed an optimal place to set up and get ready every day. That’s why Fancii created this mirror to make sure you always look your best. This small mirror manages to create a near-professional setup even in less than ideal conditions.

It’s only 6.5 inches wide, so it doesn’t take up much room. However, it also has full lighting and offers 10x magnification to give you a clear look at your reflection.

The lights even offer a natural daylight look for optimal use. You can even adjust its angle or swivel the mirror to suit your needs. It can also suction to most flat surfaces, so you don’t have to worry about it getting knocked over.

• Cordless and lit
• Doesn’t have 1x magnification

3. Compact Folding Mirror for Any Trip

Deweisn folding travel mirror.

If you’re looking for the perfect mirror you can take with you on any trip, this option from Deweisn is worth considering.

Designed to be incredibly thin, you can fit it in most travel bags or duffles. In fact, when fully folded up for storage, it’s less than an inch thick. However, that thinness doesn’t come with other size trade-offs.

Measuring in at nearly 10 x 7.5 inches, it’s still large enough to give you a clear look at your reflection. The mirror is also fully-lit, so you can easily see your reflection under any conditions.

It offers crystal-clear 1x reflection without any distortions. That means you can cut down on headaches or dizziness and actually know what you look like.

• 3 lighting options

4. The Perfect Pocket Mirror

Ytzj direct compact mirror.

If your main reason for getting a travel mirror is to be able to quickly check your reflection while out and about, this is the compact option for you.

Measuring 2.4 x 3.4 inches when folded, the mirror is about the size of a credit card and not much thicker, so you can easily fit it in your pocket or purse.

Though it’s small, you still get 2 mirrors. The first offers 1x magnification and the other 2x magnification for a slightly closer look. So, it’s perfect for making sure you’re looking your best.

Since it was designed to be tossed in a bag stress-free, it’s made of shatter-proof material. You don’t have to worry about finding mirror shards in your bag.

• No lock closure

5. A Lighted Mirror You Can Carry

Fancii led lighted travel makeup mirror.

If you’re looking for a lighted mirror that’s still incredibly easy to carry, this option by Fancii is perfect. You can easily hold this mirror with one hand, making it more convenient on the go than many other models out there.

The entire mirror also weighs less than 7 ounces, so it’s easy to carry. However, it’s also larger than a standard compact mirror, so you can get a larger, clearer reflection.

It’s dual-sided and offers both 1x and 10x magnification. So whether you want to check you have nothing in your teeth or you are applying makeup, this is an optimal mirror for you. The 1x mirror is also fully-lit as well, making its clear reflection even clearer.

• 24-month warranty
• Unlit 10x magnification

6. Lighted Mirror That Won’t Die on You

Rechargeable travel makeup vanity mirror.

If you like the idea of a lighted travel mirror, but you don’t want to deal with having to remember to check and change batteries, this is a great alternative. This vanity mirror is completely rechargeable, so you never have to worry about it dying on you halfway through your trip.

You can easily dim the lights with its touch screen feature to create the right lighting for your needs. You can also adjust the lighting of your lights between white, cool, and warm. You have full control to get ready in whatever conditions are optimal for you.

You can also easily prop up the mirror thanks to its built-in stand, giving you both hands-free to get ready.

• USB charged
• On the larger side

7. A Mirror That Creates a Vanity Anywhere

10×7 inches portable folding makeup mirror.

You can easily create a vanity no matter where you are with this foldable travel mirror. Measuring 10 x 7 inches, this mirror option gives you a nice clear reflection without any of the fuss smaller mirrors can make.

The mirror itself has an HD quality reflection without any distortions or warping. It’s also got an adjustable stand you can angle however you need. When not in use, just fold the stand back over to create a convenient protective cover.

The case and frame are also covered in imitation leather which doesn’t just make the mirror sleek and stylish — it also offers extra protection to keep your mirror safe from shattering if dropped or bumped around.

• Extra case protection
• Only 1 mirror

8. A Compact Mirror You Can Adjust

Feruaro travel mirror.

This little travel mirror is perfect for people who want the control you get from adjustable mirrors but don’t want something big and bulky.

When folded up, this mirror measures 5 x 3.4 inches, so it’s definitely a compact option. However, it’s still the perfect size to see yourself, no matter if you need to get ready or just want to check your reflection.

The mirror comes with 8 LED lights that you can easily adjust in brightness. In addition, the lights are powered by long-lasting button batteries, which eliminates any cords that could get lost or tangled .

Unlike many other lighted travel mirrors, you also get both 1x and 2x magnification if you need a closer look.

• Adjustable stand and 2 mirrors
• Only subtle brightness differences

9. Portable Mirror To Make You Look Flawless

Deweisn magnifying mirror  10x/1x.

If you want a mirror that will let you keep up your skincare even while traveling, this magnifying mirror is the option for you. The mirror measures 7 inches across, giving you a sizable reflection you and work with.

It’s also dual-sided. One side offers 1x normal magnification, and the other offers 10x magnification for precision work.

The mirror has a 360 folding capability, so you can hold it or set it up on a table, whichever suits your needs best. This small mirror also manages to have 3 lighting settings: cool, warm, and white. So you can choose the one that helps you see best.

This mirror was ultimately designed with beauty and skincare in mind, making it perfect for tweezing or makeup.

• Adjustable angles
• Feels heavy

10. Budget-friendly but Effective Mirror

Naysaye travel folding portable mirror.

If you are in the market for a budget mirror that will still get the job done, NAYSAYE has the option for you. This mirror is just under 7 x 5 inches in size, so it’s large enough to clearly see yourself without being too oversized.

It’s lightweight, weighing around half a pound, so it won’t be too heavy in your luggage . You also don’t have to worry about it getting jostled or damaged. The cover is made of PU leather, so it will absorb the brunt of any bumps or shocks.

It might not come with all the fancy add-ons as some other travel mirrors, but it’s a no-fuss, stress-free option that will suit most types of travel use.

• All-around convenience
• Too big for purses or handbags

Ideally, a travel mirror will have a good ratio between size and power. That way, you can use it effectively without it taking up too much room in your bag.

However, there are a lot of details that can determine which mirror is the right option for you and your travels. We hope that this list has helped you narrow down your choices so that you’re closer to picking your perfect travel mirror.

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15 Best Makeup Mirrors With Lights, Tested by Beauty Pros

These vanity mirrors with lights will help you put your best face forward.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Mirrors on the market today offer a wide range of lighting features, and it can be tough to know what's worth your money. To help you make the best choice, we compiled a list of the best lighted makeup mirrors , which includes picks tested by our Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab experts as well as recommendations from professional makeup artists.

Our top picks:

Best Overall

Fancii vera premium lighted vanity.

Conair Unbound Rechargeable LED Lighted Vanity Mirror

Best Ring Light Mirror

Ilios lighting beauty ring light.

In our search, the GH Institute Beauty Lab vetted a total of 17 vanity mirrors with a range of features and price points. We first evaluated their construction quality and durability in the Lab, and 12 mirrors moved on to be tested by consumer testers at the Institute. Each tester applied makeup in the mirrors while paying special attention to their lighting features. Testers then responded to a survey, rating their satisfaction with different aspects of the mirrors on a five-point scale. After tallying up the data points, we narrowed it down to our top recommendations.

Find out more about the top lighted cosmetic mirrors, and hear from makeup artists about what to look for in a vanity mirror at the end of this guide. Want to peruse more of our top-tested beauty tools? Check out our roundups of the best hairdryer brushes , the best makeup sponges and the best red light therapy devices .

Rising to the top of the list, this mirror earned high marks for its elegant appearance, perfect size and easy-to-use lighting controls . The Vera’s polished metal construction impressed testers who complimented its sleek, chic design as "something I wouldn’t mind having displayed in my home.” Its rechargeable power source means it can be moved across your vanity cord-free.

Our testers appreciated this mirror’s long oval shape, noting that it’s “great for seeing your whole face when applying makeup.” For trying out your makeup in different lighting, the mirror features LED lighting in three color temperatures — a cool daylight, a neutral white and a warmer soft white — which are switched by touch controls on the mirror’s surface.

Best of all, the Vera’s lighting boasts a CRI (color rendering index) of 95 out of 100. Translation: It allows you to see the colors of your makeup accurately. No more mismatched foundation!

At an excellent value of under $60, the Conair Unbound Rechargeable mirror features a cordless and clean design, sturdy construction and great lighting options.

One tester raved that it’s “ the perfect size to keep on my dresser at home — it’s not too large or too small, and I’m able to see all parts of my face clearly .” This mirror’s lights had testers in awe with its three color temperatures: cool, neutral and warm, plus three brightness settings each. "I love the light surrounding the mirror! It’s vibrant, and the controls are so easy to use,” praised one tester.

Not to mention, this Conair model also comes with a 10x magnifying mini mirror that clicks magnetically to the center to help you with close-up tasks like tweezing eyebrows.

No more hunching over to do your makeup. Heavy and sturdy, the Ilios ring light mirror is much bigger and taller (21 inches, to be precise!) than other makeup mirrors on this list, a fact our GH beauty experts appreciate.

We found that the mirror swivels around easily from 1x to 5x magnifying, and the soft, diffused light doesn’t feel harsh on the eyes. One added bonus: Its built-in phone holder works great in combination with the ring light for filming videos or video conferencing. The only con worth noting is that the mirror and phone holder can't be used at the same time. That means removing the mirror first — one GH tester found that putting the mirror back in could be a tad tricky.

Conair LED Lighted Large Vanity Makeup Mirror

Dressing rooms where stars put on their show-worthy makeup looks are known for having large mirrors bordered with bright, round lightbulbs. This Hollywood-esque mirror from Conair lets you bring home some of that showbiz glamour.

Our testers admired its simple but chic design reminiscent of a classic vanity mirror . This generously sized mirror offers a longer view of yourself, so you can comfortably see your makeup, hair and top at the same time. It also has a small storage tray at the base for keeping bobby pins and other small items nearby. The LED lights can be switched between three brightness settings and warm, neutral and cool tones. Some testers noted that the plastic construction of this mirror felt a bit light.

Riki Loves Riki Pretty Vanity Mirror

In one sleek design, this mid-sized mirror features edge-to-edge glass with bordering built-in LED lights. "I love that it’s a daylight bulb and a white light, so the color is super accurate for color matching ," says professional makeup artist Emily Dimant .

The 5x magnifying mirror and the included phone holder use magnets for quick attachment and removal. Want to capture yourself basked in the mirror's lights? It comes with a wireless remote to both adjust lighting and snap photos on your phone via Bluetooth. Thanks to its slim yet durable design, Dimant appreciates it for both home and travel and the brand's customer service.

Jerdon 8.5" LED Lighted Tabletop Mirror

If you’re looking for a classic, round makeup mirror for your bathroom counter, consider this timeless pick from Jerdon. Our panelists rated this mirror the sturdiest among those we tested.

It conveniently swivels between a 1x view and a magnified 8x view, which one tester noted is " ideal for switching from applying makeup to plucking eyebrows ." Three lighting modes can be chosen by turning the knob at the base, though our testers felt it could be difficult to turn for those with limited dexterity. This corded mirror is available in nickel, chrome, bronze and black finishes to suit any décor.

DeWeisn Folding Travel Mirror Lighted Makeup Mirror

Built to fold in half, this compact makeup mirror is primed to fit in your carry-on, purse or tote bag when traveling. "The DeWeisn Folding Lighted Makeup Mirror checks all the boxes for me," says LA-based celebrity makeup artist Elizabeth Seropian . "This mirror can be used for glam, your skincare routine and to glam your hair! "

Simply tap the touch sensor to switch between dim to bright LEDs. With a rechargeable USB, the mirror can be charged on-the-go if you have a laptop or portable charger handy. Keep in mind that the vanity mirror has no magnification if that's a key item on your list.

Simplehuman 8" Round Sensor Makeup Mirror

With its sleek, minimal design and high-tech lighting features, the Round Sensor Mirror from SimpleHuman will fit in in any modern home. Testers were impressed by the very detailed view this 8x magnifying mirror offered, saying, “ I could really see everything, it truly allowed for precise application of makeup on my face .”

This rechargeable mirror’s LED lights claim a high CRI of 95 to help you see colors accurately and offer one cool and one warm hue. It also has a telescoping stand to adjust the mirror's height. A motion sensor at the top of the mirror automatically turns on the light as you approach. While testers liked that the lights could be set to “super bright,” they found the touch control along the edge of the mirror to be finicky.

FASCINATE Makeup Case with Lighted Mirror

When traveling, this Amazon makeup mirror ensures you don't have to sacrifice your makeup quality for convenience. The portable lighted vanity comes nestled in a makeup case with organizing compartments.

Plus, the mirror is detachable but can also be protected by its divider to prevent it from getting scratched when jostled. Celebrity makeup artist Sebastien Tardif and co-founder of Veil Cosmetics loves it for traveling and enjoys its " convenience of makeup portability and the practical aspect of being able to apply makeup within the same mirror/case ." He adds that it comes in three different essential color settings: cool, natural and warm.

Jerdon Lighted Tabletop Makeup Mirror

“For the ultimate precision in creating your makeup look, grab a magnified mirror!” Kaye advises. Our testers thought this 5x mirror from Jerdon felt perfectly zoomed in, saying, “the magnification of the mirror is just right so I can see my whole face, which is typically not the case with other magnifying mirrors.”

Our testers also loved that this mirror allowed them to apply makeup without glasses , saying it’s “especially helpful when applying brow and eye makeup.” This mirror’s lighting can be cycled gradually from cool to warm tones but features only one brightness. The mirror's base features an extra AC outlet for plugging in another device. Our testers also noted that this mirror was just big enough to see one's face and some wish it had a wider view.

Riki Loves Riki Skinny Smart Vanity Mirror

Complete with powerful lighting, a sturdy phone holder and a Bluetooth selfie function, the Riki Skinny is the ultimate mirror for content creators. Our testers noted that the highest of the mirror’s five brightness levels was incredibly bright — strong enough to take the place of a ring light for filming (though some testers found it to be harsh on the eyes).

A sturdy phone holder clicks on magnetically for applying makeup in the mirror while watching or recording a makeup tutorial. The mirror can also connect to your phone via Bluetooth, allowing you to take a picture or start recording by pressing the camera button on the mirror. This model’s generously sized 5x magnifying mirror can also click onto the center of the mirror. One tester raved, “I love being able to stack the magnification mirror on separately when I need it!”

Fancii Cami Mirror

The Cami mirror from Fancii packs the great lighting and magnification features of larger mirrors into a cute and petite design. Our testers loved that this model can either rest in its charging base as a cordless vanity mirror or pop out to become a lighted hand mirror.

The two-piece design is great for packing flat into a suitcase. It has a 1x side and a 5x magnifying side, with dimmable lights in three color temperatures with a high CRI of 90 on both sides. Testers also raved about the mirror’s “pretty,” “chic” and “streamlined” appearance, and it comes in four adorable pastel shades of pink, white, green and blue. Note that this mirror can tilt back 30 degrees in its base, which is a smaller range than other mirrors.

Ilios Lighting Wall Mounted Lighted Makeup Mirror

Keep a lighted makeup mirror within arm's length without it taking up counter space; the Ilios wall mounted makeup mirror features an extension arm that gets the ring light vanity exactly where you need it.

One GH editor found its softened LED light and 5x magnification effective at seeing details close-up. "A few hours into my work day, I turned it on and loved how I could notice things I can't get a great look at usually like mascara smudging and concealer creasing." Another great feature is that the cordless mirror can be turned into a handheld . "It feels super lightweight and isn't tasking to hold when I want a closer look at my face," she added. Plus, the optional suction cup takes the wall mount makeup vanity mirror on-the-go for easy attachment to bathroom mirrors.

Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio

The Sensor Mirror Trio from Simplehuman packs three different magnifications, thoughtfully designed features and high-quality lighting into one sleek yet sturdy mirror. One side is a 1x mirror with a small 10x mirror inset, perfect for plucking eyebrows up close and checking your overall look as you go.

The small knob lets you effortlessly swivel the mirror around to its 5x magnifying side for close-up makeup application. Said one tester, “I like how easy it is to flip it around for a different magnification." The knob can also be twisted to change the hue of the mirror’s lighting. One of our testers raved, “It’s a great size and the lighting is great for applying makeup precisely — I can clearly see my pores and where the product sits on my face.” Like the Round Sensor Mirror, this mirror has a motion-activated light that turns on as you approach and a CRI of 95 out of 100.

DeWeisn Tri-Fold Lighted Vanity Makeup Mirror

If you’re looking for a mirror with a few different magnification options for a low price, consider this DeWeisn tri-fold mirror from Amazon. It has a 1x central mirror with dimmable LED lights flanked by a 1x mirror on the left panel and 2x and 3x mirrors on the right panel.

"I like the dimmer because sometimes these can get too bright for me to actually use," a tester said. Other testers appreciated that the panels fold in, making the mirror slim and compact for storage. The mirror can swivel back 180 degrees for a range of viewing angles , though our testers felt that the mirror’s stand was a bit short and the base could be sturdier.

How we test lighted makeup mirrors

For this test, we gathered 17 lighted mirrors in the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab, including both high-end and affordable picks. We first evaluated their sturdiness by subjecting them to a tip-over test. Any mirror that broke was eliminated. We also eliminated mirrors that showed signs of lower quality such as having stick-on mirrors that fell off easily.

We then had testers apply makeup in the mirrors and respond to a survey. Testers used a five-point Likert scale to rate their satisfaction with multiple aspects of the mirrors, including their sturdiness, the quality of their lighting, the ease-of-use of their lighting controls and their appearance. Our Lab analysts then tabulated the survey data to determine our top picks.

What to look for when shopping for a makeup mirror

✔️ Lighting: If you want the most color-accurate lighting, consider a mirror with a high CRI, or color rendering index . CRI is a rating commonly applied to LED lights that measures how accurately they can render the colors of the objects they illuminate. A lighted mirror with a high CRI will help you see subtle color differences even when you don’t have the benefit of natural light.

Many of the mirrors on our list also offer multiple color temperatures to suit the different ways you’ll use the mirror. Cool and neutral light will sharpen your view for detailed tasks like makeup application and plucking eyebrows, while warm light is suited for nighttime uses like removing makeup or using a jade roller .

✔️ Magnification: “Magnified mirrors can help if it’s hard for you to see up close, or if you want to be very precise with something, like eyeliner, for example,” Kaye says. Our testers preferred a gentle 5x magnification for applying makeup without glasses and generally getting a closer look at their makeup. Consider a more powerful 8x magnification to see every detail for delicate tasks like shaving facial hair or applying false lashes . Finally, 10x mirrors, which tend to be small, are perfect for plucking eyebrows.

✔️ Corded or Cordless: If you want to display your vanity mirror without the clutter of cords, or even take your mirror on-the-go, opt for a cordless rechargeable mirror. If your mirror will have a more permanent spot on your bathroom counter with an outlet nearby, a corded mirror will always be ready when you need it.

Are lighted makeup mirrors worth it?

Yes, says celebrity makeup artist Allison Kaye : “A lighted mirror is essential for applying makeup! It is not guaranteed you will always have impeccable daylight to create your makeup look.” Lighted mirrors can give you a clearer view of yourself even in low light conditions. Celebrity makeup artist Judi Gabbay agrees, saying, “A lighted mirror can be a big help in makeup application depending on how warm or cool the lighting is, but neutral LED lighting is your best bet.”

Just keep in mind: "When you use them, especially those that offer magnification, you can see everything, which is both good and bad," says board-certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner, M.D. "Everyone has pores. Everyone has imperfections. When using these mirrors, remember that [the] only way to achieve perfect skin is by using a social media filter."

Chiara (she/her) is a reviews analyst in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she conducts hands-on testing of health and beauty products. She earned her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Columbia University. Before joining GH in 2022, she worked as a cosmetic chemist, formulating skincare products for a variety of brands and learning to decode ingredient lists, evaluate ingredient efficacy and scrutinize product claims.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

Review: The Best Compact Mirrors Of 2023

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• Accessories and Gadgets
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Vanity Planet Mini LED Travel Mirror

Fancii led folding mirror, portable led lighted makeup mirror, wobsion small travel mirror.

We all have our reasons for carrying around a compact mirror. Maybe you like to touch up your makeup during a long day of travel, or maybe you like to use it to fix your hair every few hours.

No matter what you use it for, the perfect compact mirror needs to have a few things. The type of compact mirror you want to carry around should be distortion-free, collapsible, freestanding, and small enough to fit in a purse or backpack.

These requirements are just the bare minimum. There are a lot of other fun features to consider, like LED lights, magnification, and more. To help you find the perfect travel mirror, we asked travel enthusiasts what they consider the best of the best. We also created a useful guide to inform your compact mirror-buying decision.

The Best Compact Mirrors

“This one’s a super stylish portable vanity mirror available in two color options: grey and blush pink. It includes three brightness levels: white, calm, and warm. In my experience, the best feature of the mirror is a touch sensor function for dimming the lights as needed. I can adjust the lights by keeping my finger on the power until I get the appropriate brightness. I can also easily set the mirror to my preferred angle to get the perfect view and lighting. It comes with a rechargeable micro-USB charger, so no more light dimming after multiple uses. Fully charged, it lasts for two hours of use. It is a hands-free mirror, so I can place it wherever I want.” – Shailen Vandeyar, Founder, Camping Console

“The ultimate compact that I won’t leave my house without is the Fancii LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror. It’s compact enough for your small bags, yet has a full 5-inch mirror so you can see your whole face. It has a second built-in mirror that magnifies up to 10x. The built-in LED lighting is an amazing feature that allows you to apply makeup or just freshen up in dim areas. It’s incredibly convenient if you’re always on the go. It’s an easy Christmas gift that you can purchase for yourself or a loved one.” – Tina Grant, Quality Assessor, Aerospheres

“I highly recommend the Feruaro Travel Mirror with built-in LED lights. This compact mirror is only 5 inches, about the size of an iPhone, and can open up to create a stand for itself. It also includes LED lights for better lighting and a magnifying side for extra precision. I love this little mirror and is great for when you are on the go. It is the perfect medium for features and price.” – Jasmin Diaz, CMO, SmokyMountains.com

“I’ve had this pocket sized travel mirror for nearly two years and I absolutely love it. First and foremost, this mirror is available in a variety of cute and classic colors. The one I have is in eye-catching cyan. Second, it is extremely portable, small and thin enough to fit in a small compartment of my backpack, handbag, purse, or even a pocket — making it the ideal travel buddy. Third, it has a magnetic switch design that makes it very easy to open. I don’t have to break my nails trying to open it. Fourth, it has daylight LED lights that can provide just the right amount of illumination as I apply my makeup. Finally, it can provide up to 10X magnification, which I find very useful when applying my eye makeup delicately.” — Sarah Jameson, Marketing Director, Green Building Elements

Compact Mirror Buying Guide

Before you buy a compact mirror, consider which of the following features you want to make your experience traveling with and using your compact considerably more enjoyable!

Magnification

Choosing the right mirror magnification may seem a little stressful at first. Most mirrors include a true-to-life mirror that’s life-size and perfectly mirrors what you would see in a bathroom mirror, car mirror, or window reflection. These mirrors help you see the full picture and all that’s there, but they aren’t great if you want to focus on little details.

Magnification can be as low as double magnification and as high as 10x magnification. 10x magnification is excellent for seeing pores up close and being able to focus on specific aspects of your appearance, from applying lipstick to looping in earrings. The only drawback with higher magnification is that the more magnified you go, the more you might get distracted by genuinely tiny flaws that you would not otherwise see!

LED lights are a fancy feature that some compact mirrors have. LED lights cast the mirror in a glow — sometimes a warm, peachy light, other times a dusky blue. An LED-lit compact mirror may have one light setting or many. If there are multiple settings, each is intended to show your reflection in different brightness and detail.

Owning a mirror with LEDs allows you to use it day or night, dusk or dawn.

If you’re buying a compact with LEDs, pay close attention to maintenance requirements. This includes noting whether the compact will require batteries or an outlet. If it requires an outlet, it’s not as portable as it should be. If it requires batteries, make sure the compact either comes supplied with batteries or the batteries are mainstream enough to be easily purchased.

For more travel product tips, check out:

• 11 Best Amazon Waterproof Phone Cases According To Experts
• The Best Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots For Travelers
• 12 Best Sunglasses For Women Over 50, Based On Your Face Shape

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8 Best Lighted Makeup Mirrors, Tested & Reviewed by Beauty Experts

Using one of the best lighted makeup mirrors to get ready is so much easier than a regular mirror—you can get your foundation just right, draw a perfect winged eyeliner on the first try, tweeze your brows, and of course, film a GRWM video. Sure, you could do your makeup just fine under your bathroom’s harsh light bulbs or on your phone’s selfie mode, but who wants to squint for 15 minutes straight? A lighted mirror comes in handy when you’re scrambling to get to work but your partner or roommate calls dibs on the only other mirror (a.k.a. the bathroom one). Plus, the right magnification can help you peep all of those important details close-up—like experimenting with a new makeup trend .

Whether you’re looking for a professional tabletop vanity mirror with giant bulb lights or want to get up close and personal with a compact one, you don’t need to be a pro to get MUA-level looks. Below are the best lighted makeup mirrors you can buy—tested by Glamour editors and approved by professional makeup artists.

The best lighted makeup mirrors, at a glance

• Best Makeup Mirror Overall : Riki Loves Riki Skinny Mirror , $225
• Best Magnifying Mirror for Tweezing : Fancii Vera Vanity Mirror , $119
• Best Travel Makeup Mirror : Conair Reflections Lighted Makeup Mirror , $25
• Best Compact Makeup Mirror : Riki Loves Riki Cutie Portable Lighted Mirror , $75
• Best Makeup Mirror With 10x Magnifying : Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio , $300
• Best Touch-Control Makeup Mirror : Lashify LED Infinity Mirror , $50
• Best Professional Makeup Mirror With Lights : Hansong Vanity Mirror , $60
• Best Plug-In Makeup Mirror : Conair Lighted Makeup Mirror , $45

Jump to the full list.

