20 Liquids That You Can Travel With on Planes

person picking up luggage from an airport
Adobe Stock

Traveling by plane requires adherence to strict guidelines, especially for carrying liquids in hand luggage. The TSA enforces these rules to ensure safety, making it essential to know what is permitted. This guide provides a comprehensive list of 20 travel-approved liquids, helping you pack smarter and avoid hassles at security checkpoints. 

Understanding these guidelines saves time and prevents the inconvenience of discarding items. From personal care products to health essentials and food items, being aware of what’s allowed ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey. Let’s explore the specifics to enhance your travel experience and ensure compliance with TSA regulations.

Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo and conditioner
Adobe Stock

While full-sized bottles are not allowed, travel-sized containers of shampoo and conditioner are perfectly acceptable. These should be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and placed in a clear, quart-sized bag. Many brands offer these sizes specifically for travelers, ensuring you maintain your hair care routine on the go.

Liquid Soap

Hands using liquid soap
Adobe Stock

Liquid soap is another essential you can carry in a travel-friendly size. Whether it’s hand soap or body wash, ensuring it’s under the liquid limit allows you to stay fresh and clean throughout your journey without compromising on hygiene.

Toothpaste

Toothpaste and toothbrush
Adobe Stock

Toothpaste is considered a liquid under TSA guidelines. Opt for travel-sized tubes to stay within the allowable limit. Maintaining oral hygiene is crucial, and these small tubes are both convenient and compliant with airport security regulations.

Perfume and Cologne

woman sniffing perfume in a store
Adobe Stock

Perfume and cologne can also be taken on board, provided they meet the size requirements. Smaller bottles or travel-sized sprays are ideal. This way, you can keep smelling fresh and delightful without any issues at security checkpoints.

Hand Sanitizer

Woman using hand sanitizer on a plane
Adobe Stock

Due to ongoing health concerns, hand sanitizer in containers up to 12 ounces is currently allowed. This exception helps travelers maintain hygiene easily. Keep this handy in your carry-on for frequent use during your travels.

Prescription Medications

Person packing medications in a bag
Adobe Stock

Liquid medications are permitted in reasonable quantities that you need for the duration of your flight. It’s recommended to carry them in their original packaging and have a prescription note handy if possible, to avoid any confusion at security.

Contact Lens Solution

Woman applying contact lens solution to her contacts
Adobe Stock

For contact lens wearers, solutions are essential and allowed in carry-on luggage. Ensure the bottle is within the size limit to keep your lenses clean and comfortable during your trip.

Liquid Vitamins and Supplements

Woman taking supplements
Adobe Stock

Liquid vitamins and supplements are permitted as long as they follow the same size restrictions. Packing these ensures you stay on top of your health regimen while traveling.

Baby Formula

Baby formula
Adobe Stock

Parents can bring baby formula, breast milk, and juice for infants in reasonable quantities. These items are exempt from the 3.4-ounce rule but should be declared at security checkpoints. This ensures that your baby’s nutritional needs are met throughout the journey.

Juice Boxes

Apple juice
Adobe Stock

Juice boxes for kids are another exception to the liquid rule. These are allowed in carry-on baggage, making it easier to keep your little ones hydrated and happy on the flight.

Alcoholic Beverages

Wine bottle in a suitcase
Adobe Stock

Small bottles of alcohol, typically those found on planes, are permitted as long as they fit within the quart-sized bag. It’s important to remember that you can’t consume your own alcohol on the plane, but having them in your carry-on is allowed.

Water Bottles (After Security)

Close-up plastic bottle of water on a trolley in airport
Adobe Stock

Empty water bottles can be taken through security and filled up at water stations on the other side. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during long flights, and this tip helps avoid buying expensive bottled water at the airport.

Eye Drops

Person holding several eye drops
Adobe Stock

Eye drops are essential for many travelers, especially those with dry eyes. These are allowed in small bottles and help keep your eyes comfortable and moist during flights.

Makeup and Cosmetics

makeup in an airport security bin
Adobe Stock

Liquid makeup products like foundation, mascara, and liquid eyeliner are permitted if they are within the size limit. Pack them in your quart-sized bag to keep up with your beauty routine on the go.

Nail Polish and Remover

Nail polish, polish remover and scissors
Adobe Stock

Nail polish and liquid nail polish remover are allowed, provided they meet the size criteria. These items help you keep your nails looking great, even while traveling.

Essential Oils

Essential oils in a travel case
Adobe Stock

Many travelers use essential oils for relaxation or health benefits. These are allowed in carry-on luggage if they are in small, properly sealed containers.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen on a beach towel
Adobe Stock

Sunscreen is a must-have, especially if you’re traveling to sunny destinations. Ensure it’s in a travel-sized container to protect your skin without any hassle at security.

Hair Products (Gels, Sprays, Oils) 

Carry-on luggage
Adobe Stock

Hair gels, sprays, and oils can be brought on board if they comply with the liquid restrictions. Ensure these products are in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. This allows you to maintain your hairstyle and keep your hair looking its best throughout your trip, whether you’re heading to a business meeting or a vacation.

Deodorant (Liquid or Gel) 

Woman choosing deodorant in a store
Adobe Stock

Liquid or gel deodorants are considered liquids under TSA rules. Bring travel-sized versions to stay fresh without any security concerns. These compact sizes are convenient and ensure you remain confident and odor-free throughout your journey.

Food Items (Sauces, Dips, Yogurts) 

Fast food sauce packets
Adobe Stock

Certain food items like sauces, dips, and yogurts are allowed in small quantities. These can make your in-flight meal more enjoyable, adding a touch of home to your travel snacks. Just be sure they adhere to the liquid rules and are stored in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less to pass through security smoothly.

Final Thoughts

Items in an airport security bin
Adobe Stock

To streamline your travel experience, always pack liquids in a clear, resealable quart-sized bag. Consider purchasing travel-sized versions of your favorite products or transferring them into TSA-approved containers. Understanding and following these guidelines ensures a smoother journey through airport security, allowing you to focus on enjoying your trip.

For more travel tips and hacks, visit our website and explore our resources to enhance your next adventure.

Scroll to Top