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How to Travel with Makeup and Skincare: 12 Dos and Don'ts

@calpak / Instagram

Preparing your makeup for traveling is not an endeavor to be taken lightly. After all, with TSA regulations and baggage handlers who don't care that you have a fragile, limited-edition makeup palette in your suitcase, it's a rather harrowing experience for your beauty products. Okay, so we're being slightly hyperbolic. Packing a travel makeup bag isn't exactly a quest on par with throwing the One Ring into the fires of Mount Doom, but it can be tricky. Should you pack that eyeshadow you've never worn before but could suddenly be struck with a need for? What's the best way to travel with a liquid foundation? And seriously, when will we learn how to pack makeup for a flight?

To answer these questions (and more), we turned to celebrity makeup artists Mary Irwin, Gabriel De Santino, and Jamie Greenberg.

Meet the Expert

Mary Irwin is a celebrity makeup artist based in New York City and the co-founder of The Makeup Standard .
Gabriel De Santino is a makeup artist and founder of Gabriel Cosmetics .
Jamie Greenberg is a Los Angeles-based celebrity makeup artist.

Invest in a Padded Makeup Bag

According to Irwin, investing in a padded makeup bag like the Away Large Toiletry Bag ($75), which will help keep all of your precious products safe. Also, when packing your carry-on, she says to put the makeup bag in the middle of your case and surround it with soft items (like clothing). "This assures that it's well-padded and you won't arrive with an explosion of eyeshadow," she says.

Greenberg concurs, saying a padded bag "will protect all of your palettes, lipsticks and other delicate (and often expensive) makeup products, so they don’t break while in transit."

Save Space By Packing Palettes

" When traveling, pack palettes [versus single eyeshadow pans] to save space and give you options for both day and night looks," says Irwin. Sigma Beauty's Ritzy Eyeshadow Palette ($25) hits all the notes—a mix of mattes, shimmers, and metallics allows you to build multiple looks without taking up a ton of space in your bag. And, if you're a frequent traveler, peep the brand's On-The-Go Eyeshadow Palette Set ($87), which contains every color you could possibly need (because let's be real, we need options).

Customize With Magnetic Palettes

Traveling with palettes only makes sense if you know you're going to be using all of the shades. If you'd rather pick and choose which shades to travel with, Irwin suggests using a magnetic palette that you can customize yourself. Try The Pro Palette ($25)—you can build and refill with the exact pans you'd like (translation: you won't be stuck with colors you won't use).

Always Pack Travel-Sized Products in a Carry-On

De Santino has some sound advice when it comes to packing your liquids: Always use a carry-on. "I always like to keep my makeup and skincare in my carry-on, so I stick to solids and travel sizes for all liquids. You'll be able to retouch before you de-board the plane, and worst-case scenario, if your luggage gets lost, at least you'll still be able to wash your face and throw some makeup on to feel a little better," he says.

Irwin agrees, adding that makeup products are delicate and baggage handlers tend to want to make a 50-yard pass with your suitcase. "Protect your makeup investment and make sure it gets there with you," she says.

Pack Multipurpose Products

"I like to use traveling as an excuse to streamline and stick to crossover products, like my Multi-Pots and Gabriel Cream Highlighter ($21), which can be used on eyes, cheeks, and lips," he says. Packing products that don't require the use of brushes is also a good idea not only for space purposes, but this will also preserve the life of your brushes, as being cramped up in travel bags is not ideal.

Pre-Plan Your Makeup Looks

That baby blue liquid liner you've been meaning to test for the last year? It likely has no space in your travel makeup bag. Before you pack, De Santino suggests actually planning out your looks and assess what actually needs to come with you. That being said, this doesn't mean you can't have fun with your makeup looks while abroad. For example, if you know feathery brows are on the horizon, be smart about your picks: a pack a dual-sided brow product like Kevyn Aucoin True Feather Brow Marker Gel Duo ($32), which will set your brows in place on no-makeup makeup days and help you achieve the fluffy brow trend on more adventurous days.

Use Refillable Travel Containers

If you'd rather remain loyal to your beauty products (versus going with the unknown at a hotel), investing in leak-proof travel containers is a safe bet. There's nothing this one from Palette by Pak ($39) can't store—from liquids and oils to creams and even your face powder, this five-piece container lets you bring your favorites on the go.

DIY Your Travel Containers With a Contact Lens Case

Rather DIY it? De Santino says to put your lotions, serums, and any other liquids, like foundation, into a contact lens cases. "They look tiny but can hold a surprisingly large amount of product and seal up really well, so you don't have to worry about spills in your bag," he says.

Protect Your Powder Compacts With a Cotton Pad

"If traveling with powder compacts, ensure they arrive intact by placing a cotton pad (or, if you still have the puff that came with it) inside and pack on the top of your makeup bag. Pad the top of your bag with additional cotton pad for extra cushion," De Santino says.

Preserve Your Looks With a Makeup Refresher Spray

Travel schedules are busy and sometimes hectic, so it's helpful to have something on hand to refresh your makeup when you're running from A to B. Too Faced's Travel Size Hangover 3-in-1 Replenishing Primer & Setting Spray ($18) spray hydrates and brightens both bare skin and foundation whenever the jet lag kicks in, as well as sets makeup to keep it in place, no matter what's on your itinerary. (Not to mention, it's the perfect pick-me-up on the airplane.)

Invest in Multi-Purpose Products

"Multitasking products are my absolute favorite for traveling," says Greenberg. "Ultimately, you’ll have less to pack and more room for other essentials, or souvenirs to bring home from your travels." Greenberg recommends a combination tinted moisturizer-SPF product like Younique's BARE·YOU BB Tinted Moisturizer+ SPF 30 ($46). "It's perfect for when you are on the go. Your skin is protected with a SPF 30 mineral zinc sunscreen, plus it is tinted, so it gives a more even-toned appearance," she says. "I also love it because the formula adds an added boost of moisture, with ceramides that hydrate skin and reduce trans-epidermal water loss."

Categorize Your Products

One surefire way to cut back on the number of products you pack (and therefore keep the essentials safe while in transit)? Pack in categories. "Separate your makeup by skin, face, eyes, lips," Greenberg says. "Then try to reduce one product per category, to help save space."

The Ultimate Guide to Travel Makeup (with Printable Checklist)

TOILETRIES , Travel Beauty Tips , Travel Makeup

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Even minimalists occasionally love to bring a bag of travel makeup with them for nights out or just for a simple look during the day. Keep reading to find out our tips for packing travel makeup.

Travel Makeup

Table of contents.

Not every woman wears makeup, and some of us can’t live without it. The truth is that styled hair and fresh-faced makeup truly add the finishing touch to create a polished appearance.

That’s the real secret to chic style. It doesn’t matter how perfect your travel wardrobe looks if these other factors are missing.

You’ll want to look your best when you travel! Read my travel tips to Pack Light Stylishly !

Now this doesn’t mean that you need to bring your entire beauty cabinet on a trip or start using makeup if that’s not your thing. It’s just a reminder not to skip out on it if you use it at home, and to bring along essential items that enhance your features for a natural, up-to-date look.

Let’s review some basic tips on how to minimize the amount of products you pack!

A few quick things to note:

Products such as mascara, eyeliner, blush, and lip color are the most visually enhancing products, and therefore give you the biggest bang for your buck.
Items you may want to consider skipping include multiple eye shadow palettes (choose just one), primers (for the eyes and face), lip liners, and false eyelashes.
Alternatively, choose one feature and play it up! Use a bright lip color for instant femininity or focus on creating bright, flirty eyes.

Keep it simple!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

What Defines a Product as Travel Makeup?

What makeup can i take on a plane, what’s the best travel makeup bag, how do you keep your liquid makeup products from leaking, how to choose and pack makeup for travel, step 1: make a plan, step 2: eliminate the non-essentials, step 3: focus on duplicates and multi-use products, step 4: focus on quantity, step 5: downsize.

Now, let’s look at a few steps to take to nail down your travel makeup bag.

While we can pack just about any makeup product in our suitcase, some items are more practical than others for travel. A few features that make a product ideal for travel is:

It’s compact and smaller than 3 ounces. As proponents of carryon traveling, we recommend sticking to liquid makeup in reusable travel containers less than 3 ounces. Even if you’re traveling for several months, 3 ounces can go a long way, especially for foundation.
It’s in a durable container. The last thing you want is your makeup crumbling or spilling onto your clothing. Your makeup for travel should be in a container that won’t easily open, leak, or shatter. These are the best containers for liquid beauty products .
It’s easy to apply. The best travel makeup is easy to apply on the go. Having to pack sponges and brushes to apply foundation or concealer takes up more space in your toiletry bag.
It doesn’t require touchups. When you’re exploring a new city, it’s no fun having to reapply your concealer or touch up your eyeliner . The best travel makeup is long-lasting so you can apply once and you’re set for the day.

One of the most important things to know before you start planning for your trip is what you are allowed to bring in your suitcase. The makeup you can take on a plane depends on whether or not you are checking your luggage.

Image Source: US Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

For cabin or carryon makeup: Airlines require that liquid products be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and all bottles must fit in a clear quart size ziplock bag when traveling with a carryon. Makeup products that need to be inside the quart size ziplock bag include liquids, gels, and creams. This is called the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule .

Clear Travel Toiletry Bag

For checked toiletries: Items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters (regardless of amount) should be in checked baggage. Visit this TSA page to find out exactly what items are allowed in a checked bag.

These guidelines are for US-based airlines. However, these tend to be the general guidelines across all airlines. For specific items, always check the website of the airline or contact them and ask them directly.

Avoid using liquids by using solid toiletries , liquid-free makeup gloves , and these wipes instead of liquid makeup remover.

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

Along with choosing the best travel makeup, you’ll want a makeup bag to hold it all. We love Travel Smart’s travel cosmetic bags , which are made of clear vinyl material so you can quickly and easily locate a needed item, with a separate mesh compartment so you can organize your skincare and makeup. Alternatively, you can also try this makeup organizer from Ms. J .

For more suggestions, read our article rounding up the five best travel cosmetics bags .

Tip: make sure that you keep the quart size ziplock bag (storing your carryon toiletries) accessible when you get to the airport. Once you get through security, place them back into your toiletry bag.

These are the best toiletry bags and you can download a toiletry checklist here .

You can also wrap your makeup bag in clothing and add to your packing cube in your suitcase to better protect it.

Leakproof Travel Bottles

Here’s a tip I shared on Oprah to help you prevent liquids from leaking in luggage: remove the cap from the bottle, place a small square of plastic wrap over the opening, and replace the cap.