Your makeup mirror questions, answered

What to look for in a lighted makeup mirror, what is the best magnification for a makeup mirror, how to clean mirrors without streaks, best lighted makeup mirror overall: riki loves riki skinny mirror.

Riki Loves Riki Skinny Mirror

She’s skinny and she’s an influencer’s dream —this mirror comes with customized HD daylight lighting, five stages of dimming LED lights, a magnetic magnifying mirror, and a magnetic phone clip for the custom Bluetooth selfie function. “I’ve used this mirror daily for makeup application, especially in my dim work office, and find it to be a really useful tool in accurate foundation matching,” says Glamour digital director Perrie Samotin .

Glamour commerce writer, Andrea Navarro adds, “I love the phone clip, since I have to film a lot of beauty content, and it’s also super easy to lug around if I have to bring it anywhere,” says

The mirror is also a favorite of professional makeup artists Ashleigh Ciucci and Douglas Otero because of its low-profile, collapsible body, and white- and yellow-light options that are ideal for all skin tones. “It holds a six-hour charge at full power, so you can easily take it on vacation or to the office for afternoon touch-ups,” says Ciucci. The Riki is a bit of a splurge, but if you’re looking for a mirror that’ll make you look better on Instagram or YouTube, this is it.

• Light type: LED
• Light temperature: 5 dimmable stages, including HD daylight lighting
• Magnification: 1x and 5x detachable mirror
• Dimensions: 9.5 x 13 inches
• Power source: Dual USB power supply
• Pros: Five-stage dimmer; rechargeable battery; built-in magnetic phone holder; Bluetooth selfie function; portable
• Cons: Expensive

Save when you shop for the best lighted makeup mirrors with these Nordstrom promo codes .

Best Lighted Compact Makeup Mirror: Riki Loves Riki Cutie Portable Lighted Mirror

Riki Loves Riki Cutie Portable Lighted Mirror

This small, handheld mirror features three brightness levels, a retractable ring for easy handling, and USB charging for convenience. “It’s surprisingly powerful for its size and weight, and I love the retractable ring for holding it either vertically or horizontally,” says Glamour ’s Navarro. At just a few inches wide, this mirror fits seamlessly into even the smallest bags, so you always look your best on the move. “While you probably can’t get away with doing a full face of makeup while holding it up, it’s ideal for easy touch-ups, tweezing, or applying lashes,” says Glamour ’s Navarro.

• Light temperature: 3 dimmable stages
• Magnification: None
• Dimensions: 5.6 x 2.8 x 3 / 8 inches
• Power source: USB rechargeable battery
• Pros: Lightweight; compact; has retractable finger ring for easy holding; scratch-resistant and shatter-proof
• Cons: Not ideal for full makeup touchups because of size

Best Makeup Mirror With 10x Magnifying: Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio

Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio

Simplehuman

Neiman Marcus

You might know Simplehuman from home products like touch-free soap dispensers and trash cans but they also make great beauty products. This Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio boasts a trio of magnification options—1x, 5x, and 10x—encased in a sleek, flippable design. “The 10x magnification is perfect for detailed eyeliner or eyebrow makeup,” says Glamour ’s Navarro. It features automatic lighting that adjusts as your face approaches, and the mirror’s charge can last up to five weeks, making it incredibly efficient. “If you have any skin-care concerns, this mirror is also great for seeing up close what’s really going on,” she adds. “For example, I would’ve never noticed the details behind some added texture that appeared along my jawline last month.”

• Light temperature: 100–800 lux
• Magnification: 1x, 5x, and 10x
• Dimensions: 8 inches or 10 inches
• Power source: Built-in lithium ion battery, USB cord
• Pros: Built-in sensor; easy flip for magnification; one charge lasts up to 5 weeks; 5-year warranty
• Cons: Sensitive sensor; not app-enabled

Best Magnifying Mirror for Tweezing: Fancii Vera Vanity Mirror

Fancii Vera Vanity Mirror

“I recently upgraded from my classic Conair mirror to this one, and I’m not disappointed,” says Glamour contributor Bella Cacciatore . “It has a large surface area so I can really see what I’m doing, yet the slim design takes up less space on my vanity than more traditional mirrors (and means more room for my ever-growing lipstick stash).” It has three different lighting settings to mirror office, daytime, and nighttime lighting, so your makeup looks correct no matter what time you’re getting ready. The best part, though, is that it’s cordless—it charges via USB—so you don’t need a plug nearby.

“I’ve used this mirror for over two months and never needed to charge it,” says Glamour commerce editor Malia Griggs . “It’s also just really pretty.”

• Light temperature: 3 dimmable light modes (day, evening, home)
• Magnification: 1x and 10x detachable mirror
• Dimensions: 13.39 x 6.61 inches
• Power source: USB-rechargeable
• Pros: Three light settings; cordless design; slim and lightweight
• Cons: Some users wish it got even brighter; pricey; offers only one magnification level.

Save when you shop for the best lighted makeup mirrors with these Amazon promo codes .

Best Plug-In Makeup Mirror: Conair Lighted Makeup Mirror

Conair Lighted Makeup Mirror

This Conair makeup mirror provides light on both ends built for your home, office, or daylight. Alone it has a standard view, but there’s a mini magnetic mirror in the packaging that adds 5x magnification. “This mirror is a staple for anyone’s dressing table or work desk. It provides a dependable light source and magnification for any beauty routine,” says Navarro. It has a classic square design, similar to that of old-school makeup mirror, with an adjustable tilt and soft, incandescent lighting that closely simulates natural sunlight.

• Light temperature: 3 dimmable modes (home, office, day)
• Magnification: 1x, 5x
• Dimensions: 11.02 x 11.02 x 8.98 in.
• Power source: Standard outlet cord
• Pros: Lightweight; attachable 5x magnification mirror; adjustable stand
• Cons: Plug-in only

Best Travel Makeup Mirror: Conair Reflections Lighted Makeup Mirror

Conair Reflections Lighted Makeup Mirror

This mirror is essential for travel, featuring long-lasting LED lighting and a sleek, detachable design for easy packing. “The adjustable settings are a godsend for maintaining my skin care and makeup routine on the road,” says Glamour's Navarro. It includes 3x magnification for detailed viewing and it can operate on triple AAA batteries for maximum portability. Additionally, the mirror easily snaps on and off its stand, making it versatile for both handheld and tabletop use. “I truly couldn’t believe how it practically weighs nothing at all compared to so many other mirrors out there,” Glamour ’s Navarro adds.

• Light temperature: 3 dimmable modes
• Magnification: 1x
• Dimensions: 9 x 6.25 inches
• Power source: AAA batteries
• Pros: Lightweight; catchall stand; very bright
• Cons: Requires batteries

Best Touch-Control Makeup Mirror: Lashify LED Infinity Mirror

Lashify LED Infinity Mirror

Lashify’s LED Infinity Mirror showcases a medium oval design with continuous-dimming touch technology and a sleek, modern look. “The smooth touch control to adjust the LED lights makes it incredibly convenient for achieving just the right ambiance,” says Glamour's Navarro. The mirror’s design is not only functional but also acts as a chic accessory for any vanity. “This is from a lash brand so it’s obviously best for applying lashes, but it makes for a good tweezing mirror or for regular eye makeup.”

• Dimensions: 8.10 x 5.6 inches
• Power source: USB cable
• Pros: Touch sensor; catchall stand; includes mini 5x magnifying mirror
• Cons: Requires 4 hours of charging before initial use

Best Professional Makeup Mirror With Lights: Hansong Vanity Mirror

Best Professional Look: Hansong Vanity Mirror

This mirror turns any surface into a glamorous, Hollywood-style vanity with its frame of big bulbs. Teen Vogue commerce editor Shauna Beni-Haynes says it’s perfect size for her Ikea desk. “It’s not too big or too small, and I love that it comes with a stand, so I don’t have to worry about attaching it to a wall,” she says. “It has three lighting modes, which come in handy when I want to check if my undereye powder will give off flashback in darker settings. There’s also a small removable suction-cup magnifying mirror to help you get a closer look at harder to see spots. It’s truly a 10/10!”

• Light temperature: 3 dimmable light modes (cool white, warm white, warm yellow)
• Dimensions: 12 x 16 inches
• Power source: Plug-in
• Pros: Three light settings (warm to cool); dimmable; 360-degree rotation
• Cons: Requires outlet

There’s really no shortage of options when looking for a makeup mirror. There are ones with built-in phone chargers and even ones that’ll tell you the weather (yes, really), but here are some general features to consider:

In an ideal world you’d have unlimited counter space to work with—but for many of us, that’s just not the case. Compact mirrors take up virtually no space and can slip into your bag for on-the-go makeup reapplication, while some countertop options are foldable to take up less space when not in use. If you’re really stretched for room, wall-mounted options might be your best bet. Before purchasing, use measuring tape to lay our your space and consider where you’ll place it.

Plenty of lighted vanity mirrors feature LED lights—something experts say is worth it, because they best mimic natural light. Many are dimmable and can cast multiple temperatures, including daylight, warm light, and cool light.

You don’t need to be an influencer to want to record your beauty routine. Thanks to a new generation of LED makeup mirrors with built-in phone holders and chargers, it’s never been easier to film yourself in action or to follow along with a makeup TikTok tutorial. Smart mirrors can analyze skin and point out red or dry spots, and the most advanced even connect to the internet and have Bluetooth speakers in case you want to play music or listen to a podcast as you go along.

Virtually every mirror includes 1x magnification so you can see yourself normally, and the most common zoom-in is anywhere between 3x and 5x magnification, which is perfect for tasks like applying your favorite foundation or lipstick. If you’re taking on more precise challenges like tweezing your eyebrows or removing peach fuzz with a dermaplaning tool , 10x magnification or even 20x magnification comes in handy.

The best way to give your LED mirror a streak-free shine is to make sure it’s turned off and then wipe its surface in circular motions with a soft microfiber cloth and a little bit of water or glass cleaner. Avoid harsh chemical cleaning products.

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• Makeup Tools & Techniques

The 9 Best Lighted Makeup Mirrors for High-Definition GRWMs

Glam in high definition.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• What to Look For
• How We Tested
• Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust Byrdie

Byrdie / Tamara Staples

Overall, our favorite lighted makeup mirror is the  Riki Skinny . Powered by a rechargeable battery, this portable vanity mirror boasts a feature-rich design with magnetic attachments, Bluetooth connectivity, and daylight-mimicking LED bulbs (pretty much everything you could want in a lighted mirror). On a budget? The  Flymiro Tri-Fold Lighted Vanity  won't break the bank and gets the job done with bright LEDs and multiple magnification levels.

Anyone who's ever done their makeup in a poorly lit room knows the horror of checking your reflection in public only to realize things weren't as blended as you thought. Applying your products in natural lighting is ideal, but not everyone has the luxury of a window-side vanity, and even if you do, you'll still need a solution when the sun's not out or you're on the go.

Suffice it to say, you'll always be glad to have a lighted mirror at home. "I love them, especially in a room or area with dim overhead lighting," says makeup artist  Steve Kassajikian , who recommends models with several  lighting options  to mimic real-life light. Beyond adequate illumination, magnification can also help you get better results.

Luckily, there is no shortage of lighted makeup mirrors, including travel-friendly options and high-tech vanities with built-in Bluetooth and magnification. To help you choose, we put several models to the  test , evaluating each for setup, ease of use, portability, power source, brightness, adjustability, and notable features. Here are our top picks.

Best Overall

Riki loves riki skinny smart portable led vanity mirror.

Daylight-mimicking LEDs

Magnetic attachments

Rechargeable battery

Not travel-friendly

Dimensions: 13 x 9.5 x 0.5 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Magnification: 5X or 10X | Features: Phone holder, removable magnifying mirror, Bluetooth connectivity, battery indicator, adjustable stand

After trying this model out ourselves, we can honestly say that the features are no-joke. With adjustable high-def, daylight-mimicking LEDs that can go brighter, dimmer, warmer, or cooler, the options are seemingly endless. The magnifying mirror attachment offers a close view while blending, plucking hairs, or dermaplaning. We could clearly see our pores, teeny-tiny hairs, and areas where our makeup could be buffed out more. If you’re willing to invest, this sophisticated mirror is perfect for daily makeup, occasional glam, and recording GRWM videos.

Other notable features include an adjustable stand, a magnetic phone holder, Bluetooth connectivity, and a built-in camera button for recording videos or taking selfies . The Riki Skinny runs on a rechargeable battery, so you can place it virtually anywhere. It’s durable, however, it's not the smallest or lightest option, and it doesn't come with a carrying case, so it wouldn't be our first choice for traveling.

Best Budget

Flymiro tri-fold lighted makeup mirror.

Bright LEDs

Multiple angles and magnification

Sturdy; doesn't wobble on flat surface

Can't adjust brightness

Dimensions: 11 x 6.5 x 3.5 inches | Shape: Foldout rectangular | Magnification: Up to 3X | Features: 180-degree rotation

The Flymiro Tri-Fold Mirror is a solid choice if you don't want to shell out hundreds for a vanity mirror. You can't adjust the brightness, but thanks to the notably bright LEDs, we had no issues doing makeup in an otherwise dark room. We like how the fold-out panels and rotating hinges provide a multi-angle view of your face, plus up to 3X magnification.

At just over 11 inches tall, it's the ideal size for a countertop or desk and shows no signs of wobbling. There are six colors to choose from, and the sleek design is pretty enough to leave out on your vanity. We highly recommend this functional, foldable mirror to anyone in the market for a wallet-friendly upgrade to their vanity.

InStyle / Tamara Staples

Best for Travel

Fancii led lighted travel makeup mirror.

Compact and lightweight

Smooth, sleek exterior

Two mirrors, one with 10x magnification

Could be brighter

Too small for general makeup application

Dimensions: 5 inches | Shape: Round | Magnification: 10X | Features: Daylight-mimicking bulbs

If you need something for on-the-go use, we suggest the Fancii Travel Mirror. Available in black, rose gold, or white, this lighted compact runs on four CR2 batteries (included) and has a smooth, sturdy exterior. The body is durable so we weren't worried about dropping it or tossing it in a bag.

There are two mirrors inside, one with 10X magnification and the other with an illuminated border. While it's not as bright as others we tried, and you can't adjust the warmth, it's sufficient for touch-ups and en-route makeup application .

At 5 inches in diameter, it's definitely on the smaller side, but we love that the clamshell fits easily in your purse, bag, or suitcase and weighs less than half a pound. Be sure to hit “add to cart” if you want a lightweight, compact design for on-the-fly glam and touch-ups throughout the day.

Best With Bluetooth

Ihome hollywood vanity mirror pro.

Speaker with voice controls

Adjustable brightness and warmth

Durable and wobble-free

Dimensions: 19 x 14 x 12 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Magnification: 10X | Features: Bluetooth connectivity, speaker, voice controls

Makeup artist Tarryn Feldman is a fan of the iHome Hollywood Pro, and after trying it out ourselves, we can see why. This vanity mirror provides excellent makeup lighting, and you can adjust the brightness and warmth of the LEDs. The large size makes it easy to see your entire face, and the magnifying mirror attachment provides a detailed close-up view when you need it.

Did we also mention it's Bluetooth-enabled? This mirror has a built-in speaker with voice controls, so you can play music, listen to a podcast, or take a hands-free call while getting your glam on. The price is undoubtedly steep, but it will stand the test of time. This mirror is bigger than most and weighs nearly 5 pounds, so it's too heavy and bulky to travel with.

Best Compact

Impressions chargeup compact mirror.

Lightweight yet sturdy

Travel-friendly

Dimensions: 3.5 x 2.5 inches | Shape: Round | Magnification: 5X | Features: Battery indicator

With a built-in rechargeable battery and dual mirrors inside, the Impressions ChargeUp is perfect for touch-ups and on-the-go glam. At just 3.5 inches in diameter, this compact is, well… compact . But don't let the small size deter you—it’s small but mighty. The lightweight design feels sturdy and the interior light is surprisingly strong, so it’s a great one to toss in your purse.

We wish the brightness and warmth were adjustable. Still, the LEDs offer neutral lighting with minimal shadows and they're plenty bright for makeup application. You can charge it with your phone or computer using the included USB cable, and the battery indicator light tells you how much power you have left.

Best With Caddy

Fancii vanity makeup mirror.

Built-in caddy

Adjustable stand

Can't adjust warmth

Base comes loose while swiveling

Dimensions: 15 x 7.5 x 4.5 inches | Shape: Rectangular | Magnification: 10X | Features: Makeup caddy, daylight-mimicking bulbs, 360-degree rotation, slide-out magnifying mirror

The thoughtfully designed Fancii Vanity has a built-in caddy for makeup products and application tools, which we love when we want all our main players at our fingertips. This makeup mirror lit up our faces nicely without casting any shadows. We like that the daylight-mimicking LED bulbs can be brightened or dimmed, though there's no option to adjust the warmth.

It also boasts an adjustable stand with 360-degree rotation. Measuring 15 inches x 7.5 inches and weighing less than 3 pounds, this mirror is generously sized but not too heavy or bulky. Considering the very reasonable price point and all-in-one design, you really can't go wrong.

Best for Beginners

Conair lighted makeup mirror.

Great size for vanity

Plugs in to the wall

Both sides of mirror are lighted

Dimensions: 16 x 10.25 inches | Shape: Round | Magnification: 10X | Features: Cord, 360-degree rotation

If you’ve never bought a lighted makeup mirror before, this option from Conair is a great place to begin. The satin nickel finish means it will look seamless in any area of your home and it’s easy to clean. The mirror goes up to 10x magnification so you can make sure your makeup looks just how you want it before you head out for the night.

This mirror also includes a cord and plugs into the wall, so you’ll never have to remember to replace batteries. That means we won’t recommend this one for traveling, but it will feel right at home on your vanity. You may choose to upgrade to something more durable and suited to your needs once you get the hang of it, but this is a truly great option for lighted mirror newbies.

Best With Fan

Brookstone led light up mirror.

Inventive fan design

Includes makeup tray

5x mirror attachment included

Batteries not included

Dimensions: 8.1 x 8.8 inches | Shape: Round | Magnification: 5X with attachment | Features: Built-in fan, suction-cup mirror attachment

A little-known secret that you may not realize when shopping for a lighted makeup mirror: those bright lights get warm quickly! We don’t want your makeup to melt off, and it’s no surprise that the team at Brookstone came up with a solution.

This makeup mirror has a built-in fan so you can stay cool while taking your time to ensure your contour is properly placed and your lashes are curled. It also includes a makeup tray so you won’t have to rest your brushes or beauty sponge on the counter while you primp. We love all of the features included on this model and the price tag isn’t too bad either.

Best Color Variety

Simplehuman sensor makeup mirror.

Available in multiple colors

Sophisticated lighting options

Sleek design

Single-sided mirror

Dimensions: 9.1 x 4.7 inches | Shape: Round | Magnification: 5X | Features: Sleek design, motion-activated light, rechargeable USB cord

When you find a great product but it only comes in one shade, it can feel limiting and you might pass on it. We love this Simplehuman lighted mirror for several reasons, one of which being it comes in six beautiful finishes from rose gold to matte black so you can choose the one that best matches the vibe of your vanity or bathroom.

Not only that, but this mirror is beautiful—it has a modern design and silhouette with a small base so it won’t take up too much room on a countertop. Plus, the lighting system is very sophisticated. The tru-lux light system mimics natural sunlight and helps you better see color variation as you apply, and it also has a candlelight setting so you can check your look in low light before date night.

What to Look for When Buying Lighted Makeup Mirrors

An effective lighted makeup mirror can take your look from good to gorgeous. Keep the following points in mind to determine which lighted makeup mirror is right for you.

• Bulbs That Mimic Natural Light: To get as precise an application as possible, look for lighted mirrors that mimic natural light. Anything too bright or dim won't give you a proper portrayal of what your makeup looks like out in the wild—bonus if you find a model with adjustable brightness. That way, you can more accurately imitate the outdoor light, whether sunny or cloudy.
• Rechargeable Battery via USB: Could anything be worse than the batteries of your lighted mirror dying mid-makeup application—especially when you're not stocked up on AAs? To avoid this scenario, we suggest looking for options that are rechargeable via USB and can be used while plugged in. They'll allow the same versatility and mobility as alkaline battery-powered options, but you won't be stuck applying your makeup in the dark, should you forget to charge beforehand.
• Sleek Design: Not looking to display something clunky on your vanity? Plenty of lighted mirrors are sleek in design. For example, if you need angled side panels for precise winged eyeliner and false lash application, look for models featuring foldable panels to take up less space.

How We Tested Lighted Makeup Mirrors

Below are the features our editors and contributors evaluated to determine our top picks.

• Light: Unsurprisingly, a high quality of light in your lighted makeup mirror is essential. As such, we considered how many lighting options each mirror had, awarding points to options that ensured we had a full view of all our facial features in each mode.
• Quality: Just as important as the quality of light in your lighted makeup mirror is the mirror itself. We observed which options delivered a clear view of our full face, docking points for options where our reflections seemed unintentionally warped or off-focus. We also noted if there were any cracks or spots when we opened each mirror.
• Design: In today’s age of high-tech beauty gadgets, a lighted makeup mirror must be designed well. We considered mirrors with essential features and awarded extra points to unique add-ons like built-in Bluetooth. We also favored mirrors with a particularly sleek and sophisticated look.
• Stability: Lighted makeup mirrors can be delicate by nature, so selecting one that feels sturdy on your nightstand or vanity is crucial. We considered each option’s stability, disqualifying options that could not stand independently (if they claimed to do so) or were too flimsy.

According to Kassajikian, they're worth it and make putting on makeup much less of a hassle. "I love them, especially in a room or area with dim or overhead lighting," he says. "They help a lot with makeup application."

When it comes to lighting type, Kassajikian says models with LED lights are the way to go. "LED lights will give you a more natural reflection without washing you out," he tells Byrdie. The warm white light they emit is pretty much the closest you can get to the sun's natural rays, which we all know is key for an amazing look.

Generally speaking, white light (neutral temp) makes makeup look the best. It's also ideal for applying products, as it provides a better view of what you're doing while mimicking natural outdoor lighting.

For makeup application, look for LED bulbs with a rating of roughly 4800K to 6000K, which will be neither too warm nor too cool. (K stands for kelvin, and it measures light color temperature.)

If you want to see what you're doing in greater detail when applying makeup, 5X (five times) magnification is a good place to start. This will allow you to see areas that may need more blending or another layer of product and give you a close-up view when applying liquid eyeliner or mascara. 10X is typically too much, as it can make you feel alarmed by pores and teeny-tiny imperfections you wouldn't otherwise be able to see.

Theresa Holland is a freelance commerce writer and product reviewer specializing in lifestyle and cosmetics. For this story, she compiled commentary from two makeup artists and insights from our in-house testers. A die-hard for adequate makeup lighting, she knows what to look for when buying an LED mirror. Theresa has been a regular Byrdie contributor since 2020, covering makeup, beauty tools, skincare, hair products, and high-tech gadgets. You can read more of her work on The Spruce, People, and Travel + Leisure.

Austen Tosone is a beauty writer and content creator based in New York City. Living in New York, she’s run into more than one questionable lighting situation in her apartment, and thus the power of a lighted mirror has saved her glam on many occasions. She also refuses to travel without one these days in case hotel rooms care more about mood lighting than glam lighting. 

For this story, we consulted with: 

• Steve Kassajikian, a makeup artist and the Head of Global Artistry at Urban Decay.
• Tarryn Feldman, a celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist. Her celebrity clients include Kelsea Ballerini and Jennifer Nettles.

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The Very Best Lighted Makeup Mirrors

Never walk outside with mismatched foundation again..

In this article

• Best overall
• Best high-end
• Best travel-friendly
• Best handheld
• Best ring light
• Best trifold
• Best Hollywood style
• Best wall-mounted

Whether you’re going for a natural daytime makeup look, applying fiddly false lashes , or attacking the tiniest stray hairs with your tweezers , a lighted makeup mirror can help make sure you step outside looking like the very best version of you. And because I live in an apartment with a dark, cramped bathroom, I’ve found a lighted makeup mirror to be especially indispensable for making sure my makeup is seamless, blended, and correctly calibrated for the occasion. The lighted-mirror market is a crowded one, with tons of options out there for laypeople and beauty influencers alike and a large range of price points, so I interviewed makeup enthusiasts and professionals about their favorites. Then I tested several of them myself as I went about my regular routine: plucking my eyebrows, applying highlighter, curling my hair, and even selling clothes on Depop. Below are the ten best.

What we’re looking for

Type of light.

The intensely heated incandescent lightbulbs surrounding backstage dressing-room mirrors are mostly a thing of the past. The majority of lighted makeup mirrors today — including all of the mirrors on this list — use LED bulbs , which are more energy-efficient and offer more versatility. Some mirrors have lights built in under the glass, emitting a calmer, softer light that’s ideal for natural daily makeup. They can also emit a range of light temperatures that serve different purposes: A warm light is best for applying makeup for a night out or candlelit dinner; a daylight setting is best for applying makeup for brunch or outdoor activities; and a cool light is best for a day spent in an office or classroom. Some makeup mirrors will allow you to toggle between light temperatures to suit a variety of looks and situations.

Energy source

Lighted mirrors can be battery-operated, rechargeable, or plug-in, which affects how portable the mirror is. If you plan for your mirror to take up permanent residence on your vanity, one that needs to be connected to an outlet might not bother you. But if you intend to move your mirror around or travel with it, battery-operated or rechargeable options are your best bet.

Shape and size

Makeup mirrors can either be wall-mounted or freestanding, and come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including circular, oblong, rectangular, and trifold. The best one for you really depends on personal preference, but you should also keep in mind your available space and how much room you want the mirror to take up — from a small corner of your desk to the full span of your vanity.

