Outsmarting the TSA Fluid Rules
Sep 12, 2011
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has forever changed my vacation beauty routine. When I go to my parent’s house, I have doubles of every one of my beauty products in the upstairs bathroom. (Seriously, it’s like I never left.) But when I travel anywhere else, I am forced to abide by the draconian 3oz rule.
Oh, the 3oz rule. The slightly ridiculous security theatre that forces women to stand in front of their medicine cabinets engaged in the beauty product equivalent of “Sophie’s Choice.” But thanks to Kate and Alexi from 3floz.com, I no longer have to choose.
For frequent travelers, the website sells beauty brands from Ole Henriksen to DDF in carry-on friendly sizes. No need to buy the cheap $4 drugstore stand in when you can buy the brand name product that you love in a smaller size.
If the 3floz website doesn’t offer your brand, Sephora has followed the website’s lead and offering a traveler-friendly section. However, it isn’t nearly as well stocked as the 3floz website.
And if you’re looking for some advice on what to pack on the road for maximum benefit and minimum girth, O Magazine, Marie Claire, and Elle have you covered.
Personally, I like Yes to Blueberries face wipes, Ole Henriksen moisturizers and night creams, Phyto shampoos and Laura Mercier travel-sized foundation and primer (sold in a kit). Because everyone wants to look gorgeous while on vacation.
Based on you recommendation a few weeks ago, I picked up some Ole Henriksen Pure Perfection and…I'm loving it! Thanks so much, Belle!
Target also sells sets of 4 3oz bottles for about $2.00. I bought 2 packages and just made my own travel sizes of my favorite brands. Works great for shampoos, conditioners, lotions etc.
It's actually the 3.4 oz rule, which is nice because a lot of cosmetics come in 3.4 oz (100 ml) bottles but annoying because the TSA intentionally hasn't gone out of its way to tell us that: https://blog.tsa.gov/2009/02/3-oz-or-34-oz-what-gives.html
Thanks Katherine!!!!! I have been going crazy every time I find something that comes in a 3.4 oz package.
Lush has a solid shampoo and conditioner that I really like. I originally picked them up for travel, but now have started using daily. No need to follow the 3 oz rule, when your shampoo and conditioner aren't liquids!