The reason your bottles leak or explode on a flight is due to changes in air pressure. As the plane goes up, the pressure causes the bottle to compress (as if you were squeezing it with your hand). The plastic wrap acts as a seal to prevent leaks.

This is the reason why store bought travel size toiletries are never completely full. You need to allow a little bit of extra space so the liquids don’t get pushed out by the changes in pressure. (This is also the reason why your ears get plugged while flying.)

The solution: don’t fill your bottles all the way to the top. Instead, only fill them up 75%.

Follow the below step-by-step guide on how to pack toiletries to determine what you will and will not need to bring along with how to downsize items.

If you’re a makeup hoarder, chances are that your collection is bursting with foundations and blushes that you might not reach for often. Stripping down your collection to the key items you always count on can make more space and keep the clutter away. The first step to creating a capsule makeup collection is making a plan of what you need.

Lay out all your makeup products. Choose anything and everything you think you may need. What are your essentials? Go through the list and choose one of these options for each category.

Need, Want, Not required, Not applicable:

Highlighter
Eyebrow pencil
Eyelash curler
Oil absorbing wipes
Makeup brushes
And many more variations of the above!

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Consider any additional makeup products you use or don’t use, and then you can add or remove them from this list.

These are some of the best makeup products for travel according to our readers:

Best Longlasting Lipstick
Best Longlasting Concealers
Best Longlasting Foundation
Best Non-Smudge Eye Liner
Best Waterproof Mascara

Printable Makeup Checklist

Now that you’ve gone through the entire list of every possible makeup product you own, create two piles: one for items you don’t need to take and one for items you absolutely do.

When simplifying your list, make sure you pack all of the most essential travel beauty products and leave out the ones you don’t need.

For example:

Do you need three different eyeshadows or can you take along one small palette ?
Instead of packing mascara, could you get an eyelash lift before your trip?
Do you need to bring tweezers and eyebrow pencil or can you have them threaded or waxed before your trip?
Do you need a primer, foundation, and setting powder, or can you bring a mattifying, waterproof foundation ?

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Travel-size brushes are always an essential, but do you need to take all of them? Get creative with the way you apply your makeup! Use one brush for multiple products, or use your fingers, instead.

One of the best ways to minimize travel makeup is to choose multi-use products or items. Determine if there are any products you already own that that can work double-duty. Avoid makeup that’s similar in purpose or color and choose between two products that serve the same (or similar) purpose.

Depending on your coverage needs, your foundation could double as concealer. Or if you like brown eyeshadow, use your bronzer for dual purposes. For example:

Full coverage powder vs. foundation
Under eye highlighter vs. concealer
Lipstick vs. lip gloss
Bronzer vs. blush
Eyelash curler vs. mascara
Powder vs. oil absorbing wipes
Primer vs. concealer
Eye pencil vs. eyeshadow
Eyebrow pencil vs. eyeshadow

There are various multi-use products on the market that are absolutely great for travel:

Lip and cheek tints
Creamy makeup bars for eyes, cheeks, and lips
Powder foundation or full coverage foundation
Wet/dry powders (double as foundation)
Wet/dry eyeshadows (double as eye pencil)
Bronzer/blush duo
Tinted moisturizers with SPF
Double-ended makeup brushes

Or you can use a few long-term travel hacks like I do, such as:

Lip pencil as lipstick and blush
Eyeliner for the eyes and eyebrows
A moisturizer that works for day and night
A sunscreen that doubles as a makeup primer

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Who says a bronzer can’t be used as eyeshadow?

Stila Stay All Day Foundation Kit

Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need. Think about how much makeup you apply and how long you’ll be gone on your trip.

Have you ever paid attention to how much foundation you use? You may only need to take a few drops. Likewise, a travel-size lip gloss or mascara may suffice for the duration of your trip.

Start by looking at the length of your trip. Make note of how much product you use for the duration of that time. Now that you know what items you absolutely have to pack, it’s time to determine how much of them you actually need.

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Instead of packing full-size eyebrow pencils or lip liners, see if you have any half-used products lying around. They’ll take up less space!

Round Clear Jars

Now it’s time to start the downsizing process. Choose appropriate travel containers like these and these and look for travel-size makeup products. Holiday sets or “gifts with purchase” are perfect to save and use for travel!

Choose appropriate travel containers for your larger makeup products. Many times, 3 ounce bottles are too big for a one or two-week trip, so buy various sizes and take only the amount you will use.

Watch this video to learn how I downsize my makeup for travel!

Instead of immediately buying “travel-size” containers in 3oz or 100ml bottles, get a range of sizes including 1oz , 2oz , and smaller jars like these , too.

Aside from trimming down on the quantity of products you pack, also consider how you use it.

Instead of packing an eye shadow palette featuring eight colors, take a smaller one that features two to four. You can take your look from day to night by playing with shading and depth of color.
Get creative with your eye shadows. One color can transform into several if you apply more or less. Brown is my favorite way to accomplish this. Apply lightly over the lid, blend a bit more at the crease, then dot extra on the corner of your eye before a final blend. A three in one, who knew?
Create a summer and winter eye shadow palette so you only take the one you need during the season.
Instead of taking several eyeliners or lip colors, choose one that’s your favorite and neutral enough to match with several different looks.
Choose one thin palette instead of several thick cases. Several eye shadow pots can be replaced by one single palette.
Replace glass containers with plastic to lighten the load.

TRAVEL BEAUTY TIP: Go to department store counters and ask for free samples of makeup and skincare products. Sephora is also a great option!

And for every single trick in my packing book, read my full course “ Stop Overpacking “. I created the STOP OVERPACKING program to teach you my exact packing process. Every secret, every detail, nothing is spared.

What are your ultimate guide to travel makeup? Share in the comments below!

For more travel makeup suggestions, please read:

Best Makeup for Pictures
7 Clever Travel Makeup Hacks
How to Make Your Makeup Last All Day
Pack Lighter with a Capsule Makeup Collection

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56 comments.

Great checklist I’m getting ready for a 10 day trip to Germany and Italy I’m a minimalist anyway For me facial cream with UV protection to protect my face is the most important item to bring

I recently bought a pallet by Seint Cosmetics and love how compact it is! The makeup itself is highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way. My foundation, concealer, blush/lip, contour, shadows are all in one compact.

Great post! I have started using contact lens cases for foundation they hold a lot! I use small bottles that have a spray end and a roller ball end for sprays and oil cleansers. I also keep my small containers(eye cream etc.) wash them and re-use for other products. It feels really good to cut down on the amount of products, to help travel light!

I’m loving the tips of using small round jars for my creams & decanting for my shampoo & conditioner! Thank you!

I am not a big makeup girl, but this was so helpful! For short trips and for creams I don’t need much of, I’ve been using contact lens cases – compact and leak proof!

Thank you for this post! I have had my capsule wardrobe down for years now, but this is an area I continue to struggle with. My latest improvement: the eye brightener line from Thrive Causemetics. Darker colors can double as eye liner and as a shadow if you’re trying to glam it up a bit. Two pencils is all I need!

Fabulous suggestions on packing my makeup for two week! Thanks for helping me come up with solutions to keep it smaller than I usually do.

It’s amazing how quickly the makeup bag can fill up! I’ve finally decided NO EYE SHADOW, I don’t wear it at home so why do I keep lugging around a palate of eye shadow 🙄

I Have been struggling to figure out how to pack some of my make up for an upcoming trip to Israel . . . this information is perfect!!! Thank you : )

This is one of the most informative articles on packing makeup and what to bring / what not to bring. Great information and tips!

Great ideas!

Great tips!!

I LOVE my round clear jars for my powder makeup! I just use my label baker to help identify everything.

Thanks for the great tips and lessons! I’m not a big makeup girl, but I still learned some great things to do to keep my bag light.

I never really thought about what to take in regards of make-up on vacation. This past vacation, my friend had a beautiful make-up bag and I was so impressed. I’m really tired of plastic zip lock bags, and my freind’s bag was soft, quilted, and held a load of items. My husband and I have stayed off of planes, as much as possible, however, we really want to get back to Europe. Perhaps Summer of 2023. Thank you for your thorough list which is such a great guide. I will streamline my makeup items and be confident that I have everything that I need! Thank!

Thanks for the great tips! I used the Sea to Summit small bad per an earlier article and discussion. Now I have a few extra things to do (condense) for my next trip. Thanks!

I have been following TFG for over5 years. It has completely changed not only his I pack, but how I dress completely. Quality pieces not quantity. Items I wear over and over. This blog post really helped me think about the other things I pack. My p is almost completely sticks and creams now making it light weight, carry-on pack able and fat to apply. Another TFG win!

I love my makeup and find it’s so hard not to take a train case full of my products “just in case.” I’m going away in a month and I’m really going to try to do minimal packing. Clothes and makeup! I plan on using several of your tips for a light stress free trip. Thank you. Rhonda M

It is so hard to leave my fave products but these are great tips!

I love the tips for decanting and also think that downsizing to go without full palate works best for travel. I spent years lugging around just in case I want to do my makeup or jewelry choices only to bring them back unused. Reading your blogs and personal experiences along with other women’s helpful tips about doing without, going easy-breezy is helping me to pare down more each trip Thank YOU!!!!

this is extremely useful, thank you

Great info. Will definitely be using some of these tops on my next trip.

I have been following you for some time now. Love all the tips you have from packing list to make up minimalistic endeavors

Love all of these tips.

I love your tips for decanting stuff into small containers. Thank you for providing links to Amazon for the small little clear jars and tubes. They work fantastic!

This is the one thing I struggle with the most! I know I don’t need three eyeshadow palettes, but I panic at the last minute and pack them all. These tips have really inspired me to pare down my makeup kit to what I really need! Thank you!

I love using contact lens cases for eye makeup remover.

Love all these ideas! Also, another tip I can recommend is to save and use the small containers that come as freebies or samples from Sephora or Clinique for example. They’re the perfect size and most were sent to me by mail. If they survived shipping w/o leaks, then they should be able to handle air travel too!

Thank you for all the travel tips. Love them all. I struggle with packing and downsizing and decision making. I love the makeup travel tips. Thank you!!

Thank you! This has always been a huge problem for me. We are traveling to Italy carry on only in a few weeks and I think this checklist will finally help me narrow down my makeup bag!

This is very helpful. I pack makeup but then rarely wear it. This is helpful to make me take a critical look at what I am packing. Thanks.

All of your posts are great! Since I haven’t traveled since before COVID I’m excited to be taking a big trip again. Discovering your posts has made such a difference in my planning. And makeup is just one of the issues for me when packing. Thank you.

Such great tips!