Magnification

Makeup mirrors come in different magnification levels, from 2x to more than 10x, to let you get up and close and personal and ensure that every aspect of your makeup is picture-perfect. Most mirrors provide a standard reflection with no magnification as well as an additional magnification between 2x and 5x, which is enough to offer a more precise and detailed view but not so much that your image becomes distorted. Mirrors with 10x magnification or above are best suited for extremely detailed work, such as intricate eyeliner art or brow tweezing.

Additional features

Makeup mirrors have gotten pretty high-tech. There are some that feature integrated speakers, phone chargers, and phone stands, dim and brighten when you touch them or automatically light up when you approach, even some that can analyze your skin. But as with any electronic device, your lighted mirror could potentially break or stop working, so you may also want to consider whether a warranty policy is in place.

Best lighted makeup mirror overall

Type of light: Natural daylight, soft white, neutral white | Energy source: Rechargeable | Shape and size: Oblong, 9.5” | Magnification: 1x only | Additional features: Touch-control, 2-year warranty

Fancii’s Vera mirror is sleek and attractive, highly functional, and fairly budget friendly as far as lighted makeup mirrors go, making it the best choice for the average person who just wants to see their face better and doesn’t need a whole lot of bells and whistles to do it. I found its elongated oval shape to be a distinct plus as it allowed me to check out my entire profile from the chest up; while circular mirrors were better for providing tight close-ups of my face, the Vera’s extended length reflected my entire head, neck, and shoulders so I could use it to dust some highlighter on my décolletage or curl and straighten my hair as well.

Though this mirror doesn’t offer any magnification, it does come with three dimmable light temperatures: a soft warm white, a cool neutral white, and a natural daylight setting. I use the soft white setting the most as it has a warmer cast to it that I find more flattering than the other two settings, which are cooler toned. The mirror tilts 45 degrees forward and backward, and there are two buttons on the front of the mirror — a button on the right that “wakes up” the mirror and adjusts the brightness, and a button on the left to switch between light temperatures. (There’s also a power button on the back, which you can press to turn off the mirror completely and conserve power; otherwise, pressing the front-right button again will send it to sleep.) Holding down the right button allows you to adjust the brightness of the light, but I generally keep it on the brightest setting, which is still fairly soft and not at all blinding. The buttons are conveniently placed and intuitive; the only drawback is that, because they are incorporated into the glass, the bottom of the mirror collects fingerprints quickly and I have to wipe it down pretty frequently.

Because the Vera is rechargeable, I can easily move it wherever I want in my apartment, and Fancii claims that the battery lasts approximately ten hours; however, I usually leave it on for 30 to 45 minutes at a time, and I’ve found that I typically charge it about once every nine-to-ten days. Though it doesn’t have any especially high-tech features like the motion sensor on my pick for a more high-end mirror below, it’s the mirror I recommend to anyone who wants to make sure they don’t have foundation streaks at their jawline without spending too much.

Best high-end lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Natural daylight, candlelight | Energy source: Rechargeable | Shape and size: Circular, 8” | Magnifications: 1x, 5x, and 10x | Additional features: Automatic motion sensor, touch-control, 5-year warranty

This elegant (and expensive) Simplehuman mirror is the Tesla of lighted makeup mirrors. Where the Fancii Vera doesn’t offer any magnification, the Simplehuman’s double-sided design gives you three different magnification options: One side offers a true-size standard reflection as well as a small 10x-magnified window that I’ve found is perfect for detailed work like tweezing my brows. The other side offers 5x magnification that lets me to get up close and personal to ensure my cat-eye flick is drawn with utmost precision. The Simplehuman is also outfitted with a motion sensor, so there’s no need to fumble for a switch or button — the light automatically flickers awake when I approach it, then dims and shuts off after a period of inactivity. I found this to be especially convenient since it meant I didn’t have to clean it as often because I never smudged the glass surface with my fingerprints. I also don’t charge it as frequently as the Vera — about once or twice a month, though that may be because I reach for the Vera on a daily basis more often.

When it comes to the light itself, Simplehuman’s “Tru-Lux” technology simulates sunlight’s full color spectrum so closely that when it’s on, it’s “just like looking at yourself in the natural sunlight … And everyone knows, if you look good in the sunlight, you look good everywhere,” says Strategist senior editor Crystal Martin , who owns a single-sided model of this mirror. I’ve found that this claim bears out, as the Simplehuman’s natural-daylight setting has a more natural, balanced hue that does seem to mimic sunlight more accurately than the Vera. In addition to the daylight temperature, you can also switch to a softer, warmer candlelight temperature if you’re doing your makeup for a night out. Lightly running a finger along the rim of the light allows you to dim and brighten the light output, so you can ensure your makeup is color-correct and appropriate for any and all occasions. However, while it’s certainly luxurious, the mirror has such a high price point that I typically recommend it for more serious and experienced makeup enthusiasts who are willing to splurge.

Best travel-friendly lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: HD daylight | Energy source: Rechargeable | Shape and size: Rectangular, 9.5” x 13” | Magnifications: 1x and 5x or 10x | Additional features: Adjustable stand, magnetic phone clip, Bluetooth functionality, 1-year warranty

When I first opened the Riki Loves Riki Skinny Mirror, I was immediately struck by how thin it is. The mirror’s lightweight, rectangular silhouette makes it perfect for jet-setters who are frequently doing their makeup away from home, or really for anyone who is short on vanity space and wants a mirror that’s easy to tuck away when it’s not in use. The separate, foldable stand is a cinch to adjust so that you can angle the mirror however you need, and it comes with a magnification attachment that snaps on and off magnetically, so you can pop it on only when you need it for extra detail. And because it also comes with a magnetic phone holder and has built-in Bluetooth connectivity for streaming and selfie-taking, it’s especially appealing to content creators and anyone else who regularly appears on camera: As Drag Race ’s Michelle Visage told us, “Every drag queen that I know, you can’t travel without a Riki.”

Unlike the Fancii Vera and the Simplehuman Sensor mirrors above, the Riki Loves Riki Skinny mirror offers just one light temperature: the slick, high-octane lighting often seen in vlogs and makeup tutorials, which the brand bills as “HD daylight.” The brightness can be adjusted between five different settings, and Visage says it’s “bright as a football-stadium light.” I’ve rarely gone above the first two settings, as they are plenty bright for me, and the fifth is far too blinding for my purposes.

In fact, because I’m mostly doing my makeup at home for everyday situations, and not with the aim of appearing on-camera, I ultimately prefer the Fancii Vera and the Simplehuman Sensor for their more naturalistic lighting. However, I can see why the easily portable, ultra-bright Riki mirror is a favorite of folks like Stefanie Fritz , a makeup artist and content creator who wanted a mirror that was “more modern and streamlined.” Once it’s charged she can put it on the counter for a client or to film and doesn’t have to carry any cords around. Monique Jayme , a prestige beauty adviser at Ulta, told me that when she takes photos or films videos, she even uses the mirror as a de facto ring light, and she likes that its sleek, iPad-esque profile slides into a laptop case to keep the mirror safe when she’s on the go.

The phone holder and Bluetooth capabilities are also pretty handy. Pairing my phone was fuss-free, and the holder magnetically attaches to the center of the mirror so that rather than awkwardly maneuvering to press buttons on the phone itself, you can hold the mirror in front of your face for the most flattering angle, then press the “camera” button in the lower-right-hand corner of the mirror. I’m not planning to start a YouTube channel anytime soon, but I did use the mirror to take photos of my clothes for Depop, and they came out bright and clear, almost as if they were taken in an actual studio. I think the Riki is a great choice for those who travel often or who have influencer aspirations. Although the price is steep, it’s still cheaper than the Simplehuman, and according to Visage, “it’s worth every penny.”

Best handheld lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Soft white, neutral, natural daylight | Energy source: Rechargeable | Shape and size: Circular, 9” | Magnification: 1x and 5x | Additional features: Handheld capability, 360-degree rotation, 90-degree tilt

While a stationary mirror frees up both hands for makeup application or hair curling, sometimes you just want to get really up close and personal. A handheld mirror allows you to get inches away from your face at all angles and directions, whether you’re checking to see if your contour is sufficiently blended or monitoring that weird mole on your neck — which is exactly what I’ve been using PMD Beauty’s makeup mirror for.

The mirror comes in three parts: a sturdy base, a detachable handle, and the mirror itself, all of which easily snapped together. When I picked up each piece, I immediately noticed how lightweight they were, making this mirror another ideal travel companion. The power button and a toggle button are located on the front of the mirror, allowing you to switch between three light modes: soft white, neutral, and natural daylight. There’s also a section in the corner with 5x magnification, and the mirror itself can be rotated 360 degrees and tilted 90 degrees, which I’ve used to view myself from all sorts of odd angles, like the top of my head and underneath my chin. The handle is ergonomic and easy to hold for a long period of time. However, the mirror is fairly short, less than a foot tall. If you plan to use it as a free-standing mirror, you may need to stoop a bit in order to see yourself in it, so I suggest either placing it on a surface that’s around eye level or on a desk or vanity where you can sit down.

Best lighted compact mirror

Type of light: Natural daylight | Energy source: Rechargeable | Shape and size: Compact, 4” | Magnifications: 1x and 10x | Additional features: Automatic shutoff, 2-year warranty

Maybe you don’t need a full-blown makeup mirror, but you still want a lightweight and portable mirror that will help with touch-ups here and there. I tested the Fancii Mila, a lighted compact mirror, by bringing it along on a night out, and it was perfect for fixing my smudged eyeliner in a dark club bathroom. It has bounced around in my bag on multiple outings now and emerged unscathed, though because I only use it on occasion, I usually have to make a note to charge it an hour or two before I head out. The Mila has the same sleek, attractive look as the Fancii Vera, though it only has one temperature setting. The clamshell shape is outfitted with two mirrors: one with standard magnification and one with 10x magnification. The light, which outlines the standard mirror, automatically turns on when you open the compact and off when you snap it shut. The mirror also comes with a velvet pouch to protect it from scratches. Because it’s so small — about the size of an ashtray — it can be tucked into “literally anything,” according to makeup artist and content creator Roxanne Latulippe . “It fits in my makeup bag, it fits in my smaller purses. I carry it everywhere with me.” Latulippe says she’s been using the mirror for over two years, and it still works great: “If you really take care of it, it’s going to last you a really long time.”

Best ring-light makeup mirror

Type of light: Cool, warm, blend | Energy source: Plug-in | Shape and size: Circular, 9” | Magnifications: 1x and 5x | Additional features: Phone holder, 1-year warranty

This makeup mirror from Ilios Lighting is equipped with a thick, ring-light-esque band that’s ideal for those struggling with their eyesight. Sharon Brown, a director at an assisted-living facility, bought it after resorting to doing her makeup in the car in order to see better. “I don’t mind saying it — I’m 51, I’m getting older, and I’m having eyesight issues,” Brown says. “So having that extra light with the bigger surface area really helps to be able to see what you’re doing.” In conjunction with the 5x-magnified mirror, she’s able to get so up close and personal that she’ll notice “when my skin starts peeling” as a result of her anti-aging cream. But it’s not just an older demographic that benefits from this mirror: Brown bought a second one for her 17-year-old daughter, who likes to pop out the mirror and replace it with the phone holder to take pictures and videos.

Although Brown does mention that the mirror is hefty, that hasn’t posed a problem for Stephanie Antillon , a makeup artist and content creator who is disabled. Depending on whether she’s on a video call or working with a client, she’ll often transition the mirror between a desk stand and a floor stand , so she had asked the brand how much it weighs (about 6.5 pounds) before buying it “since my capacity to carry things isn’t the best,” Antillon says. Compared to other setups she’s had, she finds the Ilios mirror to be a breeze. “It’s so easy to detach and attach,” she reports. “It means a lot that even someone who has limited mobility is able to use this product.”

Best trifold lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Natural white, warm white, cool white | Energy source: Battery-operated or plug-in | Shape and size: Trifold, 7.7’” x 3.2” | Magnifications: 1x, 2x, 3x, and 10x | Additional features: 90-degree and 180-degree rotation

A trifold mirror, while typically bulkier than regular mirrors, lets you view your face from various side angles in addition to head-on. This Easehold mirror comes with four magnification levels (regular, 2x, 3x, and 10x) and holds the distinction of being the top-rated makeup mirror among Amazon reviewers, with over 8,500 five-star ratings and multiple reviews praising its rotational abilities and light settings. “The vanity design is very efficient; I can see all sides of my face so I won’t miss a spot!” one reviewer enthuses. “[It’s] a perfect size and it doesn’t take up much space.” Another agrees that viewing multiple angles of your face at once is very helpful: “The side mirrors work great for me in managing my piercings,” they say. “I [also] wax my eyebrows with it. Tweeze the stray hairs. Apply makeup. The wings fold in so it’s thin and easy to store.” It comes with three dimmable light temperatures (daytime, office, and evening) that are “bright but not glaring, and they don’t distort or filter skin tone or makeup coloration,” according to a third reviewer.

Best Hollywood-style lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Natural daylight, warm white, cool white | Energy source: Plug-in | Shape and size: Rectangular, 29” x 19” | Magnifications: 1x and 5x | Additional features: Touch control, 1-year warranty

If you want to feel like a glamorous old-Hollywood movie star, this mirror from Impressions Vanity mimics the look of lighted dressing-room mirrors — with some contemporary touches. While the mirrors of yore were studded with incandescent bulbs, this one uses LED bulbs, saving energy and allowing you to switch between natural, cool, and warm lighting. The company also offers a multitude of sizes and designs, from $100 tabletop mirrors to over-$1,000 full-size vanity mirrors, so you can choose one that best fits your space and budget.

Makeup artist and content creator Liv Reese initially bought a smaller model that could fit in her makeup case, but loved it so much that she upgraded to this larger Tri-Tone Plus version. “It has feet, so it can sit on your vanity, or you can anchor it to your wall. There’s also a button in the middle to dim the brightness,” Reese explains. “Because I shoot content all day, every day, and at different times of the day, depending on what natural light I’m getting, I’ll adjust it.”

Some larger vanity mirrors from this brand also come with features such as a digital thermostat, so that you can apply an extra blast of setting spray if it’s a hot day out, and Bluetooth connectivity and speakers, so that you can listen to your favorite playlist or podcast while getting ready. Content creator Trinity Nicole sprang for her “dream vanity,” Impression Vanity’s nearly 45-inch-long Hollywood Premiere Pro Vanity Mirror , and “is absolutely in love” with it. She reports that the speakers “are loud and clear” when she’s listening to music while doing her hair and makeup and that the mirror is so big that she can see nearly her entire outfit in it. “It gives off a very luxurious vibe to my bedroom,” she adds. “I feel like a princess.”

Best wall-mounted lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Natural daylight | Energy source: Hardwired | Shape and size: Circular, 9” | Magnification: 5x | Additional features: Automatic motion sensor, telescopic swing arm, 5-year warranty

Although Havenly design director Heather Goerzen acknowledges that a hardwired, wall-mounted makeup mirror “can be a costly investment,” she thinks this sleek, stylish Simplehuman mirror “brilliantly blends form and function.” It’s a bit more simplified than the freestanding one recommended above — it offers just one light setting, “natural daylight,” and it’s only equipped with 5x magnification. However, it comes outfitted with the same automatic motion sensor as well as a telescopic swing arm, which allows it to be easily adjusted and tucked away neatly when not in use.

Best (less expensive) wall-mounted lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Natural white, warm white, cool white | Energy source: Battery-operated | Shape and size: Circular, 8” | Magnification: 1x and 10x | Additional features: Telescopic swing arm, touch control

Writer Catherine Newman received this wall-mounted mirror as a birthday present from her husband; as a woman in her 50s, she’d noticed “a beard coming in, which is just the worst, and I also can’t see very well.” She likes that it offers both regular magnification and 10x magnification, which makes her “less likely to miss some horrible curling mustache hair.” The telescopic arm means it can be inconspicuously tucked against the wall when not in use, and it’s also conveniently battery-operated, so when it needs recharging, all she has to do is plug it into an outlet. Briefly pressing a button on the front toggles the light temperature between cool, warm, and natural light settings, while a long press adjusts the brightness up or down. Newman has owned the mirror for six months now and says it’s held up great. “There’s nothing glitchy and it doesn’t feel cheaply made,” she says. “Everything about its quality seems high.” Her only slight gripe is that the ring light is perhaps a bit too forgiving: “It’s the one time in my life I don’t really want to illuminate my face in a flattering way. I want to illuminate my face in a damningly honest way.”

Best full-size wall-mounted lighted makeup mirror

Type of light: Warm white, cool white | Energy source: Variable (outlet or hard-wiring) | Shape and size: Oval, 24” x 36” | Magnification: 1x | Additional features: RGB color option, dimmable switch, 5-year warranty

For those who want to skip squinting into a small circle, there’s also the option to splash out for a full-size, wall-mounted bathroom mirror equipped with a luminous perimeter. L.A.-based interior designer Jaqui Seerman loves installing illuminated mirrors in her clients’ bathrooms because they are both aesthetically pleasing and functional, casting “a warm and even glow that’s flattering and precise.” Seerman recommends the brand IBMirror, which offers bathroom mirrors in a cornucopia of sizes with both front and back illumination options — and since it has a plug-in version, installation is effortless, with no electrician required. The classic oval shape is an especially popular choice among Seerman’s clients, but rectangular, oblong, and round shapes are also available, so you’re guaranteed to find one that’s the perfect fit for your bathroom.

Other things we recommend for your vanity

Our experts

• Catherine Newman , writer • Cortne Bonilla , fashion market editor at the Cut • Crystal Martin , Strategist senior editor • Heather Goerzen, design director at interior-design service Havenly • Jaqui Seerman , interior designer • Liv Reese , makeup artist and content creator • Michelle Visage , RuPaul’s Drag Race judge • Monique Jayme , prestige beauty adviser at Ulta Beauty • Roxanne Latulippe , makeup artist and content creator • Sharon Brown, assisted-living-facility director • Stefanie Fritz , makeup artist and content creator • Stephanie Antillon , makeup artist and content creator • Trinity Nicole , content creator

Update on June 17, 2024: Added the Tushengtu 8” Wall Mounted Makeup Mirror and updated prices and checked stock for all other products.

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• Health & beauty

Best makeup mirror 2023: Magnified, portable and lighted makeup mirrors to suit all your needs

• Sarah Matthews

A great mirror makes applying makeup a doddle, so here’s our pick of the best magnifying and light-up options for your dressing table

If you want a foolproof way to step up your makeup routine, then make sure you’re using the best makeup mirror. Finding a well-lit spot to apply your base, liner, blush and so on is key to achieving a flawless makeup look; after all, paint your face in dim lighting and you risk walking out with mismatched foundation or bronzer that looks ten times harsher in natural daylight.

This is the reason that finding the best mirror for makeup is essential for nailing your getting ready routine, ensuring you’ve applied everything correctly. Luckily for you, we’ve tested a wide range of makeup mirrors to suit every budget and all needs. From light-up mirrors to magnified, free-standing and wall-mounted options, scroll down for our top picks. And if you’re not quite sure which type of mirror is the best for you, read on for our buying advice.

Best makeup mirror: At a glance

• Best travel makeup mirror: Rantizon adjustable brightness compact mirror | £13
• Best high-end makeup mirror: Simplehuman sensor mirror | £200
• Best value lighted mirror: HoMedics Touch and Glow Illuminated mirror | £35

How to choose the best makeup mirror for you

There are different types of mirror available for applying makeup, and which type you choose will depend on your needs.

Magnified makeup mirror – Whilst most makeup mirrors will come with some kind of magnification, whether it’s built-in or an add-on, magnified mirrors are incredibly useful for applying makeup. They allow you to see closer into the skin, making them perfect for creating detailed eye looks and achieving a flawless base. Of course, it’s always best to be able to see your face from close up and far away, so you don’t want a magnified mirror to be the only mirror you have; but for perfecting your base and eyes, they’re great.

Lighted makeup mirror – If you struggle to find an area with good lighting for makeup application, then a lighted makeup mirror is a great solution. It ensures that your face will be brightly and evenly lit so that your make up goes on exactly as you want it to look in natural daylight. It’s likely that all light-up makeup mirrors will need to be recharged, but some also come with a range of features such as dimmable lights and different light shade options. These can be particularly useful if your night out will be somewhere with dim lighting, since it’s best to do your makeup in similar lighting to the place you’re going.

Is the size of a mirror important?

When it comes to makeup mirrors, size matters.This is because it’s always helpful to be able to see your whole face in the mirror at once, especially if you’re using the same mirror for your hair too. If you’re using a small magnified mirror, you won’t be able to sufficiently check out your completed look.

In particular, this is an issue if you’re using a mirror that has a magnification of 3X or above, since you will need to lean in to see yourself in focus. That means the higher the magnification of the mirror, the less of your face you will be able to see.

As such, magnified mirrors are better when they’re larger; the bigger the mirror, the more of your face you will be able to see at once.

How much battery life can I expect?

The best lighted makeup mirrors will offer the longest battery life, since it means you won’t have to mess about charging the mirror every time you use it. This is especially true if your vanity table isn’t located near a charger. If you’re applying your makeup from somewhere that’s close to a plug point, then this won’t matter too much, since many such mirrors can be used while they’re charging.

Some mirrors are powered by batteries, but these are a less eco-friendly option since batteries will inevitably need replacing at some point. If you’re hoping to offset this, then you can take a look at our roundup of the best rechargeable batteries for some long-lasting alternatives.

READ NEXT: The best makeup removers

How we test makeup mirrors

The most important part of a makeup mirror is the clarity of the reflective surface itself. Cheap mirrors can develop bubbles, creases or scratches, so it’s wise to invest in a good quality mirror. We consider the materials used to form the casing, the stability of the hinge mechanism, and whether or not a mirror can be angled to offer various positions. In our experience, mirrors made from metal tend to last well, although this doesn’t mean that those featuring plastic casings won’t do the job perfectly well either.

Next, we evaluate a makeup mirror’s lights to see how it compares to natural daylight. In addition, with any lights that are powered by battery, we note battery life as well as charge times.

To put the models through their paces in a real-life scenario, we apply a full face of makeup using each mirror to ensure it’s fit for purpose. Aside from the travel option, and the mega-magnified options, every mirror in this roundup is big enough to allow space for hair styling as well as being perfect for makeup applications.

The best makeup mirrors to buy in 2023

1. homedics touch and glow illuminated cosmetics mirror: best value lighted mirror.

Price when reviewed: £24 | Check price at Amazon

Battery life is 2.5 hours, with the light remaining bright even when the mirror is low on charge. And if the Touch and Glow runs out of charge mid-way through your makeup application, simply plug it in via the USB charging point and continue using it while it charges.

Helpfully, the mirror can be tilted, too, enabling you to evaluate your makeup from every angle, so you won’t miss any poor blending of foundation under your chin! The only issue with this mirror is that the whole thing is magnified, which means you won’t be able to see your makeup from far away. This won’t matter if you have access to a normal mirror elsewhere, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for a mirror for detailed makeup application as well as hair styling.

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 14.5cm; Full dimensions: 25x17x13cm; Features: lights, dimmable, magnified, rechargeable; Battery life: 2.5hrs

HoMedics Beauty Touch and Glow Rechargeable Dimmable LED Mirror - Perfect Addition to Dressing Table / Bathroom, Lighting for Make Up Application + Styling, 5x Magnification, Every Angle Flawless

2. h&s light-up makeup mirror: best budget makeup mirror.

We loved this affordable mirror from H&S. The LED lights around its edge are operated by a touch-sensitive switch, and while they can’t be adjusted for brightness or colour, they’re sufficiently bright to light up your face evenly, which makes applying your makeup a doddle.

The main mirror isn’t magnified, which actually makes it great for getting a view of both your makeup and hair, but if you do wish to zoom in on a particular area, then you will be pleased to learn that the mirror comes with a smaller, removable 10x magnifying mirror that can be applied to the main unit using suckers. One small caveat of this is that it can leave sucker marks on the mirror, but these are easy enough to clean off with a microfibre cloth. As with all the mirrors on the roundup, its angle is also adjustable.

In terms of more technical details, the mirror is battery-powered, meaning it can’t be recharged via USB. Those who are concerned about the environmental impact of using batteries might want to consider investing in rechargeable batteries to avoid excess waste.

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 16 x 21cm; Dimensions: 27 x 17 x 12cm; Features: LED lights, dimmable, separate stick-on 10x magnified mirror; Battery life: Not stated

H&S Makeup Mirror with Light/LED Light Up Mirror/Vanity Mirror with Lights / 10X Magnifying Round Make Up Mirror LED Lighted Illuminated Cosmetic Mirror with Lights Desk Free Standing Portable

3. simplehuman sensor mirror: best high-end makeup mirror.

This mirror can be left plugged in all the time since it features a face sensor, which means it will light up every time you sit down in front of it to apply your makeup, automatically turning off when you move away. If you find that the sensor is too sensitive, it can be turned off via the button on its base to save some battery life, although one full charge should see it last around five weeks of use.

Offering 5X magnification, while it’s difficult to view your face from further away, the Simplehuman mirror is much bigger than the average freestanding magnified mirror, which means you can at least see your whole face. Clarity here is second to none, and if the magnification here isn’t strong enough for you, there’s also a 10X zoom mirror option available.

This Simplehuman mirror isn’t cheap, but when you consider its exceptional build quality, height-adjustable stainless steel stand, tilting functionality, and the fact that it’s available in four colour options (silver, rose gold, white and pink), then there’s no denying you’re getting a feature-packed mirror for your money.

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 20cm; Full dimensions: 39x23x12cm; Features: Tru-lux lights, colour change, dimmable, magnified, adjustable angle and height; Battery life: 6 hours

simplehuman ST3052 20cm Sensor Mirror with Touch-Control Brightness, Light Up Makeup Magnifying Mirror, 5X Magnification, LED Tru-Lux Light, Dual Light Setting, Rechargeable, Brushed Stainless Steel

4. rantizon adjustable brightness compact mirror: best travel makeup mirror.

