100ml containers for travel

The 7 Best Travel Toiletry Bottles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Avoid spills and score style points with these liquid containers

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TripSavvy / Leticia Almeida

There’s nothing worse than arriving excitedly at your destination to find that your toiletries have spilled all over your suitcase. Or to be the person who holds up the line at security while the TSA agents discard your oversized liquids. Both of these scenarios are easily avoided by investing in a set of appropriately sized, 100 percent leakproof travel toiletry bottles. There are lots of options out there in terms of bottle quantity, size, and design, with the right one for you depending on factors such as how long you’ll be traveling and the complexity of your beauty routine. 

To help you narrow down the choices, our team of travel experts put 14 toiletry bottle sets to the test. Each one was scored for ease of use, quality, design, performance, and value, with average scores used to determine the winners of categories ranging from “best budget” to “most durable.”

Final Verdict

How we tested.

• What to Look For

Why Trust TripSavvy

Best overall, liquisnugs premium leak-proof silicone travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 5 /5
• Quality 5 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Performance 5 /5

Very secure, with no leaks during testing

Stick to vertical surfaces

Easy to stay organized

Lack of variety

The LiquiSnugs Premium Silicone Travel Bottles offer flawless performance at a price so reasonable our tester was shocked by it. The set includes two 2-ounce bottles and two 3-ounce bottles, both of which adhere to TSA carry-on regulations. We liked the flexibility afforded by the two different sizes since there are always products we need more and less of on vacation. We were able to easily fit all four in a quart-sized Ziploc bag simultaneously without placing pressure on any of them. All bottles are made of flexible, food-grade, BPA-free silicone, making them easy to pack and dispense. 

With a dripless valve and bottleneck design, the bottles are advertised as 100 percent leakproof—a claim we can support, with no spillages even after being dropped and thrown around repeatedly during testing. We liked that the bottles’ wide mouths made them simple to fill, empty, and clean as needed. Other highlights include the suction pad on the back of each bottle (great for attaching them to the bathroom wall) and the changeable labels. Options for the latter include shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, soap, and lotion, enabling you to switch up the uses on each trip. 

Number of Bottles: 4 | Sizes: (2) 2-ounce, (2) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

TripSavvy / Tamara Staples

Best Budget

Vitog travel bottles kit.

• Ease of Use 4 /5
• Performance 4.5 /5

Multiple dispensing methods

Comes with several functional extras

Good value for money

Capacity could be larger

Retailing for half the price of our already affordable overall winner, the Vitog Travel Bottles Kit is a no-brainer for budget-conscious buyers. It includes six 1.4-ounce bottles and two 0.4-ounce bottles. The larger ones consist of two pump bottles with a removable clip to prevent accidental deployment, two spray bottles, and two flip-cap bottles. The smaller ones are miniature cream jars. All eight are made from clear PET plastic, which we found durable yet lightweight enough for travel. We also liked that we could easily see how much product was left.

We appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of a pipette, a funnel, and a spatula to help with decanting products from their original containers. They made the bottles relatively easy to fill, although we did experience some spillage when decanting thick body lotion. Nevertheless, there was no leaking or visible wear and tear after our intensive testing process. The set also includes a sheet of labels and a clear plastic toiletry bag. The only real drawback? None of the bottles are particularly big, making this option suitable for short trips only. 

Number of Bottles: 8 | Sizes: (2) 0.4-ounce, (6) 1.4-ounce | Materials: PET plastic

Cadence The Originals Set

• Design 4.5 /5
• Performance 4 /5

Unique design

Performed well throughout testing

Customizable

More of an investment than others

Limited capacity

The Originals from Cadence are small, hexagonal capsules with screw-top lids that connect magnetically together in any shape or configuration you like. Aesthetics are at the forefront of this brand, as you can choose different colors for each capsule as well as printed, switchable, magnetic labels. In fact, they look so cute that you could even buy toiletries in bulk and decant them into these capsules for use at home. Sustainable practices like these are reinforced by the fact that the capsules are made from 20 percent recycled ocean-bound plastic. 

We love that the capsules’ wide mouths and rounded interiors make them effortless to fill, use, and clean. They’re also 100 percent leakproof, waterproof, and airtight, as proven by our testing process. We found them incredibly durable and can’t imagine a scenario that would result in them being punctured or crushed. They are small (each one carries just 0.56 ounces), which could be a drawback. However, a capacity calculator on the brand website suggests you can carry approximately a week’s worth of products, depending on how regularly you use each one. 