I have worked really hard at minimizing my makeup for travel! My essentials are tinted BB cream with SPF, mascara, eyeliner, blush and lip gloss. The Laura Mercier eyeshadow sticks are AMAZING – super blendable and creamy! I’m heading off to London in early September so working on my packing right now!

So many helpful tips here. Thanks so much!

Thanks so much. When I return from a trip I always reorganize/refill my personal items so I am ready to go—whether by car or plane. So great to have a checklist to follow. I have a great eyeshadow brush that is double ended. Also shop Sephora minis-particularly Benefit.

Saving this post for future travel. ALWAYS struggle with my makeup and toiletries!

Use old contact cases for small amounts of creams like foundation. I recently tried this when I had to fly for an interview while on vacation and didn’t have access to travel containers.

Will try this. Thx!

Have you tried any of the jones road beaury products? They seem pretty compact for travel, but I’m curious if they work for others. I don’t really wear a lot of makeup. Just a tinted spf moisturizer, concealer, & eyeliner or mascara.

Thank you so much for this! I always carry too much makeup – just in case. I will follow all this advice for my upcoming trip to Greece.

Love this information it’s so helpful as makeup is one of my travel challenges!

These are great tips. I will definitely use them in my future plans.

Looking forward to my 2 week Ireland golfing trip and taking only my golf bag and carry-on. Toiletries are always a stressor but this has some good ideas for downsizing without scrimping!

Great tips! Appreciate the additional links to other articles and to actual products.

My makeup/toiletry bag has been my biggest challenge. This is so helpful a& will change the way I pack my bag!

TFG rocks! Always really sensible and practical advice and tips. Thank you!

This was a great blog. Great tips and clarification on certain items. Was not sure if gels and creams came under the liquids rule.

Mac cosmetics makes palettes that hold 2,4,8,12 eyeshadow/powder/ etc products and they sell these products individually. So you could get a big palette to hold all your favorites then a 2 or 4 to take when you travel but still swap over time for spring vs winter looks.

I am getting ready for a two week trip to Portugal. The makeup tips are so helpful! Thanks.

Thanks for making traveling so much easier!

This is so helpful so I can downsize for my trip. Thank you!

This post really helped me decide my strategy for make up and organize my products. I love being prepared for anything, be able to look good, and not carry a million extra items. Thank you.

Great guide; thank you. When I travel, I always seem to need more room in my suitcase for all my toiletries than my clothes! This guide will help me minimize.

This was super helpful (as are all your blogs!). Thank you so much for all the information you provide.

I do t think I can go on a trip without checking out the TFG tips. This has been a great source of information for me. Thank you so much for helping us travel lighter.

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Can You Bring Makeup On A Plane? (TSA Rules)

Last Updated on March 8, 2021

Many beauty products come in various different forms.

For example, you can buy solid lipstick, tinted lip balm, lip liquid, lip creams, and even lip powder all for adding pigment and color to your lips.

These different forms of cosmetics have their own pros and cons as beauty products. That won’t be discussed here.

This post is about which types of makeup you can bring on a plane, and where should pack them to comply with the TSA rules.

Because of the 3-1-1 liquids rule, there will be some items in your makeup bag that you need to pack in your quart-size liquids bag when going through airport security.

And there will be some beauty products that you’ll be able to pack anywhere in your carry-on bag.

Let’s get started.

TSA Makeup & Cosmetics Rules

The Transportation Security Administration or TSA doesn’t have specific guidelines about makeup on its website. It’s too broad a category and as mentioned above makeup comes in solid, cream, liquid, powder, and aerosol spray forms.

You can pack makeup in checked luggage freely. The only restriction is that any flammable liquid like nail polish remover should be in a container less than 18 oz. So worst-case scenario, if you pay for checked luggage you can throw your makeup bag in your checked luggage and forget about it.

But nobody wants to pay baggage fees if they don’t have to. Also, makeup products can be expensive and occasionally things are stolen from checked bags.

So packing makeup in your carry-on is preferable but it’s a little more complicated to pack makeup for hand luggage to get it past the airport security checkpoint.

It all comes down to this…

If a type of makeup is considered to be a liquid you can only bring it in containers smaller than 3.4 oz (100 ml) and you must pack it in your plastic quart-size bag .

The question is when is a makeup product considered to be a liquid? To help you quickly answer that question I created this table.

You can probably figure out what to do from that table but read on to learn about substitution tips. Room in the quart bag is scarce. You might not be able to bring all the liquid makeup that you want.

TSA & Powdered Makeup

So powder makeup like powdered eyeshadow is fine to pack in carry-on or checked bags.

And solid makeup like lipstick is also okay to be packed in carry-on or checked luggage.

And wet wipes like makeup remover wipes are not considered to be a liquid, so they could be an alternative to packing cleanser for some travelers.

So let’s now take a more detailed look at each type makeup and see if the TSA thinks it needs to be packed in your liquids bag or not.

How To Pack Makeup In Carry On Luggage?

Packing makeup in your carry-on is a matter of deciding if the cosmetic product is treated like a liquid by the TSA.

Sometimes there might be powdered or cream versions of cosmetic product. The powdered version can be any size packed anywhere in your carry on bag, but the cream version would need to be 3.4 ounces or less and packed in your quart sized zip top bag.

Remember you only need to bring enough product to cover you for the duration of your trip. There is no sense in packing 3.4 oz when you’ll only use a tiny amount.

You can make space in your quart-size liquids bag by transfering small amounts of beauty products into travel containers like these:

Let’s look at the essential beauty products and see if there are TSA approved versions.

Highlighter

So liquid highlighter, or cream highlighter is limited to 3.4 oz but powdered highlighter isn’t restricted.

Face Primer

Primer is usually a liquid and so you can only bring a small travel-sized bottle.

Laura asked the TSA about packing solid stick foundation.

The TSA replied that solid stick foundation doesn’t need to comply with the liquids rule.

Laurie asked about packing a small powder foundation.

And the TSA replied that pressed powders are allowed in carry-on luggage with no quantity limitations.

Mandi asked about if makeup foundation is considered a liquid.

Foundation comes in many forms. Solid and powdered foundation is not considered to be a liquid by the TSA but cream foundation like BB cream or liquid foundation is considered to be a liquid.

Also, aerosol spray foundation like Sephora’s perfection mist is considered to be a liquid.

Morgan asked a good question about concealer. I like the way she phrased it “cosmetics that are applied with a wand”.

If you apply the makeup with a wand then it will be classed as a liquid. So an under-eye concealer applied with a brush will be a liquid but a spot concealer stick would be a solid.

Brow Gel And Pencils

Eyebrow pencils that are solid can be packed freely, but anything with a gel will be treated as a liquid.

Eye Liner Pencil

A liquid eyeliner pen will need to take up space in your quart bag. Whereas an eyeliner pencil doesn’t need to go in your liquids bag.

Not only that you can bring the pencil sharpener too!

Powdered eye shadow palettes are fine to go in carry-on luggage , but if your eye shadow comes in a cream form then it needs to go in the plastic bag for liquids.

Barbara asked the TSA about where to pack her mascara.

It’s fine to bring mascara on a plane but pack it along with your toiletries.

Lip Balm & Lipstick

Rhonda asked about her lipstick and lip balm.

You’re getting the hang of this by now 🙂

Makeup Remover, Cleansing Lotion

Makeup remover or cleansing lotion is a liquid and must be in 3.4 ounce containers and packed in the one quart bag.

But Em discovered a way to save space.

Makeup remover wipes don’t need to be packed in the quart-sized liquids bag!

Setting spray, setting powder

Setting spray is going to take up room in your quart bag, but if you switch to setting powder you can pack it anywhere in your carry on baggage.

Nail Polish

Nail polish does count as a liquid and so does nail polish remover.

But nail polish remover wipes don’t count as a liquid . So switch out your acetone for wipes!

The Final Takeaway

You can bring solid and powdered makeup on a plane but if you can squeeze it, smear it, pump it, spread it, spray it, or spill it then it’s considered a liquid.

There are so many liquid or cream cosmetics that it might be easier to pay the fee and bring a checked bag.

Space in the quart-size bag is limited. After you have packed your shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, and all the other toiletries you want to bring it can be hard to fit the makeup you need.

If you prefer to fly with only carry-on bags then you can start assembling a TSA approved travel makeup kit. Substitute liquids, creams, and gels for solid or powdered versions.

With a little planning and substituting products you will be able to bring more cosmetics in your carry on.

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Travel Products

The 9 Best Makeup Cases for Travel in 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Our picks fit all of your favorite accessories and stand up to drops and shakes.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

Tips for Buying
Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alli Waataja

If you wear even a small amount of makeup, you likely own some form of a makeup bag to use while traveling. But if your go-to makeup bag is hard to see into, has a janky zipper, or is just a plastic bag, it’s time for an upgrade. Lucky for you, we thoroughly tested 26 popular makeup bags in our New York City studio to find out which ones are actually worth traveling with.

Over the course of five months of tests both in our New York City lab and during our real travels, we stuffed each makeup case to the brim with cosmetics, packed them into luggage, and threw them around the room (yes, really). And when all was said and done, there were 9 makeup cases we liked enough to permanently add to our luggage collections and recommend to you. Based on factors like quality, capacity, design, portability, value, and ease of use, here are our 9 favorite makeup bags and cosmetic cases.

Best Overall

Béis the cosmetic case.

Ease of Use 5 /5
Quality 5 /5
Capacity 5 /5
Design 5 /5
Portability 5 /5

It’s durable, capacious, and nice to look at — plus, it has a large built-in mirror.

We feel it could benefit from interior straps to hold products down.

Reliable, stylish, and compact yet spacious, it’s no wonder this easy-to-pack cosmetic case from luggage brand Béis impressed us the most. The main compartment opens and closes smoothly, while a center compartment for brushes and other smaller items can be removed in a snap. There are even multiple additional pockets, pouches, and subtle slots in the bag, so there’s truly a place for everything. We also noticed that, because the interior of the case is so roomy, it’s incredibly easy to see every item inside when fully opened. And speaking of the interior, the bag actually boasts a large attached mirror on the inside, which comes in handy for in-transit makeup application.

During our five months of tests, the PU leather and hardware worked together to create efficient padding that kept the contents of the case safe and intact through bumps and drops — not to mention, the bag itself still looked good through the wear and tear. On many occasions, we tossed this case in a duffel before going through airport security and boarding a flight, and it still looks good as new. Though $68 may feel a bit pricey for a makeup bag, we felt this case’s thoughtful design and durable construction is worth it. You can grab the case in eight colors ranging from beige to berry.

