Whether traveling for work or pleasure, traveling by plane is a fun adventure, but some planning is involved. As you create your packing list, you include all the necessities like outfits, toiletries, and your makeup.

You may be a well-seasoned traveler and have all the packing tips and tricks for your clothes and shoes, but you need help figuring out how to pack your makeup bag to protect against damage and spills.

When it comes to suitcases, you may check your bag or take it on the plane as a carry-on. Both options have their pros and cons. If you are taking only a carry-on, the packing process is riddled with considerations since the stringent rules and regulations surrounding carry-on items can often make it challenging to bring your beloved makeup essentials on board. 

However, checking your bag exposes your makeup to highly varying temperature fluctuations and potentially rough luggage handling. However, with a little prior knowledge and careful planning, you can navigate the restrictions and ensure a hassle-free journey with your favorite Jones Road Beauty products in tow. 

Keep reading for a comprehensive guide on bringing makeup on a plane, addressing everything from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines to practical packing tips. Let’s get to traveling!

TSA Guidelines

After a few years of paused travel, it’s ramping back up, and a lot of people are excited to resume their explorations. However, before you start creating your packing list ahead of your next flight, it’s essential to understand the rules set by the TSA. 

No one wants to have to dispose of their makeup products at airport security because they did not meet TSA regulations. (What a terrible way to start your trip.)  

Let’s go over some of the sources of confusion:

If you are taking a carry-on, any liquid, lotion, gel, paste, balm, ointment, or cream must come in a container of 3.4 ounces or less. You can bring as many containers that can fit inside a quart-sized bag that zips at the top. This is the 3-1-1 rule: your product must be in a 3.4-oz. container or smaller (3), in one quart-sized bag (1), per person (1). And this bag must be removed from your luggage and placed in a separate bin to go through security.

Solid or powder makeup does not have to be packed in your quart-sized liquids bag. While these items don’t have to be taken out of a suitcase, you may want to put them inside their own plastic bag or makeup bag so any spills are contained and won’t get on your clothing.

Lipstick is considered a solid; however, lip glosses are considered a liquid. One way to differentiate when it comes to lip products is if it has an applicator, like a wand, or it can be squeezed out of a tube, it is a liquid. For example, if you’re relying on a carry-on, The Lip Tint does not need to be put in a separate bag for airport security, but you should remove Cool Gloss.

Mascaras count as a liquid. 

There are no limitations regarding liquids, creams, or lotions in a checked bag. So if you need to take most of your products or don’t want to transfer your products to smaller containers, you may want to check your bag. 

An important note of caution: Pay special attention to any products that are pastes, balms, or ointments. Depending on the item, most of us might consider them solids, but the TSA considers these liquids. To be extra safe, put your Miracle Balm in a checked luggage, or decant a smaller amount that would fit into your quart-sized bag if you want to save space.

Travel-Friendly Containers

To comply with airport regulations and minimize the space you need for your makeup, you may need to transfer your makeup into travel-sized containers. There are plenty of options when it comes to reusable travel-sized containers. 

Silicone is a great material; it is lightweight and leak-proof, and you can find containers in varying sizes. Use impeccably clean hands, or a tool, like our Spatula, to transfer the product from its original container to the travel container. 

If you transfer makeup into travel-friendly containers, continue using the product until the travel container is empty, even if you are back home from your destination. This will prevent any cross-contamination from occurring in your original container. 

How Do I Pack Makeup for a Trip?

Packing your makeup properly is important to prevent damage to your cosmetics. Powder formulations may need a little cushioning, so if your suitcase is roughly handled, it will remain in its solid form and will not break. 

Place powdered compacts in between layers of clothing for some protective padding. This is especially important if you check your bag, as the process from the check-in counter to the luggage hold of your plane can be rough. 

You can also use a good-quality makeup bag to protect and organize your makeup products. Look for an easily-wipeable waterproof bag, and consider a bag with clear panels. This will allow you to quickly locate your items without rummaging through the contents and helps keep things organized. 

When packing your makeup bag, strategically place your products to avoid damage. Place the least breakable items at the bottom, and put items like eyeshadow singles or blushes on top. 

You can also strategically pack your makeup by planning your makeup essentials wisely. Consider the activities you’ll be participating in during your trip and the climate of the area you’ll be in. 

Opt for versatile items that can create various looks, like our Lip and Cheek Stick. This lightweight wash of color will give a healthy glow to your cheeks and lips and eliminate the need for a separate blush and lipstick. 

Makeup for Airport and Travel

On your travel day, a lightweight and moisturizing foundation, like our What the Foundation, will help your skin tone and hydrate your skin. Your skin will certainly need it as the recirculated air in the airplane cabin can dry out your skin. 

If you are taking a red-eye flight, cover any dark circles with our Face Pencil. Choosing one shade lighter than your skin tone will help you look refreshed and awake, even if you feel jet-lagged. Along with covering any dark circles, a few swipes of our Mascara will bring brightness to your eyes. 

Keep your lips from cracking by generously applying our Lippie Stick. Your lips will feel soft, nourished, and ready for a swipe of color whenever you land. Speaking of moisture, dab on some of our Light Moisture Cream mid-flight to keep your skin hydrated. 

It’s no fun to start your vacation with tight and itchy skin, and your skin will easily absorb this lightweight formula. Rub some of this cream into your cuticles as an added shot of moisture to keep them from feeling dried out. 

Maintaining Hygiene 

Maintaining good hygiene is important while traveling to keep your products clean and your skin healthy. While sharing makeup with friends or family during travel can be tempting, especially if they haven’t tried any Jones Road Beauty products, it’s best to avoid doing so. Sharing makeup products or makeup brushes can increase the risk of transferring bacteria or infections. 

It’s also important to wash your hands thoroughly before applying your makeup, especially if you are coming straight from the airport. Air travel can spread germs quite easily, and you wouldn’t want those germs to be introduced to your makeup via your hands. 

Conclusion

While some aspects of air travel can be daunting, traveling with makeup doesn’t have to be. By familiarizing yourself with the TSA guidelines, strategically packing your making, and taking necessary precautions to avoid spills and breaking, you can confidently pack the makeup you need and arrive at your destination with all your Jones Road Beauty essentials intact and ready to use. 

Whether you are jet-setting for a quick weekend getaway or going on a long vacation, you’ll be able to create the makeup looks you desire while keeping your products intact. Safe and happy travels!