Compact Oil Paint Sets for Artists on the Go
For most traveling artists, the Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour Travel Set is the top pick because it balances a generous 12-color palette with a sturdy metal case that fits in a backpack. Its main limitation is that the tubes are small, so frequent painters may need refills.
Traveling with oil paints can be a challenge. Bulky tubes and heavy boxes are not practical for artists who paint outdoors or on the move. Fortunately, many manufacturers now offer compact oil paint sets designed specifically for travel.
These sets come in various sizes, from palm-sized tins to slightly larger wooden boxes. They include a selection of essential colors, and some even come with brushes, a palette, and mixing cups. We compared the most popular options to help you find the perfect companion for your artistic journeys.
Our top picks
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour Travel Set, 12 x 12ml
This tin box contains 12 Winton oil colors in 12ml tubes, a palette, and a brush. The colors are well-chosen for landscape and portrait work. The metal case is sturdy and closes securely with a latch.
Pros
- Excellent pigment quality
- Compact and durable metal case
- Good range of colors for mixing
Cons
- Small tubes may not last long
- Brush quality is basic
Sennelier Wooden Oil Paint Travel Box, 18 x 20ml
This elegant wooden box holds 18 half-pan oil colors from Sennelier’s extra-fine range. The box opens into a sturdy easel and includes a mixing palette and compartments for brushes. It is heavier but offers the most versatility.
Pros
- Exceptional pigment quality
- Beautiful and functional wooden box
- Large color selection
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier
- Expensive
Royal & Langnickel Winsor & Newton Cotman Travel Set, 12 x 8ml
This set includes 12 Cotman water mixable oil colors in small 8ml tubes. It comes in a lightweight plastic case with a palette. While not traditional oils, they offer a convenient alternative for travel.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Water mixable, easy clean up
Cons
- Smaller tubes
- Not traditional oil paints
Arteza Oil Paint Set, 24 x 12ml
Arteza’s set offers 24 vivid oil colors in 12ml tubes, packaged in a sturdy cardboard box with a palette. The colors are well pigmented and mix beautifully. This is a great value for those who want many shades.
Pros
- Wide range of colors
- Larger tubes
- Good pigmentation for price
Cons
- Cardboard box not very protective
- No brush included
MEEDEN Oil Paint Set, 18 x 12ml
The MEEDEN set comes in a metal case with a built-in palette and a detachable brush holder. It contains 18 essential colors. The case has a handle for easy carrying, making it ideal for outdoor painting.
Pros
- Built-in palette and brush holder
- Durable metal case
- Handle for carrying
Cons
- Heavier than some options
- Colors are not as lightfast as pro-grade
Mont Marte Oil Paint Set, 24 x 12ml
Mont Marte offers a 24-color oil paint set in a solid wooden box. The paints are student grade and produce consistent results. This set is a good starting point for those new to oil painting and traveling.
Pros
- Great price for 24 colors
- Wooden case looks nice
- Good for learning
Cons
- Student grade quality
- Case is bulky
Caran d’Ache Oil Paint Travel Set, 10 x 15ml
This Swiss-made set features 10 extra-fine oil colors in a sleek aluminum case. The tubes are 15ml, larger than typical travel sets. It is extremely compact and elegant, though it comes at a premium price.
Pros
- High quality extra-fine paints
- Larger tubes
- Very small and stylish
Cons
- Very expensive
- Limited color selection
Compared at a glance
| # | Model | Color Count | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour Travel Set, 12 x 12ml | 12 | Best overall for quality and portability | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Sennelier Wooden Oil Paint Travel Box, 18 x 20ml | 18 | Best for professionals who need many colors | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Royal & Langnickel Winsor & Newton Cotman Travel Set, 12 x 8ml | 12 | Best budget-friendly option | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Arteza Oil Paint Set, 24 x 12ml | 24 | Best for color variety | 8.9 | Check price |
| 5 | MEEDEN Oil Paint Set, 18 x 12ml | 18 | Best for plein air painting | 9.0 | Check price |
| 6 | Mont Marte Oil Paint Set, 24 x 12ml | 24 | Best for beginners | 8.6 | Check price |
| 7 | Caran d’Ache Oil Paint Travel Set, 10 x 15ml | 10 | Best for luxury travel | 8.5 | Check price |
How to choose
Good to know
Are oil paints allowed in carry-on luggage?
According to TSA regulations, oil paints are allowed in checked baggage, but they are subject to the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on. Since oil paints are liquids, they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a single quart-sized bag. Most travel sets exceed this, so it is safer to pack them in checked luggage.
What is the difference between traditional oils and water mixable oils?
Traditional oil paints are mixed with solvents like turpentine or mineral spirits. Water mixable oils can be thinned and cleaned up with water, making them more convenient for travel and safer for those sensitive to fumes. They still dry to a similar finish and can be mixed with traditional oils in small amounts.
How many colors do I need in a travel set?
A basic set of 6 to 12 colors is often enough because you can mix a wide range of hues from a limited palette. However, having more colors reduces mixing time. For travel, a set with 12 colors is a good balance between variety and portability.
Can I use oil paints on any surface?
Oil paints can be used on many surfaces including canvas, wood, paper, and metal, provided they are primed with gesso. For travel, you might want to use oil painting paper or canvas panels which are lightweight and easy to pack.
How do I clean oil paints from brushes while traveling?
If you are using traditional oils, you will need to carry a small jar of solvent or use brush cleaning wipes. Water mixable oils can be cleaned with water and soap. Some artists use baby oil as a non-toxic alternative for cleaning brushes.
What is the shelf life of oil paints?
Oil paints can last for many years if stored properly. Keep them sealed and away from extreme temperatures. Over time, the oil may separate, but stirring can recombine it. Discard paints that have a bad odor or become lumpy.
Do travel oil paint sets include a medium?
Most travel sets do not include a medium. You may need to bring a small bottle of linseed oil or a quick-drying medium if you want to adjust the consistency or drying time. Some sets have a tiny cup for medium, but it is not included.
Are expensive oil paints worth it?
Expensive artist grade paints contain more pigment and offer better color strength and permanence. If you are a serious artist, they are worth the investment. For beginners or casual painters, student grade paints are more affordable and still produce good results.
Final word
For most artists, the Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour Travel Set is the best choice because it offers a solid range of colors, good quality, and a durable metal case at a reasonable price. If you need more colors and are willing to spend more, the Sennelier Wooden Box is a premium option. For those on a budget, the Royal & Langnickel water mixable set is a practical alternative.