The Details: 9.5 x 4 x 7 inches | PU leather, nylon, PVC, poly | Zipper closure

Travel + Leisure / Jhett Thompson

Travel + Leisure / Leticia Almeida

Best for Organization

Relavel travel makeup case.

It’s one of the roomiest bags on our list and it’s lightweight.

It does take up a bit of space in your luggage.

While this case is on the larger side, we felt that ended up being more helpful than hurtful while traveling. We could fit pretty much everything in this thing: a whopping seven palettes, a whole brush collection, two foundation bottles, five toiletry bottles, over 15 lipsticks, an eyelash curler, hair spray, and a travel-sized moisturizer bottle, to be exact. Despite its size, the train case actually remains quite lightweight as well as organized thanks to its adjustable dividers and stretchable pouches on the inside. During our five-month test, we even ended up using this for both makeup and toiletries, since it provides plenty of space.

The interior additionally features layers of protective foam-like material that expertly keeps makeup bottles from cracking. We also found that both the interior and exterior of this case are easy to clean, should a spill or outdoor drop occur. Because it’s a little big, though, we’d recommend packing this case in a carry-on suitcase or even checked luggage rather than a tote or backpack. You can pick this case up in 20 different colors and prints.

The Details: 10.3 x 9 x 3.7 inches | Nylon | Zipper closure

Best Compact

Dagne dover mila toiletry organizer.

Dagne Dover

Capacity 4 /5

It’s the tiniest bag on our list, but it still fits a lot — plus, it’s easy to flatten when packing or storing.

It does, of course, fit less makeup than the larger bags on our list.

If you prefer to travel with something more compact, Dagne Dover’s Mila Toiletry Organizer is the best tiny makeup bag we tried. Though it’s by far the smallest pick on our list, we were surprised at just how much it could actually hold. Not only do plenty of palettes, lipsticks, and other essential cosmetics fit inside, but so do full-size makeup brushes. It comes with a removable mini divider set that helps hold items in place, though we liked how much more we could fit in the organizer if we skipped using the dividers. Because it fit so well in the palm of our hands, we had a good time whipping it across the room during our tests — and after being pelted against the wall and floor multiple times, we were amazed to find the organizer still looked fantastic and its contents barely budged. Even when wedged into an absolutely-stuffed-to-the-brim suitcase during our five-month test, the inside is so well-padded that all of our items remained protected and secure. We decided it’s the ultimate makeup bag for shorter trips since it takes up such little space and is super soft and squishable for easy packing.

The Details: 5.5 x 5.5 x 5.5 inches | Polyester, zinc alloy | Zipper closure

Best Budget

Narwey travel makeup bag.

Design 2 /5

It’s spacious, easy-to-clean, and more affordable than any other makeup bag on our list.

It could use a little extra padding for protection against drops.

There was something about this bag that just made us feel like we could easily access everything inside — there were no hidden pockets, no tight openings, and no unnecessary flaps that covered up the contents (other than one to protect makeup brushes, but it’s see-through). The zipper opening is easy to maneuver and appears to be well-made, while the canvas frame feels sturdy and protective. The bag got a bit dirty during our tests, but it cleaned up beautifully with minimal effort. We especially loved just how much it could fit: multiple brushes in each of its eight brush pockets, three palettes, three eyeliners, four lipsticks, a mascara, and a lash curler. Perhaps that’s why we were so shocked to discover the bag doesn’t take up much space in our luggage, and it is a fraction of what many other bags on our list cost.

The Details: 9 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches | Canvas | Zipper closure

lululemon Go Getter Pouch

Ease of Use 4.5 /5
Design 4 /5

It’s sleek, water-repellant, and capable of holding way more than you’d expect given its compact size.

After five months of testing, it is showing makeup stains.

The feature we found most interesting about this bag is that, when empty, it appears very thin and compact. However, once stuffed with makeup, it actually holds a crazy amount of stuff, including larger items like perfumes, dry shampoos, lotions, and creams. We love the pouch’s nylon construction, which looks sleek and allows dirt and liquids to slide right off. The bag’s lack of padding keeps it lightweight and flexible; we wouldn’t recommend keeping any glass bottles or jars in it, but it’s also not likely to tear, stretch, or snag (that’s lululemon for you!). Because there’s no true framing, the bag is easy to flatten or mold to any space or suitcase. While there is a small exterior zip pocket and an interior mesh one, the pouch really has no built-in organization — though we don’t think that’s a deal-breaker. Get it in gray sage or black.

The Details: 8.7 x 3.3 x 6.3 inches | Polyester, nylon | Zipper closure

Best Train Case

Leatherology train case.

Leatherology

The leather exterior is soft to the touch and the interior is deceptively roomy.

During our five-month test, we found the tall design to be awkward for packing.

Easy to clean and pack, we’re obsessed with this cute and compact train case from ultra-reliable Leatherology. It zips open in a way that allows you to see everything inside, plus there are interior pockets of all sizes to help keep everything organized. Though we felt it was slightly flimsy when we first picked it up, we quickly realized it’s sturdier than it looks, and only becomes more so when filled with makeup. Its subtle padding is also no joke, as it completely protected the contents while being thrown around, shaken, and dropped. The exterior leather is soft and supple, the interior lining is high quality, and the main compartment is deep and spacious despite its overall compact size. If you’re looking for a smaller makeup bag that’ll still fit more than just the essentials, we recommend this train case in one of 14 available colors.

The Details: 7.5 x 5 x 5.2 inches | Leather, nickel | Zipper closure

Best Hanging

Boacay hanging travel toiletry bag.

Quality 4 /5
Capacity 3.5 /5
Portability 4 /5

It holds so many products, and it folds up nicely and easily.

Even when folded, it takes up more space than most makeup bags on our list.

Travel hanging organizers are a whole different ball game — and once you use one, you may never go back. This one opens up into four large sections, each with a transparent, zippered sleeve to store (and easily see) your makeup and toiletries. Two of the sections have straps to hold products in place, and a hook on the top section allows you to hang the bag anywhere. During our tests, we discovered the bag is sturdy and easy to clean in addition to being large enough for different types of products, from makeup brushes to hairspray. Even when we packed it to the brim, it still folded up with minimal effort and kept our makeup in place during drop tests. While it’s relatively thin, it is somewhat long and space-consuming, so we’d probably only pack this in a checked bag rather than a carry-on, or use the makeup bag itself as a personal item. Throughout our five months of testing, we did notice that bottles can easily slip out of the plastic pockets if the case is hung up without first zipping the pockets.

The Details: 11.4 x 3.8 x 7.5 inches | Zipper closure

Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

During our five months of tests, all stains and smudges were easily cleaned to keep the case looking new.

It doesn’t have organization features or particularly thick cushioning.

Upon testing, this stood out for two reasons: it comes with not one, but two luxe pouches, and the interior is lined with the same soft leather featured on the exterior. We appreciated how wide both bags open, despite their top-zip construction, making it easy to see everything inside. The larger of the two bags is so spacious, we were able to fit an impressive amount of makeup inside — in fact, we felt we realistically probably wouldn’t even need the smaller bag for makeup, and could instead use it for small toiletries or loan it to a travel companion. There aren’t any dividers or straps inside these bags, so the products inside may shift in-transit if not packed to the brim. Still, we loved the set because it’s one of the nicest-looking options we tried (plus, it comes in 14 gorgeous colors).

The Details: 12 x 7 x 3.5 inches (large), 8 x 5 x 2.5 inches (small) | Leather | Zipper closure

Best Splurge

Cuyana travel beauty case.

Quality 4.5 /5
Portability 4.5 /5

It has a pocket for everything and will hold up through years of travel.

It’s on the heavier side and the most expensive bag on our list.

If you’re looking for something that does it all and is built to last, consider Cuyana’s Travel Beauty Case. It’s the most expensive option on our list, but after putting it to the test, we believe it’s worth the hefty price tag. The zipper glides smoothly when opening and closing it, the construction is super sturdy, it’s not bulky, it’s packed with pockets as well as a removable pouch, dirt and scuffs are easy to wipe off — we could truly go on and on about this case. But let’s go back to the interior: Though the case is on the smaller side, it boasts plenty of slots for products, including a dedicated pocket and four straps for makeup brushes, a leather flap to protect contents, a small removable pouch for your tiniest cosmetics, and an additional elastic pocket. We felt the leather was quite stiff, which prompted us to get a little rougher with it during our drop and shake tests. Sure enough, it effectively protected the many palettes, lipsticks, tools, and more we placed inside. Even after five months of using the case during our travels, it still looks good as new and has protected all of our items.

The Details: 10.2 x 6.2 x 3.1 inches | Leather | Zipper closure

Other Makeup Bags We Liked

Several other makeup bags almost made our list, but were cut due to issues revealed during testing.

Béis The Hanging Cosmetic Case : This bag is super sturdy, protective, and well made. However, the actual makeup section of this multi-paneled case managed to feel both bulky and too small to fit all our makeup products.

Away The Cosmetics Bag : We liked the sleek, minimalist design; a unique interior that features makeup storage with a clear zippered divider; and five heavy-duty makeup brush slots on the opposite side. But during tests, it fit considerably less makeup than many others on our list and it didn’t keep products very secure.

Vera Bradley Women's Recycled Lighten Up ReActive Cosmetic Makeup Organizer Set : This set proved to be spacious, easy to clean, and convenient thanks to two transparent side panels on the larger of the two bags. Still, we feel the design is very basic and it lacks organization features, straps, and pockets.

To thoroughly and accurately test each of the 26 makeup cases in our lab, we filled them with various props (including four makeup brushes, two makeup palettes, one bottle of foundation, one eyelash curler, one mascara, one lipstick, four pre-filled toiletry bottles, and one hairspray) to see how much they could truly hold. We then placed the filled makeup bags into both a half-packed backpack and carry-on luggage, making note of how much space each bag took up. Next, we took the makeup bags out of the luggage and dropped them, shook them, and tossed them in the air to test how much the contents inside moved or if there was any damage.

Throughout our tests, we rated each makeup bag based on ease of use, quality, capacity, design, portability, and value. The makeup bags included in this article are the picks that scored highest in each category. Testers will continue using the bags and collecting insights for six months following our initial tests.

Tips for Buying a Makeup Bag for Travel

Decide how much space you need.

If you like to wear a full face of makeup on your travels, you should seek out a larger makeup bag with built-in organization (think pockets, brush straps, dividers, and removable pouches). If you’re more of a mascara-and-go kind of person, a super roomy cosmetic case is unnecessary — it’ll just take up extra space in your luggage, and your few makeup products inside will likely move around too much, increasing their chances of breaking.

