We all know there are a lot of rules and regulations that come with air travel. From the TSA screening process to baggage restrictions, it can be difficult to keep up with what’s allowed and what’s not. One common question many travelers have is whether or not they can bring deodorant on a plane. The answer is yes, but there are some guidelines you need to follow. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bringing deodorant on a plane, including examining the different types of deodorant and discussing whether you can bring them in your carry-on or checked bag.
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Types of Deodorant and Antiperspirants
Before we dive into the TSA regulations, it’s important to note that there are different types of deodorant, including solid, roll-on, aerosol, gel, and powder. Each type of deodorant has its own unique properties and may be subject to different TSA regulations.
Solid
Solid deodorant typically comes in a stick form and is applied directly to the underarms. It is formulated with a waxy base that helps it stay in place and release active ingredients slowly throughout the day. Solid deodorants are often preferred by those who want a simple and effective solution that is easy to apply and can last for several hours.
Here are some examples of popular brands of solid deodorant:
Roll-On
Roll-on deodorant is a liquid that is applied to the underarms using a rollerball applicator. It is typically formulated with a mixture of water and active ingredients that are designed to dry quickly and provide long-lasting odor protection. Roll-on deodorants are often preferred by people who don’t want any white residue on their clothes and by those with sensitive skin, with many brands tending to be less irritating than other types of deodorants.
Here are some examples of popular brands of roll-on deodorant:
Aerosol
Aerosol deodorants come in a spray can and are applied by spraying the product onto the underarms. They typically contain a combination of alcohol, propellants, and active ingredients that are designed to evaporate quickly and provide long-lasting odor protection. Aerosol deodorants are often preferred by those who want a quick and easy application process and a light, refreshing scent.
Here are some examples of popular brands of aerosol deodorant:
Gel
Gel deodorants are similar to solid deodorants, but they have a gel-like consistency. After applying the gel, users will often wait for it to dry before getting dressed, which can be an inconvenience for people who are in a hurry. Gel deodorants are often preferred by those who want a non-sticky formula that won’t leave white marks on their clothing.
Here are some examples of popular brands of gel deodorant:
Powder
Powder deodorants are a less common type of deodorant that comes in a powdered form. They are typically applied to the underarms using a powder puff or a brush and work by absorbing moisture and neutralizing odor-causing bacteria. Powder deodorants are often preferred by those who want a natural and non-irritating solution that is free from chemicals and fragrances.
Here are some examples of popular brands of powder deodorant:
Can You Bring Deodorant in Your Carry-On?
Yes, you can bring deodorant in your carry-on luggage on a plane. This includes solid, roll-on, aerosol, gel, and powder antiperspirants and deodorants. However, depending on the type of deodorant you are bringing with you there are some restrictions that you need to be aware of. Here is what you need to know.
Solid (stick) deodorants and powder deodorants can be packed in your carry-on luggage without any size restrictions.
Roll-on deodorants are also allowed in your carry-on luggage, but since the contents inside the roll-on applicator are liquid roll-on deodorants they must comply with the TSA’s liquid restrictions. This means that each container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less and all containers must fit in a clear, quart-sized bag.
Aerosol deodorants are permitted in your carry-on luggage on a plane. However, they must comply with the TSA’s liquid restrictions, just like roll-on deodorants, as there is liquid inside the container. This means that each container must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), and all containers must fit in a clear, quart-sized bag.
Gel deodorants are also allowed in your carry-on luggage, but similar to liquids, gels need to be in containers 3.4 ounces or smaller. All of the 3.4 ounce containers must fit in a sealed 1-quart, clear plastic, zip-top bag along with your other liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes, and only one plastic zip-top bag is permitted per passenger inside their carry-on luggage.
Can You Bring Deodorant in Your Checked Bag?
Unlike your carry-on luggage, you can place your antiperspirants and deodorants in your checked baggage without having to worry about size restrictions regardless of type (solid, roll-on, aerosol, gel, or powder). However, there are still a few things that you want to be aware of when packing these items.
As it relates to roll-on, aerosol, and gel deodorants, the FAA has limits on the total amount of restricted medicinal and toiletry articles, including aerosols, that can be included in checked baggage. The total amount per person cannot exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces), with the capacity of each container not exceeding 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces).
It’s important to make sure that your deodorant is packed properly in your checked bag. If you have an aerosol deodorant, for example, you’ll need to make sure that the container is not punctured or damaged in any way. This can cause the container to leak or even explode during the flight, which is not only messy but could also pose a safety hazard. In addition, the button or nozzle on permitted aerosol release devices must be protected by caps or other suitable means to prevent accidental release.
As for how I handle packing any gels, areosols, or liquids that I might have in my checked bag, I place them in a sealed plastic bag. I will often use a gallon-sized sealable freezer bag to accommodate larger-sized containers or multiple items. This helps to ensure that even if something should leak out of its container, the mess will be contained in the bag. I will place this bag in the middle of my suitcase surrounded by soft clothing to further minimize the chance of leakage that might occur from any accidental impacts when the bag is being moved by luggage handlers at the airport.
Can You Bring Deodorant on International Flights?
Generally speaking, you should be fine following the TSA’s rules regarding different types of deodorant in your checked or carry-on luggage since most countries have similar regulations to the TSA when it comes to deodorant. Speaking for myself, I have never had any issues with any deodorants or antiperspirants that I have had in my bags.
However, if you are traveling internationally leaving the United States going to another country and you have questions about an item, especially something that is expensive or you otherwise don’t want to lose, it is always best to reach out to the customs agency at your destination to ensure your items are allowed into the country.
If you are traveling to the United States from another country and you have questions about whether a specific item will be allowed into the United States you should reach out to U.S. Customs and Border Protection as they manage entry procedures into the U.S. They have information about prohibited and restricted items online. For questions about specific items, please contact CBP directly at https://www.cbp.gov/contact.
Final Thoughts
There are different types of deodorants and antiperspirants, including solid, roll-on, aerosol, gel, and powder. Each type has its own unique properties and is subject to different TSA regulations. Solid and powder deodorants have no size restrictions and can be packed in carry-on luggage. Roll-on, aerosol, and gel deodorants can also be brought on board in your carry-on, but they must comply with the TSA’s liquid restrictions, and their containers must fit in a clear, quart-sized bag. Regardless of type, deodorants can also be placed in checked baggage without having to worry about size restrictions. If you remember these simple tips you will be able to bring your favorite antiperspirant or deodorant along on your next trip without having to worry if you are in compliance with TSA rules.
