What Cosmetics Can You Bring on a Plane? Hand-Luggage Rules Explained

You’re excited for your vacation, your suitcase is packed—and then, as you’re packing, the big question arises: Which cosmetics are actually allowed in your carry-on, and which ones will be mercilessly thrown in the trash at security?

Airport guidelines are particularly strict when it comes to liquids. To help you breeze through security without having to leave your favorite creams behind at the airport, we’ve summarized the most important rules for cosmetics on planes. Plus: How to pack systematically while also reducing plastic waste.

The most important rule: The 100-ml limit for liquids on airplanes

The 100-ml limit is the global standard for international flights (in the U.S., it’s known as the 3-1-1 rule). Whether you’re traveling within Europe or taking a long-haul flight, the following applies:

• A maximum of 100 ml per container: Each individual liquid item may have a maximum capacity of 100 ml (or 100 grams).
• It’s the container that counts, not the contents: If you bring a 200-ml tube of shampoo that’s only half full, it will still be confiscated. What matters is the printed capacity of the container.
• The 1-liter bag: All your liquids must fit into a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag. This bag may have a maximum volume of 1 liter. Only one bag is allowed per passenger.

Note: Although some airports now have modern CT scanners that allow liquids to remain in your luggage, the 100-ml limit remains the standard at the vast majority of airports. If you want to play it safe, stick strictly to this rule.

What counts as a liquid on an airplane?

Many travelers think of only perfume or water when they hear the word “liquids.” However, aviation security defines the term much more strictly. “Liquids or gel-like substances” include, among other things:

• Toothpaste and mouthwash
• Roll-on deodorant, deodorant creams, and hairspray
• Mascara, liquid eyeliner, and lip gloss
• Face creams, lotions, oils, and serums
• Spreadable cosmetics such as foundation or concealer

What can you bring on board without restrictions? Solid cosmetics! Solid shampoo, bar soap, and lipstick in stick form are considered solids and do not need to be placed in the transparent 1-liter bag.

The problem with drugstore minis

To comply with the 100-ml rule, many people opt for mini sizes at the drugstore. However, this has four major drawbacks:

1. Packaging waste: The small plastic bottles are thrown away after just one week.
2. Expensive fun: When calculated on a per-liter basis, travel-size cosmetics are extremely overpriced.
3. Risk of Leaking: Due to the pressure difference on the plane, cheap plastic caps tend to pop open. The result: shampoo spilled all over your toiletry bag.
4. Unfamiliar Products: Most products aren’t available in mini sizes, and people with sensitive skin may have problems with unfamiliar formulations.

And what about conventional travel bottles?

Maybe you’ve already tried to solve the problem with cheap plastic or silicone refillable bottles. Unfortunately, the reality is often this: their narrow openings make them difficult to fill cleanly, you can never get all the residue out, and after a few trips, they end up in the trash—unhygienic—because they can’t be cleaned properly.

The smart and stylish solution: DABEI Travelpods

Why settle for mini sizes or ugly disposable plastic bottles when you can easily, sustainably, and safely transfer your favorite cosmetics into these pods?

Our modular DABEI Travelpods were designed specifically to elegantly solve the problem of carrying cosmetics in your carry-on luggage:

• 100% carry-on compliant: With sizes of 10 ml (Small), 30 ml (Medium), and 55 ml (Large / Pump), all our pods are under the 100-ml limit and fit perfectly in any transparent toiletry bag. At the same time, you won’t waste any space, because very few vacations require 100 ml.
• Leak-proof: Thanks to a specially developed seal, your cosmetics stay where they belong—in the pod, not on your clothes.
• Magnetic organization system: The pods stay together magnetically. No more chaos in your bag.
• Infinitely reusable: After your trip, simply pop the pods in the dishwasher, and they’re ready for your next adventure. This is good for the environment and your wallet.

👉 Find your perfect set now.

Checklist: How to pack your toiletry bag for carry-on luggage the right way

To speed things up at security, here’s your last-minute checklist:

1. Check sizes: Make sure no container in the bag holds more than 100 ml.
2. Keep the bag handy: Place the clear bag at the very top of your carry-on. You’ll need to place it separately on the conveyor belt at the security checkpoint.
3. Use solid alternatives: Opt for solid nody wash or soap to save space in your liquids bag.
4. Measure out the perfect amount: Fill the bag with only as much as you really need (in our blog post How Much Cosmetics Do You Need for a Week-Long Vacation?, we’ll show you the exact guidelines!).

Bottom line: Fly stress-free with light luggage

If you know the rules and rely on smart, reusable solutions, you’ll completely avoid the stress at the airport. With DABEI’s Travelpods, you’ll not only travel in compliance with the rules but also with a stylish and sustainable setup.

Are you planning your next trip? Check out our magnetic DABEI Travelpods and say goodbye to packing stress!

👉 Click here to see all the Pods.