Rules regarding passengers’ cosmetics
Packing your suitcase can quickly become a headache. You need to choose which outfits to take and make sure everything fits into a bag that complies with the airline’s size and weight restrictions.
You mustn’t overlook your toiletries bag either. If you use a lot of beauty products on a daily basis, you’ll need to sort through them to take only the bare essentials. This is because air travel regulations are very strict.
If you exceed the set limits or are carrying unauthorised products, you’ll simply have to dispose of them before boarding. It’s therefore best to check the rules in advance rather than having to throw away toiletries, some of which can be quite expensive.
You’re free to take your toiletries bag into the cabin or check it in, but the permitted amount of shampoo will differ.
In the cabin
Before taking your seat, you must go through security screening. Liquid or gel-based toiletries are only permitted in small quantities. You cannot take your usual bottle of shampoo into the cabin.
Containers holding liquids must not exceed 100 ml each, with a total limit of 1 litre per passenger.
In the hold
The rules for checked-in luggage are more generous, as the total permitted weight of your suitcase is higher. You may take bottles of shampoo, conditioner and other toiletries, with a capacity of 500 ml, up to a limit of 2 litres per passenger.
Practical tips for taking shampoo on a plane
What containers should you use for your liquid toiletries?
You can easily find kits specially designed for carry-on travel. But if you’d prefer to take your own toiletries, get some small empty bottles. Simply fill them with your shampoo and conditioner before you set off.
Glass bottles are more environmentally friendly, but there is a risk of them breaking. Opting for refillable plastic containers remains an eco-friendly choice compared to single-use kits, especially if you travel frequently.
Make sure you secure the pump dispenser properly to prevent spills in your suitcase. It’s even more important to pack your toiletries securely if you’re putting them in your hold luggage. This is because your toiletries bag will be exposed to various handling processes at the airport: conveyor belts, transfers, etc.
Which toiletries bag should you choose?
Due to luggage restrictions, the space available in your suitcase is limited. It’s best to leave your large vanity case at home. Hanging toiletries bags offer a good alternative for organising everything into separate compartments.
However, bear in mind that to make it easier to identify the contents during security checks, it’s best to opt for a small, transparent model, measuring around 20 cm x 20 cm.
Solid shampoo as an alternative to liquid products
Unlike liquid toiletries, solid cosmetics are not subject to air travel restrictions, whether carried in the cabin or in the hold.
This is an excellent alternative if you’re taking a flight for a long-haul journey where your 100 ml bottle won’t be enough. On average, a bar of solid soap is equivalent to two large bottles of liquid shampoo. Solid conditioners are also available.
You can either use a simple fabric pouch to carry your shampoo bar whilst it’s still damp, or opt for a rigid soap box that’s waterproof and shock-resistant.
Dry shampoo is also a good option for your flight. It’s a powder-based solution that helps you space out your regular washes by absorbing excess oil.
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