How to Use the Large Travel Tray as a Cinchable Organizer for Toiletries

The TOM BIHN Large Travel Tray is a beloved accessory for its ability to keep small items tidy on your nightstand or desk. But did you know it can also double as a clever cinchable organizer for toiletries? With a few simple adjustments, you can transform this flat tray into a secure, leak-proof pouch that holds all your travel essentials. Whether you're packing for a weekend getaway or just want a smarter way to store your bathroom items, this hack will change how you think about the Travel Tray.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to convert your Large Travel Tray into a cinchable toiletry bag. You'll learn how to use the built-in snap hooks and a simple strap to create a closed pouch that keeps your liquids and small items from spilling. Plus, we'll share tips on pairing it with other TOM BIHN bags for a streamlined travel setup.

Why Use the Large Travel Tray as a Toiletry Organizer?

The Large Travel Tray is made from the same durable, water-resistant fabric as TOM BIHN bags, making it an excellent choice for toiletries. Its flat design folds easily, and the snap hooks along the edges allow you to attach it to other gear or cinch it closed. Unlike traditional toiletry bags that are bulky or rigid, this approach gives you a lightweight, packable solution that takes up minimal space in your luggage.

Another advantage is versatility. When you arrive at your destination, you can unfurl the tray to use as a flat organizer on the bathroom counter or nightstand. This dual functionality means one item does the work of two, reducing the number of things you need to pack. For travelers who value efficiency, this is a game-changer.

• Water-resistant fabric protects against spills.
• Snap hooks let you secure the closure or attach to a bag.
• Folds flat when not in use, saving suitcase space.

What You'll Need

To create your cinchable toiletry organizer, you'll need a TOM BIHN Large Travel Tray (or any size with snap hooks) and one of the TOM BIHN Utility Straps. The Utility Strap is ideal because it has snap hooks on both ends that match the tray's loops. You can also use a Key Strap if you prefer a smaller closure, but the Utility Strap provides a more secure cinch.

Optional accessories include small pouches or clear bottles to keep your liquids organized inside. The tray itself has no internal dividers, so using a few TOM BIHN Small Cafe Bags or other pouches can help separate items like toothpaste, shampoo, and makeup.

• TOM BIHN Large Travel Tray (or any size with snap hooks)
• TOM BIHN Utility Strap or Key Strap
• Optional: small pouches or travel bottles for organization

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by laying your Large Travel Tray flat on a surface. Place your toiletries in the center, arranging them in a single layer to avoid bulk. If you're using small pouches, put them inside first to group similar items. Once everything is in place, gather the four corners of the tray together like a drawstring bag.

Next, take your Utility Strap and snap one end onto the loop at the gathered top. Then, wrap the strap around the bundle and snap the other end onto the opposite loop. Tighten the strap to cinch the tray closed. The result is a secure, compact pouch that won't open accidentally. For extra security, you can use a second strap or a Key Strap to reinforce the closure.

• Arrange toiletries in a single layer to minimize bulk.
• Gather corners and snap the strap through the loops.
• Tighten the strap to create a secure cinch.

Packing Tips and Best Practices

To maximize space, use travel-sized bottles and decant your liquids into leak-proof containers. The tray's fabric is water-resistant, but it's still wise to place any liquids in a sealed baggie inside. For solid items like soap bars or razors, wrap them in a small cloth or use a dedicated pouch.

When packing the cinched tray into your luggage, tuck it into a corner or between clothes for cushioning. If you're using a backpack like the TOM BIHN Synapse 19, the tray can fit easily in the main compartment or a side pocket. For a messenger bag like the TOM BIHN Marathon Messenger, the flat shape of the tray when uncinched makes it a great addition to the front pocket.

• Use leak-proof containers for liquids.
• Wrap sharp items to prevent punctures.
• Cinch tightly before placing in your bag.

Alternative Uses for the Cinchable Tray

This hack isn't limited to toiletries. You can use the same method to organize electronics, cables, snacks, or a first-aid kit. The cinchable design makes it easy to grab and go, whether you're heading to the gym or on a day hike. For a quick-access pouch, attach the cinched tray to the outside of your bag using the snap hooks.

Another idea is to use the tray as a packing cube for dirty laundry. Simply cinch it closed to separate worn clothes from clean ones. The water-resistant fabric also makes it suitable for wet swimsuits or towels. With a little creativity, the Large Travel Tray becomes a multi-purpose tool for any trip.

• Electronics organizer for cables and chargers.
• Snack pouch for day trips.
• Dirty laundry or wet items separator.

The TOM BIHN Large Travel Tray is more than just a flat organizer—it's a versatile cinchable pouch that can streamline your toiletry packing. With a simple Utility Strap, you can create a secure, compact bundle that keeps your essentials in place. Try this hack on your next trip and see how it simplifies your routine. For more travel organization solutions, explore the TOM BIHN collection, including the TOM BIHN Marathon Messenger and the TOM BIHN Synapse 19, which pair perfectly with this cinchable organizer.