This light-up compact mirror folds down to around the size of a smartphone, so it’s easy to carry around in a handbag. Weighing just 116g, it won’t take up much weight in a suitcase, so it’s perfect for taking away on all your travels, too, and you won’t have to compromise much in terms of functionality.

This is because the brightness of the mirror’s built-in lights can be adjusted using the small touch-sensitive button, allowing you to choose your preferred brightness. If you’re concerned about power drain, then helpfully the compact’s auto LED shutoff kicks in when the compact is closed.

Also, you can go hands-free with this mirror, since its 300-degree hinge allows you to stand the mirror up on a desk or vanity. Each side of the mirror offers a different magnification; but note that the highest magnification is only 2x, so if strong magnification is important to you, then you might be better looking for an alternative. Otherwise, this is a great option for slinging in your suitcase.

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 12 x 9cm; Dimensions: 13 x 9 x 1cm; Features: LED lights, dimmable, 2x magnification, auto LED shutoff; Battery life: Not stated

Rantizon Portable Makeup Mirror Dimmable 8 LEDs Lighted Mirror 1X & 2X Magnification Cosmetic Illuminated Handbag Mirror FoldablePocket Mirror Compact Mirror

5. wilko bamboo vanity mirror: best makeup mirror with storage.

This bamboo vanity mirror from Wilko may not come with built-in lights, but it’s ideal for use in bathrooms where you might not want electronic devices. It can be angled, and flipping it around reveals another full-sized mirror with 2x magnification for seeing up close. Sitting on a wide tray base, it even offers space for storing makeup, jewellery, or whichever trinkets your heart desires.

If you’re looking to add some cohesion to your vanity table, then you will be pleased to learn that Wilko also stocks a wide range of matching bamboo items, including storage pots, soap dispensers and hair brushes in a matching finish. In fact, the storage pots – ideal for storing makeup brushes – fit perfectly into the base of the bamboo mirror, allowing you to keep all your makeup bits in one place. It even comes in at an affordable price – what’s not to like?

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 13 x 17cm; Dimensions: 33 x 17 x 18cm; Features: 2x magnification, matching storage options

Check price at Wilko

6. Ilios Beauty Ring Light Mirror: Best makeup mirror and ring light

Price when reviewed: £250 | Check price at Beauty Bay

If you, or someone you know, is a budding content creator then the Ilios Beauty Ring Light is perfect. It’s got everything you need for flawless makeup application, including bright light and two magnification options and it doubles up as a ring light to provide evenly lit footage when you need it. It’s pricey, but worth it if you’re willing to invest in a versatile mirror.

Unlike the similar premium option from SimpleHuman, this mirror is for corded use only. The reason for this becomes clear the minute you switch on the light – it’s easily the brightest makeup mirror we’ve ever tested. If your eyes are sensitive to bright light, there are five light-intensity options to choose from. Furthermore, the mirror offers three colour warmth options – cool, neutral, and warm – giving you 15 light options in total. These options are controlled using buttons on the base of the ring light. The mirror can be angled up and down and the two-sided mirrored surface clips into the middle of the ring light, meaning it’s easy to spin the mirror around. One side has 5x magnification and the other is non-magnified.

When you want to use the phone holder in the ring light, the mirror easily detaches by pressing a button at the top – the only caveat to this is that you might cover the mirror in fingerprints trying to remove it. The phone holder, usually stored behind the ring light, can be slotted onto an arm that securely holds your phone in either portrait or landscape orientation once the mirror has been removed. Switch on the light, and you’ll get perfectly lit photos and videos every time.

Key details – Mirror dimensions: 23 x 23cm; Dimensions: 33 x 17 x 18cm; Features: 5x magnification, built-in phone holder

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The 7 Best Lighted Makeup Mirrors You Need for Filter-Level Looks, Tested & Reviewed

Time to get up close and personal.

Caitlyn Martyn is responsible for writing tested product recommendations and reviews

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

What to Keep in Mind

Your questions, answered, why shop with us.

InStyle / Tamara Staples

You could buff on customized formulas with a diamond-encrusted foundation brush for all we care, but if it’s done in poor light, your final makeup look will always be missing…something. Fluorescent-lit hotel rooms and before sunrise wakeup calls rarely provide a MUA with their preferred level of brightness, which is why lighted makeup mirrors have become our guiding, well, you know.

Even if your bathroom or vanity area is already bright, celebrity makeup artist Steve Kassajikian explains that the luminescent mirrors and tools "allow you to see yourself clearly when applying makeup without the cast of shadows," which are typically caused by overhead lighting. "Now, you have a better shot at an even application and blend," he adds.

Since carting around Sephora-sized vanity mirrors with us isn’t feasible, we individually tested and researched the top-rated mirrors — taking into account the mirror’s lighting capabilities, clarity, stability, and design. Then, we consulted two expert makeup artists for their insight on what sets one apart as truly excellent.

Best Overall

Riki loves riki riki skinny mirror.

What We Love: You can use this mirror to take the perfect selfie with the help of the included magnetic phone clip.

What We Don’t Love: The charging cord can be difficult to connect to the mirror.

The Riki Skinny lighted makeup mirror is everywhere, from your Instagram feeds to Angelina Jolie and Jennifer Lopez’s vanities to Oprah’s Favorite Things list. What makes the mirror so popular, aside from its sleek good looks, are its impressive tech features that offer convenience wherever you’re applying makeup. For instance, the LED lights have r five different brightness levels, there’s a retractable stand to lower or raise the mirror for a better angle, and the magnetic phone clip allows you to simultaneously play makeup tutorials (or take selfies through the coordinating Bluetooth function) while you carefully wing your eyeliner .

Additionally, the tool includes a magnetic magnifying mirror in both 5x and 10x options, which we found super helpful for tweezing our brows and ensuring our foundation was fully blended. And, although we occasionally had trouble connecting the USB charger to the port in the stand, it never impacted its charging capabilities.

Magnification: 5x, 10x | Light Settings : 5 |  Features: Magnetic phone clip, Bluetooth, adjustable stand | Colors: 4 | Energy Source : USB-compatible rechargeable battery (charging cord and power cube included) | Weight: 1.5 pounds | Size: 13 x 9.5 inches

Best Budget

Huonul vanity makeup mirror with lights.

What We Love: Featuring a trifold design, we can glimpse every angle of our faces and necks with one glance. 

What We Don’t Love: The magnifying mirrors are small.

A lot is happening here: The mirror comes in three colors, features a tri-fold design, is battery-powered and charges through a USB port, and has a sturdy stand that won’t teeter off uneven surfaces. Beyond that, it provides a multi-angle few of your face at three different magnifications: 2x, 3x, 10x. Oh, and there’s even a little tray in the removable stand to keep pink lipsticks , hair accessories , and other small items well within reach.

Jack of all trades, and pretty much master of them all, although the 2x and 3x mirrors are small, we’re still pretty shocked at how this affordable makeup mirror squeezed all these features into one lightweight and compact design.

Magnification: 2x, 3x, 10x | Light Settings: Customizable sliding range from dim to very bright | Features: Removable stand, cosmetics tray | Colors: 3 | Energy Source : USB-compatible rechargeable battery (charging cord included only) or 4 AAA batteries | Weight: 1 pound | Size: 9.4  x 13.3 inches

Best Splurge

Riki loves riki riki sassy vanity mirror.

What We Love: All of its impressive tech features are powered by a remote control.

What We Don’t Love: It’ll take up a good chunk of space on smaller surface areas.

When we realized installing a professional vanity mirror wasn’t exactly in our budget, we turned to the Riki Skinny Smart Vanity Mirror’s sassier, luxe cousin. She’s dressed to the nines with six different placement options for the added magnetic attachments, which include a phone clip and a 5x magnifying mirror. Rest assured, you’re guaranteed angelic lighting during the darkest days with the mirror’s broad range of settings that you can adjust via a remote control, just like the Bluetooth selfie function and power button.

We’re happy the gorgeous circular silhouette, sleek white finish, and delicate acrylic stand blend well with our decor since this larger mirror will certainly be the focal point of whatever room it occupies.

Magnification: 5x | Light Settings: Customizable sliding range from dim to very bright | Features: Bluetooth connection, magnetic phone attachment | Colors: 1 | Energy Source : Outlet plug-in | Weight: 10 pounds | Size: 22.5 x 19.7 inches

Best for Desk

Fancii vanity makeup mirror.

What We Love: The storage shelf keeps your tools organized.

What We Don’t Love:  There are only two magnifying options.

If your desk is your Grand Central Station  — i.e. you work, eat, and do your makeup in one spot — staying organized is essential. The Fancii LED Vanity Makeup Mirror gets us one step closer to Marie Kondo-level living by including an attached storage shelf with five different compartments to tuck away all our itty bits and baubles, from hair scrunchies to hoop earrings , in one tidy place as we get ready.

Additionally, the mirror is sturdy but still smoothly swivels at 180 degrees so we can catch all our angles both vertically and horizontally. And, what it lacks in magnifying options (the mirror itself is 1x and features a small, side pull-out 10X mirror) it makes up for in its gorgeous soft lighting. The LED lights master a level of brightness and cool tones to perfectly simulate natural sunlight, and they shut off after 30 minutes of use so we’re never wasting battery life.

Magnification: 1x, 10x | Light settings: 2 | Features: Built-in organizer | Colors: 1 | Energy Source : USB-compatible rechargeable battery (charging cord included) or 4 AA batteries | Weight: 2 pounds | Size: 15 x 7.3 inches

• PHOTO: InStyle / Tamara Staples

Conair Reflections 1x/10x LED Rose Gold Makeup Mirror

What We Love: Since it’s battery-operated, there’s no need to hunt around for an outlet, making it that much more portable too.

What We Don’t Love: It only comes in one, non-versatile color.

It’s time to get personal, like, really personal. The Conair Reflection powerfully-lit 10X magnifying mirror allows you to easily wrangle askew eyebrow hairs with a pair of tweezers and quickly alert you to an unblended jawline situation. When you’re done inspecting yourself simply rotate it around to the 1x side for a full view of your facade. Beyond that, you can tote its lightweight, slim body around wherever you please, especially since the mirror runs on batteries.

Sure, rose gold wouldn’t be our first choice as it won’t match everyone’s aesthetic as black or white colorways would, but at an affordable price tag, we’re fine not being picky.

Magnification: 1x, 10x | Light Settings: 1 | Features: 360 degree rotation | Colors: 1 | Energy Source : 3 AA batteries (not included) | Weight: 1.79 pounds | Size: 15 x 15 x 8.7 inches

Best Travel-Friendly

Funtouch rechargeable travel makeup vanity mirror.

What We Love: It’s barely bigger than an iPad yet its mirror and bright lights make doing our makeup from anywhere in the world a breeze.

What We Don’t Love: You’ll need to have an outlet nearby since it’s not battery-operated.

As small and inconspicuous as it may seem, the travel-friendly makeup mirror impressed us with its three different light settings that we could easily transition between using the touch sensor. We still found its mirror was large enough to see our entire face, but thanks to its lithe silhouette and foldable stand, we could still tuck it into the most overstuffed suitcase and squeeze it on tiny hotel bathroom counter spaces.

And, since the mirror promises a long battery life, we’re not too worried about finding an outlet to plug its USB cable into before the lights die.

Magnification: 1x | Light Settings: 3 | Features: Foldable stand | Colors: 1 | Energy Source : USB-compatible rechargeable battery (charge cord and power cube included) | Weight: 0.67 pounds | Size: 7.6 x 5.1 inches

Best Handheld

Impressions chargeup compact mirror.

What We Love: It's got mighty magnifying power and stows away in even our teeniest clutches.

What We Don’t Love:  You can’t adjust the brightness.

Clocking-in at the same size as our blush compacts, and weighing about the same too, the distortion-free, 5x mirror will shine a light anywhere, anytime. Oh, and did we mention that it moonlights as a power bank to charge your phone?

Sturdy as can be, we’re not worried about it getting tossed around in the depths of our work bags , either. For its size, the mirror is nearly perfect, except that we’re not able to adjust the neutral light to a brighter setting.

Magnification: 1x , 5x | Light Settings: 1 | Features: USB power bank | Colors: 2 | Energy Source : USB-compatible rechargeable battery | Weight: Not listed | Size: 2.75 x 3.5 inches

• Lighting: Ample, bright lighting is key, and if it’s adjustable that’s even better. . "Important features are a dimmable function for brightness and a function to change color temperature from cool to warm orange hues," says celebrity makeup artist Janice Kinjo . "For deeper skin tones, a cool white light is horrible lighting and makes skin tones look overly light and ashy," she explains. "Therefore, it is important to have some orangey tungsten hues to warm up the white light.”
• Extra Features: While your initial desire for this product may just be a lighted mirror to get ready in front of, the bonus details will seal the deal. Many mirrors come with extra features like USB ports for charging your phone, speakers for playing music, or smart features that make for the ultimate primping station. If you know you’ll be taking your mirror on trips, look for designs that are portable enough to travel with and can be mounted in different locations.
• Energy Source: Nothing would be more frustrating than purchasing a lighted makeup mirror for travel only to realize it plugs into an outlet. While this is a good option if you plan on keeping it stationary at your vanity, if you want your little lighted tool to be your plus one wherever you are, seek out a battery-operated device or rechargeable option.

Are LED lights best for applying makeup?

The short answer is yes. "LED lights are best because [they] will give you a more natural reflection without washing you out," says Kassajikian. Many lighted makeup mirrors on the market use LED lights, but you'll occasionally find some models with fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. LED lights are also more energy-efficient than other types of lighting, according to the U.S. Department of Energy . Plus, they might actually keep any makeup that's nearby safe, too. "LED bulbs don't emit heat and cool to the touch, so makeup placed by the mirror won't melt," says Kinjo.

Is 5x or 10x better for a makeup mirror?

Most makeup mirrors come with some level of magnification like 3x or 5x, which makes an object appear 3 times or 5 times larger, to help amplify harder-to-see areas. If you’ll be using your mirror to do some detailed work like plucking hair hairs or putting on false lashes, look for higher magnification like 10x.

Irene Richardson is a beauty and fashion commerce writer for InStyle . For this story, she compiled insights from our in-house testers, read dozens of online reviews, and rounded up our top picks. She also relied on previous reporting from former InStyle commerce writer Caitlyn Martin, who interviewed celebrity makeup artists Steve Kassajikian and Janice Kinjo.

Related Articles

What’s the Best Travel Mirror? This is the #1 Choice

TOILETRIES , Travel Accessories

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When you’re on the go and need to touch up your face, having a compact makeup mirror handy will keep you looking your best wherever you are! But with so many mirrors on the market, it can be hard to find the right one for you. That’s where our intrepid TFG readers come in. Find out which ones they travel with below!

Spoiler Alert: Can’t wait to find out our top two travel makeup mirrors with lights? These are the best two according to our readers (and we agree)!

• Floxite LED Light Travel and Home Mirror 
• SimpleHuman Mini Sensor Makeup Travel Mirror  

Best Travel Makeup Mirror

Written By: Michelle Nati

Table Of Contents

When it comes to makeup application, having the proper accessories and tools makes all the difference! And when you’re traveling, not every place you land will have what you need to look your best. Bringing a compact travel magnifying mirror with light on your trip will save you from makeup that’s too heavy or isn’t blended properly. 

A portable vanity mirror with lights can save the day and now that most take batteries, you can have access to a clear view and ample light when you need it most. If you need to tweeze, apply blush, or make sure there’s nothing between your teeth, our readers share recommendations on their favorite lighted travel make up mirrors!

What Is The Best Travel Makeup Mirror?

Floxite Tabletop Mount Mirror

Floxite Travel Mirror 10x Magnification

When cute folding travel mirrors, like this one by Floxite, folds down to less than one inch thick, we know it’s going to be perfectly packable for our carry on or purse. At the same time, it has a viewing area that’s 6-inches in diameter so you have a wide view as you apply makeup.

One reader says, “I’ve been thrilled with mine. I typically sit at the desk in the hotel room to apply makeup, and I can see so much with the magnification.”

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

SimpleHuman Floor Mount 5″ Round Makeup Mirror

SimpleHuman Travel Mirror

This option by SimpleHuman mimics natural light, so you can see how you’ll look to everyone else, and you’ll always know when your face is color-correct and flawless. If that’s not enough, it also features a sensor that lights up when you approach.

Readers love this high tech accessory. One says, “It’s small and rechargeable with an iPhone charger and has a protective zip case. I don’t go anywhere without it—it’s amazing! ”

Find out the best portable power bank chargers for your travel mirror!

Fancii LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror

Fancii Portable Folding Mirror

A compact travel vanity mirror doesn’t usually come 10X magnification and LED lights, so when our readers find one, they let the world know! At just 5-inches, the Fancii is small but packs a clear, reflective punch when it comes to makeup application. One reader says, “ This is what I use—I love it!”

Pack light with the best makeup palettes for travel!

Feruaro Portable LED Lighted Makeup Mirror

Feruaro Portable Makeup Mirror With Lights

This ultra-thin portable light up mirror by Feruaro comes with 8 LED lights to guide your makeup application in dark or poorly lit conditions. With polished glass on one side and double the magnification on the other, it shows your skin’s texture up close wherever you use it.

Learn how to look good after a long haul flight !

Miss Sweet Folding Hand Held Mirror

Miss Sweet Magnified Travel Mirror

For those people who can apply makeup with one free hand, readers call Miss Sweet the best portable makeup mirror for travel. It comes with true image and 10X magnification and a 6-month limited warranty in case it’s faulty. You’ll be covered in every way possible while on the road!

Pack lighter with a capsule makeup collection !

Wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror

Wobsion Portable Magnifying Mirror

Readers love this compact from Wobsion , calling it “slim and lightweight.” One side offers a true view image and the other has 10X magnification, making it perfect for tweezing. At only 3/8″ thick, it’s so lightweight, you may even forget you’re carrying it.

Find out what beauty products to pack and leave behind!

Fuhum 15X Magnifying Hand Held Mirror

Fuhuim Mini Portable Foldable Mirror

This handheld mirror is the perfect travel companion when it comes to confident makeup application. Its smooth 360-degree swivel rotation and its 1x and 15x magnification options are winners with one reader, who says that it’s her go-to mirror when it comes time to tweeze.

Read our foolproof guide to  music festival makeup  (that’s perfect for travel)!

Tweezerman Professional 12X Magnifying Mirror

Tweezerman Magnifying Travel Mirror

If you want to get a good look at your skin while on the go, readers recommend this Tweezerman product. One loves it because it has “2X magnification and has suction cups on the back—I can use it in the bathroom or on the balcony sliding door for maximum light.” That’s music to our makeup applying ears!

Maintain your beauty routine on the go with these travel skincare tips !

B Beauty Planet 20X Magnifying Mirror

B Beauty Planet Magnification Travel Mirror

Sturdy and practical with 20X the magnification, TFG travelers recommend this double sided mirror by B Beauty Planet . It stands when you need it and packs down when you don’t. It can also be hung and comes with a bracket for mounting.

Find out what our readers ranked as the best long-lasting lipstick for travel!

Beautifive Lighted Makeup Mirror

Beautifive Portable LED Vanity Mirror

This Beautifive mirror has an adjustable brightness function, so you can tweak it to closely simulate natural light and get your best look. Its compact design makes it a reliable and roadworthy accessory for travel, according to readers.

Find out the benefits of polarized fashion sunglasses !

Zadro 4.5″ Round LED Compact Mirror

Zadro Portable Mirror With Lights

“Small, compact and AWESOME!” That’s how one TFG reader describes the Zadro lighted travel mirror. Its fold-up design allows for collapse into a compact size, which makes it a must have for travelers. LEDs lights lead the way on this dual mirror with 5x and 1x magnification.

We’ve got a quick and easy guide on how to find the perfect pair of sunglasses to complement your face shape!

JiBen LED Lighted 10X Magnifying Makeup Mirror

JiBen Travel LED Makeup Mirror

With an adjustable arm that goosenecks to come to you, readers say they love the JiBen because they don’t have to bend over a counter to put their makeup on. With 10X magnification and daylight LEDs, you can really see your skin up-close and personal. Its powerful suction cup makes it easy to mount anywhere you need a travel shower mirror.

Read this post to discover the best makeup for pictures!

Travel Mirror Comparison Chart

[wpsm_comparison_table id=”197″ class=”center-table-align”]

How Long Do Lighted Travel Makeup Mirrors Last?

A travel makeup mirror with lighted bulbs is easier to carry than it’s ever been and not what you remember growing up. Today, they feature LED lights, which don’t burn out within a year or two. In fact, in bathroom lighting, mirrors with LED lights have an efficacy of over 50,000 hours—that’s over 10 years of life! 

You won’t use it nearly as much as you will your bathroom mirror, which means it will have as many years of life as you have adventures!

Do you have any recommendations for a travel lighted makeup mirror? Share and comment below!

For more packing tips , please read:

• The Ultimate Guide to Travel Makeup (with Printable Checklist)
• What’s the Best Hair Diffuser for Travel? Readers Answer
• The Simple Guide to Essential Travel Beauty Products
• 14 Point Checklist: What Travel Beauty Products to Pack (and Leave Behind)

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22 comments.

I have the Ferraro mirror. Love that it lights up and has 2x magnifying side. Packing it up right now for my trip to Austin Texas for my daughter’s bachelorette weekend.

This is a very valuable article. I travel a lot. Mirrors in hotels can be anything from very helpful to non-existent. I’m five feet tall and wear glasses. Putting on make-up or using tweezers can be quite a challenge at times.

This is very helpful! Been trying to find a good travel mirror with not luck. Thanks for doing the research.

I am in need of a lighted mirror for travel so truly appreciate this short list of the best, thank you!

I have the Feruaro and it has been an essential travel item for me!

Oh this was such a timely post, to replace a mirror I lost in transit and to do so with greater magnification. I’ve been thrilled with the Fancii, thank you!!

What a great list! I’ve got some things added to my Christmas wish list 😁

Love the options here, I have simple human and find it too heavy for carry on esp if the airlines with your carry on bags.

I love the variety of the smaller type mirrors in the article. I’ll definitely be purchasing one of those for my upcoming winter trip!

Great ideas. Now I have to decide which one I want.

I bookmark most all of your articles. I don’t travel often, so I appreciate someone who does. Thanks!

Thank you for this article. Unfortunately, the older I get I have to use a mirror with magnification and not all hotels have this kind of mirror.

I bookmark almost all of your articles. I don’t travel often, so I appreciate help from someone who does!

Great choice! Makes it so easy to pack and bring with you.

Great review! I have been looking for a travel mirror with at least 15x magnification. Thanks for the info!

Any mirror that is compact and has a light – what’s not to love?!

Thanks for the travel mirror information. I love that you have done the research already.

This is the article I’ve been looking for! Thanks for doing my research!

Always a challenge to find the right mirror. Thanks for this information. Always great to get these updates and recommendations.

Wow, the Feruaro Portable Makeup Mirror With Lights is exactly what I have been looking for. I love your articles and all the great travel info you provide us with. I have been following you since well before Covid. Thank you so much!!

I’ve been looking for a good, but compact travel mirror. These are great recommendations! A travel mirror is an important but often overlooked travel accessory. We can pack intelligently and down size all those cosmetics but without a good mirror it’s impossible to get a natural look in a dim hotel room. Thanks!

Thank you for this list, just added one to my shopping list! Very helpful!

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The 8 Best Makeup Cases for Travel in 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our picks fit all of your favorite accessories and stand up to drops and shakes.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips for Buying
• Why Trust T+L

If you wear even a small amount of makeup, you likely own some form of a makeup bag to use while traveling. But if your go-to makeup bag is hard to see into, has a janky zipper, or is just a plastic bag, it’s time for an upgrade. Lucky for you, we thoroughly evaluated 26 popular makeup bags in our New York City studio to find out which ones are actually worth traveling with. 

Over the course of five months of using them during our real travels, we stuffed each makeup case to the brim with cosmetics, packed them into luggage, and threw them around the room (yes, really). And when all was said and done, there were 8 makeup cases we liked enough to permanently add to our luggage collections and recommend to you. Based on factors like quality, capacity, design, portability, value, and ease of use, here are our 8 favorite makeup bags and cosmetic cases.

Best Overall

Béis the cosmetic case.

It’s durable, capacious, and nice to look at — plus, it has a large built-in mirror.

We feel it could benefit from interior straps to hold products down.

Reliable, stylish, and compact yet spacious, it’s no wonder this easy-to-pack cosmetic case from luggage brand Béis impressed us the most. The main compartment opens and closes smoothly, while a center compartment for brushes and other smaller items can be removed in a snap. There are even multiple additional pockets, pouches, and subtle slots in the bag, so there’s truly a place for everything. We also noticed that, because the interior of the case is so roomy, it’s incredibly easy to see every item inside when fully opened. And speaking of the interior, the bag actually boasts a large attached mirror on the inside, which comes in handy for in-transit makeup application — though some might still prefer to also pack a lighted travel makeup mirror .

During our five months of assessments, the PU leather and hardware worked together to create efficient padding that kept the contents of the case safe and intact through bumps and drops — not to mention, the bag itself still looked good through the wear and tear. On many occasions, we tossed this case in a duffel before going through airport security and boarding a flight, and it still looks good as new. Though $68 may feel a bit pricey for a makeup bag, we felt this case’s thoughtful design and durable construction is worth it. You can grab the case in eight colors ranging from beige to berry.  

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | PU leather, nylon, PVC, poly | Zipper closure | 1.38 pounds

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best Design

Relavel travel makeup case.

It’s one of the roomiest bags on our list and it’s lightweight — plus it's great for organization.

It does take up a bit of space in your luggage.

