How to Create a Travel Art Kit for Painting on the Go

If you love painting and exploring new places, creating a travel art kit is a must. Having a compact, efficient setup allows you to capture the beauty of your surroundings wherever you go, whether you’re out for a walk, on vacation, or simply painting outdoors. But what should you include in your travel art kit? Here’s how to build a portable kit with everything you need for acrylic painting on the go.

1. Choose Compact, Versatile Brushes

When it comes to brushes, you’ll want to select a few versatile options that can handle a variety of tasks without taking up too much space. Flat and round brushes in different sizes are a good choice, as they can be used for both broad strokes and detail work.

Try this: Pack a small set of travel brushes with retractable or foldable handles. This will protect the bristles and save space in your kit.

2. Pick a Small Palette

You don’t need a large palette for painting on the go. Choose a small, lightweight palette that’s easy to clean and fits comfortably in your travel bag. You can use a folding palette or even disposable palette sheets for added convenience.

Try this: Consider a plastic or silicone palette with multiple wells, so you can mix a variety of colours without worrying about spills.

3. Pack Acrylic Paint Tubes or Fluid Acrylics

Full-size acrylic paint tubes can be bulky, so opt for smaller travel-size tubes or fluid acrylics that take up less space. Fluid acrylics are particularly useful for travel because they have a thinner consistency, making them easier to work with in a portable setup.

Try this: Choose a limited colour palette with primary colours (red, blue, yellow), white, and a neutral like burnt sienna or grey. You can mix most of the colours you need with these basics, saving space.

4. Bring a Portable Surface

For painting on the go, you’ll need a portable surface that’s sturdy and lightweight. Pre-primed canvas panels, small wood boards, or acrylic paper pads are great options. These surfaces are easy to pack and don’t require the setup of stretched canvases.

Try this: Choose a few small surfaces, such as 8x10 or 9x12 inches, that are easy to carry and work well with your brushes and paints. Acrylic paper pads are particularly lightweight and versatile for travel.

5. Include Water and Cleaning Supplies

Acrylic paints dry quickly, so having water on hand is essential for cleaning your brushes and thinning your paints if needed. Pack a small, collapsible water container, along with a few rags or paper towels for wiping your brushes.

Try this: Consider a compact, resealable water bottle or a collapsible silicone cup for holding water while you paint. Don’t forget to pack a small plastic bag for carrying your used paper towels or cleaning rags.

6. Carry a Compact Easel or Clip Board

If you like to paint standing or want to work with your surface elevated, consider bringing a lightweight travel easel. If you prefer something more compact, a sturdy clipboard or panel holder will give you a solid surface to work on.

Try this: A folding tripod easel is a great option if you want to paint standing up. If space is tight, a hard clipboard or panel board will allow you to work comfortably on your lap or a flat surface.

7. Store Everything in a Portable Bag

To keep everything organised, you’ll need a sturdy, portable bag that can carry your brushes, paints, surfaces, and other supplies. Choose a bag that’s lightweight and easy to carry, with compartments to keep everything in place.

Try this: A small backpack or a cross-body messenger bag works well for carrying art supplies on the go. Look for bags with multiple pockets so you can separate your brushes, paints, and other materials.

Final Thoughts

Creating a travel art kit allows you to take your acrylic painting anywhere, whether you’re painting outdoors, on vacation, or just exploring new locations. With a few compact, versatile supplies, you can enjoy the freedom of painting on the go while keeping your setup simple and efficient. So pack your kit, head out, and let your surroundings inspire your creativity!

Before you go, dream it, paint it!