Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set review (2026): is it worth it?
Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set
Sennelier makes some of the best watercolor paint in the world. La Petite Aquarelle is their travel-sized version, and the paint quality is a clear step above the other travel sets on this list.
- Honey-based formula rewets incredibly smoothly
- Professional-quality paint in travel format
- Colors mix beautifully
- At $40-55, priciest travel set on this list
- About the size of a small novel, not pocket-sized
What's in the box
The Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set by Sennelier is priced at $40-55. It includes a set of watercolor paints in a portable case along with Sennelier's standard accessories. The packaging is well thought out and protects the pans during transport.
My testing experience
I used the Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set across multiple painting sessions over two weeks. I painted a landscape wash, a botanical detail study, and a color mixing chart with it (the same three subjects I use for every kit). Scored 8.5/10 overall.
Paint quality
Paint quality is good for the price. Colors are bright, blend reasonably well, and rewet without too much effort. Not quite at the level of professional-grade sets like Schmincke, but solid for what you're paying.
Portability and design
The Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set is designed for portability and it delivers. The case is compact, the closure is secure, and it fits in a bag without taking up much space. I've carried it on outdoor painting sessions without issues.
Value for money
At $40-55, the Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set is good value for what you get. Honey-based formula rewets incredibly smoothly is the main thing going for it at this price point.
Pros and cons
- Honey-based formula rewets incredibly smoothly
- Professional-quality paint in travel format
- Colors mix beautifully
- At $40-55, priciest travel set on this list
- About the size of a small novel, not pocket-sized
How it compares
Here are some similar kits worth considering alongside the Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set:
- Schmincke Horadam Half Pan Set (9.5/10) — $80-150, best for professionals
- Daniel Smith Essentials Set (9/10) — $45-55, best for serious beginners
- Tobio's Watercolor Kit (8.5/10) — $30-40, best for best all-in-one portable kit
Who should buy this
The Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set is a good fit for plein air travel painters. I recommend it without hesitation in its category.
Sennelier makes some of the best watercolor paint in the world. La Petite Aquarelle is their travel-sized version, and the paint quality is a clear step above the other travel sets on this list. At $40-55, it is good value for plein air travel.
The Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set by Sennelier includes watercolor paints in a carry case. The exact contents vary by version, so check the Amazon listing for the full breakdown.
The Sennelier La Petite Aquarelle Travel Set is designed for plein air travel. Beginners might want to start with something more entry-level like the Van Gogh Pocket Box or Tobio's kit, then upgrade later.
Amazon typically has the best price at $40-55. I check prices across a few retailers when I update these reviews, and Amazon has been consistently competitive.