While this case is on the larger side, we felt that ended up being more helpful than hurtful while traveling. We could fit pretty much everything in this thing: a whopping seven palettes, a whole brush collection, two foundation bottles, five toiletry bottles, over 15 lipsticks, an eyelash curler, hair spray, and a travel-sized moisturizer bottle, to be exact. Despite its size, the train case actually remains quite lightweight as well as organized thanks to its adjustable dividers and stretchable pouches on the inside. During our five-month evaluation, we even ended up using this for both makeup and toiletries, since it provides plenty of space.

The interior additionally features layers of protective foam-like material that expertly keeps makeup bottles from cracking. We also found that both the interior and exterior of this case are easy to clean, should a spill or outdoor drop occur. Because it’s a little big, though, we’d recommend packing this case in a carry-on suitcase or even checked luggage rather than a tote or backpack. You can pick this case up in 20 different colors and prints. 

The Details: 10.3 x 9 x 3.7 inches | Nylon | Zipper closure | 1.46 pounds

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

It’s the tiniest bag on our list, but it still fits a lot — plus, it’s easy to flatten when packing or storing.

It does, of course, fit less makeup than the larger bags on our list.

If you prefer to travel with something more compact, Dagne Dover’s Mila Toiletry Organizer is the best tiny makeup bag we tried. Though it’s by far the smallest pick on our list, we were surprised at just how much it could actually hold. Not only do plenty of palettes, lipsticks, and other essential cosmetics fit inside, but so do full-size makeup brushes. It comes with a removable mini divider set that helps hold items in place, though we liked how much more we could fit in the organizer if we skipped using the dividers. Because it fit so well in the palm of our hands, we had a good time whipping it across the room during our assessments — and after being pelted against the wall and floor multiple times, we were amazed to find the organizer still looked fantastic and its contents barely budged. Even when wedged into an absolutely-stuffed-to-the-brim suitcase during our five-month evaluation, the inside is so well-padded that all of our items remained protected and secure. We decided it’s the ultimate makeup bag for shorter trips since it takes up such little space and is super soft and squishable for easy packing. 

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | Polyester, zinc alloy | Zipper closure | 6 ounces

Narwey Travel Makeup Bag

It’s spacious, easy-to-clean, and more affordable than any other makeup bag on our list.

It could use a little extra padding for protection against drops.

There was something about this bag that just made us feel like we could easily access everything inside — there were no hidden pockets, no tight openings, and no unnecessary flaps that covered up the contents (other than one to protect makeup brushes, but it’s see-through). The zipper opening is easy to maneuver and appears to be well-made, while the canvas frame feels sturdy and protective. The bag got a bit dirty during our assessments, but it cleaned up beautifully with minimal effort. We especially loved just how much it could fit: multiple brushes in each of its eight brush pockets, three palettes, three eyeliners, four lipsticks, a mascara, and a lash curler. Perhaps that’s why we were so shocked to discover the bag doesn’t take up much space in our luggage, and it is a fraction of what many other bags on our list cost. 

The Details: 9 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches | Canvas | Zipper closure | 7.8 ounces

Best Train Case

Leatherology train case.

The leather exterior is soft to the touch and the interior is deceptively roomy.

During our five-month evaluation, we found the tall design to be awkward for packing.

Easy to clean and pack, we’re obsessed with this cute and compact train case from ultra-reliable Leatherology. It zips open in a way that allows you to see everything inside, plus there are interior pockets of all sizes to help keep everything organized. Though we felt it was slightly flimsy when we first picked it up, we quickly realized it’s sturdier than it looks, and only becomes more so when filled with makeup. Its subtle padding is also no joke, as it completely protected the contents while being thrown around, shaken, and dropped. The exterior leather is soft and supple, the interior lining is high quality, and the main compartment is deep and spacious despite its overall compact size. If you’re looking for a smaller makeup bag that’ll still fit more than just the essentials, we recommend this train case in one of 14 available colors. 

The Details: 7.5 x 5 x 5.2 inches | Leather, nickel | Zipper closure | 2.41 pounds

Best Multi-compartment

Boacay hanging travel toiletry bag.

It has multiple compartments that hold so many products.

Bottles can easily slip out of the plastic pockets if the case is hung up without first zipping the pockets.

Travel hanging organizers are a whole different ball game — and once you use one, you may never go back. This one opens up into four large sections, each with a transparent, zippered sleeve to store (and easily see) your makeup and toiletries. Two of the sections have straps to hold products in place, and a hook on the top section allows you to hang the bag anywhere. During our assessments, we discovered the bag is sturdy and easy to clean in addition to being large enough for different types of products, from makeup brushes to hairspray.  Even when we packed it to the brim, it still folded up with minimal effort and kept our makeup in place during drop tests. While it’s relatively thin, it is somewhat long and space-consuming, so we’d probably only pack this in a checked bag rather than a carry-on, or use the makeup bag itself as a personal item. Over a period of five months, we did notice that bottles can easily slip out of the plastic pockets if the case is hung up without first zipping the pockets.

The Details: 11.4 x 3.8 x 7.5 inches | Zipper closure | 12.3 ounces

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

During our five months of evaluations, all stains and smudges were easily cleaned to keep the case looking new.

It doesn’t have organization features or particularly thick cushioning.

Upon trying this set out, it stood out for two reasons: it comes with not one, but two luxe pouches, and the interior is lined with the same soft leather featured on the exterior. We appreciated how wide both bags open, despite their top-zip construction, making it easy to see everything inside. The larger of the two bags is so spacious, we were able to fit an impressive amount of makeup inside — in fact, we felt we realistically probably wouldn’t even need the smaller bag for makeup, and could instead use it for small toiletries or loan it to a travel companion. There aren’t any dividers or straps inside these bags, so the products inside may shift in-transit if not packed to the brim. Still, we loved the set because it’s one of the nicest-looking options we tried (plus, it comes in 14 gorgeous colors). 

The Details: 12 x 7 x 3.5 inches (large), 8 x 5 x 2.5 inches (small) | Leather | Zipper closure | 1 pound

Most Durable

Cuyana travel beauty case.

It has a pocket for everything and is made from stiff leather that will hold up through years of travel.

It’s on the heavier side and is the most expensive bag on our list. 

If you’re looking for something that does it all and is built to last, consider Cuyana’s Travel Beauty Case. It’s the most expensive option on our list, but after putting it to the test, we believe it’s worth the hefty price tag. The zipper glides smoothly when opening and closing it, the construction is super sturdy, it’s not bulky, it’s packed with pockets as well as a removable pouch, dirt and scuffs are easy to wipe off — we could truly go on and on about this case. But let’s go back to the interior: Though the case is on the smaller side, it boasts plenty of slots for products, including a dedicated pocket and four straps for makeup brushes, a leather flap to protect contents, a small removable pouch for your tiniest cosmetics, and an additional elastic pocket. We felt the leather was quite stiff, which prompted us to get a little rougher with it during our drop and shake tests. Sure enough, it effectively protected the many palettes, lipsticks, tools, and more we placed inside. Even after five months of using the case during our travels, it still looks good as new and has protected all of our items.

The Details: 10.2 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches | Leather | Zipper closure | 1.6 pounds

Other Makeup Bags We Liked

Several other makeup bags almost made our list, but were cut due to issues revealed during our evaluation process.

Béis The Hanging Cosmetic Case : This bag is super sturdy, protective, and well made. However, the actual makeup section of this multi-paneled case managed to feel both bulky and too small to fit all our makeup products. 

Away The Cosmetics Bag : We liked the sleek, minimalist design; a unique interior that features makeup storage with a clear zippered divider; and five heavy-duty makeup brush slots on the opposite side. But during assessments, it fit considerably less makeup than many others on our list and it didn’t keep products very secure.

To thoroughly and accurately test each of the 26 makeup cases in our lab, we filled them with various props (including four makeup brushes, two makeup palettes, one bottle of foundation, one eyelash curler, one mascara, one lipstick, four pre-filled toiletry bottles, and one hairspray) to see how much they could truly hold. We then placed the filled makeup bags into both a half-packed backpack and carry-on luggage, making note of how much space each bag took up. Next, we took the makeup bags out of the luggage and dropped them, shook them, and tossed them in the air to test how much the contents inside moved or if there was any damage. 

Throughout our tests, we rated each makeup bag based on ease of use, quality, capacity, design, portability, and value. The makeup bags included in this article are the picks that scored highest in each category.

The Travel + Leisure Team Tests the Best Makeup Cases

Tips for buying a makeup bag for travel, decide how much space you need.

If you like to wear a full face of makeup on your travels, you should seek out a larger makeup bag with built-in organization (think pockets, brush straps, dividers, and removable pouches). If you’re more of a tinted moisturizer and mascara-and-go kind of person, a super roomy cosmetic case is unnecessary — it’ll just take up extra space in your luggage, and your few makeup products inside will likely move around too much, increasing their chances of breaking.

Prioritize organizational features

While a makeup case with one large, main compartment might sound sufficient, you may want to reconsider. If you plan on packing multiple types of products (like palettes, brushes, bottles, and tubes), a makeup bag with organizational features, such as a train case , will come in handy more than you’d think. As explained above, bags with extra slots, pockets, straps, and compartments help you keep track of all your cosmetics and do your makeup quickly. 

Determine the best material for you

Before buying a makeup bag, think about potential travel mishaps that could occur. Are you prone to spills? Do you tend to overpack? What if your luggage takes a beating in the cargo hold? Keeping that in mind, choose a cosmetic case material that works for you. Leather and nylon handle makeup spills and dirt well, while cases made of neoprene or mesh will keep your luggage lightweight. It’s hard to completely avoid scuffs and scratches, but materials such as polyester and high-quality leather hold up better than others. And if you’re someone who hates rummaging through a dark makeup bag? Go for a clear material or a bag that opens like a clamshell so you can easily see all of its contents and don't have to rummage to find, say, your waterproof mascara .

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s important not to overstuff or understuff your makeup bag. Overstuffing can cause spills and stretching/ripping of the makeup bag itself, while understuffing allows your makeup bag’s contents to move around more, increasing their chances of breaking. It’s also wise to take special care of more delicate items like brushes and glass bottles. Brushes should be strapped down and covered by a flap if possible, and you shouldn’t have to bend the bristles to make them fit. If your cosmetic case has smaller interior pockets or slots, keep glass bottles in there — if not, stand them up straight rather than laying them down, and pack other products around them to keep them from sliding around. 

Yes — just keep TSA liquid rules in mind. Like any other liquid container, makeup containers (like liquid foundation bottles, moisturizer tubes, etc.) should not exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each. If your liquid makeup goes over that limit, you’ll have to store it in your checked luggage.

Use a wet cloth, a wipe, or even an antibacterial spray and a paper towel to wipe your makeup bag clean. Just make sure you’re not using anything with bleach!

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin used her extensive knowledge of makeup bags, makeup products, and traveling, as well as the T+L team’s extensive makeup bag tests, to compile a list of the best options on the market. 

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The Best Travel Photography of 2023

There's nothing quite like the power of a photograph to truly capture the heart of a place—and awaken the travel bug inside us all. But with social media inundated with images of far-flung destinations, the search for high-quality travel photography can often be a tougher pursuit. So, in place of scrolling, why not let an expert panel of judges filter out the best of the best for you?

This week, the international Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) awards announced their 2023 winners, selected from more than 20,000 images taken by amateur and professional photographers from over 150 countries. The judging of the competition takes place over three rounds; all 16 judges are leading photographers or experts in the field and are not made aware of the identity or nationality of any entrants.

Ranging from ethereal landscapes of the Italian countryside to striking portraits in Pakistan and Russia , the winning shots—including the celebrated work of Travel Photographer of the Year AndreJa Ravnak—reflect a “subtle elegance," says TPOTY founder Chris Coe.

"This comes through in both of AndreJa’s winning portfolios; one takes us into simple landscapes, with delicate colors and a textural beauty, the other into the hop fields, out of season and undressed ready for the next planting," Coe says. “Neither are obvious subjects, neither photographed at an optimal time of year, and yet they are both engaging and rather beautiful.”

Ravnak's winning submissions consists of eight shots photographed in the farmlands of Italy , the Czech Republic , and Slovenia .

“From my personal experience, I know it's not easy to judge photography. Images are not measurable, so being a judge is a complex task and responsibility,” says Ravnak, a professional architect from Slovenia. "Congratulations to all the winners; together, we are enthusiastically documenting this wonderful world, and perhaps this is a small contribution, a reminder to preserve its wonder for future generations.”

Below, see the 2023 winners of the Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) awards, featuring Japan's Lake Shirakawa , volcanic eruptions in Iceland , Shamanic rituals in Siberia , wildebeest migration in Kenya —and more.

Near Pienza, Tuscany, Italy

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “Early in the spring, the first rains allow wheat to grow in the rolling fields. Due to the cold nights, the landscape is often shrouded in beautiful mists on clear mornings during this period. This agricultural landscape is sparsely populated, with land being used to its fullest potential. Farms are located on the top of individual hills.”

South Moravia, near Kyov, Czech Republic

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “In early spring, the soil is still too cold for growth. An interesting pattern occured while a new orchard was planted on the slope of the hill, making the scene very abstract.”

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “In search of suitable land for cultivating fertile soil for agricultural purposes, humans have sometimes covered entire hilly landscapes with fields. Hills without natural vegetation are very exposed to erosion, which creates unusual waves on the slopes. This agricultural landscape looks like a soft, undulating carpet, completely otherworldly, as if it had been created by AI. In addition to erosion, the problem with these intensively cultivated areas is also the increasing exhaustion of fertile soil.”

Savinjska valley, near Zalec, Slovenia

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “A tractor driver maneuveres a high trailer with a crew of workers on top, manually tying strings to steel cables for hop growing. In the spring, the fields must be prepared for a new season and new strings must be strung. The process is done by hand, but there is not enough interest in this type of work in Slovenia, so hop growers hire workers from abroad every year. Seasonal workers from Romania are regular visitors to the Savinja Valley.”

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “When the hop strings are hung on the top steel cables, an unusual curtain of threads is created in the fields. The threads dance in the wind and sparkle in the sunlight. They look like some kind of unusual art installation.”

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “The freely hanging strings need to be stretched and anchored in the ground. This is done by hand and is more often done by women. Here, Aurora, a woman from from Romania, is in a good mood, as the work team has a radio with them and they are playing Romanian music in the field.”

Savinjska valley, near Braslovce, Slovenia

Overall Winner—The Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 (AndreJa Ravnak, Slovenia) : “Once all the strings are manually stretched, the workers ensure that the small hop seedlings start climbing vertically. Once this is done, they leave the Savinja Valley for a few months and return in late summer, when the hops are ripe for harvesting.”

Chinle, Arizona, USA

Winner, Young Travel Photographer of the Year 2023 ( Caden Shepard Choi, USA, age 14) : “The sheep are herded back to their pen at the entrance of the canyon. They walk through a dust cloud formed by the steady kick of their hooves. The sheep are initially reluctant to enter the mouth of the canyon, but when returning home, they show no resistance. After a long day steering sheep, the two herding dogs now playfully trail behind.”

Exton, Pennsylvania, USA

Winner, Young Travel Photographer of the Year Age 15-18 (Lilly Zhang, USA, age 17) : “The mist suspended on Marsh Creek lake's surface, signature to its early fall mornings, the quiet morning light illuminating the fall leaves, and the fishermen amidst the mist. Captivated by the quiet beauty of the scenery, I took this photo.”

Litli-Hrutur volcano, Iceland

Winner, Young Travel Photographer of the Year Age 14 and Younger (Zayan Durrani, USA, age 14) : “My father and I took a trip to Iceland to visit an ongoing volcanic eruption. I took this image on the first day through the window of a small plane. I love how the setting sun cast shadows through the hills onto the volcano.”

The Icelandic highlands

Winner, Landscape and Environment Portfolio (Armand Sarlangue, France) : “A lush mountain range covered of moss in the Highlands, with a river snaking between the reliefs from the above glaciers. It will carry precious sediments along the lands before joining a bigger river system, up to the coasts of Iceland where it will connect with the great ocean.”

Lake Shirakawa, Japan

Winner, Best Single Image in a Landscape and Environment Portfolio (Kazuaki Koseki, Japan) : “For a period from the end of winter to early summer, Lake Shirakawa is filled with water from melting snow and a ‘submerged forest’ appears. The water in the lake changes colour between light blue and light green, and mist, combined with the reflections which look like a submeged forest create a fantastic landscape. In April, the season of sprouting had arrived in the submerged forest. In the soft light before sunrise, the submerged forest quietly welcomed the morning. I chose a bluish time before sunrise to erase the reality and emphasize the fantastic sight, and set the shutter speed to 30 seconds to flatten the water surface.”

La Ventana, Baja California, Mexico

Winner, Nature, Wildlife, and Conservation portfolio (Martin Broen, USA) : “A split shot of a Mobula ray fever cruising below the divers’ boat as part of their annual migration in the waters of Baja California.”

Anilao, Philippines

Winner, Best Single Image in a Wildlife and Conservation Portfolio (Martin Broen, USA) : “A yellow Gobby watches the ocean from the entrance of his crystal palace, a glass bottle at the bottom of the sea of the worst ocean polluter on the planet.”

Lake Baikal, Siberia, Russia

Winner, People and Cultures Portfolio (Athanasios Maloukos, Greece) : “The Buryatian shaman Vitalli performs a ritual to connect with the spirits on frozen Lake Baikal, with the sacred Ogoi (Dragon) cape in the background. Siberia is considered the heartland of Shamanism, with Lake Baikal its most sacred place.”

Lagos, Nigeria

Winner, Best Single Image in a People and Cultures Portfolio (Jack Lawson, UK) : “Four members of The Special Eagles, Nigeria's national amputee football team, stand looking out into the ocean at a day on the beach.”

Kalash Valley, Chitral, Pakistan

Winner, Best Single Image in a Visual Stories Portfolio (F.Dilek Yurdakul, Turkey) : “In Pakistan, an Islamic Republic, there is no coeducation in public schools. Boys and girls receive Islamic education in separate classrooms and schools. The Kalash live within the borders of Pakistan and neighboring Afghanistan, yet their schools are still co-educational. Gender diversity and unity are viewed as nothing to fear. Children are educated equally and together.”

La Puna, Argentina

Winner, A Quieter Life category (Ignacio Palacios, Australia/Spain) : “Walking on a white sand dune in La Puna, Argentina.”

Reutte, Austria

Winner, Above, Eye Level, Below category (Josien van Geffen, Netherlands) : “Under the Highline 179 suspension bridge, you get a completely different view when you look up. The bridge and the people on it now appear like a scene from an old video game.”

Petra, Jordan

Winner, Leisure and Adventure category (Andrea Peruzzi, Italy ): “As the last rays of the sun illuminate the iconic Treasury of Petra, a Bedouin enjoys jumping between the overhanging rocks. At sunset, it’s as if the once-lost city has two profoundly different souls, divided between day and night. When tourists leave this iconic destination, the Bedouins reawaken the ancient soul of Petra by repopulating the site, to eat around the bonfires and stay connected to the traditions handed down by their ancestors.”

Maasai Mara, Kenya

Winner, People's Choice Vote (Rohan Neel Shah, Kenya, age 16) : “A young wildebeest lost in the Great Wildebeest Migration madness. He stands there confused whilst other wildebeest rush to cross the river.”

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USA TODAY 10Best

Indulge in the best ciders of the year: 10 must-taste picks

Best Cider (2024) August 28, 2024

Versatile and tasty, cider is made from fermented apples, imbuing it with a sweet and fruity flavor. And that flavor can be enhanced with the addition of hops, spices, and fruits, totally transforming the taste. As an added bonus, cider is almost always naturally gluten-free.

From the dry to the sweet and the high ABV to the crushable, these 10 ciders have been selected by an expert panel and voted by our readers as the best in the country for their unique and delicious flavor profiles. 

No. 10: Scrappy Apple - Talbott's Cider Company

A true farm-to-glass operation, Talbott's Cider Company grows, crushes, and ferments on-site. For a shining example of their product, try the Scrappy Apple, a dry cider that is sugar-free and tastes similar to sauvignon blanc or champagne.

No. 9: Farmstead - Champlain Orchards

Crafted from fresh apples grown on the edge of Lake Champlain, Farmstead is as a key component of Champlain Orchards' year-round core lineup. This semi-dry beverage offers bright and fruity apple notes and a crisp mouthfeel.

No. 8: Vacation Station - Urban Orchard Cider Co.

Urban Orchard Cider Co. ships their cider cans nationwide, including their Vacation Station, a specialty cider that is semi-sweet and tropical with guava, kiwi, and mango.

No. 7: Hellbender Hopped - Tumbling Creek Cider Company

Hellbender Hopped, from Tumbling Creek Cider Company in southwest Virginia, is pressed from Appalachian apples with citrusy hops from Kelly Ridge Farms. The result is a semi-sweet cider with floral notes.

No. 6: Lupulin Lummox - Ploughman Cider

The product of an apple-growing legacy that spans more than 200 years, Ploughman Cider offers a lengthy list of superbly crafted ciders. Their Lupulin Lummox serves as a must-try, thanks to its sweet, fruity qualities and a healthy dose of Citra hops.

No. 5: Beehive Ginger - Stargazer Cider

Sweet notes of local wildflower honey take center stage in the Beehive Ginger by North Carolina's Stargazer Cider. For added complexity, ginger is incorporated into the final product, ultimately yielding a well-rounded cider that's brimming with both floral and fruity flavor notes and enjoyed by connoisseurs of both dry and sweet ciders, alike.

No. 4: Pedestrian - ERIS Brewery and Cider House

A favorite from Chicago-based ERIS Brewery and Cider House, Pedestrian offers a complex bouquet of tart and crisp flavor notes. Imbibers find that it's a refreshing beverage reminiscent of a Granny Smith apple in liquid form.

No. 3: Mango Foxtrot - Cider Corps

Mango Foxtrot is a fruity and floral cider made with apples, mango, and rosehips. Aptly named, it's produced by Cider Corps, an Arizona-based cidery founded by a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, Jason Duren, and his brother, Josh.

No. 2: Roxbury Russet - Old Stone Cider

Old Stone Cider offers a rich bouquet of ciders crafted from succulent Old English and Heirloom American apple varieties, with the Roxbury Russet serving as a must-try for first-time visitors. Clocking in at 7% ABV, this flavorful beverage is sweet and well-balanced with an effervescent mouthfeel.

No. 1: Traditional Dry - Commonwealth Ciders

Philadelphia visitors and locals alike searching for a time-honored cider variety should consider Traditional Dry by Commonwealth Ciders. Each bottle is brimming with the perfect blend of tartness and crispness and finished off with added effervescence for a perfect mouthfeel.

About 10Best Readers' Choice Awards

Nominees are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day. For any questions or comments, please read the FAQ or email USA TODAY 10Best .

The Experts

Jennifer fitzpatrick.

Jen is a gluten-free lifestyle coach, blogger, and...   Read More

Jen is a gluten-free lifestyle coach, blogger, and educator. She was diagnosed with celiac disease back in 2009 and also suffers from Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Hypothyroidism. Her website,  The Nomadic Fitzpatricks , features tasty gluten-free recipes, detailed travel guides, and resources for confidently living with celiac disease. Jen has been a guest speaker at the Beyond Celiac Community Summit, The Nourished Festival, and has been published in Gluten-Free Living Magazine. You can find her on  Instagram .

Jules Shepard

Jules Shepard is the CEO and Founder of gfJules,...   Read More

Jules Shepard is the CEO and Founder of gfJules, the #1 voted gluten free flour and baking mixes company in the US. She is also a highly regarded member of the gluten-free and food allergy community, having written 3 award-winning books in the space and championed the gluten-free food labeling movement. She is a tireless advocate for the GF and food allergy community. Her educating and lobbying efforts helped her garner the first ever “Gluten Free Person of the Decade” award. She can be found at  gfJules.com  and @gfJules on Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest , YouTube , and @THEgfJules on X and TikTok .

Wendy O'Dea

Born and raised in western New York, Wendy O'Dea ...   Read More

Born and raised in western New York, Wendy O'Dea moved to L.A. to attend the USC graduate School of Journalism and stayed for the innovative and creative lifestyle the city offers. Other than the traffic, there's not much about California she doesn't love. You can track her gallivanting ways on Instagram via @WendyTravels .

Catherine Smith

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility...   Read More

Catherine Smith, Expert and Award Eligibility Coordinator for the USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, has a special interest in health and wellness, family travel, women's solo travel and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Catherine is the founder of Her Bags Were Packed where she focuses on helping women release emotional baggage through solo travel and self-discovery.

10Best Editors

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original,...   Read More

USA TODAY 10Best provides users with original, unbiased and experiential travel coverage of top attractions, things to see and do, and restaurants for top destinations in the U.S. and around the world.

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• Travel Essentials & Accessories

14 Best Magnifying Mirror Travel for 2024

Published: September 29, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Cynthy Vancleave

• Tech & Gear

Introducing the "14 Best Magnifying Mirror Travel for 2023" – your ultimate guide to finding the perfect magnifying mirror for all your travel needs. Whether you're a frequent traveler or planning a special trip, having a reliable magnifying mirror is essential to ensure flawless makeup application, precise grooming, and convenience on the go. In this comprehensive list, we have curated the top 14 magnifying mirrors that offer exceptional quality, portability, and functionality. Stay updated with the latest advancements in the industry and make an informed decision when it comes to selecting the ideal magnifying mirror for your travel adventures in 2023.

Jump to Review

AMISCE Handheld Makeup Mirror – 2-Sided, Portable, Adjustable

This product has a rating of A. * What does this rating mean?

