17 TSA Toiletry Hacks

Fortunately or unfortunately the TSA has put into place rules that drastically affect the way we pack toiletries for Europe. Specifically, how we pack our liquids, gels, and aerosols.

As of 9/26/06 the rules basically state that all carry on toiletries (liquid, gels, or aerosols) must be in 3 ounce bottles or smaller AND these bottles must all be contained within a clear quart size zip top bag.

As soon as you attempt this exercise in frustration you may realize that you are more high maintenance than you thought. It's pretty frightening to account for all the lotions and potions required on a daily basis. TSA guidelines do provide exceptions for breast milk, formula, and prescription drugs; double check the site for specifics.

If you simply cannot cram all your toiletries into the mandated quart size Ziploc bag you can always check your luggage. However, a Travelista will always try to pack light which means carrying on your luggage with you on the airplane.

Alternatives to toiletries that come in the traditional gel, liquid, or aerosol form are available. Best of all, these don't have to be displayed for all to see in your Ziploc bag. Other toiletry items can be found in 3 oz. sizes on websites such as Drugstore.com, Beauty.com, Sephora.com, and minimus.biz.

Another option is to only pack your absolute bare essentials and once you arrive at your destination buy all the liquid and gel based toiletries your little heart desires.

Tips for getting around TSA rules for toiletries
1. Makeup wipes replace liquid facial soap
2. Tooth powders and dental mitts can be used instead of toothpaste
3. Effervescent tablets can be used instead of mouthwash
4. Antibacterial wipes instead of sanitizing gel
5. Hair Bars replace shampoo and / or conditioners
6. Baby shampoo can be used as a body wash as well (double duty)
7. All in one shampoo & conditioners do double duty
8. Natural products such as Dr. Bronners Organic liquid soap (shampoo, body wash, and mouthwash) & Campsuds (shampoo, body wash, laundry wash) serve multiple uses
9. Lotion wipes provide an alternative to lotion
10. Mineral powder foundation can replace liquid foundation and concealer
11. Facial moisturizers with sunscreen serve double duty
12. Good old fashioned bar soap can replace shower gel
13. Hair Powder (Aveda)/ Hair wax can replace styling gel or hair spray
14. Cake mascara instead of liquid mascara
15. Lipstick ,lip gloss pencils, or lip balms instead of liquid lip gloss
16. Solid deodorant, deodorant pads, or wipes instead of gel or aerosol deodorant
17. Sunscreen wipes instead of sunscreen lotion

For more Beauty tips check out Travelista.com