Embarking on a journey, whether it's a weekend getaway or a trip to the park, doesn't mean leaving your creative spirit behind. For artists, capturing the essence of new landscapes and experiences often goes hand in hand with travel. But lugging around heavy art supplies isn't always practical. So, what are the best traveling art supplies that strike the perfect balance between portability and functionality? Let's explore our favorites that allow you to create wherever you roam:

1. Sketchbooks: A compact, lightweight sketchbook is a must-have for any traveling artist. Choose one with sturdy paper that can withstand various mediums, from pencil sketches to watercolor washes. Look for sketchbooks with durable covers to protect your artwork from the wear and tear of travel. We love the Strathmore Hardbound Art Journals where you have a choice between high-quality drawing, watercolor, mixed media, and toned sketch papers.

2. Travel Watercolor Sets and Palettes: Watercolor paints offer versatility and ease of use for artists on the go. Invest in a portable watercolor set with a built-in palette and a selection of colors. Many sets come in compact tins that easily fit into your bag or pocket, making them ideal for painting en plein air. One of our favorites is the Daler-Rowney Aquafine Travel Set with 12 half pans. Another great option is a lightweight and compact palette that you can squeeze a small amount of paint in to keep them organized and secure during transit.

3. Travel Brushes: Carrying a full set of brushes can be bulky, so opt for travel-sized brushes instead. We recommend the Princeton Aqua Elite, Neptune, or Aspen Travel Brushes that come in a protective case to keep them safe and organized. The travel brush handles come in two pieces so when you’re ready to paint, open them and flip them around to bring the brush end out!⁠ If you’re going to bring normal brushes stick to 1-3 essential brushes. You can do a lot with a round brush.

4. Pencils and Pens: A set of high-quality pencils and pens is essential for sketching and drawing on the go. Choose a selection of graphite pencils in various hardness grades for shading and outlining. Additionally, pack a few fine-line pens for adding details and accents to your artwork. We love the Lyra Rembrandt Sketching Set filled 6 different pencils, a pastel stick and a charcoal stick.

5. Portable Easels: While traditional easels may be too bulky for travel, there are plenty of portable options available. Look for lightweight easels that fold up compactly for easy transportation. Some portable easels even come with adjustable legs and built-in storage compartments for your art supplies.

6. Collapsible Water Containers: When painting with watercolors, you'll need a container for water to clean your brushes and thin your paints. Collapsible water containers are lightweight and take up minimal space in your bag. Look for containers with leak-proof seals to prevent spills while traveling. In a pinch an old jam or spaghetti jar does the trick too.

7. Compact Storage Solutions: Lastly, consider how you'll store and transport your art supplies while traveling. Look for compact storage solutions, such as roll-up pencil cases or collapsible tote bags, that can easily fit into your luggage or backpack.

The best traveling art supplies are those that are both functional and portable. By investing in compact and lightweight supplies specifically designed for travel, you can unleash your creativity wherever your adventures take you. So, pack your bags, grab your art supplies, and find new inspiration from the world around you. Happy creating!