Overall Score : 8.5/10

The AMISCE Travel Handheld Makeup Mirror is a versatile and compact accessory for women on the go. With its 2-sided design, you can choose between a 1x mirror for everyday use or a powerful 20x magnifying mirror for detailed makeup application and grooming. The mirror also features an adjustable handle/stand that allows for various angles and positions, making it more than just a handheld mirror. Its portable and lightweight design makes it easy to carry in a handbag or backpack. Made with a durable Acrylic frame and HD thickened glass, it is a high-quality mirror that can withstand travel. Overall, the AMISCE Travel Handheld Makeup Mirror is a perfect gift for women and girls who want to look their best wherever they go.

Key Features

• 2-sided mirror with 1x & 20x Magnification
• Adjustable handle/stand for multi-use functionality
• Portable and compact size of 5.6oz lightweight & 5'' diameter
• Made of transparent Acrylic frame and HD thickened glass
• Warm Tips & After-sale Services included

Specifications

• Color: Crystal
• Dimension: 9.50Lx9.50Wx0.01H
• Versatile and compact
• High-quality materials and construction
• Adjustable handle/stand for convenience
• Portable and lightweight design
• Perfect for travel
• 20x magnification requires close proximity for clear image
• Some users experienced blurriness at higher magnification levels

The AMISCE Travel Handheld Makeup Mirror offers convenience, versatility, and high-quality construction in a compact size. Whether you’re applying makeup, grooming, or simply need a portable mirror, this product delivers. Its adjustable handle/stand and 2-sided design provide added functionality, while its durability ensures it will withstand travel. However, the 20x magnification may require users to hold the mirror closer to their face for a clear image. Despite this, the overall performance and convenience of this mirror make it a worthwhile accessory for women who want to stay flawless on their travels. With its affordable price and positive customer reviews, the AMISCE Travel Handheld Makeup Mirror receives a score of 8.5 out of 10.

MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror Set

Overall Score : 8/10

The MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror is a small yet powerful travel accessory that is perfect for plucking eyebrows and applying makeup. This compact mirror features a 30X magnification which allows for precise grooming and makeup application. It comes with a set of stainless steel tweezers for easy eyebrow plucking and a pair of removable suction cups for convenient mounting. The mirror is lightweight and portable, making it ideal for throwing in your pocket or purse. The 3.5-inch diameter round mirror is made of high-quality materials and provides a clear reflection. It is suitable for people with blurred vision and those over 40 years of age. Overall, the MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror is a must-have travel accessory for anyone who wants to look their best on the go.

• 30X Magnifying Mirror
• Compact and lightweight
• Easy to use with removable suction cups
• Includes stainless steel tweezers
• Suitable for people with blurred vision and those over 40 years of age
• Powerful 30X magnification
• Removable suction cups for easy mounting
• Includes stainless steel tweezers for grooming
• Suitable for people with blurred vision
• May be too powerful for some users
• Difficult to find the unblurred part for some
• Magnification may not match description

Overall, the MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror is a highly useful and practical travel accessory. Its 30X magnification allows for precise grooming and makeup application, while its compact and lightweight design makes it convenient to carry around. The included suction cups make it easy to mount on any smooth surface, and the stainless steel tweezers are a great addition for grooming. However, some users may find the magnification too powerful, and the mirror may be difficult to use for those who struggle with finding the unblurred part. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror is a great investment for anyone who wants to look their best while traveling.

wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror, 1x/10x Magnification, Compact, Portable for Handbag, Purse, Pocket, 3.5 inch Illuminated, Folding, Handheld, 2-Sided , Round, Cyan

The wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror is the perfect accessory for makeup lovers on the go. This double-sided mirror features both 1X and 10X magnification, making it ideal for applying makeup with precision. The LED lights simulate daylight, ensuring that your makeup looks flawless in any lighting. With its compact and portable design, this mirror easily fits into handbags, purses, and pockets. The sleek cyan finish adds a touch of elegance, making it suitable for any occasion. It also makes for an awesome gift, perfect for makeup lovers on Valentine's Day or Christmas. Despite its small size, this mirror is highly rated by customers for its functionality and convenience. The only downside is that some users found it a bit hard to open. Overall, the wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror is a must-have travel accessory for makeup enthusiasts.

• Double-sided 1X/10X magnifying mirror
• Simulates daylight LED lights
• Elegant sleek makeup mirror
• Compact mirror with glossy cyan finish
• Awesome gift for makeup lovers
• Color: 3.5inch Battery Cyan
• Dimension: 3.50Lx3.50Wx0.70H
• Size: 8.89 (Pack of 1)
• Double-sided mirror with 1X and 10X magnification
• Simulates daylight LED lights for flawless makeup
• Compact and portable design, easy to carry
• Sleek and stylish cyan finish
• Great gift for makeup lovers
• Some users find it difficult to open
• Magnification option could be larger
• Light does not automatically turn off

The wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror is the perfect companion for makeup enthusiasts on the go. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to carry in your handbag, purse, or pocket, ensuring that you always have a mirror at hand. The double-sided mirror with 1X and 10X magnification allows for precise makeup application, while the simulated daylight LED lights create a flawless look. The sleek cyan finish adds a touch of elegance, and the mirror makes for an awesome gift for any makeup lover. Despite a few minor drawbacks like the difficulty in opening and the size of the magnification, this mirror is highly rated by customers for its functionality and convenience. Say goodbye to makeup mishaps while traveling with the wobsion LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror.

Portable LED Travel Makeup Mirror with Magnifying Mirror

Overall Score : 8.2/10

The Travel Mirror with Light and Round Magnifying Mirror is the perfect travel companion for all your makeup needs. With a detachable 10X and 20X magnifying mirror, you can easily apply eyeliner, mascara, and define your eyebrows. The mirror comes with three adjustable light settings – warm, natural, and cool light – so you can always have the perfect lighting for your makeup. It is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you wherever you go. The mirror is protected by a PU leather cover and can be adjusted to different angles to ensure the perfect view. It has a long battery life of up to 3 hours and comes with a type-c charging cable. This travel mirror is a must-have for any makeup enthusiast on the go.

• Detachable 10X & 20X Magnifying Mirror
• Adjustable Light Settings
• Beauty on the Go
• PU Leather Cover
• Long Battery Life
• Color: Set-blue
• Dimension: 8.00Lx5.50Wx0.01H
• Size: 8 x 5.5 inch
• Detachable magnifying mirror for precise makeup application
• Three adjustable light settings for optimal makeup lighting
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel
• PU leather cover protects the mirror from scratches
• Long battery life, no need to buy batteries
• Battery runs down quickly and needs frequent recharging
• Magnifying attachments can be distorted
• Light could be brighter
• Charging port at the bottom of the mirror is inconvenient
• Short charging cord

The Travel Mirror with Light and Round Magnifying Mirror is a versatile and portable travel accessory for makeup enthusiasts. With its detachable magnifying mirror and adjustable light settings, you can achieve flawless makeup application anywhere. The compact size and PU leather cover make it easy to store and protect during travel. While there are some minor drawbacks such as the battery life and charging port placement, overall, this travel mirror offers great value for its price. If you’re looking for a convenient and reliable makeup mirror for your travels, this is a solid choice.

Compact LED Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror

The Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror is a must-have travel accessory for women. With 80 powerful LED lights and three color light modes, this compact mirror ensures perfect makeup application even in dark or poorly lit areas. The built-in 1000mAh lithium battery is rechargeable and lasts for over 2 hours. The mirror also comes with a 10X magnification mirror for precise grooming. Made of high-quality ABS and glass, it is scratch-resistant and durable. This mirror is an ideal gift for any woman in your life. Whether you're at home or on the go, the Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror will help you achieve the perfect look.

• 80 powerful LED lights
• 3 color light modes
• Rechargeable 1000m Ah lithium battery
• 10X magnification mirror
• High-quality ABS and glass construction
• Color: White
• Dimension: 7.60Lx5.10Wx0.01H
• Bright and diffuse light for perfect makeup application
• Three different color light modes to simulate various lighting conditions
• Rechargeable battery with long-lasting power
• 10X magnifying mirror for precise grooming
• Durable and scratch-resistant construction
• Battery charge life may deteriorate over time
• No low battery indicator
• Mirror can be prone to cracking

The Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror is a game-changer for every makeup enthusiast, whether at home or traveling. Its powerful LED lights and three color light modes ensure flawless makeup application in any lighting condition. The rechargeable battery provides convenience, while the 10X magnification mirror allows for precise grooming. The mirror’s durable construction and scratch-resistant materials make it a reliable travel companion. While there are a few issues with battery life and potential cracking, these are outweighed by the mirror’s overall performance and functionality. Upgrade your makeup routine with the Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror and achieve the perfect look wherever you are!

Handheld Magnifying Mirror for Travel

The B Beauty Planet Magnifying Mirror is a must-have accessory for travelers who want to look their best. This handheld mirror features a 30x magnification on one side, allowing you to see even the tiniest lines and imperfections on your face. The other side has a standard 1x magnification, perfect for everyday makeup application. The mirror is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your handbag or backpack. It comes with a storage bag and box, making it an ideal gift for loved ones. The mirror is especially recommended for people over 50 years old or those with hyperopia or cataracts. Get this convenient and powerful magnifying mirror and always look your best on your travels!

• 30x magnification on one side
• 1x magnification on the other side
• Compact and lightweight design
• Comes with storage bag and box
• Ideal for people over 50 or with hyperopia/cataracts
• Color: Clear
• Dimension: 9.50Lx5.00Wx0.01H
• Powerful magnification for spotting imperfections
• Compact and portable for travel
• Versatile design for handheld or tabletop use
• Ideal for people with vision issues
• Requires holding at a specific distance for clear reflection
• Magnification may be too high for some users
• Lacks built-in lighting

The B Beauty Planet Magnifying Mirror is a game-changer for travelers who want to ensure they always look their best. Its 30x magnification allows you to spot even the smallest imperfections, while the 1x side is perfect for daily makeup application. The mirror’s compact and lightweight design makes it a breeze to carry, and it even comes with a storage bag and box for added convenience. While it may take some getting used to the optimal distance for clear reflection, this mirror is a must-have for anyone with vision issues or those who want to achieve flawless makeup on the go. Give yourself the gift of a perfect reflection with the B Beauty Planet Magnifying Mirror!

Magnifying Handheld Mirror

The CLSEVXY Magnifying Handheld Mirror is a versatile travel accessory that combines convenience and functionality. This double-sided mirror features a high-definition normal mirror on one side and a 15x magnification mirror on the other, allowing you to check your face up close and assist with makeup application or facial care. The flexible foldaway handle can be rotated at multiple angles, making it suitable for use as a hand mirror, tabletop mirror, or hanging mirror. The compact size and foldable design make it perfect for travel, and the sleek black color adds a touch of modernity. With its clear and distortion-free mirrors, this handheld mirror is a great addition to your travel essentials.

• High definition double sided mirror
• 15x magnification mirror
• Flexible foldaway handle
• Compact and portable design
• Black color with a modern shape
• Color: Black
• Dimension: 9.60Lx5.50Wx0.01H
• Size: 5 Inches
• Clear and undistorted mirror
• Great for makeup and facial care
• Versatile for different mirror uses
• Compact and travel-friendly
• Stylish black and stream shape
• Small size may require holding it very close
• Edges of the mirror may be out of focus
• Some users may find 15x magnification too strong

The CLSEVXY Magnifying Handheld Mirror is an excellent travel companion for makeup enthusiasts and those in need of a close-up view. With its high-definition mirror and 15x magnification, it offers clarity and precision. The versatile design allows for various mirror uses, and its compact size makes it easy to carry on your trips. While some users may find the size and magnification level to be a bit challenging, overall, it provides great value for the price. Whether you’re traveling or using it at home, this handheld mirror is sure to enhance your beauty routine and give you a clear view of your face.

Large Travel Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror

Overall Score : 9/10

The Large Travel Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror is the perfect travel accessory for women. With its large size and 10X magnifying mirror, it allows for precise makeup application. The mirror is rechargeable, making it convenient for travel. It has 3 color lighting modes to suit different situations, and adjustable brightness for optimal lighting. This mirror is an ideal gift for any woman in your life. Lightweight and compact, it can easily fit in a backpack or suitcase. Whether you're traveling, staying in a hotel, or at home, this mirror is a must-have accessory.

• Large size with 10X magnifying mirror
• Rechargeable with 3 color lighting modes
• Adjustable brightness and free rotation angle
• Ideal gift for women on special occasions
• Dimension: 9.80Lx0.78Wx7.20H
• Large mirror for precise makeup application
• Convenient and portable design
• Versatile lighting options
• Adjustable brightness and angle
• Ideal gift for special occasions
• Mirror doesn't stay open at desired angle

The Large Travel Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror is a must-have accessory for women who love to travel or want a versatile makeup mirror for everyday use. Its large size, 10X magnifying mirror, and adjustable lighting options make it perfect for precise makeup application. The rechargeable feature and compact design make it convenient for travel. Though it may not stay open at the desired angle, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the benefits it offers. Overall, this mirror is highly recommended for its functionality, portability, and thoughtful design.

MIYADIVA 30X Magnifying Mirror

The MIYADIVA Magnifying Mirror is a powerful 30X magnification mirror that is perfect for checking makeup details and plucking eyebrows. With its larger 6-inch size, it offers a larger viewing field compared to smaller mirrors. The mirror comes with 3 suction cups, making it easy to install and portable for travel. It is also a great gift idea for those with delicate facial needs or blurred vision. The mirror should be held about 3 inches from the eyes to see a clear reflection. It is suitable for people with blurred vision and those over 50 years of age.

• 30X magnifying mirror for clear visibility of pores and makeup details
• Larger 6-inch size for a broader viewing field
• Easy to use and portable with 3 suction cups
• Ideal gift for people with delicate facial needs and blurred vision
• Suitable for people with blurred vision and those over 50 years of age
• Dimension: 6.30Lx6.30Wx1.38H
• Size: 30x-Clear
• Larger viewing field
• Easy to install and portable
• Comes with a beautiful gift box
• Suitable for those with blurred vision
• May be difficult to focus
• Suction cups may not stay in well
• Distorted reflection when held too far from face
• Limited viewing area
• Concave shape makes edges less visible

The MIYADIVA Magnifying Mirror is a great solution for those looking for a powerful magnification mirror. It provides clear visibility of pores and makeup details, making it ideal for precise application and eyebrow plucking. The larger 6-inch size offers a wider viewing field compared to smaller mirrors. The mirror is easy to install with its suction cup design, making it portable for travel. It also comes with a beautiful gift box, making it a thoughtful present for loved ones with delicate facial needs or blurred vision. While it may take some time to adjust and focus when using this mirror, its powerful magnification and portability make it a valuable addition to any beauty routine.

StudioZONE Compact Mirror

The StudioZONE Best Compact Mirror is the perfect accessory for travelers and makeup enthusiasts. This 2-sided mirror features 10X magnification on one side, ideal for close-up tweezing or precise makeup application, while the other side offers a true reflection. Its sleek and elegant design, made of lightweight plastic, ensures it won't weigh down your bag. With a 4-inch diameter and a thickness of only 3/8 inch, this large compact mirror is easy to carry around. StudioZONE, an American company based in Southern California, prioritizes customer satisfaction and offers a 100% money-back guarantee within 90 days of purchase. Get this compact mirror and enjoy the convenience and quality it brings.

• COMPACT MIRROR – Makeup Mirror for Purses and travel – the ORIGINAL 10x Magnifying Compact Mirror – Cheap Substitutes Cannot compare.
• MAGNIFYING – One side of the Compact Mirror = 10X Magnification for close up tweezing or makeup application + 1x True View
• ELEGANT SLEEK DESIGN – Black Compact Hand Mirror made of light plastic so it won't weigh bag your down
• LARGE COMPACT MIRROR – 4" diameter and only 3/8" thick
• A CALIFORNIA COMPANY – Studio ZONE is an American company based in Southern California where we care about you and satisfaction. We Offer you 100% Money back if you are not satisfied with your Compact Mirror. It is who we are and what we do. All you need to do is ask within 90 days of purchase and we will be happy make it right.
• Dimension: 1.57Lx0.15Wx0.00H
• Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
• High 10X magnification for close-up detail work
• Elegant and lightweight design
• Large 4-inch diameter
• Money-back guarantee for customer satisfaction
• Some users find 10X magnification too strong
• Limited to viewing one facial feature at a time

The StudioZONE Best Compact Mirror is a must-have for anyone on the go. Its 10X magnification, elegant design, and compact size make it perfect for travel, while its large size ensures precise makeup application. The mirror’s durability and protection are highly appreciated by customers, and the money-back guarantee provided by StudioZONE adds to the confidence in purchasing this product. Although the 10X magnification may be too strong for some users, the overall quality and convenience of this compact mirror make it a top choice for traveling or everyday use. Say goodbye to distorted reflections and hello to flawless makeup with the StudioZONE Compact Mirror!

Handheld Travel Mirror with 15x Magnification

The 15x Magnifying Handheld Mirror is a must-have travel accessory for makeup enthusiasts. This double-sided mirror features high definition normal mirror on one side and a powerful 15x magnification mirror on the other. With its 360° rotation pedestal, it can be used as a hand mirror, tabletop mirror, or even a hanging mirror. The mirror is made of non-toxic ABS engineering plastic, making it durable and lightweight. Its compact size and sleek design allow for easy packing and carrying in any pouch, handbag, or suitcase. This versatile travel mirror is perfect for applying makeup, grooming, or checking your appearance on the go.

• 360° rotation pedestal
• Environmental ABS plastic
• Multifunctional travel mirror
• After-Sale Service
• Color: 2-white
• Dimension: 9.25Lx1.89Wx0.00H
• Powerful 15x magnification
• Versatile and compact design
• Durable and lightweight construction
• Limited magnification sweet spot
• Handle could be longer

The 15x Magnifying Handheld Mirror is a reliable and portable companion for all your travel and beauty needs. Its high definition mirror and 15x magnification provide clear and detailed reflections, while the 360° rotation pedestal allows for various viewing angles. The mirror’s compact size and multifunctional design make it perfect for travel, and its durable construction ensures long-lasting use. Although the magnification sweet spot is limited, this mirror is still a convenient tool for applying makeup, grooming, or checking your appearance on the go. Overall, this handheld mirror offers great value and functionality for travelers and makeup enthusiasts alike.

Rechargeable Lighted Makeup Mirror – FASCINATE

The FASCINATE Magnifying Mirror is a powerful and versatile makeup vanity mirror. With its dual-sided design, the mirror offers 10X magnification on one side, making it easier to achieve a flawless makeup look. It features cordless operation with a rechargeable lithium battery and a USB-C mini charger, ensuring long-lasting use and quick charging. The mirror also offers 3 tone light settings with adjustable brightness, allowing for clear visibility of your face. Its adjustable stand allows for various angles and can be used for other tasks such as shaving or teeth brushing. This mirror comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee and makes for a perfect beauty mirror and gift. Whether for travel or everyday use, the FASCINATE Magnifying Mirror is a reliable and convenient accessory.

• Powerful 10X Magnification
• Cordless with rechargeable battery
• 3 Tone Lighting with adjustable brightness
• Adjustable stand for various angles
• Satisfaction Guaranteed
• Dimension: 10.00L x 8.66W x 0.01H
• Powerful magnification for flawless makeup
• Convenient cordless operation with rechargeable battery
• Adjustable lighting settings and brightness
• Versatile stand for various tasks
• Satisfaction guarantee for peace of mind
• Requires viewing at a close distance for best magnification
• Stand may not provide ideal angle for 10X magnification
• Battery life could be longer
• Some minor quality issues reported
• Height may be an issue for taller individuals

Overall, the FASCINATE Magnifying Mirror is a reliable and versatile accessory for makeup and personal grooming. Its powerful 10X magnification, adjustable lighting, and convenient cordless operation make it a valuable tool for achieving a flawless look. The adjustable stand adds to its versatility, while the satisfaction guarantee ensures customer satisfaction. However, some users may find the height and viewing distance limitations to be minor drawbacks. With its reasonable price point and positive customer reviews, the FASCINATE Magnifying Mirror is a recommended choice for those in need of a reliable and compact makeup mirror.

OMIRO 20X Magnifying Mirror and Tweezers Kit

Overall Score : 7/10

The OMIRO 20X Magnifying Mirror and Eyebrow Tweezers Kit is a travel set that includes a 3.5-inch mirror and high-quality tweezers. The mirror provides 20X magnification, allowing you to see the pores of your face clearly for makeup needs, shaving, or deep cleaning. It is compact and comes with two removable suction cups, making it easy to carry and use at home or outdoors. The tweezers are made with stainless steel for durability and a non-slip grip. With their 25-degree angled tip, they provide unparalleled precision for eyebrow grooming and other uses. The kit also offers three options for magnification: 10X, 20X, and 25X. Overall, this travel set is a convenient and reliable tool for personal grooming.

• 20X Magnification
• High-Quality tweezer
• Slant design
• Perfect size & Removable suction cups
• Three options available
• Dimension: 3.50Lx0.15Wx0.00H
• Provides clear and up-close view of pores
• Durable tweezers with non-slip grip
• 25-degree angled tip for precision
• Compact and easy to carry with suction cups
• Multiple magnification options available
• Some users find the mirror's magnification difficult to use
• Center of the mirror may appear distorted
• Tweezers may not be as sharp as desired

The OMIRO 20X Magnifying Mirror and Eyebrow Tweezers Kit is a handy travel set for anyone in need of precise grooming. The mirror provides clear visibility of pores and is great for makeup application or skincare routines. The high-quality tweezers offer excellent grip for plucking unwanted hairs. The compact size and removable suction cups make it easy to use both at home and on the go. While some users may find the magnification challenging to use and the mirror’s center distorted, overall, this kit serves its purpose well for personal grooming. It is a reliable tool for those who require close-up precision in their beauty regimen.

Lighted Travel Makeup Bag with Adjustable Dividers

The Travel Makeup Bag with Light Up Mirror is a must-have accessory for any makeup enthusiast on the go. This makeup train case features a large round modeling design with an adjustable 3-color light-emitting mirror, allowing you to create the perfect makeup environment. The case is easy to carry, with added luggage trolley covers for convenience. It is made of waterproof and scratch-resistant materials, ensuring durability and easy maintenance. The adjustable divided compartments can accommodate various sizes of cosmetics, and the removable brush holder has 12 slots. This multipurpose beauty storage box is perfect for business trips, travel, fitness, camping, or home use. It also includes a 10x magnifying mirror and a bonus comb. With its practicality and compact design, this makeup bag makes a great gift for any occasion.

• Large round modeling design with adjustable 3-color light-emitting mirror
• Luggage trolley covers for easy carrying
• Waterproof and scratch-resistant materials
• Adjustable divided compartments for different sizes of cosmetics
• Removable brush holder with 12 slots
• Includes 10x magnifying mirror and bonus comb
• Practical, compact, and lightweight design
• Color: Round mb
• Dimension: 10.60Lx9.80Wx4.60H
• Stylish and functional design
• Convenient for travel and everyday use
• Durable and easy to clean materials
• Versatile compartments and removable brush holder
• Includes bonus magnifying mirror and comb
• Mirror may crack with heavy use
• May be too heavy for some travelers
• Size of compartments may not accommodate large makeup collections

The Travel Makeup Bag with Light Up Mirror is a fantastic accessory for makeup lovers on the go. Its stylish design, adjustable mirror, and ample storage space make it a must-have for travel or everyday use. The added features of the removable brush holder, bonus magnifying mirror, and comb enhance its versatility. While some users may find it too heavy for travel or have concerns about the durability of the mirror, the overall positive reviews and high rating indicate that this makeup bag is a reliable choice. Whether you’re going on a business trip, vacation, or simply need a convenient cosmetic organizer, this travel makeup bag is worth considering.

Buyer's Guide: Magnifying Mirror Travel

Key considerations.

• Choose the level of magnification that suits your needs. Typical magnification options range from 3x to 15x. Higher magnification is beneficial for intricate makeup application or precise grooming.
• Opt for a compact and lightweight mirror that won't burden your luggage. Portable mirrors should fit into your travel bag easily without taking up much space.
• Look for a magnifying mirror with built-in LED lights or an adjustable light source to ensure proper illumination in any environment. Adequate lighting is essential for accurate application and grooming.
• Decide between a traditional glass mirror or an acrylic/plastic mirror for travel. While glass offers better reflection quality, acrylic/plastic mirrors are more durable and less prone to damage during transit.
• Consider a mirror with a folding mechanism or swivel base for convenience and easy placement. These features enhance usability without sacrificing portability.
• Determine whether you prefer a battery-operated mirror or a rechargeable one. Battery-operated mirrors are more common, but rechargeable options eliminate the need to purchase and replace batteries.
• Ensure the mirror is made from sturdy materials that can withstand travel conditions, such as being dropped, bumped, or exposed to different temperatures.
• Some magnifying mirrors come with their own protective cases or pouches, which are an added bonus for safe storage and transport.
• Set a budget and consider the value for money. Comparing prices and features is essential to find a magnifying mirror that meets your specific needs without breaking the bank.

Frequently Asked Questions about 14 Best Magnifying Mirror Travel for 2023

To clean your magnifying mirror, gently wipe the surface with a soft, lint-free cloth or non-abrasive cleaning wipe. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as they may damage the mirror’s coating.

Yes, you can bring a magnifying mirror in your carry-on bag or personal item. However, be sure to check size restrictions for liquids or sharp objects if your mirror has built-in lights or a folding mechanism.

While not essential, LED lights in a magnifying mirror can greatly improve visibility and accuracy, especially in dimly lit locations. They also provide consistent lighting conditions, allowing you to achieve the desired results in any environment.

Battery-operated mirrors are generally reliable for short to medium-length trips. However, if you plan to be away for an extended period, consider a rechargeable mirror to avoid the need for multiple battery replacements.

Absolutely! Magnifying mirrors can be useful for a variety of tasks, such as examining small objects, checking for skin irregularities, or even reading fine print. Their versatility makes them a valuable travel companion beyond beauty purposes.

