Matador FlatPak Zipper Toiletry Case Review

We’ve been testing the second iteration of the Matador FlatPak Zipper Toiletry Case for a couple of weeks, and it’s immediately clear that this is a Dopp kit built with a very specific traveler in mind. If your packing style leans toward ultralight, minimalist, and highly efficient, this toiletry case aligns closely with that philosophy. It strips away the bulk and structure you’ll find in more traditional Dopp kits and replaces it with a flexible, featherweight design that adapts to what you carry rather than dictating how you carry it.

That said, minimalism always comes with trade-offs. While the Matador FlatPak Zipper Toiletry Case V2 excels at weight savings and packability, it asks you to be intentional about what you put inside. Over the course of our testing, we’ve found that it shines brightest when paired with a streamlined kit—think travel-sized bottles, compact grooming tools, and multi-use products. If that sounds like your style, there’s a lot here to appreciate.

External Components

The exterior of the Matador FlatPak Zipper Toiletry Case V2 is all about balancing durability with an incredibly low weight. It’s constructed from 70D ripstop nylon, which includes a subtle grid pattern designed to prevent tears from spreading. This material feels thin in hand, but not fragile—it’s the kind of fabric that prioritizes performance without unnecessary heft. Importantly, it’s also PFC-free, which is a welcome move for those paying attention to environmental impact.

One of the standout elements here is the welded construction. Instead of relying solely on stitching, many of the seams are bonded to create a more water-resistant barrier. This works in tandem with the waterproof zipper, which is designed to contain leaks. While we wouldn’t fully submerge this in water and expect total protection, it does a solid job of keeping accidental spills from reaching the rest of your gear—provided the zipper is fully closed. That last part is key, as the seal depends on a complete closure.

The zipper itself has a slightly stiff feel, which is typical for water-resistant designs. It’s not difficult to use, but it does require a bit more intention than a standard zipper. Over time, we found that it becomes easier to operate as it breaks in, though it never quite reaches the effortless glide of non-coated zippers. That’s the trade-off for added protection.

There are also a couple of thoughtful carry options built into the design. A Hypalon loop on one end allows for easy hanging or grabbing, while a secondary loop on the side offers an alternate orientation. These small additions make a difference in tight spaces, like hostel bathrooms or compact hotel setups, where hanging your toiletry bag can free up valuable counter space.

Overall, the exterior is intentionally simple. There are no extra pockets, no branding overload, and no unnecessary features. Everything serves a purpose, and anything that doesn’t has been left out to keep the weight impressively low at 32 grams—that’s a little over an ounce (refer to our table above for exact figures).

Inside The Pouch

Packability is where the Matador FlatPak Zipper Toiletry Case V2 really separates itself from more traditional options. Since it lacks a rigid structure, it conforms to the shape of whatever you put inside—and just as importantly, to the shape of your bag. This makes it easy to slide into tight spaces or awkward corners, which is something we’ve come to appreciate when packing smaller travel backpacks.

The case has a 2.3-liter capacity, which might not sound like much on paper, but it’s surprisingly usable when paired with the right gear. During testing, we were able to fit a basic setup that included a toothbrush, a couple of travel-sized liquid bottles, some small containers, and a few additional essentials like lotion. There’s enough room for a well-curated kit, though you’ll quickly run into limitations if you try to expand beyond the basics.

Inside, you’ll find a single compartment with a coated lining that’s easy to wipe clean. This is especially helpful if something leaks or leaves residue behind. There’s no internal organization to speak of—no mesh pockets, dividers, or elastic loops—so everything shares the same space. While this might feel limiting at first, it reinforces the minimalist approach of the bag. You’re encouraged to simplify your setup rather than rely on built-in organization.

One of the most interesting features is Matador’s Dry-Through technology. The fabric is designed to allow moisture to escape, even when the bag is closed. In practice, this means that damp items—like a toothbrush or slightly wet bottles—can dry out over time instead of trapping moisture inside. We found this particularly useful when packing up quickly after a shower or brushing teeth before heading out. It’s a small detail that makes a noticeable difference in day-to-day use, especially on longer trips.

The gusseted base adds another layer of versatility. When the bag is fully packed, it expands to accommodate your items. When it’s only partially filled, it collapses down to take up less space. This adaptability is a big win for travelers who want their gear to scale with their needs. It also means that as you use up consumables—like toothpaste or soap—the bag naturally becomes smaller and lighter.

However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. The lack of structure makes bulky or oddly shaped items more challenging to pack. Additionally, overstuffing the bag puts strain on the zipper, making it harder to close and potentially reducing its lifespan. This isn’t a bag that rewards cramming in “just one more thing.” Instead, it encourages discipline in what you choose to bring.

Another consideration is long-term durability. While the ripstop nylon is designed to resist tearing, its thinness means it’s not immune to wear, especially from sharp or pointed objects. We didn’t encounter any issues during our testing period, but it’s something to be mindful of if you’re carrying items with hard edges.