Prioritize organizational features

While a makeup case with one large, main compartment might sound sufficient, you may want to reconsider. If you plan on packing multiple types of products (like palettes, brushes, bottles, and tubes), a makeup bag with organizational features, such as a train case , will come in handy more than you’d think. As explained above, bags with extra slots, pockets, straps, and compartments help you keep track of all your cosmetics and do your makeup quickly.

Determine the best material

Before buying a makeup bag, think about potential travel mishaps that could occur. Are you prone to spills? Do you tend to overpack? What if your luggage takes a beating in the cargo hold? Keeping that in mind, choose a cosmetic case material that works for you. Leather and nylon handle makeup spills and dirt well, while cases made of neoprene or mesh will keep your luggage lightweight. It’s hard to completely avoid scuffs and scratches, but materials such as polyester and high-quality leather hold up better than others. And if you’re someone who hates rummaging through a dark makeup bag? Go for a clear material or a bag that opens like a clamshell so you can easily see all of its contents.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s important not to overstuff or understuff your makeup bag. Overstuffing can cause spills and stretching/ripping of the makeup bag itself, while understuffing allows your makeup bag’s contents to move around more, increasing their chances of breaking. It’s also wise to take special care of more delicate items like brushes and glass bottles. Brushes should be strapped down and covered by a flap if possible, and you shouldn’t have to bend the bristles to make them fit. If your cosmetic case has smaller interior pockets or slots, keep glass bottles in there — if not, stand them up straight rather than laying them down, and pack other products around them to keep them from sliding around.

Yes — just keep TSA liquid rules in mind. Like any other liquid container, makeup containers (like liquid foundation bottles, moisturizer tubes, etc.) should not exceed 3.4 fluid ounces each. If your liquid makeup goes over that limit, you’ll have to store it in your checked luggage.

Use a wet cloth, a wipe, or even an antibacterial spray and a paper towel to wipe your makeup bag clean. Just make sure you’re not using anything with bleach!

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this article, associate commerce editor Hillary Maglin used her extensive knowledge of makeup bags, makeup products, and traveling, as well as the T+L team’s extensive makeup bag tests, to compile a list of the best options on the market.

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15 Pro Tips for Traveling With Makeup

Experts share how to pack a beauty kit that covers all the bases.

Haley is a Wisconsin-based creative freelancer and recent graduate. She has worked as an editor, fact checker, and copywriter for various digital and print publications. Her most recent position was in academic publishing as a publicity and marketing assistant for the University of Wisconsin Press

Carol Yepes/Getty Images

Going on vacation is all fun and games until you get to the packing portion of the trip. At that point, it quickly becomes a game of “What can I bring?” and “What must I sadly leave behind?”

Traveling with makeup is particularly challenging, especially with TSA’s rules on liquid sizes and the propensity for your most prized products to break or leak. You’ve also got to think about things like climate variation and how your skin might react while also trying to keep your regimen somewhat normal so your skin doesn’t freak.

With practice and planning, though, you can get really good at editing down all your beauty essentials without over or under-packing. To help you cover all the bases when it comes to traveling with makeup, we asked experts to share their best tips.

Invest in a Great Makeup Case

First thing’s first: You’ve got to have a great place to store your beauty loot when traveling with makeup. Look for a bag that’s big enough to house all your essentials, is leak-proof, keeps you organized , and is easy to clean, advises Sydney Morgan , beauty content creator. The Calpak Medium Clear Cosmetics Case ($85; Calpak ) is a great pick.

Choose Cosmetics Bags That Serve Double Duty

If chosen well, your makeup bag can be so much more. "Some can double as small clutch or evening purse in a pinch," says Anne McAlpin, packing expert at PackItUp.com . "I love the 'free' ones from cosmetic specials like Clinique and Lancôme. Bright colored bags make it easy to find your makeup in your bag."

Put Makeup Brushes & Tools in Their Own Bag

Makeup brushes are an investment, so it only makes sense to look after them well. “I keep my tools in a dedicated case,” notes Jenny Patinkin , professional makeup artist and founder of Jenny Patinkin Eco-Luxe Beauty Tools . This helps protect the bristles and keeps things more sanitary, too. To save even more space, choose a makeup bag that has a compartment you can dedicate specifically to tools and brushes.

Keep a Few Items in Your Purse

Lost luggage happens every once in a while, so travel with confidence by having a cosmetic backup plan, says Brittany Lo , a professional makeup artist and founder of Beia. She says, “Always keep two to three essentials with you in your purse, just in case your luggage doesn’t make it or in case you need to reapply before you get the chance to unpack.” For example, a lightweight BB cream or foundation, cream blush, and mascara. When in doubt, identify your “desert island” essentials and pack those.

Opt For Multitasking Makeup

Saving space is a must when traveling with makeup, so take advantage of multitasking products. “I do like to steamline when I travel,” notes Patinkin. “[For example], Packing a bronzer that can double as contour, a buildable cheek color, and a buildable foundation for simple daytime application or more dramatic evening looks, one four-pan eyeshadow palette that can be used a lot of different ways, and keeping as few brushes with me as possible.”

Don’t Switch Up Your Routine Too Much

It’s tempting to pack all those tiny, travel products since they’re conveniently sized, but switching up your beauty routine too much isn’t ideal.

“Your body likes consistency,” notes Matthew Waitesmith, a professional makeup artist with Artis . “If you mostly maintain your same makeup routine while traveling, your body will be less likely to overreact to all the environmental changes involved with travel.” Not to mention, a chill vacation isn’t necessarily a great time to experiment with a tricky new felt liner or foundation formula. You want reliability and ease.

Underfill to Reduce the Risk of Leaks

Leaking liquid makeup is not just a big mess—it can mean you lose a lot of your product, too. McAlpin has a little trick that has kept her leak-free.

"Only fill liquids three-quarters full, then squeeze out the air and secure the lid. A change in air pressure can cause liquids to expand, creating leaks." By not filling it to the brim, you leave room and reduce the chance of leaks. (But pack it inside a resealable plastic bag just in case!)

Decant Larger Items

Whether you’re checking a bag or sticking to a carry-on, it’s wise to consolidate your products to save space and minimize the potential for messes. If any of your liquid products are over 3.4 ounces—the TSA cutoff size—decant them in a travel-size container. Alternatively, buy the travel-sized versions of your faves, Lo suggests. When you run out of the travel-size product, you can refill the packaging with your full-size product.

Protect Delicate Makeup

The pain of seeing your favorite powder products broken is real. Avoid the distress by packing delicate items very well. You can do so with a fine bubble wrap (avoid anything too bulky). It also helps to “sandwich” your makeup bag, says Morgan.

“Put your makeup bag in the middle of your suitcase with clothes surrounding it,” she says. “This sounds super funny, but it is the best way to keep things from shifting around and breaking. I typically like to put it in the middle with clothes underneath and on all sides. This has helped to avoid breakage.”

Consider the Climate

While you don’t want to completely switch up your makeup routine, do take the climate into account. For example, if you’re heading somewhere really humid or plan to splash around in the ocean, swap in some waterproof makeup. Or if it’s going to be dry or hot, pack a face mist that helps set your makeup and keep your skin looking dewy all day.

Bring A Couple “Special Occasion” Items

Along with your go-to makeup and skincare products, Waitesmith recommends packing a few makeup items that you associate with special occasions, such as a bold lipstick color or a pretty eyeshadow quad. He says, “You may want to be a bit more extravagant with your makeup colors or intensity to celebrate the special environment—like for a candlelight dinner.”

Pack a Compact Lighted Mirror

“The lighting in your hotel or other accommodation mirror is unfamiliar, so it can be hard to judge whether the color or texture of the product you're using feels like it's flattering,” notes Patinkin. She says that a lighted makeup mirror can help squash this issue real fast. Choose one that’s slender and stands up on its own or has suction cups that adhere to a flat surface mirror.

Think Vertical

McAlpin swears by hanging-style personal care kits. "Many European and boutique hotels have minimal counter space, so these bags are great for keeping essentials close at hand without items falling off pedestal sinks and breaking on tile floors."

Repurpose Containers

Travel-specific containers are great, but you can get creative with what you use. "I use contact lens holders for small amounts of primer, eye moisturizer, etc.," McAlpin says. "Just label it with permanent marker on the lid."

Find Ways to Minimize Liquids

If you're traveling carry-on only, your space for liquids is limited.

While solid beauty and makeup products have become an important part of travel packing, McAlpin has some other ideas for carrying on her favorites. For fragrance, for instance, you can soak cotton balls with fragrance and pack in small leak-proof containers.

Can You Bring Makeup On a Plane?

Packing for a trip and you’re wondering if you’re allowed to have makeup in your carry-on bag? Then you’re definitely in the right place because this detailed guide will tell you all you need to know about bringing makeup on a plane!

What are the rules for liquid makeup, can you bring brushes, and what to consider when packing powdered makeup is all included in this guide. We’ve covered everything you need to know about packing makeup in your carry-on, so you’ll get all the information you need right here!

Can You Bring Makeup On A Plane?

The short answer is yes, you can bring makeup on the plane. The longer answer explains what kinds of makeup might be subject to extra scrutiny at TSA checkpoints, but you’re generally allowed to have makeup in your carry-on bag.

You will need to adhere to TSA’s powder and liquids rules though, otherwise, your makeup might get confiscated. If you’re packing makeup in your checked bag, there are no rules to follow – you’re allowed to pack an entire checked bag full of makeup if you want.

Just try to pack it in a way that it stays protected in case the baggage handlers throw your suitcase around like a ball – makeup is pretty fragile and it can easily break if it’s not properly packed.

What Are The Types of Makeup You Can Bring On A Plane?

You can bring any type of makeup on a plane, but the amount of makeup you can have in your carry-on bag depends on its composition. It’s not the same for liquid and solid makeup because of TSA’s restriction on liquids in carry-on luggage, so it’s generally best to pack as little liquid makeup as possible in your carry-on, and put the rest of it in your checked luggage.

TSA also has a rule for powdered products – if you have a powdered product larger than 12 oz it will be subject to additional screening at the security checkpoint. Leave your bigger palettes at home and consider replacing them with a travel makeup kit . These usually include just the basics, so pack one colorful palette and you’ll be able to create a variety of different looks.

Can You Bring Liquid Makeup On A Plane?

Yes, you can bring liquid makeup on a plane as long as you follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. That means that any liquid makeup must be 3.4 ounces max and that all your liquids must fit in a quart-size bag.

It’s worth noting that this toiletry bag must fit all your liquids, so consider which liquid makeup you absolutely need and what can be swapped for something in solid or powder form. Also, keep in mind that mascara is considered a liquid, so it must be packed in a quart-sized bag.

