The Best Toiletry Travel Bottles

Buying Guide for Toiletry Travel Bottles

Why buy toiletry travel bottles?

If you’re traveling—whether by plane or other transportation modes—you might realize that taking full-size bottles of lotions, shampoos, or even hair gel doesn’t always make sense. This is especially true if you’re flying and aren’t checking luggage or if you’re only going on a short trip. Opting for toiletry travel bottles in the TSA-approved size range will not only save space but can also prevent leaks.

What should you consider when shopping for toiletry travel bottles?

• Material: Silicone and plastic are the most common. Silicone usually offers more flexibility and tends to be more durable. However, plastic has the advantage of a clear design so that you can see what’s inside.
• Size: If you’re only planning a small weekend getaway, you can get away with fewer and smaller containers, but if you are gone on a month-long vacation, you might want larger bottles. However, if you’re flying and planning on including these bottles in your carry-on, you’ll want to ensure they don’t exceed TSA capacity.
• Multiuse: If you’re only planning on a one-time holiday or you do not travel very often, you could purchase single-use containers; however, it is more eco-friendly and cost-effective to opt for a reusable and washable set.
• Complete Sets: If you only like taking some shampoo, you’ll probably only need one bottle. However, if you’re a family or need multiple products, buy a complete set with an array of bottles for all your hair and skin care needs. Additionally, sets that come with a carrying tote are better as they can minimize the risk of leaks.

What are the TSA restrictions for toiletry travel bottles?

When flying, there are many restrictions for your carry-on bag. When it comes to packing liquids in a carry-on, TSA’s size limit for those bottles is up to 3.4 fluid ounces. Anything larger than that capacity needs to be put in your checked baggage. You can pack your travel-sized bottles in a quart-sized bag to make the process more efficient and secure.

Our Picks for the Best Travel Toiletry Bottles

Pros: Have everything you need and the confidence that nothing will get tossed as you head through security with this set of travel bottles. Each container holds up to 3 ounces and is leakproof. This is ideal for liquids such as shampoos and conditioners. And the clear carrying case makes keeping track of your items easy.

Cons: Thinner liquids can leak.

Bottom Line: A simple solution for bringing your essentials that won’t get you stopped through security at the airport. And you’ll appreciate that this set comes with miniature labels.

 

Pros: If you’re looking for more variety in a complete kit, you’ll like this 15-piece set of refillable BPA-free silicone bottles. You’ll get five squeeze bottles, four miniature jars, one pump bottle, one spray bottle, spatulas, and even labels.  Each container holds a maximum of 2.9 ounces, which meets TSA guidelines.

Cons: If you’re looking for a kit with a case, this one doesn’t come with one. So, you’ll still need to find a way to transport your toiletries together and without getting them all over your belongings.

Bottom Line: If you need to bring more items for your daily grooming needs, this 15-piece set is a great pick. You’ll just need a separate case to put them in.

 

Pros: For those with your preferred heat protectant or finishing spray, you know that trying to hunt down travel sized versions can be a pain. These two two-ounce spray bottles are the perfect way for you to pour out exactly what you need. And the fine mist spray ensures more even coverage and less product wasted.

Cons: While it’s a minor quibble, you can’t pick different bottle colors. Instead you’re limited to what the brand sends you.

Bottom Line: Always have your essentials close at hand with this two-pack of fine mist travel-friendly spray bottles.

 

Pros: For those seeking an option that can pull double duty, it doesn’t get any better than this six-pack of 2-ounce BPA-free plastic flip-cap squeeze bottles. Along with being TSA-approved, the BPA-free rating means that they’re food-safe. So, if you’re the type who critiques everyone’s seasonings, this is the perfect solution for carting around condiments and spices.

Cons: This set doesn’t come with a carrying tote, which means that you’ll either have bottles floating around in your luggage or you’ll need to supply a separate bag.

Bottom Line: Whether you’re a traveling chef or want the versatility of functional and food-safe containers, this six-pack set of two-ounce squeeze bottles is an excellent travel solution. However, they don’t come with a carrying tote which might be a deal breaker for some people.

 

Pros: If you have a signature scent, then there’s a good chance that you’re not buying rollerballs when you restock your perfume collection. But bringing large perfume bottles can be annoying and risky since you don’t want them to break in your luggage. This atomizer is the perfect solution. Along with a sleek and stylish design, the small size is well within TSA guidelines, and refilling the container is easy.

Cons: These bottles may be difficult to fill and create a mess.

Bottom Line: Keep your big bottle of perfume home and take a small amount with this compact atomizer spray bottle. However, don’t be surprised if the refill process is a bit messier than expected.

 

Pros: You can’t go wrong with this 16-piece set of plastic and silicone bottles for those seeking an all-in-one solution for their travel toiletries. Along with four silicone squeeze bottles in two sizes, you’ll also get four cream jars, two plastic spray bottles, a funnel to easily fill all these containers, a cleaning brush, and a clear zipped tote to hold them. Better still, these are TSA-approved and leakproof.

Cons: While this is a popular selection, the squeeze bottles may not work well if they’re not full. As a result, you may have to unscrew the cap and scoop out the product.

Bottom Line: Those seeking a comprehensive solution for all their travel toiletry needs will appreciate this 16-piece set with a clear zipped tote. However, be aware that the squeeze bottles must be filled to work properly.

Final Thoughts

No one wants to open their luggage and find a mess of liquids or have bottles tossed at the security checkpoint for being too large. Good travel toiletry bottles contain messes, help you keep track of your creams, lotions, and sprays, and work whether you’re bringing carry-ons or checking baggage.