Flying with Toiletries and Power Banks: A Practical Packing Checklist

Sort your bag by the item and its power source. A bottle of shampoo, an aerosol can and a battery-powered styling tool can follow different rules.

Official guidance reviewed September 19, 2026.

Carry-on liquids: start with 3-1-1

For ordinary liquids, gels, creams and aerosols passing through a U.S. security checkpoint, TSA's baseline is containers of 3.4 ounces / 100 milliliters or less, fitting in one quart-size bag per traveler. Exceptions apply to items such as medically necessary liquids. Check the TSA travel guidance for your situation.

Checked toiletries are not an unlimited category

The FAA permits many personal-use medicinal and toiletry articles, including some aerosols, subject to quantity and packaging limits. Its guidance limits covered articles to 2 kg / 2 L total per person, with no individual container over 0.5 kg / 500 ml; aerosol release devices need protection. Read the FAA's item-specific explanation before packing a large supply.

Power banks belong in the cabin

Spare lithium batteries and power banks must be in carry-on baggage. Protect terminals against short circuits. Batteries up to 100 Wh are generally allowed; larger batteries have additional restrictions and may require airline approval. If your carry-on is gate-checked, remove the spares and power banks first. See FAA lithium-battery guidance and your airline's rules.

Use this packing order

A familiar product name is not enough: two styling tools may use different power sources. Use the FAA PackSafe directory and the airline's instructions when the item is unclear.

A five-minute check before leaving home

• Put essential documents and medication where you can reach them.
• Check baggage dimensions and weight with the operating airline.
• Inspect charging equipment for damage.
• Close caps and place leak-prone toiletries in a protective pouch.
• Follow screening instructions at the checkpoint; procedures may differ by lane.

Choose travel containers for their usable size, secure caps and ease of cleaning. Marketing language such as “travel approved” does not replace checking the actual product against the rules.