Rules for passenger beauty products
Packing a suitcase can be a real headache. You have to choose which outfits to take with you, and make sure that everything fits into a piece of luggage that complies with the airline's size and weight standards.
And don't forget your toiletry bag. If you use a lot of beauty products on a daily basis, you'll need to sort out what you need to take with you. Air transport regulations are very strict.
If you exceed the set thresholds, or carry unauthorized products, you'll simply have to dispose of them before boarding. So it's better to find out beforehand, rather than having to throw away expensive hygiene items.
You are free to take your toiletry bag in the cabin or in the hold, but the quantity of shampoo allowed will be different.
In the cabin
Before reaching your seat, you must go through the security check. Liquid or gel beauty products are permitted in small doses only. You cannot take your usual bottle of shampoo into the cabin.
Containers of liquids must not exceed 100 ml each, with a total limit of 1 liter per passenger.
In the hold
Standards for checked baggage are more generous, since the total weight of the suitcase is greater. You can take 500 ml bottles of shampoo, conditioner and other toiletries with you, up to a limit of 2 liters per passenger.
Practical tips for taking shampoo on the plane
What containers should you use for your liquid toiletries?
You can easily find kits specially designed for cabin travel. But if you want to take your own hygiene products with you, buy small empty bottles. Simply fill them with your shampoo and conditioner before you leave.
Glass bottles are more environmentally friendly, but carry a risk of breakage. Opting for refillable plastic containers remains an eco-responsible choice compared to single-use kits, especially if you travel frequently.
Make sure you block the opening of the pump bottle to avoid spills in your suitcase. It's even more important to pack your hygiene products properly if you're putting them in your checked luggage. Your toiletry kit will be exposed to the various handling processes at the airport: conveyor belt, transfer...
Which toiletry bag is best?
Due to baggage restrictions, the space available in your suitcase is limited. It's best to leave your big vanity case at home. Hanging toiletry bags offer a good alternative for keeping everything compartmentalized.
However, to make it easier to identify contents during inspection operations, it's best to opt for a small, transparent model, around 20 cm x 20 cm.
Solid shampoo as an alternative to liquid products
Unlike liquid toiletries, solid cosmetics are not subject to air transport restrictions, either in the cabin or in the hold.
It's an excellent alternative if you're taking a flight for a long trip and your 100 ml bottle won't be enough. On average, a solid soap is equivalent to 2 large bottles of liquid shampoo. Solid conditioners are also available.
You can use a simple cloth case to carry your wet shampoo bar, or choose a rigid soap box that's waterproof and shockproof.
Dry shampoo is also an interesting option for air travel. It's a powdered solution that allows you to space out wet shampoos by absorbing excess sebum.
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