Number of Bottles: 6 | Sizes: (6) 0.6-ounce | Materials: Hard plastic

Most Durable

Mrsdry travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 3.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

Soft yet rugged silicone construction

Effective leakproofing

User friendly

No diversity in size or design

If your primary concern when packing liquids in your hand luggage is leaking, you’ll love the Mrsdry Travel Bottles Set. It consists of four 3-ounce bottles, each made of thick silicone that feels ultra-durable, and they stood up perfectly to our squeeze and drop tests. We were particularly impressed with the bottles’ no-drip valves, which successfully prevented leaks. All four bottles use the same shape and dispensing method—a pro for those who want lots of capacity for fewer products, and a drawback for those with a more complex personal care routine. 

Having said that, we did feel that this set is so reasonably priced, there’s nothing to stop you from buying multiple sets if you have more products to pack. Instead of labels, the bottles come in four separate shades to distinguish between them. We also liked that their wide opening makes them easy to fill, even with thicker liquids and gels. And when it comes to cleaning them, the bendable silicone easily accommodates a bottle brush. All colorways include a transparent carry case. 

Number of Bottles: 4 | Sizes: (4) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

Best Variety

Morfone 16 pack travel bottles.

• Ease of Use 4.5 /5
• Quality 4.5 /5

Good array of containers

Burly silicone handles rough treatment

Jar lids are weaker than expected

Multicolored style may not suit everyone

The Morfone Travel Bottles Set caters to travelers with an extensive beauty routine. With 10 containers in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and dispensing methods, you can take a broad range of products in just the right quantities for your time away. Options are as follows: two 1-ounce spray bottles, two 3-ounce squeeze bottles, two 2-ounce squeeze bottles, two 1-ounce jars, and two 0.3-ounce jars. We were impressed by the capacity of the largest bottles, which we felt could easily hold at least four washes’ worth of shampoo and conditioner. 

The bottles are made of durable yet flexible food-grade silicone, with wide mouths for easy filling and cleaning. We appreciated the inclusion of two scoopers, a funnel, and a cleaning brush to help with these tasks, as well as a sheet of labels. Most of the containers held up well to our durability tests with no leaks or spills. The only exception was one of the jars, which suffered a broken lid. The set comes in a transparent carry bag and could fit into a quart-sized Ziploc (a TSA requirement) with some skillful maneuvering, although it was tight. 

Number of Bottles: 10 | Sizes: (2) 0.3-ounce, (4) 1-ounce, (2) 2-ounce, (2) 3-ounce | Materials: Silicone

Best for Larger Capacities

Insfit tsa carry-on approved containers.

Great value for money

Well-designed lids

Choice of cute color palettes

Can be finicky with certain products

The INSFIT set is ideal for those who like to keep things simple with only a handful of essential products but also tend to travel for longer and need as much capacity as TSA will allow. It features four identical 3-ounce silicone bottles large enough to hold at least one to two weeks’ worth of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and sunscreen (or similar). The bottles are squeezable, which makes dispensing simple, although we found that thicker lotions and gels were easier to squeeze if the bottle was at least half full.

Other highlights include fully removable caps and wide mouths for mess-free filling and easy cleaning, and three-layered lids that are essentially leakproof. Even during our pressure test, caps remained securely in place, and afterward, the bottles still looked brand new. In fact, we were shocked to find out how affordable this set is given its evident quality. We also liked the stylish, see-through carry bag and the fact that there’s a special place on the caps to stick the included labels so that they adhere properly. 

Best for Backpacking

Matador flatpak toiletry bottle.

Ideal for reducing heft and bulk

Thoughtful design elements

Proved durable during our testing

Difficult to fill with thicker consistencies

Made of waterproof 30D Cordura ripstop nylon with proprietary welded construction, the Matador FlatPak Toiletry Bottles are by far the most technical option on this list. With their flat-pack design and sturdy quality, they’re designed especially for adventures and expeditions where saving on space and weight is a priority . With a capacity of 3 ounces each, they’re five times lighter and 3.5 times more compact than standard silicone bottles, and pliable enough to fit into tight spaces: the ultimate backpacking companion. 

We found them easy to fill with any liquid that was the consistency of shampoo or thinner. Thicker gels and lotions were tricky since the mouth wasn’t as wide as that of standard travel bottles. Still, any mess is easy to clean off the waterproof exterior. They fit easily into a quart-sized Ziploc, and we love the snap hook for attaching to the outside of your backpack for on-the-go use. The loop also features a spot for writing a description of the contents with a permanent marker. As expected, the packs survived all our tests with zero leaks or signs of damage. 

