It’s no secret that I prefer to use products that are as natural as possible, but as I packed for a recent flight, I realized that my propensity for all-things-toxin-free could present a problem with TSA carry-on regulations (containers 3.4 ounce (100ml) or less (by volume); 1 quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger).
For example:
From homemade toothpaste to straight-up jars of coconut oil, my personal care products aren’t very travel-friendly, looking more like ingredients for some stellar in-flight explosives than simple skin care. My options appeared to be purchasing travel-versions of products, thus creating waste, or to purchase those tiny plastic travel bottles which wouldn’t hold enough product for a family of three for two weeks. There’s always the option of checking larger containers but who wants to take up precious luggage space with a shampoo bottle?
Here are a few tips for getting all of your natural products transported without issue and with minimal waste:
Shampoo & Conditioner
Consider bringing solid shampoo & conditioner bars, which can be found through many sellers on etsy, or even on Amazon. I’ve used this one, in the past.
Soap
Bring a bar. I prefer locally-handmade soaps with natural fragrances. They won’t exceed the limits on liquids and it’s pretty easy to transport in a plastic bag or otherwise.
Toothpaste
Most toothpaste tubes do not comply with the 3.4 ounce TSA carry-on container limits, so I prefer to bring a .5oz bottle of natural liquid toothpaste, made with almond and essential oils. I love this stuff and it leave my mouth so refreshed! The bottle may seem tiny, but it goes a long way.
Another great option is this travel size whitening toothpaste from Wellnesse. It has the cleanest ingredients I’ve found and works amazing!
photo via flickr user javajoba
Makeup
Mineral makeup gives you a lot of freedom in a carry-on bag. I was able to bring all of my makeup: foundation, concealer, bronzer, blush, eyeshadows, lipstick, lipbalm, and mascara without getting anywhere near the volume limit. Never tried mineral makeup? Two of my favorite brands for quality, organic ingredients and beautiful coverage are Afterglow Cosmetics & Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques.
Shaving
This one is simple: shaving soap. And once again, a local shop or etsy will be your friend on this one. There are a few options on Amazon, too.
Sunscreen
One thing I wasn’t able to take on my carry-on was sunscreen since my bottle exceeded the liquid volume limits. However, had I known my new favorite sunscreen, Goddess Garden, made these .5 oz packs, I would have made sure to bring them along!
Face & Body Moisturizer
I discovered the wonders of Kelapo coconut oil in pouches via one of my Ecocentric Mom boxes. Two .5 oz pouches were more than enough for a two-week trip. Coconut oil is my facial moisturizer, my lotion, my first-aid go to…it does it all! Throw a pouch in your carry-on next trip and use it to keep your skin hydrated in-flight!
Speaking of Ecocentric Mom boxes, many of the items I receive via my monthly subscription are sample-sized and perfect for traveling. I have a little stockpile of soap, a lotion bar, face wash, and other toiletry items waiting for our next trip! Try Ecocentric Mom for yourself by using THIS LINK.
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