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Trump’s Dire Words Raise New Fears About His Authoritarian Bent

The former president is focusing his most vicious attacks on domestic political opponents, setting off fresh worries among autocracy experts.

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By Michael C. Bender and Michael Gold

Donald J. Trump rose to power with political campaigns that largely attacked external targets, including immigration from predominantly Muslim countries and from south of the United States-Mexico border.

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But now, in his third presidential bid, some of his most vicious and debasing attacks have been leveled at domestic opponents.

During a Veterans Day speech, Mr. Trump used language that echoed authoritarian leaders who rose to power in Germany and Italy in the 1930s, degrading his political adversaries as “vermin” who needed to be “rooted out.”

“The threat from outside forces,” Mr. Trump said, “is far less sinister, dangerous and grave than the threat from within.”

This turn inward has sounded new alarms among experts on autocracy who have long worried about Mr. Trump’s praise for foreign dictators and disdain for democratic ideals. They said the former president’s increasingly intensive focus on perceived internal enemies was a hallmark of dangerous totalitarian leaders.

Scholars, Democrats and anti-Trump Republicans are asking anew how much Mr. Trump resembles current strongmen abroad and how he compares to authoritarian leaders of the past. Perhaps most urgently, they are wondering whether his rhetorical turn into more fascist-sounding territory is just his latest public provocation of the left, an evolution in his beliefs or the dropping of a veil.

“There are echoes of fascist rhetoric, and they’re very precise,” said Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a professor at New York University who studies fascism. “The overall strategy is an obvious one of dehumanizing people so that the public will not have as much of an outcry at the things that you want to do.”

Mr. Trump’s shift comes as he and his allies devise plans for a second term that would upend some of the long-held norms of American democracy and the rule of law.

These ambitions include using the Justice Department to take vengeance on his political rivals, plotting a vast expansion of presidential power and installing ideologically aligned lawyers in key positions to bless his contentious actions.

Mr. Trump’s allies dismiss the concerns as alarmism and cynical political attacks.

Steven Cheung, a campaign spokesman, responded to criticism of the “vermin” remarks by saying it came from reactive liberals whose “sad, miserable existence will be crushed when President Trump returns to the White House.” Mr. Cheung did not respond to requests for comment for this article.

Some experts on authoritarianism said that while Mr. Trump’s recent language has begun to more closely resemble that used by leaders like Hitler or Benito Mussolini, he does not quite mirror fascist leaders of the past. Still, they say, he does exhibit traits similar to current strongmen like Viktor Orban of Hungary or Recep Tayyip Erdogan of Turkey.

Mr. Trump’s relatively isolationist views run counter to the hunger for empire and expansion that characterized the rule of Hitler in Germany and Mussolini in Italy. As president, he was never able to fully wield the military for political purposes, meeting resistance when he sought to deploy troops against protesters.

“It’s too simplistic to reference him as a neofascist or autocrat or whatever — Trump is Trump, and he has no particular philosophy that I’ve seen after four years as president,” said former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel, a Republican who served in President Barack Obama’s cabinet after 12 years as a senator from Nebraska.

Still, Mr. Trump’s campaign style is “damn dangerous,” Mr. Hagel said.

“He continues to push people into corners and give voice to this polarization in our country, and the real danger is if that continues to bubble up and take hold of a majority of Congress and statehouses and governorships,” Mr. Hagel went on. “There must be compromise in a democracy because there’s only one alternative — that’s an authoritarian government.”

Mr. Trump has become increasingly unrestrained with each successive campaign, a pattern that parallels the escalating stakes for him personally and politically.

In 2016, he was a long-shot candidate with little to lose, and his broadsides were often paired with schoolyard taunts that drew laughs from his audiences. Four years later, Mr. Trump’s approach became angrier as he sought to cling to power, and his term ended in a deadly riot by his supporters at the Capitol.

This election cycle, Mr. Trump faces more pressure than ever. In part, his decision to open an early White House campaign was an attempt to shield himself from multiple investigations, which have since resulted in the bulk of the 91 felony charges he now faces.

Politically, Mr. Trump risks becoming a historic two-time loser. In the Republican Party’s nearly 168-year history, only one presidential nominee — Thomas Dewey — has lost two White House bids.

Mr. Trump’s attacks sweep from the highest echelons of politics to low-level bureaucrats whom he has deemed insufficiently loyal.

He has insinuated that the nation’s top military general should be executed and called for the “termination” of parts of the Constitution. If he wins back the White House, he has said, he would have “no choice” but to imprison political opponents.

He has tested the legal system with broadsides against the integrity of the judiciary, railing against prosecutors, judges and, more recently, a law clerk in his New York fraud trial as “politically biased” and “out of control.”

Crowds at Mr. Trump’s events have generally affirmed his calls to drive out the political establishment and to destroy the “fake news media.” Supporters do not flinch when he praises leaders like Mr. Orban, Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir V. Putin of Russia.

Standing amid nearly two dozen American flags at an Independence Day celebration in South Carolina in July, Mr. Trump promised retribution against Mr. Biden and his family.

“The gloves are off,” he said. The crowd unleashed a resounding cheer.

Supporters roared in approval when Mr. Trump called Democrats in Washington “a sick nest of people that needs to be cleaned out, and cleaned out immediately.”

While Mr. Trump’s fan base remains solidly behind him, his return to the White House may be decided by how swing voters and moderate Republicans respond to his approach. In 2020, those voters tanked his bid in five key battleground states, and dealt Republicans defeats in last year’s midterm elections and this month’s legislative contests in Virginia.

But Mr. Trump and his team have been energized by signs that such voters so far appear to be more open to his 2024 campaign. A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found Mr. Trump leading Mr. Biden in five of the most competitive states.

Mr. Biden has often sought to paint Mr. Trump as extreme, saying recently that the former president was using language that “echoes the same phrases used in Nazi Germany.” Mr. Biden also pointed to xenophobic remarks that Mr. Trump made last month during an interview with The National Pulse, a conservative website, in which he said immigrants were “poisoning the blood” of America.

“There’s a lot of reasons to be against Donald Trump, but damn, he shouldn’t be president,” Mr. Biden said at a fund-raiser in San Francisco.

Worries about Mr. Trump extend to some Republicans, though they are a minority in the party.

“He’s absolutely ratcheting it up, and it’s very concerning,” said former Gov. John Kasich of Ohio, who ran for the Republican presidential nomination in 2016 against Mr. Trump. “There’s just no limit to the anger and hatred in his rhetoric, and this kind of poisonous atmosphere has lowered our standards and hurts our country so much.”

Mr. Trump’s rise to power was almost immediately accompanied by debates over whether his ascendancy, and that of other leaders around the world with similar political views, signaled a revival of fascism.

Fascism is generally understood as an authoritarian, far-right system of government in which hypernationalism is a central component.

It also often features a cult of personality around a strongman leader, the justification of violence or retribution against opponents, and the repeated denigration of the rule of law, said Peter Hayes, a historian who has studied the rise of fascism.

Past fascist leaders appealed to a sense of victimhood to justify their actions, he said. “The idea is: ‘We’re entitled because we’ve been victimized. We’ve been cheated and robbed,’” he said.

Recent polls have suggested that Americans may be more tolerant of leaders who violate established norms. A survey released last month by the Public Religion Research Institute found that 38 percent of Americans supported having a president “willing to break some rules” to “set things right” with the country. Among Republicans surveyed, 48 percent backed that view.

Jennifer Mercieca, a professor at Texas A&M University who has researched political rhetoric, said Mr. Trump had wielded language as a chisel to chip away at democratic norms.

“Normally, a president would use war rhetoric to prepare a nation for war against another nation,” she said. “Donald Trump uses war rhetoric domestically.”

Audio produced by Adrienne Hurst .

Michael C. Bender is a political correspondent and the author of “Frankly, We Did Win This Election: The Inside Story of How Trump Lost.” More about Michael C. Bender

Michael Gold is a political correspondent for The Times covering the campaigns of Donald J. Trump and other candidates in the 2024 presidential elections. More about Michael Gold

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Is it possible to visit Russia as a tourist in 2023?

Yes, traveling to Russia as a tourist in 2023 is possible. Here’s what to look out for if you’re preparing for your dream trip. 

Visa requirements

First things first, it is worth checking if you need a visa to cross the Russian border. In 2023, citizens of some 65 countries can visit Russia without a visa. This includes most of the post-Soviet states like Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, as well as Ukraine.

Additionally, citizens of some countries in South and Central America – including Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Panama, Peru, Venezuela, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Uruguay, Ecuador – do not need a visa to travel to Russia.

Citizens of Israel, South Africa, Cuba, Montenegro, Thailand, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Andorra, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, North Macedonia, Mongolia, Botswana enjoy visa-free regime with Russia, too.

For the full list of countries, click here .

* Data for the infographics is from November 2022 and was obtained from the Russian consular information website.

* The status of a particular country is subject to change. We advise additionally researching the relevant information in each particular case before booking any trip to Russia.

* Visa waivers may apply for holders of diplomatic or military service passports, select businessmen, air crew members, members of a ship or train crew, professional truck drivers, organized tourist groups and people who have official permission to live in some border regions.

Is it safe to travel to Russia right now?

Russia as a travel destination received a fair share of negative PR from various sources in early 2022.

Some official travel accounts run by governments of countries like the U.S. , Australia , Great Britain and others advise their citizens to abstain from non-essential travel to the country.

That said, it is always advisable to evaluate safety risks when traveling to any foreign country. Traveling to Russia is no exception. However, Moscow, St. Petersburg and other major Russian cities have been widely regarded as being safe , especially in comparison to other popular tourist destinations.

Little has changed in major Russian cities from the point of view of tourists or local residents. Consequently, the most extreme and vocal concerns over security may be disregarded as being too alarmist.

That said, logistics pose the greatest challenge for tourists traveling to Russia in 2023. A number of countries closed their national airspace for Russian air companies resulting in more complicated logistics for tourists who intend to visit Russia in 2023.

However, specific changes depend on a particular country from where a tourist departs. In some cases, direct flight routes remain intact. For example, nothing has changed for tourists from China, India, Turkey, Middle Eastern countries and the majority of post-Soviet states. They can book direct flights to Russia’s main airports.

Tourists departing from European capitals will have to book connecting flights via Turkey or countries in the Middle East. This makes tickets more expensive and flights longer. However, it is still possible to travel to Russia from virtually any country in the world.

It should be noted that every country has its own nuances that must be taken into account beforehand. For example, the Indian Embassy in Russia advises Indian nationals against traveling to Russia via third countries. According to the embassy website, Indian travelers should choose only direct flights from Delhi to Moscow, otherwise they risk being denied entry into Russia.

In another instance, the British government prohibited its citizens from purchasing tickets on Russian airlines that were under sanctions. Nonetheless, the British authorities made an exception for those journeys originating in or within Russia: in this case, British nationals may purchase tickets from Russian companies without breaching UK sanctions.

Covid restrictions, vaccination status & quarantine

In 2022, Russian authorities canceled Covid-related restrictions for Russian citizens and foreign tourists, alike.

In 2023, foreign nationals no longer need to provide results of a negative PCR test when entering Russia by any mode of transport. Therefore, foreign travelers no longer need to take a coronavirus test in advance before departure.

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The only remaining Covid-related regulation is a requirement to fill in a questionnaire. Passengers – both Russian and foreign citizens – will be asked to fill out the paper version of the questionnaire on board during their flight to Russia.

Click here to find out who can travel to Russia without a visa in 2023.

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Home » Europe » Moscow

EPIC MOSCOW Itinerary! (2024)

Moscow is the heart of Mother Russia. Just the mention of this city conjures images of colorful bulbous pointed domes, crisp temperatures, and a uniquely original spirit!

Moscow has an incredibly turbulent history, a seemingly resilient culture, and a unique enchantment that pulls countless tourists to the city each year! Although the warmer months make exploring Moscow’s attractions more favorable, there’s just something about a fresh snowfall that only enhances the appearance of the city’s iconic sites!

If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or simply wanting to see as much of the city as possible, this Moscow itinerary will help you do just that!

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Best Time To Visit Moscow

Where to stay in moscow, moscow itinerary, day 1 itinerary in moscow, day 2 itinerary in moscow, day 3 and beyond, staying safe in moscow, day trips from moscow, faq on moscow itinerary.

Here is a quick look at the seasons so you can decide when to visit Moscow!

The summer months (June-August) are a great time to travel to Moscow to take advantage of the enjoyable mild temperatures. This is considered peak travel season. Bear in mind that hotel prices rise along with the temperatures!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

If you’re planning a trip to Moscow during fall (September-November) try to plan for early fall. This way the temperatures will still be pleasant and winter won’t be threatening.

Russian winters (December-February) are not for the faint of heart as Napoleon learned to his peril. Some days the sun will be out for less than an hour, and snow is guaranteed. Although winters are exceptionally cold, this is when you’ll get a true glimpse of the Moscow experience!

The best time to visit Moscow is during spring  (March-May). The temperatures will begin to creep up and the sun begins to shine for significant portions of the day. Hotel rates will also have yet to skyrocket into peak ranges!

With a Moscow City Pass , you can experience the best of Moscow at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

Moscow is a large city with many accommodation options to choose from. Staying in a location that fits with your travel plans will only enhance your Moscow itinerary. Here is a brief introduction to a few great areas of the city we recommend checking out!

The best place to stay in Moscow to be close to all the action is Kitay-Gorod. This charming neighborhood will put you within walking distance to Moscow’s famous Red Square, thus cutting down on travel time. This will allow you to see more of the city in a shorter amount of time!

It’s surrounded by restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. If you’re a first-time visitor to Moscow, or just planning a quick weekend in Moscow, then this area is perfect for you!

Another great area to consider is the Zamoskvorechye district. This area of the city offers a blend of new and old Moscow. It has an artsy vibe and there are plenty of fun sites you can explore outside of the main touristy areas of Moscow.

Of course, as in all areas of Moscow, it’s close to public transportation that will quickly connect you with the rest of the city and make your Moscow itinerary super accessible!

Best Airbnb in Moscow – Exclusive Apartment in Old Moscow

Modern and cozy, this apartment is in the heart of Old Moscow. Bordering the Basmanny and Kitay-Gorod districts, this two-bedroom flat is walking distance to the Kremlin and Red Square. Safe, quiet, and comfortable, this is the best Airbnb in Moscow, no question!

Best Budget Hotel in Moscow – Izmailovo Alfa Hotel

The Izmailovo Alfa Hotel is a very highly rated accommodation that provides all the components necessary for a comfortable trip to Moscow. There is an on-site restaurant, bar, fitness center, and an airport shuttle service. The rooms are modern and spacious and are equipped with a TV, heating/air conditioning, minibar, and more!

Best Luxury Hotel in Moscow – Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre

If you’re touring Moscow in luxury, the Crowne Plaza Moscow World Trade Centre is the hotel for you! Elegantly furnished rooms are equipped with a minibar, flat-screen TV,  in-room safes, as well as tea and coffee making facilities! Bathrooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and free toiletries. There is also an onsite restaurant, bar, and fitness center.

Best Hostel in Moscow – Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station. Guests will enjoy all the usual hostel perks such as self-catering facilities, 24-hour reception, Free Wi-Fi, and security lockers. This is one of the best hostels in Moscow and its wonderful social atmosphere and will make your vacation in Moscow extra special!

An important aspect of planning any trip is figuring out the transportation situation. You’re probably wondering how you’re going to get to all of your Moscow points of interest right? Luckily, this sprawling city has an excellent network of public transportation that will make traveling a breeze!

The underground metro system is the quickest and most efficient way to travel around Moscow. Most visitors rely exclusively on this super-efficient transportation system, which allows you to get to pretty much anywhere in the city! It’s also a great option if you’re planning a Moscow itinerary during the colder months, as you’ll be sheltered from the snow and freezing temperatures!

If you prefer above-ground transportation, buses, trams, and trolleybuses, run throughout the city and provide a rather comfortable alternative to the metro.

Moscow’s metro, buses, trams, and trolleybuses are all accessible with a ‘Troika’ card. This card can be topped up with any sum of money at a metro cash desk. The ticket is simple, convenient, and even refundable upon return to a cashier!

No matter which method you choose, you’ll never find yourself without an easy means of getting from point A to point B!

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Red Square | Moscow Kremlin | Lenin’s Mausoleum | St. Basil’s Cathedral  | GUM Department Store

Spend the first day of your itinerary taking your own self guided Moscow walking tour around the historic Red Square! This is Moscow’s compact city center and every stop on this list is within easy walking distance to the next! Get ready to see all of the top Moscow landmarks!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – The Red Square

• Why it’s awesome: The Red Square is the most recognizable area in Moscow, it has mesmerizing architecture and centuries worth of history attached to its name.
• Cost: Free to walk around, individual attractions in the square have separate fees. 
• Food nearby: Check out Bar BQ Cafe for friendly service and good food in a great location! The atmosphere is upbeat and they’re open 24/7!

The Red Square is Moscow’s historic fortress and the center of the Russian government. The origins of the square date back to the late 15th century, when Ivan the Great decided to expand the Kremlin to reflect Moscow’s growing power and prestige!

During the 20th century, the square became famous as the site for demonstrations designed to showcase Soviet strength. Visiting the Red Square today, you’ll find it teeming with tourists, who come to witness its magical architecture up close!

The square is the picture postcard of Russian tourism, so make sure to bring your camera when you visit! No matter the season, or the time of day, it’s delightfully photogenic! 

It’s also home to some of Russia’s most distinguishing and important landmarks, which we’ve made sure to include further down in this itinerary. It’s an important center of Russia’s cultural life and one of the top places to visit in Moscow!

In 1990, UNESCO designated Russia’s Red Square as a World Heritage site. Visiting this historic site is a true bucket-list event and essential addition to your itinerary for Moscow!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – The Moscow Kremlin

• Why it’s awesome: The Moscow Kremlin complex includes several palaces and cathedrals and is surrounded by the Kremlin wall. It also houses the principal museum of Russia (the Kremlin Armory).
• Cost: USD $15.00
• Food nearby: Bosco Cafe is a charming place to grat a casual bite to eat. They have excellent coffee and wonderful views of the Red Square and the Moscow Kremlin!

The iconic Moscow Kremlin , also known as the Kremlin museum complex, sits on Borovitsky Hill, rising above the Moscow River. It is a fortified complex in the center of the city, overlooking several iconic buildings in the Red Square!

It’s the best known of the Russian Kremlins – citadels or fortress’ protecting and dominating a city. During the early decades of the Soviet era, the Kremlin was a private enclave where the state’s governing elite lived and worked.

The Kremlin is outlined by an irregularly shaped triangular wall that encloses an area of 68 acres! The existing walls and towers were built from 1485 to 1495. Inside the Kremlin museum complex, there are five palaces, four cathedrals, and the enclosing Kremlin Wall with Kremlin towers.

The Armoury Chamber is a part of the Grand Kremlin Palace’s complex and is one of the oldest museums of Moscow, established in 1851. It showcases Russian history and displays many cherished relics. Definitely make sure to check out this museum while you’re here!

The churches inside the Moscow Kremlin are the Cathedral of the Dormition, Church of the Archangel, Church of the Annunciation, and the bell tower of Ivan Veliki (a church tower).

The five-domed Cathedral of the Dormition is considered the most famous. It was built from 1475–1479 by an Italian architect and has served as a wedding and coronation place for great princes, tsars, and emperors of Russia. Church services are given in the Kremlin’s numerous cathedrals on a regular basis.

The Grand Kremlin Palace was the former Tsar’s Moscow residence and today it serves as the official workplace of the President of the Russian Federation (Vladimir Putin seems to have bagged that title for life) .

Insider Tip: The Kremlin is closed every Thursday! Make sure to plan this stop on your Moscow itinerary for any other day of the week!

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Lenin’s Mausoleum

• Why it’s awesome: The mausoleum displays the preserved body of Soviet leader Vladimir Lenin .
• Cost: Free!
• Food nearby: Khinkal’naya is a charming Georgian restaurant with vaulted ceilings and exposed brick. It’s a popular place with locals and right next to the Red Square!

Lenin’s Mausoleum, also known as Lenin’s Tomb, is the modernist mausoleum for the revolutionary leader Vladimir Lenin. It’s located within the Red Square and serves as the resting place for the Soviet leader! His preserved body has been on public display since shortly after his death in 1924.

It’s located just a few steps away from the Kremlin Wall and is one of the most controversial yet popular Moscow attractions!

Admission is free for everyone, you’ll only need to pay if you need to check a bag. Before visitors are allowed to enter the mausoleum, they have to go through a metal detector first. No metal objects, liquids, or large bags are allowed in the mausoleum!

Expect a line to enter the building, and while you’re inside the building, you’ll be constantly moving in line with other visitors. This means you won’t be able to spend as long as you’d like viewing the mausoleum, but you’ll still be able to get a good look. Pictures and filming while inside the building are strictly prohibited, and security guards will stop you if they see you breaking this rule.

The mausoleum is only open on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday – unless it’s a public holiday or a day scheduled for maintenance. The hours it’s open for each day are limited, make sure to check online before you visit to make sure you can fit this into your Moscow itinerary for that day!

Insider Tip: The Lenin’s Museum is there for people to pay their respect; remember to keep silent and move along quickly, it’s not intended for people to congregate around. Also, men are not allowed to wear hats and everyone must take their hands out of their pockets when inside the building.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – St. Basil’s Cathedral

• Why it’s awesome: A dazzling designed cathedral that showcases Russia’s unique architecture. This cathedral is one of the most recognizable symbols of the country!
• Cost: USD $8.00
• Food nearby: Moskovskiy Chaynyy Klub is a cozy cafe serving food items and pipping hot tea; it’s the perfect place to go if you’re visiting Moscow during the winter months!

Located in the Red Square, the ornate 16th-century St. Basil’s Cathedral is probably the building you picture when you think of Moscow’s unique architecture. Its colorful onion-shaped domes tower over the Moscow skyline!

The cathedral was built from 1555-1561 by order of Tsar Ivan the Terrible. It was designed with an iconic onion dome facade and enchanting colors that captivate all who see it. Fun fact: If you’re wondering why Russian churches have onion domes, they are popularly believed to symbolize burning candles!

This iconic cathedral has become a symbol of Russia due to its distinguishing architecture and prominent position inside the Red Square. It’s one of the most beautiful, wonderful, and mesmerizing historical cathedrals in the world!

The interior of the church surprises most people when they visit. In contrast to the large exterior, the inside is not so much one large area, but rather a collection of smaller areas, with many corridors and small rooms. There are 9 small chapels and one mausoleum grouped around a central tower.

Visiting the inside is like walking through a maze, there are even small signs all around the cathedral tracing where to walk, and pointing you in the right direction! The walls are meticulously decorated and painted with intricate floral designs and religious themes.

The church rarely holds service and is instead a museum open for the public to visit.

Insider Tip: During the summer months the line to go inside the cathedral can get quite long! Make sure to arrive early or reserve your tickets online to guarantee quick access into the cathedral!

Day 1 / Stop 5 – GUM Department Store

• Why it’s awesome: This is Russia’s most famous shopping mall! It’s designed with elegant and opulent architecture and provides a real sense of nostalgia!
• Cost: Free to enter
• Food nearby: Stolovaya 57 is a cafeteria-style restaurant with a variety of inexpensive Russian cuisine menu items including soups, salads, meat dishes, and desserts. It’s also located inside the GUM department store, making it very easily accessible when you’re shopping!

The enormous GUM Department Store is located within the historic Red Square. It has a whimsical enchantment to it that sets it apart from your typical department store.

A massive domed glass ceiling lines the top of the building and fills the interior with natural sunlight. There are live plants and flowers placed throughout the mall that give the shopping complex a lively and cheerful feel! A playful fountain sits in the center, further adding to the malls inviting a sense of wonder and amusement!

The GUM department store opened on December 2, 1893. Today, it includes local and luxury stores, including Fendi, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and many more! There are numerous cafes, restaurants, and even a movie theater inside!

For a special treat, head into Gastronom 1. This 1950s-style shop sells gourmet food items, like wine, freshly-baked pastries, cheese, Russian chocolate, and of course, vodka! Also, be on the lookout for a bicycle pedaling ice cream truck with an employing selling ice cream!

The ambiance is simply amazing, a trip to this idyllic shopping mall is an absolute must on any Moscow itinerary!

Insider Tip: Make sure to carry some small change on you in case you need to use the restroom, you’ll need to pay 50 rubles – or about USD $0.80 to use the bathroom in GUM.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Novodevichy Convent | Gorky Park | State Tretyakov Gallery | All-Russian Exhibition Center | Bolshoi Theater

On your 2 day itinerary in Moscow, you’ll have a chance to use the city’s excellent public transportation service! You’ll explore a few more of Moscow’s historic highlight as well as some modern attractions. These sites are a little more spread out, but still very easily accessible thanks to the metro!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Novodevichy Convent

• Why it’s awesome: The Novodevichy Convent is rich in imperial Russian history and contains some of Russia’s best examples of classical architecture!
• Cost: USD $5.00
• Food nearby: Culinary Shop Karavaevs Brothers is a cozy and simple place to have a quick bite, they also have vegetarian options!

The Novodevichy Convent is the best-known and most popular cloister of Moscow. The convent complex is contained within high walls, and there are many attractions this site is known for! 

The six-pillared five-domed Smolensk Cathedral is the main attraction. It was built to resemble the Kremlin’s Assumption Cathedral and its facade boasts beautiful snowy white walls and a pristine golden onion dome as its centerpiece. It’s the oldest structure in the convent, built from 1524 -1525, and is situated in the center of the complex between the two entrance gates.

There are other churches inside the convent as well, all dating back from many centuries past. The convent is filled with an abundance of 16th and 17th-century religious artworks, including numerous large and extravagant frescos!

Just outside the convent’s grounds lies the Novodevichy Cemetery. Here, you can visit the graves of famous Russians, including esteemed authors, composers, and politicians. Probably the most intriguing gravestone belongs to Russian politician Nikita Khruschev!

