How to Pack Makeup Liquids in Your Carry-On
Put all liquid makeup in containers 3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller inside a clear quart-sized bag. One bag per passenger. Remove the bag at security and place it in a bin separately from your other items.
- Budget
- $0-15 for containers if needed
- Duration
- 5 minutes to organize at home
- Best Time
- Pack liquids bag night before travel
- Visa Required
- N/A - security procedure
Step by step
Check your liquid makeup containers
Foundation, concealer, mascara, liquid eyeliner, lip gloss, and cream products count as liquids. Each container must be 3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller. Check the bottom of containers for size markings.
Get a clear quart-sized bag
Use a clear plastic bag that holds 1 quart (roughly 8x8 inches). Airport shops sell TSA-approved bags for $2-3 if you forget yours. Ziploc quart bags work perfectly.
Transfer large products to smaller containers
Buy travel-sized containers (1 oz or 30ml) for foundation or moisturizer. Clean them thoroughly before transferring products. Label with masking tape if needed.
Pack everything in the bag
All liquid makeup goes in the one bag. It should zip closed completely. If it doesn't zip, remove items until it does. You cannot bring multiple bags.
Keep the bag accessible
Pack the liquids bag in an easy-to-reach part of your carry-on. You'll need to remove it quickly at security and place it in a separate bin.
Questions people ask
Does mascara count as a liquid?
Yes. Mascara, liquid eyeliner, and any cream or gel makeup products count as liquids and must go in your quart bag.
Can I bring full-size powder makeup?
Yes. Powder makeup (pressed powder, eyeshadow, blush) has no size limits and doesn't need to go in the liquids bag.
What if my foundation is 4 oz?
It won't be allowed through security. Transfer some to a smaller container and pack the large one in checked luggage, or buy travel size.
Do I need to take out my liquids bag at international airports?
Most international airports follow similar rules, but procedures vary. In the US, you must always remove the bag and place it in a separate bin.
Budget
Travel containers: $5-15 for a set. TSA-approved clear bag: $2-3 if buying at airport. Most people already own suitable containers and bags, making this essentially free.
Packing
- Clear quart-sized bag (TSA requirement)
- Travel-sized containers for transferring large products
- Powder compact (not subject to liquid rules)
- Lip balm stick (solid, not liquid - unlimited)
- Makeup wipes in original packaging (not counted as liquid)