What makes a good travel watercolor palette?+
Four things: weight under 300g, a secure closure that won't open in a bag, a built-in mixing area (even a small lid), and paint that rewets fast. The Koi and Cotman both hit all four. The Schmincke adds professional pigments on top.
Can I refill travel palette pans with tube paint?+
Yes — all half-pan slots fit standard half-pan sized dried tube paint. Squeeze a small amount of tube paint into an empty pan, let it dry for 48 hours, and it rewets and behaves exactly like a pan color. This is how I upgrade budget travel sets.
Is a water brush or a regular brush better for travel?+
For quick sketching, a water brush wins — no water container needed, no dripping. For more deliberate work outdoors, I bring a size 10 round brush and a small jar. The Koi set includes a water brush; if your palette doesn't, the Pentel Aquash is the best standalone option.
How many colors do I need in a travel palette?+
12 is enough if they're the right 12. I painted with a 12-pan Cotman for a year of travel and mixed everything I needed. 24 gives you convenience — fewer mixes for common colors. More than 24 in a travel set is usually unnecessary weight.