Number of Bottles: 3 | Sizes: (3) 3-ounce | Materials: 30D Cordura ripstop nylon

Our overall favorite was the LiquiSnugs Premium Travel Bottles set. These bottles stood out for their durable, leakproof silicone construction and thoughtful extras including adjustable labels and individual suction pads. For the most budget-friendly option, choose the small yet sturdily versatile Vitog Travel Bottles Kit .

Upon receiving the bottles, our first step was to examine their overall quality and design and note any unique features. Then, we filled at least three of the bottles in the set: one with lotion, one with micellar water, and one with shampoo. For each one, we noted how easy it was to fill without spilling, how easy it was to clean if spillage did occur, and how appropriate each bottle would be for holding different types of liquid. We also tested how easy it was to open the bottle and dispense the product inside. 

Next, we compressed the bottles in our palms to mimic pressure. We shook them, rolled them, squeezed them, and threw them to stimulate rough handling in transit, noting how well they withstood this treatment. Our final test was to put all of the bottles from the set into a quart-sized Ziploc bag, and then inside a toiletry bag. Then, we dropped them from waist height three times, always from different angles, to see whether any breakages or leaks occurred and whether the bottles showed any signs of wear and tear. 

Each set was scored on a scale of one to five for ease of use, quality, design, performance, and value. Average scores were used to determine our category winners.

Other Travel Toiletry Bottles We Tested

GLOBEGEAR Travel Bottles : This nine-piece set features a solid range of containers and tools made of hard plastic that doesn't feel flimsy. We deducted points for the skimpy capacity of the bottles, which would only last a few days or applications (and made filling the bottles difficult), though the affordable price makes this a good option for the infrequent traveler.

Kitsch Travel Containers : Fans of variety will appreciate the range of products included in this compact kit. It won't set you back much and, accordingly, we feel it also won't last long. We like the idea of the flat containers but found them somewhat difficult to fill.

Cosywell Travel Containers : The Cosywell Containers are all the same shape in 10- and 20-milliliter capacities. We found the plastic and silicone jars easy to fill and well-designed, but they're more suited to thick liquids such as gels and creams.

What to Look For in Travel Toiletry Bottles

Durability is key when choosing travel toiletry bottles since containers that are easily punctured or cracked will result in a mess that’s at best inconvenient and at worst potentially expensive or upsetting depending on how much product is wasted and whether any other items in your carry-on are affected. Look for options made out of sturdy hard plastic or thick, flexible silicone, then check user reviews to get an idea of how the construction holds up under real-life travel conditions. If you’re planning an extreme adventure, technical options like the waterproof flat-pack bottles from Matador may be worth the extra expense.

Leakproofness

A bottle doesn’t have to break for leaks to occur—all it takes is a poorly constructed seal or lid. Look for bottles with a triple-layered leakproof cap and jars with a secure screw top. Pump bottles should come with a removable clip that prevents them from being deployed accidentally. Again, user reviews help check how efficient these measures are (it’s easy for a brand to advertise their product as leakproof, even if it’s not). Some brands, like Cadence, actually guarantee the efficacy of their leakproof design. Just in case, we always recommend storing toiletry bottles in a waterproof bag or Ziploc as a second line of defense. 

If you plan on packing your toiletry bottles in your carry-on bag, you must make sure that none of them exceed the TSA-approved limit of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Some sets are made up of identical large bottles of around 3 ounces, giving you the maximum allowable capacity for each of your products. However, because all bottles must fit in a single quart-sized Ziploc bag, this limits the number of bottles to around four. 

If you have more products to pack, you may prefer a set that divides this capacity between a greater number of smaller bottles and containers—especially if you only require some of your liquids in very small quantities. The length of your trip will also dictate how big you need your bottles to be unless you only plan on using your carry-on liquids as a backup in case the full-size versions in your checked luggage get delayed. 

Toiletries can be stored in opaque, translucent, or transparent bottles of any color as long as each individual bottle does not exceed the maximum capacity limit. For carry-on bags, most authorities including TSA set that limit at 3.4 ounces. Liquids can be in their original container or decanted into any container of your choosing (even one that’s labeled incorrectly), as long as these size restrictions are adhered to. 

Most airport authorities—including TSA—rule that bottles containing liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes cannot exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) if you wish to pack them in your carry-on luggage . In addition, all of these bottles must fit inside a quart-sized Ziploc bag and be screened separately from the rest of your luggage at security. Containers that exceed this limit will not be permitted, even if the volume of the product inside is less than 3.4 ounces (for example, if you have a half-used bottle of conditioner). Note that these restrictions do not apply to checked luggage.