The same goes for liquid lipstick, liquid highlighters, liquid foundation, or any other type of makeup that isn’t solid or powder. Unless you want to use the liquids bag just for the makeup, it’s best to substitute whatever liquids you can with powder or solid alternatives.

Regular lipsticks are considered solids, so this rule doesn’t apply to them. The same goes for foundation sticks and bronzer/highlighter sticks – there’s really no rule that dictates the amount of solid makeup you can have, so it’s generally best to stick to solids whenever possible.

Can You Bring Powdered Makeup On A Plane?

You’re allowed to have powdered makeup on a plane, but the quantity of powder shouldn’t exceed 12 ounces. That’s the TSA powder rule – they likely won’t confiscate anything, but any powder products larger than 12 ounces will be subject to additional screening at TSA checkpoints.

The good news is that most powdered makeup is under 12 ounces, even the bigger eyeshadow palettes. TSA recommends packing any bigger powders in the checked bag if you want to avoid having any issues at the security checkpoints.

There are a few things to note about this rule. One is that TSA usually doesn’t confiscate powder makeup – they will inspect it further, but you’ll get it back if they determine it doesn’t pose a security issue. If you aren’t trying to smuggle anything, it’s unlikely you’ll get into any trouble.

Also, TSA doesn’t actually prohibit powders bigger than 12 ounces, but certain airlines do. If it turns out you’re flying with an airline that doesn’t allow powder products bigger than 12 ounces in carry-on bags, they might get confiscated even if the TSA doesn’t necessarily prohibit them.

Can You Bring Makeup Wipes On A Plane?

Yes! They’re not considered a liquid and you can bring as many as you need and you don’t even need to pack them in the liquids bag. Makeup wipes are treated the same way as baby wipes or antibacterial wipes, so you’re allowed to have them both in your carry-on and in your personal item.

Can You Bring A Makeup Mirror On A Plane?

You’re allowed to have a makeup mirror in a carry-on bag as long as it’s not bigger than 45 linear inches total. Most makeup mirrors are small and compact, so as long as you’re not bringing a huge mirror in your carry-on bags, you should be fine.

Also, consider if you need to pack a separate makeup mirror – if you’re packing a palette or a powder that already has a mirror, you can save some space in your makeup bag.

Can You Bring Makeup Brushes On A Plane?

There are no TSA restrictions on makeup brushes, so you’re allowed to pack as many of them as you need in your carry-on or personal bag. However, if it’s obvious that your makeup brushes contain other substances, they might be subject to additional inspection.

So, if you want to be certain you’re not going to waste time while TSA agents inspect your makeup brushes, just clean them before packing. Wash them with a makeup brush cleaner or give them a quick wipe down with micellar water to remove any visible traces of makeup from them.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the same goes for makeup sponges, eyeshadow applicators, and even eyelash curlers.

Can You Bring Nail Polish On A Plane?

You can bring both nail polish and nail polish remover on a plane, but they must be packed in the liquids bag. They’re both treated as liquids, so you must follow the 3-1-1 rule for packing liquids in a carry-on. You can’t have more than 3.4 oz of either nail polish or remover in a single bottle, and everything must fit in a clear plastic bag.

Nail files are also permitted in carry-on luggage, even glass and metal ones. It’s worth noting that any sharp objects must be properly sheathed in your carry-on – if you don’t want to waste a second at the security checkpoint, just pack a basic cardboard nail file.

Can You Bring Nail Clippers On A Plane?

You’re allowed to have nail clippers on a plane, but it’s not quite as simple with nail scissors. Nail scissors are allowed in your carry-on bag as long as they’re not longer than 4” from the pivot point. They also need to be sheathed, just like razors and any other sharp items in your carry-on.

It’s worth noting that the TSA agent inspecting your carry-on luggage has the ultimate say in what you can board the plane with. Even though you’re technically allowed to bring something inside an airplane, it could still get confiscated if the security agent deems it unsafe.

How To Pack Makeup in Your Carry-On Luggage

All your liquid makeup must be packed inside the quart-size toiletry bag. You can pack all your other makeup wherever you want, including makeup brushes, mirrors, and wipes. It’s best to place everything in a separate bag, so in case anything breaks or a powder comes loose, it won’t stain everything else in your carry-on.

The upside of packing makeup in a carry-on or personal bag is that you’re certain the bag won’t get thrown around a lot, so you don’t necessarily need to be extremely careful when packing. If you want to be on the safe side, it’s not a bad idea to wrap your palettes in clothes, for better impact resistance.

However, keep in mind you might be required to present your powdered makeup for additional screening, and wrapping it in clothing isn’t the best thing to do if you’re trying to get through security checkpoints quickly.

In conclusion, you are allowed to pack makeup in your carry-on and personal bags. All liquid makeup must be in containers that don’t exceed 3.4 oz, and all the containers must fit in a quart-size toiletry bag. It’s worth noting that anything that is not entirely solid is considered a liquid so your mascara, concealer, lipgloss, and anything similar need to be packed in the quart-size bag.

TSA doesn’t really have any rules for solid makeup, so most lipsticks and makeup sticks can be packed however and wherever in your carry-on luggage. They’re a bit stricter with powdered products though – if you have more than 12 ounces of a powdered product, it will be subject to additional screening at security.

Some airlines prohibit powdered products larger than 12 ounces entirely, but it ultimately depends on the security agent who is inspecting your luggage.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

How to pack makeup in carry-on luggage: 2024 TSA travel size rules [VIDEO]

Jun 3, 2019

How to pack makeup in your carry-on luggage.

If you are taking a flight and not planning to check a bag, packing makeup in carry-on luggage (as well as toiletries) can seem like a complicated task. But if you follow the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) 3-1-1 rule (or the 2023 TSA makeup rules) it is fairly simple to pack makeup in your carry-on bag.

Click the links below to skip to any of the following sections:

TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule 2023 TSA makeup rules How to pack non-liquid makeup TSA’s shampoo rules TSA’s deodorant rules Can you pack your razor for a flight? Other tips

TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule: How to pack makeup in carry-on luggage

The TSA’s travel size rule says you can bring a 1 – quart -sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. The containers need to be 3.4 ounces or smaller and placed in the resealable clear bag. Each passenger is only allowed one bag .

The TSA 3-11 rule allows you to bring your makeup and toiletries in: 1 bag, which is 1-quart, which contain bottles that are 3.4 ounces or smaller .

The items that need to fit within the 1-ounce bag include things like:

Liquid foundation
Conditioner
Liquid soap
Tooth paste
Dry shampoo
Anything else fitting into the categories

Powders and pencils are not included within the TSA travel size rule. The bag only needs to hold your makeup or toiletries of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes — everything else can be packed as normal luggage.

TSA Precheck vs Global Entry: Which should I apply for?

Here are some other tips for packing makeup in your carry-on:, 2023 tsa makeup rules.

According to the TSA: “Makeup in a solid or powder form is allowed in carry-on and checked bags with no quantity or size limitations. However, when packed in carry-on bags, makeup in a liquid, lotion, gel, paste or creamy form, must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less. You can take as many travel-sized liquids as you can comfortably fit into one quart-sized, zip-top bag. One liquids bag is allowed per passenger in carry-on bags. We don’t limit the size or quantity of liquids in checked bags.”

Pack all non-liquid makeup separately

It’s easy to think that most of your makeup, including things like lipstick, might be included in the TSA’s rule. But the rule only applies to liquids. So pack your liquid foundation along with your travel-sized soap, shampoo, and lotion, and pack the rest of your makeup separately (including powders, brushes, and pencils) — you will not need to take these out of your carry-on bag.

My favorite TSA-compliant clear toiletry bags

You can then decide if you want to place your non-liquid makeup in your carry-on or in your checked bag. But if you want to keep your liquid makeup with you during the flight, make sure you pull the plastic bag out when going through security, according to the TSA’s rules.

TSA shampoo rules

The rules for packing shampoo and conditioner for a flight are the same as they are for makeup, toothpaste, and any other liquids or gels. You can pack as many in your carry on as you’d like, but they must individually be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less, and must then all fit within a one-quart bag.

You can pack as much shampoo and conditioner as you’d like, in whatever bottle sizes you’d like, in your checked luggage.

TSA deodorant rules

Solid and powder deodorant are allowed in unlimited quantities in both your checked and carry-on luggage. They are not considered gels when asking if you can bring deodorant on a plane.

Can you pack your razor for a flight?

Yes you can pack your razor in your carry-on luggage, to an extent.

The TSA now allows sharp items in cosmetics bags, with some exceptions.

In terms of bringing razors on an airplane in your carry-on bag, they allow the following:

Scissor blades must be no longer than four inches
Safety razors : Safety razors are not allowed as a carry on. Blades must be placed in checked luggage.
Disposable razors : These razors are acceptable to bring in a carry on.
Electric razors : Electric razors are acceptable to bring in a carry on.
Tweezers and nail clippers are acceptable.

Make it easy on yourself

Sometimes it’s just easier to purchase the items when you get to your destination. Things like shampoo, soap, and razors can be found at any neighborhood Walgreens or CVS — and many are even available at your hotel. Or even better, check a bag.

If you know the rules before you arrive at the airport, it will make it easier on you — as well as everyone in line behind you.

Recommended: Suitcase Packing Hacks: How to Save Tons of Space and Travel Light

Stress-Free Secrets to Travelling with Your Makeup Kit

As a successful makeup artist, travel could very likely become a regular aspect of your career. Contrary to popular belief, the artist chosen for a job is not always the one living in the city where that job takes place. If you work with an agency, a celebrity or brand (as a rep or trainer) you will likely find yourself packing your kit for some air travel. It’s all part of the glamour of the beauty industry.

Anyone who has traveled with makeup or cosmetics—even small ones for personal use—knows the potential perils. Pressed powders shatter to dust , foundations mysteriously leak half their contents, and the bristles explode off the heads of your brushes. Okay, so I made that last one up, but since the other two makeup disasters are awaiting you, it is essential that you know how to prep and pack your kit!

Makeup bag or case?

certified makeup artist with travel makeup case

Personally, I have always used a bag. I find it far easier to pack and travel with (both local and long-distance). Others prefer metal cases or rolling cases. I say to each his own. But you may find it easiest to navigate an airport if you have your kit in a carry-on or in your checked baggage. Trust me, bringing a metal box through airport security will not make your trip any faster.

To carry on or check?

Now, with airports, there are two ways to plan your travel. You can take your makeup kit on as your carry-on, or you can check it below the plane. Now, I am a bit of a control freak when it comes to the essentials for me to do my job, so I have never checked my makeup.

