How I discovered that with the right mini sets you'll never have any arguments with security again
I saw it happen at Schiphol: a traveler in front of me had to leave almost all his toiletries behind. His shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste were thrown in a bin because he hadn't properly followed the hand luggage liquid regulations. Since then, I always travel with compact and smart toiletries. No more stress at customs, no more hassle with kilos of stuff.
Why Compact Toiletries Are Essential
Traveling with hand luggage means:
✓ Limited space (max. 1 liter of liquids, in containers of 100 ml or less)
✓ Strict controls (especially in Europe, the US and Dubai)
✓ Want to maintain comfort without having to carry
With the right products, you have everything you need – without the hassle.
Hand Luggage Rules for Toiletries (2025)
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✓ Maximum 100 ml per package
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✓ Everything together in 1 transparent, resealable bag of 1 liter
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✓ Solids (such as solid shampoo) are not covered by liquid regulations
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✓ Medication and baby food → exceptions, but always check your airline
Smart Options for Compact Toiletries
1. Solid Toiletries (solid shape)
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Shampoo bars → Lush, Ethique
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Solid deodorant → less chance of leakage
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Toothpaste tablets → light and super handy
2. Mini Refill Sets & Travel-Size Essentials
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Reusable silicone bottles (30–60 ml)
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Fill with your own shampoo, shower gel, lotion
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Easy to clean and environmentally friendly
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Sea to Summit Pocket Soaps & Mini Shower Gel → ultra-compact, lightweight, and ideal for carry-on luggage (they count towards the liquid rules, but take up very little space)
3. Multifunctional Products
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Dr. Bronner's soap → works as a body wash, shampoo, and hand wash.
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Coconut oil mini → skin care, hair care, makeup remover
4. Essential Basics
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Mini toothpaste (50 ml)
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Travel toothbrush set
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Compact razor
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Travel size deodorant
My Top 5 Compact Must-Haves for Carry-On Luggage
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✓ Solid shampoo bar
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✓ Mini toothpaste + toothbrush
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✓ Sea to Summit mini shower gel or pocket soaps
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✓ Travel size deodorant
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✓ Quick-dry microfiber towel
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I take a razor in my carry-on luggage?
Disposable razors with fixed blades are usually acceptable. Safety razors and loose blades are prohibited.
Do contact lens solution and mouthwash count as fluid?
✦ Yes, as long as it is packed in a maximum of 100 ml and in your 1 liter bag.
Can I bring perfume?
Yes, if it's in a 100ml or smaller bottle. Smarter: use a travel atomizer.
What about makeup?
✦ Liquid makeup (foundation, lip gloss) counts as liquid. Powders do not.
Complete Checklist: Toiletries in Hand Luggage
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✓ Max. 100 ml per package
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✓ Everything in a 1 liter bag
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✓ Solid shampoo/soap → no limit
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✓ Medication → allowed with a doctor's note
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✓ Multifunctional products save space
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✓ Sea to Summit mini shower gel or pocket soaps for maximum compactness
Ready for Stress-Free Security Checks?
Compact toiletries provide convenience, security, and more space in your carry-on. You don't have to compromise on anything, you travel lighter, and you still have everything close at hand.
Just like with my complete carry-on travel experience in Turkey, smart preparation can make the difference between frustration and freedom.
More hand luggage expertise: