Any experience packing cosmetics in luggage

[katallo]

Since we can only take one quart size ziploc bag for liquids and gels in our carryon, I wanted to ask if anyone had difficulty with liquids and gels in stored luggage on the plane. Is it safe to pack things such as aerosal hairspray and gel type deodorants? I wasn't sure of temperature or pressure problems. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

 

[Kies99]

Since we can only take one quart size ziploc bag for liquids and gels in our carryon, I wanted to ask if anyone had difficulty with liquids and gels in stored luggage on the plane. Is it safe to pack things such as aerosal hairspray and gel type deodorants? I wasn't sure of temperature or pressure problems. Any suggestions will be appreciated.

Personally, I would try and avoid aerosol products. Pump spray products would be fine. I always pack inside a good quality ziploc bag and haven't had a problem.

 

[NCRedding]

When we flew in January, I packed everything in my luggage. The gel stuff had no problems. I did allow a little bit of expansion room in the shampoo, maybel about 1/4 of an inch. The only thing I noticed was that my cosmetic bag, which is fabric felt wet when we landed--I am not sure if it was from my stuff or outside stuff, so I am getting a plastic bag for my next trip.

I also carried a small aerosol can of Lysol, which was about 1/2 full, and had no problems. I am concerned about the pressure though.

 

[Rpsemont]

I always have aerosol hairspray and have never had a problem. I have large plastic "cosmetic bags" for shampoo, toothpaste, bug spray, suntan lotion. I alway put those INSIDE another plastic bag (I have a stash of Disney store bags I use and rotate) and then in the suitcase. I have also packed wine and other liquors. I've been lucky so far. If you're really concerned, double or triple bag it so if anything does happen, at least it stays contained. I also try to put all this stuff "in the middle layer" with clothing on top, on the side and underneath. That way if the bag gets thrown around, it's cushioned.

 

[Kae]

The only thing I ever have problems with is contact solution. But as the other poster said make sure there is a little air space in the bottles.

Kae

 

[katallo]

Thanks everyone. This is a help. I wish I had purchased stock in ziploc bags.

 

[NotUrsula]

Technically, you are allowed one quart-size 3-1-1 baggie per passenger, not per carryon.

If you have 5 people in the party (not counting lap babies), then you get five baggies. If you are carrying multiple baggies for multiple people in a single carryon, put names on them so TSA understands that each goes with a different person.) Stick deodorant is not considered a gel unless it comes in a dispenser that squeezes it through tiny holes; if it doesn't it does not need to be in the baggie.

Also, medications and medical devices (including contact lens solution) are exempt from the quantity rule, but they do have to be "declared", so it is best to put them in an extra baggie (this one can be any size) marked "Medications", and put them in the bin with the toiletries. NEVER pack medications in checked baggage -- big theft target, and a PITA to replace if the bag gets lost.

Now then. If you are packing toiletries in your checked luggage, empty out a little bit for any liquids (to allow for pressure expansion) and bag them in ziplocs. It is a good idea to pack this stuff inside an insulated container such as a softside lunch cooler, which will help keep the temperature extremes to a more moderate level. IME, the worst packages for leaking are pump bottles.

 

[CPT Tripss]

The cargo holds are pressurized by the same system that handles the people hold - so the same rules for expansion apply to carry ons.

 

[MouseyMin]

I read somewhere that a good solution is to put each bottle in a ziplock bag, and they put the bags in a tupperware-like container. Besides adding another layer of wetness protection, this also protects your bottles from being compressed and squeezed, so they are much less likely to leak.