Preparing your toiletry bag for a plane can be a real headache, especially when faced with the many regulations. What can you take in the cabin? What products are prohibited? The security rules for cabin baggage are strict, especially for liquids and certain personal care items. In this article, we present a complete guide to the items allowed and prohibited on planes so that your toiletry bag complies with the standards, while containing the essentials for a comfortable flight.
1. Understand the safety rules for liquids in the cabin
Airline regulations regarding liquids are the strictest, and it is important to understand them well to avoid unpleasant surprises during security checks. Here are the basic rules:
a) Containers of 100 ml maximum
All liquids, gels and paste products (such as creams and balms) must be placed in containers of 100 ml or less. If you have a 150 ml bottle even partially filled, it will be confiscated at the checkpoint.
b) Total volume of 1 liter
Containers of liquids must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. This bag must be able to be closed without being overloaded.
(c) Accessibility for control
To make it easier to get through security, place your bag of liquids in an outside pocket of your carry-on baggage to easily remove it. You will need to place it separately on the security belt for inspection.
2. Items permitted in the cabin toiletry bag
Some products are allowed in the cabin, provided that the volume rules are respected. Here is a list of the permitted toiletries and some tips for optimizing the space in your bag.
a) Personal hygiene products
- Toothpaste : In a tube of 100 ml maximum, toothpaste is permitted in the cabin.
- Deodorant : Solid stick deodorants are allowed, but spray deodorants must respect the 100 ml limit.
- Wipes : Wet wipes, unlike liquids, are not subject to volume restrictions and are therefore ideal for freshening up in flight.
- Disposable Razor : Disposable razors are generally permitted, provided they are packaged.
b) Skin and facial care products
- Moisturizing cream : In a tube of 100 ml maximum, to moisturize your skin during the flight.
- Lip Balm : Solid lip balms are not considered liquids, making them perfect for air travel.
- Lens solution : Lens solutions are permitted, provided the 100 ml limit is respected.
- Physiological serum : Very practical for hydrating the nose and eyes, serum in doses is authorized.
c) Makeup
- Mascara and liquid foundation : Considered liquids, they must be less than 100 ml.
- Compact powder and lipstick : Allowed without restriction, as they are not liquid.
3. Objects prohibited in the cabin
Certain products are strictly prohibited in cabin baggage. Here is a list of items to avoid in order to prepare a toiletry bag that complies with safety regulations.
a) Large-capacity aerosols and sprays
Deodorants, perfumes, or hair sprays with a capacity greater than 100 ml are prohibited. Only small bottles are allowed, and it is preferable to favor stick deodorants.
b) Sharp or pointed objects
- Large scissors : Only small scissors with blades less than 6 cm are permitted in the cabin.
- Tweezers and nail clippers : Small tweezers and nail clippers are generally permitted, but check the airline's specific restrictions.
c) Bottles of liquids larger than 100 ml
Large-sized care products (body cream, shampoo, shower gel) should be avoided in the cabin. Transfer your liquids into smaller containers to stay within the standards.
4. Tips for optimizing your airplane toiletry bag
Preparing a compliant toiletry bag while keeping your essentials is possible with a few tips. Here's how to optimize space and comply with regulations.
a) Use travel containers
Invest in 100ml travel bottles to transfer your liquid products, such as shampoo, shower gel or makeup remover. This saves space and complies with restrictions.
b) Opt for solid products
Solid products don't have the same volume restrictions as liquids, making them ideal for travelers. Here are some convenient solid alternatives:
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Solid shampoo : In addition to saving space, it lasts longer.
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Solid soap : Replaces shower gel and prevents leaks in the kit.
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Solid deodorant : Compact and easy to carry, it is perfect for plane travel.
c) Prefer samples and miniatures
Using samples or miniature formats is a great trick to carry multiple products without exceeding the volume limit. Many brands offer mini versions of their products, which are ideal for travel.
5. Examples of toiletry bags for different types of travelers
To help you prepare a toiletry bag adapted to your specific needs, here are some examples based on the type of traveler you are.
a) For business travelers
Business travelers often look for convenient and essential products to stay fresh while traveling.
- Recommended contents : Mini toothpaste, deodorant stick, hand sanitizer gel, refreshing wipes, mini perfume.
- Tip : Place your skincare products in a clear pouch for quick exits through security.
b) For long-haul trips
Long flights can be tiring, and having products to maintain comfort and hydration is essential.
- Recommended contents : Lip balm, moisturizer, contact lens solution, travel toothbrush, wipes.
- Tip : Bring a small mist of thermal water (less than 100 ml) to hydrate your face during the flight.
c) For families with children
For families, preparing a toiletry bag for a plane becomes more complex, because it is necessary to provide products adapted to children.
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Recommended contents : Baby wipes, diaper cream (less than 100 ml), saline solution, hand sanitizer gel, small hairbrush.
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Tip : Divide adult and child products into separate pouches for convenience during checkout.
6. Tips for getting through security checks without any hassle
Although these rules may seem restrictive, it is possible to pass through security checks with complete peace of mind with these few tips:
- Organize your liquids in a clear bag : Place all your liquid products in a resealable plastic bag and put it in an outside pocket of your luggage.
- Prepare to take out the toiletry bag : Before arriving at the checkpoint, make sure that your toiletry bag is easily accessible to take it out quickly.
- Avoid questionable products : If you are unsure about a product, it is best to place it in the hold to avoid complications.
By following this guide, you can prepare a toiletry bag that complies with airline regulations while carrying all your essentials for a comfortable flight. Between the rules on liquids, prohibited products, and tips for maximizing space, you now have all the keys to passing through security without a hitch.