Because of the liquids and the exceptional number of products and tools, however, you may not always be allowed to carry your kit on board. For that reason, I still recommend packing it as if you would check it. This is the only way to ensure that your products will not be destroyed. One bit of advice: even if you choose to carry on, always remember to pack your tweezers and eyelash scissors in your checked baggage!

Make a list and check it twice

Before any job, local or not, you should always check your kit. It is the best way to be sure everything is there and fully stocked. This is the perfect time to replenish your disposables (cotton pads, mascara wands, cotton swabs, etc). I keep a list of what is in my kit and I always double check it. This has always kept me from getting to a job and not having what I need. Do this as a favor to yourself, because once you land in a new city, getting your favorite, forgotten product is not always as easy as it is at home.

Pack the products carefully

One of the most important factors when traveling with makeup is organization. I recommend reusable makeup bags. These squares and rectangles perfectly hold the product, minimizing the size of the kit and making it perfect for travel. If you do not have these or do not care to invest in them, a Ziploc bag will do the trick.

You will want all liquids, gels, and creams in a sealed bag. This will save you a ton of clean up if any of them break or leak. When packing the liquids, wrap each one in a folded paper towel and place it in the reusable bag. Pack the bag tightly so nothing moves around, filling the top with additional paper towels if needed.

To ensure the safety of your compacts, cushion each one with a powder puff (or several cotton rounds). This little shock absorber will shield your powder blushes and foundations from the excessive shocks that cause breakage.

If you keep your brushes in a roll they will be safe and secure. Much of what we carry will be just fine for travel, checked or carry-on. It just never hurts to use a little more care with the products that are particularly temperamental—like liquid and cream foundations and pressed powders.

My professional makeup kit is always very small. Over a 20-year career, I have learned to distill everything I could possibly need to do any job into a small black bag that is half the size of the totes people carry for errands. If you still have a mega-huge kit, you will need to minimize it to the essentials and a few favorites for travel.

To cut down on the excess for travel, consider multi-use products, like lip and cheek stains. Try putting cream products (foundations and lipsticks) into palettes , and take only a few liquid foundations (be sure to bring enough light and dark so you can mix every shade between).

In my professional kit, I carry almost 90 foundations. The powders all fit in a small bag, the creams are in tiny palettes and I carry only 4 liquids that allow me to mix any shade by using the other liquids and creams. You may not be there yet, but learning to edit and condense will save your shoulders and your wallet.

A few last tips…

If you do opt to pack your kit in your clothing suitcase, simply separate the items in sealed bags and place them between your clean clothes in the middle of the suitcase. Super easy…and super secure. Just remember to bring a kit bag to put it in when you get there. And of course, pray that this won’t be the one time your luggage gets lost.

If you plan to check your make up in the belly of the plane, don’t keep it in a metal case. They have less padding and shock absorbers, so the product will likely break in the rough handling. Also, the many doors, compartments and hinges are not made for rough handling or drops. A metal case is a recipe for disaster and the last thing you want is your broken, empty case to roll around on the luggage rotary, right?

Traveling as a makeup artist can be very fun and exciting, so be sure not to let improper packing and securing of your makeup dampen the journey.

Put Nathan’s tips into practice by setting your sights on work as a runway makeup artist or a movie makeup artist !

#tbt: vintage beauty products that are still going strong, author nathan johnson, join the discussion 5 comments.

Thanks this was so helpful. I’m a Traveling Makeup Artist and I’m Traveling to New York very soon for New York Fashion Week! And I’m so worried about flying with my makeup! Thanks Again

Thank you for this great resource!

I am particularly curious about traveling with alcohol activated palettes, such as skin illustrator. Do you have any experience if they are fine in my carry-on bag, and if they would need to go into the liquids bag? I don’t think they should, as they are not really a gel or liquid, but I would hate to lose an $80 palette to that assumption…

Thank you for your help!

Great piece. Super practical! I’m not a traveling makeup artist..yet! However I do travel a fair amount with my makeup so the tips were very useful. Excited to use them in a month’s time.

We’re so glad you found this article useful, Allyson! Good luck with you career and we’re excited to see how you improve!

Thank you!! I’ve been doing makeup professionally for several years and finally booked my first international makeup gig in Jamaica! This article was extremely helpful!

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Best Way to Pack Makeup for Travel on a Plane

Post author: Rachel Pedranti
Post published: February 28, 2023
Post category: Travel
Post comments: 0 Comments

If you’re going to be traveling by plane, you’ll need to know how to pack your makeup for a flight properly. There are a few things to keep in mind, such as what kind of products you should use and how to make sure everything stays intact. Follow these simple tips and you’ll be able to travel with your makeup worry-free.

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here .

Can You Bring Makeup on a Plane

You may want to bring your favorite makeup products with you on a plane. Whether it is to freshen up before landing or just in case your luggage doesn’t make it to your destination, an all too real reality since travel came back in full force in 2022. So can you bring makeup on a plane is the question that many of us have. The answer in short is yes, as long as you follow a few rules and regulations. Every traveler must follow the 3-1-1 rule, 3.4 oz containers, 1-quart max of liquid allowed per 1 person.

When going through TSA all liquids must be stored in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller. Each person gets one clear quart-sized bag to be filled with liquids. The classification of liquid also includes any gels and aerosols. By doing this you can ensure that your go-to products will be allowed through security and onto your flight! As you read further you’ll learn how to pack makeup for a flight so that security is no issue at all.

how to pack makeup for travel by plane in a small toiletry bag.

Liquid Makeup

Liquid makeup often comes in small containers that will make it through security with no problem. It is still best to know and understand all TSA rules to get through airport security with as few issues as possible.

Make sure to know what counts as a liquid and what doesn’t. Then pack it all so that it won’t spill or take up unnecessary space.

Is mascara a liquid?

One liquid that travelers commonly question is mascara. Mascara is in fact considered a liquid! This means it should be removed from any carry-on luggage while going through security and it will count against your liquid amount.

Powder Makeup

In order to avoid issues with going over the allotted limit of liquids allowed per person when traveling with makeup, try switching to solid makeup products or powders. For example, a pressed powder foundation as opposed to a liquid foundation. Or you can use powder blush instead of cream blush, an eyeliner pencil instead of liquid eyeliner, and a solid deodorant stick rather than an aerosol one.

Makeup and TSA Regulations

With the TSA liquid regulations, air travelers can bring containers that hold 3.4 ounces (or 100 ml) of liquid makeup in their carry-on bags. However, thanks to the 3-1-1 liquids rule its not just about if the individual liquid or cream bottles you bring are smaller than 3.4 ounces. They must all fit inside a single quart-sized resealable bag. You can read their complete liquid guidleines online .

Additionally, any powders should also be separated in a bag that does not exceed 350 ml/12 oz and placed in a bin for x-ray. If you are traveling with powders then the TSA website states that the traveler MAY be subject to additional screening. You should get to keep your products though. Powders over this amount should be placed in your checked luggage. When in doubt, it’s best to check your item online with the TSA website before boarding your flight. This will ensure that you and your travel items meet all the TSA’s regulations for liquid and powder makeup so that there are no surprises waiting at security!

Travel Tip: Some liquids are considered medically necessary and are allowed through in larger quantities than 3.4 oz such as contact lens solution. Simply declare this liquid to a TSA agent before going through security. The liquid will be inspected and then returned to you. This is not the case in all countries, so make sure you verify with each country you pass through before flying.

liquids packed for travel in a small clear plastic bag, perfect for TSA.

More Packing Tips and Tricks:

Customizable 2 Week Packing List
9 Minimalist Packing Tips and Hacks for Smart Packing
TSA Airport Security Tips and Guidelines

Best Makeup Bag

Packing your makeup for travel comes down to the right supplies along with a few tricks. Whether you’re flying for a business trip or taking a mini-vacation, it all starts with the best travel makeup bag.

First thing, all liquid makeup and other liquid toiletries should be stored in a clear plastic bag. A ziplock bag works well or these very affordable, sturdy plastic bags are a sturdier option. This makes it easy to separate liquids and pull them out of your luggage as you go through security.

Read More: Product Review: Packism Clear Travel Bags

When looking for the perfect toiletry bag, be sure to get one with compartments and pockets. It should be spacious enough to store all your favorite products yet small enough that it doesn’t take up too much space in your carry-on bag. A sturdy zipper is important to ensure that your belongings are kept safe through the jostling of travel. With the right gear, traveling with makeup has never been easier!

Some of my favorite travel containers when figuring out how to pack makeup for travel by plane are liquid bottles, small containers, a brush bag and a clear plastic bag for liquids.

Makeup Travel Containers

As an avid traveler and makeup lover, liquid travel containers are your best bet for carrying your go-to beauty supplies in the least amount of space possible. So, the next thing to consider when figuring out how to pack makeup for a flight while taking up less space is the containers you are using.

Travel liquid bottles are a great place to start. These liquid bottles can hold about 3 oz and can be filled with any liquid or lotion of your choice. The liquid bottles are small, lightweight, and leak-proof. Perfect for bringing along liquids you need large(r) quantities of like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, skincare products, etc.

Even smaller containers like glass or plastic jars are a great option when you only need a small amount of liquid or gel. Some examples are hair gel, face lotion, cream blush, or a lip mask. Consider making the switch from bulky makeup bottles to liquid travel containers–you won’t regret it!

Shop Gear for Packing Makeup for Travel

How to pack makeup brushes for travel.

Packing your makeup brushes is actually very simple. This small silicone makeup brush case is easy to clean, stylish, and affordable. It has a small magnetic closure to keep the brushes from falling out and is a great design. Using a small brush case will keep the rest of your makeup bag clean and avoid damage to the brushes themselves.

You can also get creative and use an empty makeup case, an old sunglass container, or even a pencil pouch to store them in. The options are endless and don’t have to be pricey!

Read More: Feryes Silicone Travel Makeup Brush Holder Product Review

how to pack makeup brushes for travel by plane? I love this small silicone travel case for makeup brushes.

What to Pack in Your Makeup Travel Bag on the Plane

Whenever you’re traveling by plane, space is always a concern. How much makeup you need to bring is going to vary based on your destination and purpose for travel. For example, on a beach vacation, you may only need some foundation and mascara to get you through the day. For a business trip though you will more than likely need more for your daily makeup routine.

I have a fairly minimalist approach to my makeup look. My essentials are items like foundation, concealer, highlighter, bronzer, blush, brow pencil, eyeliner, mascara, lip balm, and maybe some eyeshadow.

In my personal item, I keep my foundation, mascara, and chapstick handy in case I want to apply some makeup before arriving at my destination. The rest of my makeup I keep packed in my carry-on or checked luggage depending on what I am traveling with.

