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Packing for the plane is always tricky. There are so many questions about what is allowed! One frequent question is, “Can I bring shaving cream in my carry-on?” This post will explore how to travel with shaving cream, including considerations for aerosol cans, solid shaving cream alternatives, aftershave lotion, razors, and how to pack your shaving supplies appropriately.
Aerosol Shaving Cream: What You Need to Know
An aerosol can is probably the most popular choice for shaving cream—it's so convenient!
However, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says it must follow TSA's 3-1-1 rule if you want to pack an aerosol can in your carry-on bag. This means it must be in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters and packed in a quart-sized, resealable, clear plastic bag. Otherwise, it needs to be packed in your checked luggage.
And a half-empty can doesn't count. What matters is the quantity listed on the can.
But why, you may ask?
Temperatures and pressure fluctuate greatly on a plane. If the change is sudden, the can may leak or explode—not good at 30,000 feet!
So it’s important to play by the rules.
You can often find travel-sized cans of shaving cream in the travel section of your local pharmacy, Walmart, or Target.
One of the big problems with taking aerosol cans in your personal item, though, is that the container must fit inside a single quart-sized bag along with all the rest of your liquid toiletries. And aerosol cans of shaving cream can sometimes be too big to make that work.
So, unless you want to check a bag, it's a good idea to rethink your shaving supplies. The last thing you want is for a TSA agent to confiscate them.
>>> READ MORE: How to Rightsize Your Toiletries
Solid Shaving Cream: A Convenient Alternative
If you want to avoid the hassle of TSA requirements regarding liquids, the best option might be a solid alternative, such as a solid shaving cream, a shave stick, or a bar of shaving soap.
These solids aren't subject to TSA's 3-1-1 liquid rule. This makes them a great choice for carry-on luggage, no matter the length of your trip.
Here are some smart reasons to consider some type of solid shaving cream:
- There are no restrictions on solids
Since solid shaving cream isn’t considered a liquid, you can carry as much as you need without worrying about container size limits, and it doesn’t need to go in your resealable 3-1-1 bag. - Solids save space
They come in compact packaging, which makes them easier to pack and saves space in your carry-on. If you choose a bar, you can just slice off the amount you’ll need for your trip. You can take just a sliver for a short trip or a bigger chunk if you're going to be gone for a long time. - They're eco-friendly
Most solid shaving creams are packed in environmentally friendly materials, which reduces waste. No more tossing plastic or metal containers that can’t be recycled.
Here are some solid shaving products for you to consider:
Another alternative is to leave everything but your razor at home and use hotel soap.
It depends on whether hotel soap offers a sufficiently close and comfortable shave. I know many frequent travelers do this for short trips. For long trips, they purchase their shaving cream when they arrive.
>>> READ MORE: Solid Toiletries - A Proven Gamechanger for Travel
Aftershave Lotions: That Extra Touch
Aftershave lotions are considered liquids, subject to the same rules as any other liquid. They must be less than 3.4 fluid ounces and packed with your other liquids in a clear, resealable zip-top bag.
If you use your aftershave as a cologne, another option is a solid cologne or perfume. Lush has some really nice scents. They call them perfume but many are nice and spicy like a good aftershave.
Traveling With Razors: Safety & Regulations
If you’re asking about shaving cream for your carry-on, we should also probably talk about TSA’s rules for carrying razors onboard.
Here are some guidelines:
- Disposable razors
These are razors with a plastic handle. Some have a removable blade cartridge. They’re allowed in your carry-on, no problem. - Safety razors
These razors have double-sided blades. They’re sharp and dangerous. You can bring the razor handle in your hand luggage, but the razor blades must be packed in your checked luggage. - Straight razors
Like safety razors, straight razors are considered dangerous sharp objects and must also be placed in the cargo hold. - Electric razors
Electric razors are allowed in carry-on bags without restrictions. Remember to pack the charger!
How to Pack Your Shaving Cream
Packaging your shaving cream properly is important so it's not confiscated by the TSA agent when you go through the security checkpoint.
- Check the size
If you’re bringing shaving cream or aerosol shaving foam, be sure the container is 3.4 ounces or smaller. If it’s larger, you can just transfer some to a small container that complies with TSA regulations, for example, an empty pill bottle or other small bottle. - Use a quart-sized bag
Unless you’re using solid shaving soap or cream, place your aerosol or cream container in a clear, quart-sized resealable bag along with any other liquids, gels, and aerosols. Pack this bag somewhere you can easily retrieve it, as you’ll need to send it through the scanner when you go through security. - Bag your solids
If you’re avoiding the hassles of liquids and packing a solid shaving bar, pack it in a tin or small soap dish and then in a resealable plastic bag. You don’t want a wet bar slithering around in your luggage. - Secure your razor
If you’re bringing a disposable or electric razor, pack it in a protective case or wrap it in cloth or bubble wrap for added safety. It does not need to go in your 3-1-1 bag.
>>> READ MORE: How to Pack Your Toiletries for Travel
Last Thoughts
While you can bring shaving cream in your carry-on, you must follow TSA regulations to ensure you can pass the security checkpoint with your cream and razor.
So remember to check the size of your containers, use a clear plastic quart-sized resealable bag, and consider solid shaving cream a convenient alternative.
Traveling with your favorite toiletries, including shaving cream, doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little preparation and knowledge of the regulations, you can pack your carry-on efficiently and focus on enjoying your trip.
Safe travels, and happy shaving! ✈️🪒
🔆 Here are some other posts you might find helpful as you plan your travels:
10 Travel Planning Tips to Create the Perfect Trip
How to Pack a Suitcase Like a Pro and Eliminate Stress
What Travel Documents Do You Need for an International Trip?
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Peggy is a retired entrepreneur and world traveler, now happily traveling in the second half of life. She’s flown over 2 million miles and spent time in 48 states and 50+ countries, much of this since she turned 50. Read the About page to learn more about Peggy and why she started The Smart Travel Guide 10 years after retiring. If you want to send Peggy a brief message, visit her contact page.
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