The Novodevichy Convent is located near the Moscow River and offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city. In 2004, it was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The convent remains remarkably well-preserved and is an outstanding example of Moscow Baroque architecture! 

Insider Tip: To enter the cathedrals inside the complex, women are advised to cover their heads and shoulders, while men should wear long pants.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure

• Why it’s awesome: A large amusement area in the heart of the city offering many attractions!
• Cost: Free! 
• Food nearby: Check out Mepkato, located inside Gorky Central Park for a casual meal in a cozy setting. There are indoor and outdoor seating options and the restaurant is child-friendly!

Gorky Central Park of Culture and Leisure is a large green space in the heart of Moscow. The park opened in 1928, and it stretches along the scenic embankment of the Moskva River. It covers an area of 300-acres and offers a lovely contrast from the compact city center.

You’ll find all sorts of wonderful attractions, from boat rides to bike rentals to tennis courts and ping-pong tables, and much more! there are an open-air cinema and festive events and concerts scheduled in the summer months.  A wide selection of free fitness classes is also offered on a regular basis, including jogging, roller skating, and dancing!

Although many of the options you’ll find here are more suited for outdoor leisure during the summer, you’ll also a selection of winter attractions, including one of Europe’s largest ice rinks for ice-skating!

If you’re trying to decide what to do in Moscow with kids, the park also offers several venues designed specifically for kids. Check out the year-round Green School which offers hands-on classes in gardening and art! You can also feed the squirrels and birds at the Golitsinsky Ponds!

The park is very well maintained and kept clean and the entrance is free of charge, although most individual attractions cost money. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the park.

With so many attractions, you could easily spend all day here! If you’re only planning a 2 day itinerary in Moscow, make sure to plan your time accordingly and map out all the areas you want to see beforehand!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The State Tretyakov Gallery

• Why it’s awesome: The gallery’s collection consists entirely of Russian art made by Russian artists!
• Food nearby : Brothers Tretyakovs is located right across the street from the gallery. It’s a wonderfully atmospheric restaurant serving top quality food and drinks!

The State Tretyakov Gallery was founded in 1856 by influential merchant and collector Pavel Tretyakov.  The gallery is a national treasury of Russian fine art and one of the most important museums in Russia!

It houses the world’s best collection of Russian art and contains more than 130, 000 paintings, sculptures, and graphics! These works have been created throughout the centuries by generations of Russia’s most talented artists!

The exhibits range from mysterious 12th-century images to politically charged canvases. The collection is rich and revealing and offers great insight into the history and attitudes of this long-suffering yet inspired people!

All pictures are also labeled in English. If you plan to take your time and see everything inside the museum it will take a good 3-4 hours, so make sure to plan your Moscow trip itinerary accordingly! This gallery is a must-see stop for art lovers, or anyone wanting to explore the local culture and history of Russia in a creative and insightful manner! 

Insider Tip: When planning your 2 days in Moscow itinerary, keep in mind that most museums in Moscow are closed on Mondays, this includes The State Tretyakov Gallery!

Day 2 / Stop 4 – All-Russian Exhibition Center

• Why it’s awesome: This large exhibition center showcases the achievements of the Soviet Union in several different spheres. 
• Food nearby: Varenichnaya No. 1 serves authentic and homestyle Russian cuisine in an intimate and casual setting.

The All-Russian Exhibition Center is a massive park that presents the glory of the Soviet era! It pays homage to the achievements of Soviet Russia with its many different sites found on the property.

The center was officially opened in 1939 to exhibit the achievements of the Soviet Union. It’s a huge complex of buildings and the largest exhibition center in Moscow. There are several exhibition halls dedicated to different achievements and every year there are more than one hundred and fifty specialized exhibitions!

The Peoples Friendship Fountain was constructed in 1954 and is a highlight of the park. The stunning gold fountain features 16 gilded statues of girls, each representing the former Soviet Union republics. 

The Stone Flower Fountain was also built in 1954 and is worth checking out. The centerpiece of this large fountain is a flower carved from stones from the Ural Mountains! Along the side of the fountain are various bronze sculptures.

You will find many people zipping around on rollerblades and bicycles across the large area that the venue covers. It’s also home to amusement rides and carousels, making it the perfect place to stop with kids on your Moscow itinerary! Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and allow a few hours to explore all the areas that interest you!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – Bolshoi Theater

• Why it’s awesome: The Bolshoi Theater is a historic venue that hosts world-class ballet and opera performances!
• Cost: Prices vary largely between USD $2.00 –  USD $228.00 based on seat location.
• Food nearby: Head to the Russian restaurant, Bolshoi for high-quality food and drinks and excellent service!

The Bolshoi Theater is among the oldest and most renowned ballet and opera companies in the world! It also boasts the world’s biggest ballet company, with more than 200 dancers!

The theater has been rebuilt and renovated several times during its long history. In 2011 it finished its most recent renovation after an extensive six-year restoration that started in 2005. The renovation included an improvement in acoustics and the restoration of the original Imperial decor.

The Bolshoi Theater has put on many of the world’s most famous ballet acts! Tchaikovsky’s ballet Swan Lake premiered at the theater in 1877 and other notable performances of the Bolshoi repertoire include Tchaikovsky’s The Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker!

Today, when you visit the theater, you can expect a magical performance from skilled singers, dancers, and musicians with the highest level of technique!

If you don’t have time to see a show, the theater also provides guided tours on select days of the week. Tours are given in both Russian and English and will provide visitors with a more intimate look at the different areas of the theater!

The stage of this iconic Russian theater has seen many outstanding performances. If you’re a fan of the performing arts, the Bolshoi Theater is one of the greatest and oldest ballet and opera companies in the world, making it a must-see attraction on your Moscow itinerary!

Godzillas Hostel

Godzillas Hostel is located in the center of Moscow, just a short walk from all the major tourist attractions and the metro station.

• Towels Included

Cosmonautics Museum | Alexander Garden | Ostankino Tower | Izmaylovo District | Soviet Arcade Museum

Now that we’ve covered what to do in Moscow in 2 days, if you’re able to spend more time in the city you’re going to need more attractions to fill your time. Here are a few more really cool things to do in Moscow we recommend!

Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics

• Hear the timeline of the ‘space race’ from the Russian perspective
• This museum is fun for both adults and children!
• Admission is USD $4.00

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a museum dedicated to space exploration! The museum explores the history of flight, astronomy, space exploration, space technology, and space in the arts. It houses a large assortment of Soviet and Russian space-related exhibits, and the museum’s collection holds approximately 85,000 different items!

The museum does an excellent job of telling the full story of the exciting space race between the USSR and the US! It highlights the brightest moments in Russian history and humanity and is very interesting and fun for all ages!

If you’re a fan of space or just curious about gaining insight into Russia’s fascinating history of space exploration, make sure to add this to your 3 day itinerary in Moscow!

The Alexander Garden

• A tranquil place to relax near the Red Square
• Green lawns dotted with sculptures and lovely water features
• The park is open every day and has no entrance fee

The Alexander Garden was one of the first urban public parks in Moscow! The garden premiered in 1821 and was built to celebrate Russia’s victory over Napoleon’s forces in 1812!

The park is beautiful and well maintained with paths to walk on and benches to rest on. The park contains three separate gardens: the upper garden, middle garden, and lower garden.

Located in the upper garden, towards the main entrance to the park is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier with its eternal flame. This monument was created in 1967 and contains the body of a soldier who fell during the Great Patriotic War!

The park stretches along all the length of the western Kremlin wall for about half a mile. Due to its central location in the city, it’ll be easily accessible when you’re out exploring The Red Square.

It provides a bit of relief from the city’s high-energy city streets. Bring a picnic lunch, go for a walk, or just sit and people watch, this is one of the best Moscow sites to wind-down and relax!

Ostankino Television Tower

• Television and radio tower in Moscow
• Currently the tallest free-standing structure in Europe
• Make sure you bring your passport when you visit, you can’t go up without it!

For spectacular views of the city, make sure to add the Ostankino Television Tower to your itinerary for Moscow! This impressive free-standing structure provides stunning views of the city in every direction. The glass floor at the top also provides great alternative views of the city!

It takes just 58 seconds for visitors to reach the Tower’s observation deck by super fast elevator. The tower is open every day for long hours and is a great site in Moscow to check out! There is even a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy rotating views of the city while you dine on traditional Russian cuisine or European cuisine!

The tower is somewhat of an architectural surprise in a city that is not known for skyscrapers! To see the city from a new perspective, make sure to add this stop to your Moscow itinerary!

Izmaylovo District

• The most popular attractions in this district are the kremlin and the flea market
• Outside of the city center and easy to reach via metro
• Most popular during the summer and on weekends

Travel outside the city center and discover a unique area of the city! The Izmaylovo District is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, and one of the coolest places to see in Moscow! The two main attractions we recommend checking out are the Kremlin and the flea market.

The Izmailovo Kremlin was established as a cultural center and molded after traditional Russian architecture. This colorful complex is home to several single-subject museums, including a Russian folk art museum and a vodka museum!

Next to the Kremlin is the Izmailovo open-air market, which dates back to the 17th century! The market is connected to the Izmailovo Kremlin by a wooden bridge. Pick up all your Russian souvenirs here, including traditional handicrafts, paintings, books, retro toys, and Soviet memorabilia!

You will find many hand-made and hand-painted options available at higher prices, as well as mass-produced souvenir options at lower prices!

Museum of Soviet Arcade Games

• Closed on Mondays
• Filled with old arcade games that visitors get to try out!
• The museum also includes a small cafe and burger shop

For something a little different, check out the Museum of Soviet Arcade Games! The museum features roughly 60 machines from the Soviet era, including video games, pinball machines, and collaborative hockey foosball! The machines inside the museum were produced in the USSR in the mid-1970s.

The best part is, most of the games are still playable! Purchase tickets and try the games out for yourself! The museum also has a neat little screening room that plays old Soviet cartoons and an area with Soviet magazines! This unique attraction is a fun addition to a 3 day itinerary in Moscow, and an attraction that all ages will enjoy! 

Whether you’re spending one day in Moscow, or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind when traveling to a big city! Overall, Moscow is a very safe place to visit. However, it is always recommended that tourists take certain precautions when traveling to a new destination!

The police in Moscow is extremely effective at making the city a safe place to visit and do their best to patrol all of the top Moscow, Russia tourist attractions. However, tourists can still be a target for pickpockets and scammers.

Moscow has a huge flow of tourists, therefore there is a risk for pickpocketing. Simple precautions will help eliminate your chances of being robbed. Stay vigilant, keep your items close to you at all times, and don’t flash your valuables!

If you’re planning a solo Moscow itinerary, you should have no need to worry, as the city is also considered safe for solo travelers, even women. Stay in the populated areas, try and not travel alone late at night, and never accept rides from strangers or taxis without a meter and correct signage.

The threat of natural disasters in Moscow is low, with the exception of severe winters when the temperature can dip below freezing! Bring a good, warm jacket if you visit in Winter.

However, please note that Russian views on homsexuality are far less accepting than those in Western Europe. Likewise, Non-Caucasian travellers may sadly encounter racism in Russia .

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Moscow

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Now that we’ve covered all the top things to see in Moscow, we thought we’d include some exciting day trips to other areas of the country!

Sergiev Posad (Golden Ring)

On this 7-hour guided tour, you’ll visit several scenic and historic areas of Russia. Start your day with hotel pick-up as you’re transferred by a comfortable car or minivan to Sergiev Posad. Admire the charming Russian countryside on your drive and enjoy a quick stop to visit the Russian village, Rudonezh!

You’ll see the majestic Saint Spring and the Church of Sergiev Radonezh. You’ll also visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, one of the most famous Orthodox sites in Russia!

Lastly, you’ll swing by the local Matreshka market and enjoy a break in a nice Russian restaurant before returning to Moscow!

Day Trip to Vladimir and Suzdal

On this 13-hour trip, you’ll discover old Russia, with its picturesque landscapes and white-stoned beautiful churches! You’ll visit the main towns of the famous Golden Ring of Russia – the name for several cities and smaller towns north-east of Moscow.

Your first stop will be in the town of Vladimir, the ancient capital of all Russian principalities. The city dates back to the 11th century and is one of the oldest and the most important towns along the Ring! Next, you’ll visit Suzdal, a calm ancient Russian town north of Vladimir with only 13,000 inhabitants!

The old-style architecture and buildings of Suzdal are kept wonderfully intact. If you’re spending three days in Moscow, or more, this is a great option for exploring the charming areas outside the city!

Zvenigorod Day Trip and Russian Countryside

On this 9-hour private tour, you’ll explore the ancient town of Zvenigorod, one of the oldest towns in the Moscow region! As you leave Moscow you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery along the Moscow River, and make a few stops at old churches along the way to Zvenigorod.

Upon arrival, you’ll explore the medieval center, including the 14th-century Savvino-Storozhevsky Monastery. Next, you’ll take a break for lunch (own expense) where you’ll have the chance to try out the Russian cuisine! Next, you’ll visit the Museum of Russian Dessert and sip on tea at a Russian tea ceremony.

The final stop of the day is at the Ershovo Estate, a gorgeous place to walk around and enjoy nature!

Day Trip to St Petersburg by Train visiting Hermitage & Faberge

On this full-day tour, you’ll enjoy a a full round trip to St Petersburg where you’ll spend an exciting day exploring another popular Russian city! You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Moscow and be transferred to the train station where you’ll ride the high-speed train ‘Sapsan’ to St Petersburg.

Upon arrival, you’ll start the day by touring the Hermitage Museum and the Winter Palace. Next, you’ll visit the Faberge Museum, where you’ll explore the impressive collection of rare Faberge Eggs! In the afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing boat ride and a traditional 3-course Russian lunch.

If you’re spending 3 days in Moscow, or more, this is an excellent trip to take!

Trip to Kolomna – Authentic Cultural Experience from Moscow

On this 10-hour tour, you’ll escape the city and travel to the historic town of Kolomna! First, you’ll visit the 14th-century Kolomna Kremlin, home to the Assumption Cathedral and an abundance of museums!

Next, enjoy lunch at a local cafe (own expense) before embarking on a tour of the Marshmallow Museum – of course, a marshmallow tasting is provided!  Your final stop is the Museum of Forging Settlements, where displays include armor and accessories for fishing and hunting.

Discover this beautiful Russian fairytale city on a private trip, where all of the planning is taken care of for you!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Moscow itinerary.

How many days you need in Moscow?

We recommend that you spend at least two or three days in Moscow to take it all in.

What’s the best month to visit Moscow?

The best time to visit Moscow is over the spring, from March to May as temperatures are mild, crowds are thin and prices are reasonable.

What are some unusual things to do in Moscow?

I mean, queuing up to see an almost 100 year old corpse is pretty unsual! Check out Lenin’s Mausoleum if you fancy it!

What are some fun things to do in Moscow?

The Memorial Museum of Cosmonautics is a fun place to explore the famous space race from the perspective of the ‘other side’!

We hope you enjoyed our Moscow itinerary! We’ve made sure to cover all the Moscow must-sees as well as some unique attractions in the city! Our addition of insider tips, favorite food stops, and day trips from Moscow is an added bonus and will guarantee you make the most out of your exciting Russian vacation!

Immerse yourself in the modern and traditional Russian lifestyle! Get lost in museums, witness awe-inspiring architecture, and indulge in Russian cuisine! Spend the day strolling through all of the charming sites of Moscow, admiring the beautiful scenery and discovering the city’s fairytale-like enchantment!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Alya and Campbell

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Moscow Travel Guide: Best Things to Do + More [2023]

· everything to know about visiting moscow, including the best things to do and how to get around. ·.

Moscow is Russia’s vibrant capital city, and it also happens to be the largest city in all of Europe. The city’s long and infamous history makes it one of the most unique places we have ever visited.

The architecture ranges from centuries-old palaces to uniform, gray concrete buildings. The people range from cold and private to warm and welcoming. Moscow is a city is strong juxtapositions, and we learned a lot during our time there.

This post will break down all you need to know about visiting Moscow, including the best things to do, how to get there, how to get around, and more.

The Best Things to Do in Moscow

1. explore the red square.

The Red Square is the heart of Moscow. Most of the city’s top attractions can be found here, including just about everything on this list. The Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral, and Lenin’s Mausoleum are all located here, and the State Historical Museum and GUM are not far from here, either.

The Red Square is a common home for parades, protests, and seasonal celebrations. There are massive Christmas celebrations here, with food vendors and carnival rides set up in numbers.

2. Check Out the Ziferblat

The Ziferblat is a café in Moscow that is unlike any café we have ever been to. While most cafes charge you for your drinks and food, the Ziferblat charges you for your time.

Upon arrival, you are given a clock. When you leave, the barista calculates how much time you spent in the café and charges you accordingly. This concept was created to help visitors to be more intentional with their time, and the cafe itself is incredibly charming.

For a detailed look at everything you need to know before you visit, make sure you read my post about visiting the Ziferblat Cafe in Moscow .

3. Marvel at St. Basil’s Cathedral

St. Basil’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic churches in the world, and it was the single thing we were most excited to see while in Moscow. Built almost 500 years ago, St. Basil’s Cathedral is recognized by its colorful domes and whimsical style. The church is of the Russian Orthodox faith, and the inside is just as wondrous as the outside.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is located on the edge of the Red Square, making it incredibly convenient to visit. Entrance for non-worshippers costs 800 rubles, and tickets can be bought at the church

4. Explore the Kremlin

The Kremlin is the largest active fortress in Europe, and it is the site of most of Russia’s government affairs. In addition to government buildings, the Kremlin Complex is filled with courtyards, towers, and museums that are open to the public. If you have the time, you could spend a couple of days fully exploring all that there is to see in the Kremlin.

5. Walk Through Lenin’s Mausoleum

Vladimir Lenin is one of the most important figures in Russian history, and his body is located perfectly embalmed in a mausoleum in the Red Square. The Mausoleum is open to the public to visit, and as long as you are willing to go through a few security checks, it is easily one of the best things to do in Moscow. Its convenient location in the Red Square makes it a can’t miss attraction.

There is absolutely no photography allowed inside the Mausoleum. Do not test this rule.

6. Wander Along Arbat Street

The Arbat is a very popular street in Moscow that is lined with stores, cafes, and other touristy attractions. It is one of the oldest streets in the city, dating back to the 1400s. This street is both quaint and trendy, and there are many walking tours that introduce tourists to the neighborhood’s wonders and highlights.

7. Catch a Show at the Bolshoi Theatre

As a lover of the arts, it is hard to think of Moscow and not think of ballet. Russia has always been a top dog in the world of fine arts, and Bolshoi Theater is one of the best places to catch a performance. We were lucky enough to attend an Opera here, and it is a venue that you don’t want to miss out on if you enjoy opera, ballet, or orchestral performances.

8. Visit the State Historical Museum

The State Historical Museum is one of the most respected museums in Moscow. Despite its name, it is not really focused on the history of Russia as a nation. Rather, it contains a collection of artifacts from all throughout Russia’s history.

The museum’s collection is very broad in nature. It houses some items from indigenous tribes that used to occupy the region, pieces collected by the Romanov family, and more.

9. Wander Around GUM

GUM is an absolutely massive mall within walking distance of the Red Square. It isn’t just the size that draws visitors here; it’s the sense of luxury. The mall is so beautiful inside, much like the metro stations.

While visiting a mall might not sound like it belongs on a bucket list, this mall does. You will not want to miss out on visiting GUM while in Moscow.

10. Admire the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

While St. Basil’s Cathedral is the most iconic church in Moscow, it isn’t the only one. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour is absolutely stunning, with massive golden domes. It is the tallest Orthodox church in the world, and it is the seat of the Orthodox Patriarch of Moscow.

It is located just about a mile from the Red Square, just south of the Kremlin Complex. You can walk to it from the Red Square in about 20 minutes.

How to Get to Moscow

Flying to moscow.

Moscow has three major international airports: Sheremetyevo (SVO) , Domodedovo (DMO) , and Vnukovo (VKO) . All three of them are directly connected to downtown Moscow by the Aeroexpress trains, which leave every 30 minutes throughout the day. By Aeroexpress train, you can expect to get to the city center in 25-45 minutes depending on the airport that you fly into.

Sheremetyevo is the biggest and busiest of the three airports, and it is the one you are most likely to fly into – especially if you are coming from outside of Europe or the Caucus region. We flew into Sheremetyevo on a direct flight from New York City.

I usually provide backup airport options, because flying right into the city isn’t always the cheapest way to get where you’re going. Unfortunately, when it comes to Moscow, don’t really have a choice other than to fly right into Moscow. It is a very remote city, and it is usually the cheapest place to fly into in Russia as a whole.

Since Sheremetyevo is so busy, you will probably find a great flight option anyway. I wrote in  my post about finding cheap flights  that using hub airports will lead to more affordable airfare, and the same logic applies here. Even though Russia’s national airline, Aeroflot, is no longer a member of the SkyTeam Alliance, Moscow is still a major hub connecting passengers from all over the world.

READ OUR CHEAT SHEET

Train or Bus to Moscow

Trains and buses are one of the most popular ways to get around Europe. However, they’re of very little use when you’re trying to get to Moscow.

Moscow is hundreds of miles from the nearest major cities. The only major European city that can even be reached within 8 hours on the ground is St. Petersburg, and even the Baltic capitals of Riga, Vilnius, and Tallinn are over 12 hours away.

If you want to get to Moscow, the best option is almost always to fly. While the train routes to Moscow are scenic, they simply take forever.

How to Get Around Moscow

METRO | TROLLEYS | TRAMS | BUSES

Moscow has one of the most memorable metro systems in the world. Its metro lines are very deep underground, and the stations are absolutely stunning. Each station has its own unique style, but all of them contain escalators that seem to go on forever.

The system was built in an effort to showcase the power of the Soviet Union and its bright future. The plans were a form of propaganda, but they resulted in what is still one of the most visually appealing subway systems on earth.

Moscow’s metro system isn’t just pretty. It is also very useful and accessible. The system has 17 lines that connect the city and its surrounding area.

But wait; there’s more!

The Moscow metro system is also incredibly affordable, with each ride costing less than a dollar. The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow, as it is almost impossible to beat the connection times and the low cost to ride.

Tickets can be bought at electronic, English-speaking kiosks in stations, or directly from ticket counters at certain larger stations. There are also day passes available, which are a very solid option if you plan on riding the metro several times per day.

The metro is by far the best way to get around Moscow.

In addition to the metro system, Moscow also has a network of buses, trams, and trolleys. This system is nowhere near as convenient or well-connected as the metro, though, and is likely of little use to you during your trip. There is no Uber in Moscow, but a similar app named Yandex is available if you need a ride in a pinch.

How Many Days Do You Need in Moscow?

Moscow is the biggest city in all of Europe, and it is absolutely loaded with things to do. You could spend weeks in Moscow and still find new things to do. Of course, most travelers don’t have that kind of time to spend in one place!

I recommend spending no less than three full days in Moscow, and ideally closer to five or seven.

Moscow is very spread out, and it can take some time to get from one major point to another. There are also so many places that are nice to just sit back and relax, which is hard to do when you’re in a hurry trying to cram activities into just a few days.

If you only have a week to visit Russia, I’d advise spending all of the time in one city. If you decide to split your time between Moscow and St. Petersburg, I recommend not trying to squeeze in any day trips beyond those two cities.

When Is the Best Time of the Year to Visit Moscow?

There are two different ways to approach this question. Personally, I think the best time to visit Moscow is around Christmas and New Year’s Day. While the weather will be absolutely freezing, Moscow is a surreal winter wonderland in December and January.

We were in Moscow right before Christmas. While it was very cold, you can always bundle up. Exploring the Christmas markets and pop-up ice skating rinks throughout Moscow is one of my favorite memories from anywhere I’ve traveled, and I dream of going back to do it again.

If you aren’t fond of the cold, Moscow is beautiful in the summer. It tends to get pretty cold in the shoulder seasons, so if you want warm weather, you should plan to visit in the summer. Moscow actually gets pretty warm in July and August, and there are a bunch of fantastic places to soak up the sun within the city.

The best time to visit Moscow is either around Christmas or from late May to August.

Is Moscow Safe to Visit?

While Moscow is a truly wonderful city, there’s no denying that visiting Russia comes with risks. As the country is run by an infamous communist dictator, concerns about visiting are valid. While we didn’t experience any sort of threat or negative treatment during our time in Moscow, we visited in a peaceful time.

In our experience, Russia doesn’t seem to detain normal Americans or Westerners to use as pawns. As a regular person, as long as you don’t commit any crimes, there is a slim chance you will run into any issues. However, Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

Russia will not hesitate to enforce its laws against foreigners, and illegal behaviors will likely land you in a very compromising position.

To make matters worse, Russia has a bad reputation for gang violence. While the Russian mafia has very little interest in normal Western tourists, they won’t hesitate to pick a fight with anyone who ventures into their sphere of influence. If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

If you seek out illegal substances or activities, you could be a target of the mafia.

Finally, since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, things are all very different. Russia is currently at war, and there are battles raging within 8 hours of Moscow. While it is still relatively safe to visit, that could change at any time as the war with Ukraine continues.

Is Moscow Worth Visiting?

Without a doubt, Moscow is worth visiting. It is one of the most unique major cities we have ever visited, and we hope to make it back one day. The Russian Orthodox churches are stunning, the city’s history is unlike any other, and the food is to die for.

While many visitors prefer St. Petersburg to Moscow, I think Moscow deserves a lot of hype of its own. Moscow is the beating heart of Russian culture and history, and it’s a place I highly recommend checking out if you have the chance.

That’s all we have for you about Moscow! I hope this post was helpful as you plan your trip to Russia’s capital.

Have you been to Moscow? Or is this your first time visiting? Comment below if you have anything to add to our travel guide!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

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