Can You Bring Deodorant on a Plane? TSA Do’s and Don’ts

Packing for a trip can be nerve-wracking.

You want to ensure that everything you need is within arm’s reach when you leave the house, but you also know that every suitcase you overload and every bag you over-pack adds to the stress of traveling.

And then there’s the issue of traveling with liquids.

Whether you’re flying to visit family for the holidays or a business trip to New York City, you don’t want to be caught without the right toiletries.

And keeping them all under the TSA’s guidelines can be overwhelming.

So, can you bring a tube of deodorant on a plane? Does the TSA even allow you to do so?

Keep reading to learn everything you ever wanted to know about traveling with deodorant.

Can You Bring Deodorant on a Plane?

Yes! As long as you follow the proper guidelines, you can bring deodorant on a plane as carry-on or checked luggage.

While many people worry that their deodorant will be confiscated or cause a security issue, you can actually travel with your deodorant.

But there are a few things you should keep in mind before making the trek to the airport with your deodorant. Read on to find out!

woman with a pink carry on luggage sp
woman with carry on luggage

Why Is Deodorant a Security Risk?

While you can travel with deodorant, the TSA may pay close attention to it.

In fact, the TSA has a list of items that they consider security risks and will be confiscated if it doesn’t fall under the guidelines.

These items may include:

  • Liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml)
  • Gels or pastes in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml)
  • Sprays or other pressure vessels in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml)
  • Liquids that are in clear plastic bags or have been frozen solid

The reason for these guidelines is that security officials worry about possible explosives being concealed within these products and being smuggled onto a plane.

While it’s unlikely that you’ll run into any issues when you travel with deodorant, make sure to check the guidelines before your flight so that you don’t end up having to throw away your favorite product!

TSA Guidelines for Deodorant

Now that we’ve answered the question of whether or not you can bring it on a plane, let’s talk about how you’re going to do it safely. When you travel with deodorant, you’ll need to make sure it meets the TSA guidelines and it varies depending on if your deodorant is solid, liquid, or an aerosol:
Deodorant Type Carry-On Check-In
Solid Yes Yes
Aerosol (Spray) Under 3.4oz (100 ml) Yes
Liquid Under 3.4oz (100 ml) Yes

Can You Bring Deodorant in Carry-On?

The short answer to this question is, yes, you can bring deodorant in your carry-on.

However, there are a few things to note:

The TSA has strict rules about liquids and gels in checked bags because they want to make sure nothing dangerous is going through security checkpoints and onto airplanes.

As long as you keep your liquid or aerosol deodorant in a container that is smaller than 3.4 ounces (100ml) and store it in a quart-sized, zip-top bag, you shouldn’t have a problem traveling with it.

There are no restrictions for packing solid deodorants in your carry-on luggage.

With these rules in mind, you can pack your deodorant in your carry-on and proceed through security without any problems.

Also, when you’re traveling, it’s important to pack smart.

One way to do this is by packing things like deodorant and toothpaste in your checked luggage instead of your carry-on bag. This will save space for other essentials!

tsa deodorant guidelines 2022
tsa deodorant guidelines

Can You Bring Deodorant in Checked Luggage?

Yes! You can put your deodorant in your suitcase and check it as luggage.

Keep in mind that if you overpack, you may be charged an overweight fee by the airline.

This fee can start at $100 and up, depending on the airline. Overweight fees can be a pain, so be careful to not overpack!

Things to Know Before Traveling with Deodorant

Here are some things you should know about traveling with deodorant.

You aren’t required to remove your deodorant before going through security, but you should know that it may be inspected.

When you fly, the TSA may ask you to place your deodorant in a separate bin or dispose of it if it doesn’t meet the guidelines.

If you’re traveling with a checked bag, you can pack your deodorant there instead of your carry-on.

There are no restrictions for packing any form of deodorant in your checked luggage.

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Is Deodorant a Liquid or a Solid?

Deodorant is usually in solid form and comes in roll-up sticks. These are your safest bet as there are no restrictions how much you can bring.

However, there are some that come in liquid or aerosol (spray) form, which are a little more complicated.

So what’s the TSA’s stance on these types of deodorant?

If your deodorant meets the TSA guidelines and is within 3.4 oz of liquid or aerosol form, it’s safe to travel with it in your carry-on bag. If you’re packing it in your checked luggage, there are no limits.

parked airplane during sunset sp
parked airplane at terminal

Can You Buy Deodorant at the Airport?

You may be able to buy deodorant at the airport after the security checkpoint, but you may be better off bringing your own.

The shops might not carry your favorite brand or a brand you’re familiar with – these could trigger an allergic reaction and that’s the last thing you want when you’re traveling!

The best thing to do is bring your own travel-sized deodorant with you. You’ll know exactly what ingredients are in it and that it works well for you!

Alternatively, you can ditch packing your deodorant altogether and buy it at the destination you’re going to.

Bring a Prescription for Your Deodorant

Deodorants that are medically prescribed and permitted.

Make sure all bottles have their original prescription label on and carry a copy of your doctor’s note too so they can see the validity firsthand when going through airport security.

How Big of Deodorant Can I Bring on A Plane?

You can bring any deodorant or antiperspirant that meets the TSA guidelines in your carry-on bag.

It doesn’t necessarily have to be a travel-sized or a mini-sized product but must be under 3.4 oz (100ml) if it is in liquid or aerosol form.

If you’re bringing stick deodorant or packing it in your checked luggage, there are no limits.

Does Deodorant Need to Be Checked?

Stick deodorants are not considered a liquid, so it won’t need to be in your checked bag.

If you’re traveling with deodorant in a spray can or liquid, you’ll need to check the product if it goes over the permitted size.

Deodorant that is under 3.4 oz (100ml) will be allowed to go through the carry-on screening process without being inspected by TSA.

Final Thoughts

When traveling, you don’t want to be without your favorite toiletries.

Luckily, you can bring your favorite deodorant on a plane with you as hand luggage or check-in as long as it meets the TSA guidelines.

Remember, before you travel, make sure you check out the TSA website for the latest rules and regulations.