Can I Carry Mascara on a Plane?

Believe it or not, mascara in a tube can be considered as liquid, so while you can bring it on board a plane, it might be subject to security restrictions.  I say “might,” as screening regulations can vary from airport to airport, even within the country, state or province. Some airports may allow it and some may not.

But why take a risk? Liquid tube mascara takes up very little space, so it should be easy for you to take in your carry-on bag. It’s always under 3.4 oz. or 100ml, doesn’t usually leak at altitude pressure, so it’s an easy decision to simply pack it in your “security baggie.”

Since 2006, all items that are considered liquid must be in containers no larger than 3.4 oz. or 100ml and fit into a one litre clear, closed and resealable plastic bag, about 20 cm x 20 cm.  (8” x 8” or 7” x 9”) I call this the security baggie and it must usually pass though the screening machine separately from your other carry-on luggage.

I recommend a medium-sized zippered freezer bag as it’s more durable. Only liquid, gel or aerosol items need to be placed in the security baggie. This includes roll-on or aerosol deodorant, toothpaste, shave cream and mascara.

For more information on what you can carry on board and how to pack it like a pro, download my eBook Travel Like A Flight Attendant.  It’s filled with money-saving travel tips and advice I learned from my thirty years (and twenty million air miles) as a crew member.

Happy travels!

©2017 TRAVEL LIKE A FLIGHT ATTENDANT™