How to Pack Toiletries for Airplane Travel

Packing toiletries for airplane travel may seem simple, but it takes planning and effort to keep things organized. Good packing prevents extra luggage weight and spills, which could add to the frustration of the airport boarding process. It is equally important that your toiletry packing meets the air travel packaging regulations set by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

Instructions

1

Decide what toiletries you need. This is a personal choice, but it can depend on where you are travelling. If you are going to stay at high-end hotels, you will be provided with sachets of soap and shampoo. If you're traveling on a budget, or if you are visiting developing countries, you may have to bring the necessities. Some basic travel toiletries include hand soap, shampoo, toothpaste and brush, comb, compact mirror, travel towels and first-aid kit. Carry your prescription medicines along with prescription information.

2

Stick to TSA packing guidelines. You must carry all liquids, aerosols and gels in containers of 3.4 ounce (100 ml) capacity or smaller. Gels such as lip gloss, deodorants, and liquids such as toothpaste and lotion must be in bottles or packages that clearly read 3.4 ounces. Note that you cannot carry large containers that are half-filled, or rolled-up toothpaste tubes.

3

Place all your gels, aerosols and liquid toiletry items in a transparent, 1-quart plastic bag with zip-top. Non-zip-top bags such as sandwich bags that can be folded over or gallon-size bags are against TSA rules. Only one, 1-quart clear plastic bag with zip-top is allowed per traveler.

4

Understand that in case of medical items, TSA offers some exemptions for certain travelers provided there is no suspicious activity or items. You can carry more than 3.4 ounces of liquid, gel and aerosol forms of all prescription and over-the-counter medicines for medical reasons. In such a case you would have to separate these medicines from other gels, aerosols and liquids in the zip-top bag, report to the security officer at the checkpoint, and present these items for additional screening.