The Transportation Security Administration has applied the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage since 2006. Under the 3-1-1 rule, travelers may bring liquids in containers that are 3.4 ounces or smaller ("3") in a clear quart-size plastic bag ("1") and each passenger is allowed only one plastic bag ("1").
TSA's 3-1-1 rule applies to liquids, creams, gels, pastes and aerosols. Health and beauty items that you may use every day at home like sunscreen, soap, lotion, hair products, makeup, shampoo and conditioner may not make the cut.
Rather than packing your entire skin care and hair care routine into a checked bag or crossing your fingers for decent-performing hotel toiletries, we've rounded up 15 health and beauty items that pass the TSA's 3-1-1 rule with flying colors. Some fall within the 3.4-ounce requirement and some aren't considered a liquid at all (yes, toothpaste tabs are a real thing).
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream
CeraVe Moisturizing Cream ($7.99) is a master of multitasking that can be used to relieve dryness on the face, hands and body. This dermatologist-developed cream is gentle enough that it won't irritate skin or clog pores and is long-lasting enough to help skin retain moisture for a full 24 hours. Keep it close by if you have a long flight in your future to combat the effects of dry air in flight.
Lush Toothpaste Tabs
There are a lot of reasons to love Lush Toothpaste Tabs ($12). They are primarily made with natural ingredients, have a minty orange flavor and come in a convenient recycled (and recyclable) container. When you are ready to brush, crunch one tablet up between your teeth and brush as usual with a wet toothbrush. You'll have minty-fresh breath and more space in your carry-on for liquids.
Rare Beauty Bronzer Stick
Rare Beauty Bronzer Stick's ($23) creamy (i.e., not considered a liquid by TSA) formula blends effortlessly into your skin, providing as little or as much face-sculpting, sun-kissed warmth as you want. Even better, you can use your fingers to blend this never-greasy, water-resistant bronzer and leave the bronzer brush at home.
Lush Shampoo Bar
This compact, solid Lush Shampoo Bar ($14.50) is exempt from the TSA liquids rule and better for the environment than purchasing miniature toiletries every time you travel. Just one Lush Shampoo Bar replaces up to three 250-millimeter bottles of liquid shampoo. This convenient alternative to traditional shampoo comes in a variety of scents, but we love that this citrus option adds volume and shine while it cleanses.
Subtl Makeup Stack
Each Subtl Makeup Stack ($12 and up) is a fully customizable "stack" of makeup pods that are space-saving, multifunctional and travel-ready. You can choose from pre-made stacks or design your own with products for face, eyes and lips, plus accessories like travel brushes, a makeup mirror and a brush cleaner.
Tula Glow & Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye Balm
Tula Glow & Get It Cooling & Brightening Eye Balm ($30) is made with probiotic extracts, caffeine and superfoods to combat puffiness and dark circles by hydrating and energizing post-red-eye-flight eyes. This eye balm also provides an instant cooling effect and helps to brighten the under-eye area.
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Supergoop SPF Starter Kit
The Supergoop! SPF Starter Kit ($25, regularly $42.88) comes with three sun-protection products for the face and body in a convenient reusable pouch. Inside, you'll find Supergoop bestsellers that provide moisture and a dewy glow in TSA-compliant packaging that is 1 ounce or smaller.
Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks
Tired eyes are a common byproduct of long travel days. Keep a pair of Wander Beauty Baggage Claim Gold Eye Masks ($26) in your carry-on to rehydrate and invigorate dull, puffy eyes before you set out to explore your destination. If you feel so moved, snap a selfie of your "GoldenEye" moment — self-care never looked so good.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm
A good makeup-removing balm should be strong enough to take off even the most stubborn waterproof makeup without irritating skin. Neutrogena Makeup Remover Melting Balm ($10.87) easily melts away makeup and soothes skin with nourishing vitamin E. The 2-ounce package is TSA-compliant and small enough to fit in any carry-on.
Supergoop (Re)setting SPF Mineral Powder
If you've already done your makeup for the day, you don't want to ruin it by slathering on another layer of sunscreen. The solution you need is Supergoop (Re)Setting SPF Mineral Powder ($30). This 100% mineral powder provides skin with SPF 35 protection, while mattifying shine and setting makeup, and the all-in-one packaging is perfect for travel.
Gilette Venus Travel Razor
All disposable and cartridge razors are allowed in carry-on baggage per TSA guidelines, but the compact size and on-the-go storage case of the Gilette Venus Travel Razor ($14.99) make it more convenient for travel. This triple-blade razor with built-in moisturizers far surpasses any razor you will find in a hotel gift shop.
CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Removing Wipes
CeraVe Hydrating Makeup Removing Wipes ($9.97) cleanse and hydrate simultaneously without aggravating sensitive skin. These wipes are gentle enough for all skin types and are more convenient than balms or liquid makeup removers when you are on a flight or out and about.
Malin + Goetz Starter Kit
If you jump with joy every time you step into a hotel room with Malin + Goetz toiletries, you can now have a set of your very own. The Malin + Goetz Starter Kit ($33.91) comes with six, 1-ounce tubes of its fan-favorite products for cleansing and moisturizing from head to toe.
TSA-Approved Toiletry Kit
This TSA-Approved Toiletry Kit ($28.99, regular price $32.99) takes the guesswork out of packing TSA-approved toiletries. Organized into one convenient travel pouch, this 20-piece kit comes with everything you need for hair care, skin care, first aid and more. They even threw in some Tic Tacs for fresh breath.
Aesop Departure Travel Kit
The Aesop Departure Travel Kit ($79.99) comes with seven of Aesop's most popular items that smell great and perform well — two qualities you shouldn't need to sacrifice just because you are traveling. They are also convenient for use while in transit. The toothpaste and mouthwash keep your breath minty fresh, the moisturizers are soothing and hydrating, and the rinse-free hand wash doesn't even require water.
Bottom line
If you have a robust health and beauty routine, it may seem impossible to bring everything you need while sticking to the TSA's 3-1-1 guidelines for liquids. With these travel-friendly products, you'll have plenty of space for all of your favorite products and room leftover to try a few new ones.
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
