When packing for a trip, sometimes the most ordinary items can be restricted on airlines. Your favorite aerosol products may include hair spray and deodorant, and let’s be honest, sometimes it’s hard to get by without these, and it’s best to be prepared and know what you’re allowed to pack.
Aerosols are allowed on a plane provided they are in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller, complying with the TSA regulations. Aerosols larger than 3.4 ounces will not be allowed on a plane, even if the container is nearly empty. In addition, all aerosols must be put in a clear zip bag with your luggage.
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Can You Bring Aerosol On A Plane Carry On?
According to the TSA liquids rule, the only aerosols permitted in carry-on luggage are aerosols that are in 3.4-ounce containers. Smaller containers are also allowed.
All liquids in your carry-on bag, including aerosols, need to be placed in a single quart-sized resealable bag and can go in carry-on luggage and be accepted through the security check.
Can You Take Aerosols On A Plan In Your Suitcase?
Aerosols are permitted in your suitcase if they follow the same guidelines as the carry-on luggage. In addition, aerosols will need to be in 3.4-ounce containers or smaller and placed in a clear resealable bag in your suitcase.
The TSA limits the amount of flammable products passengers can bring on a plane. All aerosols in your suitcase can add up to 17 ounces, but each passenger is only permitted a total of 68 ounces of flammable liquids, including aerosols.
What Happens If You Bring Aerosols On A Plane?
Aerosols are safe to take on a plane, provided they are not flammable or restricted based on the TSA guidelines. Besides following the TSA guidelines for packing aerosols, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) also has policies regarding aerosols.
The FAA advises that the total quantity of toiletries and medicinal products should not exceed 70 ounces or 68 fluid ounces. In addition, the capacity of each container must not exceed 18 ounces or 17 fluid ounces. Caps must protect all aerosols to avoid leakage and accidental spraying.
Further restrictions apply to carry-on luggage based on the 3.4-ounce guidelines set out by the TSA during the security checks.
What Types Of Aerosol Can You Bring On A Plane?
According to USA Today, you can include the following types of aerosols on a plane:
- Sunscreen
- Perfume
- Antiperspirant
- Hairspray
- Shaving cream
- Deodorant
The TSA has a strict 3-1-1 rule which states that all toiletries in your carry-on and suitcase should be in 3.4-ounce containers, and all toiletries must fit in one clear resealable bag.
The above list includes a few aerosols you can bring on a plane and does not include all the aerosols permitted on a plane.
Which Aerosols Are Prohibited On A Plane?
Some aerosols are prohibited on a plane. These are generally hazardous or flammable aerosols. Prohibited aerosols include:
- Laundry aerosols
- Insecticides
- Spray paint
- Cooking spray
- WD-40
These items are not permitted in the carry-on luggage and in your suitcase. If you are uncertain about packing a specific aerosol, it’s best to leave it at home and avoid facing a fine for packing a prohibited aerosol.
Generally, if an aerosol is listed as not flammable, it is usually permitted on a plane. While the majority of aerosols today are non-flammable, there are a few which are hazardous and flammable.
If your aerosol can states that the product is flammable, it’s best to avoid packing it in for your trip.
Are There Dangers In Packing Aerosols On A Plane?
Packing in aerosols can be dangerous because they can explode. In most instances, aerosols won’t explode as long as the can is not damaged or pierced. However, aerosol cans can explode if the pressure inside the can builds up too much.
Leaving aerosols in direct sunlight and in a hot car can also cause pressure to build up. However, inside your suitcase, these factors are not a concern. On a plane, the luggage hold has a regulated temperature and is pressurized, keeping aerosols safe from building up pressure.
It’s best to pack safely and ensure your aerosols are non-flammable; some airlines may not allow you to pack in flammable aerosols.
Can Aerosols Leak On A Plane?
Sometimes aerosols can leak when packed in your suitcase during a flight. If you’ve ever experienced any of your dry shampoo or shaving cream leaking all over your other toiletries, you’ll know what a big mess it can be to clean up.
There are some guidelines to keep your aerosols from leaking during a flight. Keeping the lid on your aerosols is the best option to avoid leaks and not placing sharp objects near your aerosol can.
If there isn’t a lid for the aerosol can, you can wrap it in a facecloth and secure the top with a few rubber bands. You can also do this if you have an ill-fitting lid for your aerosol.
Another solution is to tape the lid shut with some heavy-duty tape to prevent leakages.
Are There Alternatives To Aerosols For Packing On A Plane?
As much as we love aerosols, packing them into your carry-on luggage or your suitcase comes with following specific guidelines. Most of the time, your favorite aerosols may not be available in the travel sizes you need to take with you on your trip.
Not only is it frustrating not finding a smaller version of your perfume or sunscreen in an aerosol, but you could also be left without your favorite toiletries. Despite this, it’s better to consider packing your toiletries in a non-aerosol form like a tube or roll-on deodorant.
Not all products are available in a non-aerosol form, so it depends on the products you are packing for your flight.
However, if you pack mainly non-aerosol products, it may be safer, and you won’t have to worry that your aerosol products are not permitted on the plane.