Although toiletry bottles don’t have to be labeled from a legal perspective, many people like to do so to ensure they don’t end up brushing their teeth with expensive moisturizer, or vice versa. Some travel bottles come with waterproof stickers, especially for this purpose, and you can also purchase them separately online. This is a better option than writing on a standard office label by hand since toiletry bottles frequently get wet and ink can run and cause staining or become illegible. Alternatively, a permanent marker applied directly to the bottle could be an option if you’re always going to use the same container for the same product.

Jessica Macdonald is a regular contributor of travel-related commerce articles. She has visited more than 50 countries across six continents and lived out of a backpack for several months on many occasions. As such, she knows firsthand the value of travel bottles that allow you to reach your destination without any spillages. Products featured in this article were chosen according to tests carried out by TripSavvy’s team of travel experts.

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The Best Travel Containers (Hint: They’re Not Travel Size)

TOILETRIES , Toiletries , Travel Beauty Tips

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Worried that you won’t have enough space for your toiletries and beauty products in your carry-on? We have the answer and they’re not travel-size! These are the best travel containers because you pack only what you need. Find out what they are, where to get them, and how to use them!

Best Travel Containers

Table of contents.

Set of 10/15/20 Gram Cosmetic Pots

Individual Pots

These are my favorite types of travel containers! I love using individual pots for items like my concealer and foundation . I don’t need to use a large quantity and they usually come in a heavy glass bottle so decanting them saves weight too. I’ve found these to be the best travel containers for small quantities.

If you need to bring toiletries like soaked cotton rounds or makeup wipes, some TFG readers use these leakproof condiment containers which have a wider diameter. A super creative option that works really well! 

Use a capsule wardrobe to pack light but create many outfits.

Set of 3/5/10/15/20 Clear Cosmetic Pots

• How to Use Them: Use them for makeup and beauty products that you won’t need often and to store individual products that you want to take in your purse. (A stack won’t do so well thrown around in your day bag or purse.)
• When to Use Them: Anytime. These travel containers  can store your bath products on short trips or on longer trips for items you won’t use often.
• At home: Have you ever used a concealer container with a pump that gives you more than what you need? Stop wasting product. You can decant the liquid or gel into one of these containers so you only get a dab of what you’ll use.

I like using the  5 gram size  for concealer, eye cream, and face scrub while I use the larger  20 gram size  for toothpaste, foundation, or face wash

Stackable travel container

Stackable Pots

This is my ultimate secret for fitting various toiletries into minimal space. Stackable pots will work extremely well for women who use a variety of different beauty products or have an extensive skincare routine.

• How to Use Them: Use one stack for shampoo/conditioner/body wash and another stack for face moisturizer/body moisturizer/sunblock
• When to Use Them: Use this strategy for weekend trips and take just what you need or if you have a longer trip and plan on buying products as you go – use the stacks for products that last a long time such as foundation , eye cream, or face moisturizer.
• At home: Use these travel containers to store jewelry, and crafts, or to consolidate half-empty products and make more room on the shelves.

Available as an individual stack or in various sizes (better value!)

GoToob travel bottle

Cylinder Soft Tubes

I prefer pots to tubes but sometimes you need a little more product or a different type of cap. These are durable but soft containers and are a fabulous choice. They tend to be leakproof and long lasting making them the best travel containers in comparison to hard, plastic bottles. GoToob is the most popular brand and has a convenient 2 fl oz size. Other popular tubes are those from the Dot&Dot store. Or, you can also pick up this 14-pack travel set that has silicone squeeze bottles AND  includes 3 pots and 2 toothbrush covers! 

• How to Use Them: Have several of each container type so you can play Tetris and make the most of the room in your toiletry bag. Use them for runny, thin liquids or for products you’d prefer not to dip your finger into.
• When to Use Them: On trips of any length based on the products that just aren’t quite right in a pot.
• At home: Using the same principles as the pots, you can maximize limited storage room in your home by decanting any product – even cooking items too!

Kitsch Toiletry Pouch Set

Flat Toiletry Pouches

Flat pouches are an amazing option, because they can fit a lot, but don’t take up any extra space if you don’t need to fill the container the whole way. They’re slim and flexible yet super secure and leakproof. What’s great about these handy space-saving containers is that the more you use, the smaller they get, so you’ll have more room in your suitcase on the way back! 