How to Pack Makeup for Travel in Carry-on Luggage

Bringing makeup on a plane in a carry-on is perfectly fine, even if your carry-on is nothing but a backpack. You can even bring make-up on a plane in your purse or other hand luggage. You may be wondering about how to pack makeup for a flight in a carry-on for safe and easy travel.

Most airport securities limit the amount of liquid items allowed in carry-on bags to 1 quart per person in 3.4 ounces (100mL) containers. With the right packing strategies, you can bring along all of your favorite makeup essentials without worrying about having them confiscated at the airport!

If you’re hoping to bring along the most products possible your best bet is to switch to solid products which aren’t subject to liquid regulations and don’t have to be screened. So many beauty essentials come in powder form as an alternative. For example, you can use powder blush instead of cream blush, eyeliner pencils instead of liquid eyeliners, a solid deodorant stick rather than an aerosol one, and nail strips instead of nail polish.

Any liquid products you chose to bring should be placed into the smallest possible size container. If you have only half a bottle of lotion left, you can save precious space by putting it into a travel liquid bottle rather than bringing the original packaging. It can also be helpful to bring small containers of hair gel, toothpaste, or foundation rather than large bottles. Especially if you are only going for a couple of days.

Finally, make sure all your liquids are packed into a clear bag. This is easy to pull out for security AND prevents any leaks from getting on the rest of your luggage.

learn how to pack makeup for travel in carry-on luggage or a personal item like this backpack

Can You Bring Makeup Wipes on a Plane

Bringing makeup remover wipes along can be a great way to freshen up on the plane, especially during a long-haul flight. Many people have asked if they can bring makeup wipes on a plane, and the answer is yes! In fact, all items in the wipes category are not considered liquids or gels at all. This means there are no size restrictions and the wipes do not have to fit in your one-quart clear bag allowance.

Travel Tip: All types of wipes do not count as a liquid. That means makeup wipes, wet wipes, disinfectant wipes, baby wipes, etc can all be brought along in whatever quantity you need to bring without having to worry about the 3.4 oz container size and they can stay in your bag as you go through security.

How to Pack Makeup for a Flight in Checked Luggage

If you have a checked bag, packing your makeup along should be a little easier. There are no size restrictions for liquids so if you need (or want) to bring a large amount of a liquid you can. Even full-size bottle of product is allowed.

No matter their size, I still recommend transporting all liquids inside a plastic bag or toiletry bags of some sort in case of leaks. Potentially even taping lids closed if you are worried about them opening when pressure changes happen during the flight.

There are some extra precautions you can do to make sure your makeup remains intact during your travels. For powder products like eyeshadow and blush, look for hard plastic cases. These will better protect them from cracking or breaking if anything should happen to your luggage. You can put small cotton pads or a cotton ball inside with the makeup to prevent the powder from cracking.

I still recommend traveling with travel-sized products and cosmetics to cut down on how much extra packaging you are bringing with you. Luggage space and weight are most likely a concern when you are flying. With these tips in mind, you can pack your makeup worry-free when traveling with checked luggage.

A large toiletry bag like this one is perfect for packing makeup and toiletries in checked luggage.

Packing Makeup for a Flight

There you go, everything you need to know on how to pack makeup for a flight. Including my favorite containers to save a lot of space! Air travel with makeup can pose a few challenges to consider, but by following the TSA regulations and packing your makeup in the right containers, you can make sure your beauty products don’t take up too much space and arrives at your destination safe and sound. What are your tips for packing makeup for a flight? Share them in the comments below!

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COMMENTS

11 Best Travel Makeup Kits to Buy
4. Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Eye Enhancing Kit. If you are big on eye makeup, this is the best travel makeup kit for you. The Physicians Formula kit has nine eye shadow shades in one handy palette, two-in-one mascara, and two eyeliner pencils.
How to Travel with Makeup and Skincare: 12 Dos and Don'ts
Always Pack Travel-Sized Products in a Carry-On. De Santino has some sound advice when it comes to packing your liquids: Always use a carry-on. "I always like to keep my makeup and skincare in my carry-on, so I stick to solids and travel sizes for all liquids. You'll be able to retouch before you de-board the plane, and worst-case scenario, if ...
The 12 Best Travel-sized Skincare Sets
Our Top Picks. Best Overall: Fenty Skin The Glow Around 4-piece Travel Skincare Essentials Set at Sephora ($42) Jump to Review. Best Overall, Runner-up: 35thousand All the Radiance Set at ...
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Step 2: Eliminate the Non-Essentials. Step 3: Focus on Duplicates and Multi-Use Products. Step 4: Focus on Quantity. Step 5: Downsize. Not every woman wears makeup, and some of us can't live without it. The truth is that styled hair and fresh-faced makeup truly add the finishing touch to create a polished appearance.
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The Final Takeaway. You can bring solid and powdered makeup on a plane but if you can squeeze it, smear it, pump it, spread it, spray it, or spill it then it's considered a liquid. There are so many liquid or cream cosmetics that it might be easier to pay the fee and bring a checked bag. Space in the quart-size bag is limited.
The 9 Best Makeup Cases for Travel in 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Béis The Cosmetic Case at Nordstrom ($68) Jump to Review. Best for Organization: Relavel Travel Makeup Case at Amazon ($26) Jump to Review. Best Compact: Dagne Dover Mila Toiletry Organizer at ...
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With practice and planning, though, you can get really good at editing down all your beauty essentials without over or under-packing. To help you cover all the bases when it comes to traveling with makeup, we asked experts to share their best tips. keeps you organized Sydney Morgan Calpak. PackItUp.com. Jenny Patinkin Jenny Patinkin Eco-Luxe ...
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Pack Makeup in the Center of Your Suitcase. If you're flying with checked luggage, wrap your makeup bag in your towel and put it in the center of your luggage so it's well protected. If you pack it on the top of your stuff it could easily get knocked around and end up broken.
Can You Bring Makeup On a Plane?
Yes, you can bring liquid makeup on a plane as long as you follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule. That means that any liquid makeup must be 3.4 ounces max and that all your liquids must fit in a quart-size bag. It's worth noting that this toiletry bag must fit all your liquids, so consider which liquid makeup you absolutely need and what can be ...
Look Great On-The-Go: Travel Makeup Kit
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN TRAVEL MAKEUP. For liquids, make sure it's 3 ounces or less. Replace liquids with powders when available. Find makeup and cosmetics that can serve a dual purpose. Have a separate travel makeup kit ready-to-go. A few tips about putting together your own travel makeup kit — minimize the amount of liquids you bring, and ...
How to Pack Makeup for a Flight: Travel Beauty Tips from a Pro!
Step 2: Liquid Vs Non-Liquid Makeup When Flying. Next, divide your makeup and beauty products into two categories: liquid and non-liquid. This is because when you're flying with only a carry on bag, anything that is a liquid needs to be packed in a separate bag.
Can you bring makeup on a plane? (2024)
Again, liquid makeup is allowed in carry on luggage as long as each container is 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and is stored in your 1 quart (1 liter) clear zip top liquids bag. Remember this is the limit for taking liquid toiletries on a plane. Liquid makeup must comply with the TSA liquids rules. If you're traveling with liquid foundation ...
How to Pack Your Professional Makeup and Hair Kit (TRAVEL ON A PLANE
Hey Cinderella'sAt a lost for how to make all of your makeup fit while traveling? In this video, I take you through my process of packing my makeup kit and u...
Travel Makeup: What to Bring and How to Pack It
When you're packing up your makeup, sit all the liquids aside. Open them up and place small pieces of plastic wrap under the caps for an extra layer of protection—much like when products have little pieces of foil over their openings before you ever use them. Give this travel makeup tip a whirl with the L'Oréal Paris Infallible 24 Hour ...
How to pack makeup in carry-on luggage: 2024 TSA travel size rules
The containers need to be 3.4 ounces or smaller and placed in the resealable clear bag. Each passenger is only allowed one bag. The TSA 3-11 rule allows you to bring your makeup and toiletries in: 1 bag, which is 1-quart, which contain bottles that are 3.4 ounces or smaller. The items that need to fit within the 1-ounce bag include things like:
How To Pack Makeup For A Flight: TSA Guidelines And Tips
Use bubble wrap or packing peanuts to cushion your makeup products in your luggage. Use tape to secure any lids or caps that may come loose during transit. Place your makeup products in a sealable plastic bag to prevent any leaks or spills from spreading to other items in your luggage.
Makeup on Planes: 13 Beauty Tips for Stylish Airport Arrivals
12. Makeup on Planes: Reapply Before Arrival. An hour before your flight lands (no sooner- or you'll dry out your makeup!), grab your toiletry bag and head to the nearest toilet. Use the mirror in the restroom to freshen up your face, apply fresh deodorant, brush your teeth, and then reapply your basic makeup routine.
How to Pack Makeup For Flight: Six Best Tips (2024)
Tip #5: Always Pack a Face Oil. Lastly, lock it all in by pressing the Retrouve Balancing Face Oil into your skin. This luxury oil is easily absorbable, with significant benefits (antioxidant-rich and full of fatty acids), but without the heavy feel of most oils.
Stress-Free Secrets to Travelling with Your Makeup Kit
One of the most important factors when traveling with makeup is organization. I recommend reusable makeup bags. These squares and rectangles perfectly hold the product, minimizing the size of the kit and making it perfect for travel. If you do not have these or do not care to invest in them, a Ziploc bag will do the trick.
Amazon.com: Travel Makeup Kit
Amazon.com: travel makeup kit. ... Airplane-Friendly Sizes. 1.01 Ounce (Pack of 1) 4.5 out of 5 stars. 3,237. 10K+ bought in past month. No featured offers available $29.27 (2 new offers) NISHEL Travel Toiletry Bag for women, Portable Hanging Organizer for Full-Sized Shampoo, Conditioner, Brushes Set, Travel-Size Accessories, Pink ...
Best Way to Pack Makeup for Travel on a Plane
Makeup and TSA Regulations. With the TSA liquid regulations, air travelers can bring containers that hold 3.4 ounces (or 100 ml) of liquid makeup in their carry-on bags. However, thanks to the 3-1-1 liquids rule its not just about if the individual liquid or cream bottles you bring are smaller than 3.4 ounces.
Can You Bring Makeup on a Plane? Here's What TSA Says
Yes, you can. According to TSA, you can bring makeup in solid or powder form in both carry-on and checked bags. There are no restrictions on the quantity or size of the makeup items. Makeup in liquid, lotion, gel, paste, or creamy form should be packed in carry-on bags in 3.4 ounces or fewer containers. You can bring multiple travel-sized ...