Portable Art Kits for Sketching On the Go
For most artists, the Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Pocket Set is the top pick because it packs 12 vibrant half pans in a slim metal case, perfect for quick sketches, though its brush is a bit small for large washes.
Traveling artists need compact kits that withstand jostling and weather. The best options balance color range, brush quality, and a sturdy case.
Whether you sketch in cafes or mountains, a well-chosen kit keeps creativity flowing. We compared popular kits to help you pick one that fits your style.
The top picks, ranked
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Pocket Set
This pocket-sized set includes 12 Cotman half pans in a durable metal tin. The colors are known for good transparency and mixing. Its compact design slips into a bag easily.
Pros
- Vibrant, high-quality pigments
- Durable metal case protects pans
- Lightweight and truly pocketable
Cons
- Brush is small for large washes
- No mixing palette built-in
Koi Water Colors Pocket Field Sketch Box
This set features 12 vibrant colors in a foldable case with a built-in water brush. The brush holds water in its barrel, eliminating the need for a separate water container. Ideal for quick sketches on the go.
Pros
- Integrated water brush simplifies setup
- Folding palette offers mixing space
- Colors are rich and rewettable
Cons
- Plastic case may crack if dropped
- Brush can leak if not closed properly
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, 24 Count
This set includes 24 soft-core colored pencils in a metal tin. The pencils are known for their smooth laydown and blendability. The tin keeps them organized and protected.
Pros
- Smooth, highly pigmented cores
- Excellent for blending and layering
- Sturdy tin case
Cons
- Pencils can break if dropped
- No sharpener included
Artify 36-Piece Deluxe Art Set
This comprehensive set includes colored pencils, oil pastels, crayons, and watercolor cakes in a wooden case. It offers multiple mediums for experimentation. The case is sturdy and has a handle.
Pros
- Multiple mediums in one kit
- Wooden case protects contents
- Great value for beginners
Cons
- Individual quality lower than single-medium sets
- Case is bulky for travel
Sakura Koi Travel Watercolor Set with 24 Colors
This larger Koi set offers 24 colors in a similar foldable case as the 12-color version. The pans are larger, providing more paint per color. It includes a water brush and sponge.
Pros
- More color options
- Larger pans last longer
- Water brush included
Cons
- Bulkier than smaller sets
- Plastic hinge may wear over time
U.S. Art Supply 16 Piece Travel Watercolor Set
This set includes 10 watercolor cakes, a brush, and a sponge in a compact plastic case. The colors are decent for casual sketching. It is lightweight and inexpensive.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Good for travel and beginners
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Brush quality is basic
Royal & Langnickel Sketching Travel Kit
This kit includes 10 sketching pencils, a graphite stick, eraser, sharpener, and a pad in a zippered case. It is ideal for graphite and charcoal drawing. The case keeps everything organized.
Pros
- All-in-one sketching solution
- Includes a sketch pad
- Sturdy zippered case
Cons
- Not for color work
- Pencils may need frequent sharpening
Before you buy
Side by side
| # | Model | Color Count | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolour Pocket Set | 12 half pans | Watercolorists who want a classic, portable pan set | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Koi Water Colors Pocket Field Sketch Box | 12 colors | Artists who prefer a foldable palette with a water brush | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, 24 Count | 24 pencils | Artists who prefer dry media for detailed work | 9.1 | Check price |
| 4 | Artify 36-Piece Deluxe Art Set | 36 pieces | Beginners who want a variety of mediums | 8.8 | Check price |
| 5 | Sakura Koi Travel Watercolor Set with 24 Colors | 24 colors | Artists who need a wider color range in a travel set | 9.0 | Check price |
| 6 | U.S. Art Supply 16 Piece Travel Watercolor Set | 10 cakes | Artists on a budget who want a simple set | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Royal & Langnickel Sketching Travel Kit | 10 pencils, graphite stick, eraser, sharpener, pad | Artists who want a sketching kit with pencils and accessories | 8.7 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What is a travel art kit?
It is a compact set of art supplies designed for portability. It typically includes watercolors, colored pencils, or sketching tools in a protective case.
Are travel watercolor sets good for beginners?
Yes, many come with basic colors and a brush. They are easy to use and practice with. However, quality varies, so choose a reputable brand.
Can I bring a travel art kit on an airplane?
Yes, most kits are allowed in carry-on luggage. Ensure liquids like water are not included. Solid paints are fine. Check TSA guidelines.
How do I clean a water brush pen?
Empty the barrel and rinse the brush tip with water. Squeeze gently to remove excess. Let it dry before storing.
What is the difference between half pans and full pans?
Half pans are smaller and fit more colors in a compact case. Full pans hold more paint and are easier to load with a brush. Travel sets often use half pans.
Are colored pencils travel friendly?
Yes, they are dry and do not spill. A set in a tin or case keeps them organized. They are ideal for detailed work.
How many colors do I need in a travel set?
A set of 12 to 24 colors is sufficient for most. More colors offer variety but add bulk. Start with 12 and add as needed.
Can I replace individual pans in a watercolor set?
Some brands offer refill pans. Check if your set is refillable. Winsor & Newton and Koi allow replacements.
What should I look for in a case?
Look for a sturdy, weather-resistant case that closes securely. A metal tin or hard plastic is better than cardboard. Hinges should be durable.
Are expensive travel art kits worth it?
Higher-priced kits often have better pigments and brushes. They last longer and perform better. For serious artists, they are worth the investment.
Final word
For most travelers, the Winsor & Newton Cotman Pocket Set offers the best balance of quality and portability. If you prefer dry media, the Prismacolor pencils are a solid choice. Budget-conscious artists will find the U.S. Art Supply set adequate for casual use.