These Kitsch pouches come in a set that can be bought on their own, or grab the 11-piece set that includes pots, pumps, and a spray bottle! Readers have also highly recommended this YSUOA 12-piece set of clear pouches that come in 30ml, 50ml, and 100ml sizes. 

One reader says, “For decanting liquids, I used refillable pouches on my two last trips overseas. They worked well because they pack so flat.” 

• How to Use Them: Use them for liquids that you’ll be using often, like shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, as they’ll hold a decent amount.  
• When to Use Them: Anytime, from weekend trips to long-term stays. They can store a great amount and pack slim. 
• At home: Save tons of space in your drawers or cabinet by decanting products from your bulkier bottles into these cute ones! 

Take a look at our top ten toiletry bags !

When using your own travel containers, remember these golden rules:

• Only fill 2/3 of the container in order to avoid compression leaks
•  Use a piece of saran wrap under the lid for extra leak prevention
•  Avoid water-like substances such as toner. The thinner the liquid the more likely it is to seep through.

Three more space saving “better than travel size” toiletry ideas:

• If you’re short on time and are always on the go, Convenience Kits sells one-time use toiletry sets. Buy a set and you’re good to go!
• These bulk packs are another good idea if you want to make your own one-time use sets.
•  And when you don’t have any more room for liquids just use some of these liquid-free wipes !

Download Our Free Toiletry Checklist

Start by downloading our Ultimate Packing Guide for Toiletries. It’s FREE! You can click here or click the image above to open the editable file.

The list features unique categories to help you pack for your trip efficiently. It includes all the items listed in various categories and has spaces where you can fill in your own information.

With this guide, you can:

• Write in an item’s weight (lighter items means less overall baggage weight)
• Note if you need to purchase something or if you already own it
• You can organize where you’ll pack each item including suggested packing organizers like these

Read this post for a printable packing list that includes clothes, shoes, and more!

What do you think are the best travel containers?  Please share in the comments below!

For more ideas on space-saving packing items, please read:

• How to Use Packing Cubes to Fit Your Stuff into a Carry-on
• Packing Organizers: The Luggage Accessories that Help you Travel Light
• The Ultimate Backpack Organizer: It Will Change the Way You Travel
• Random Travel Organizers: 4 Packing Cube Replacements

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48 comments.

This article has been super helpful!!

These are great for travel!

Thanks for all the suggestions!

Great article on decanting for B longer trips, best trip n I’ve ever B learned!

I love the idea of using smaller containers for toiletries. My favorites are the chap stick containers and the contact lens cases. The contact lens cases are great because they stay closed and never leak. I’ve actually put clear gel Secret deodorant/antiperspirant in a chap stick container and it was enough for a 10 day trip! I am able to fit all my daily products and make up in my toiletry bag with no issues. I also have a set in my 5th wheel so I am always ready to take off in a moments notice! Thanks for all the great ideas and links!

I never thought about using these small pots for use at home, but that has now changed especially for tossing in my purse when I’m short of time. Thanks!

I love the idea of decanting products into the small pots. I was having trouble fitting everything in my 3-1-1 bag. After reading this post I ordered some different size pots to use for my facial moisturizer, hair styling cream, cream blush etc. it’s amazing how much space was saved by using these pots!

One of the first things I learned from this blog was decanting products into smaller containers for traveling light. It has been a game changer for me and one of my now normal things I do. Thanks for this amazing blog full of tips and tricks!!

After reading all of these suggestions, I actually purchased contact lens cases from Amazon and packed for my 3 week safari using them. Game changer!!

The packing list link isn’t opening for me.

Hi Rebecca, sadly we are having some access issues on the blog and are having problems solving it. 😕

But you can download TFG’s “Toiletry Packing List” right here 💻 : https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1993OivQaG9Nk4_Avu8Jzo-EzkIMfTiEM4ZXQ4CoKdGM/edit?usp=sharing&urp=gmail_link

To edit this packing list, you have two options: OPTION 1: Go to “File” in the menu above and “Make a Copy”. Open the file you copied and edit that file. OPTION 2: Go to “File” in the menu above and “Download As”. You can then download the file as an spreadsheet and edit directly in excel. To print this packing list, go to “File” in the menu above and “Print”.

Hope this helps. If you have any other problems please email us at [email protected]

I decanted my spf facial moisturizer into a pot and when I was using up the last of it, I noticed the plastic had changed texture. Has this happened to anyone else? Should I be worried about continuing to decant into this container?

Hi Lindsey, I have personally never had an issue with this so I am not sure if you should carry on using the same container. I think this has happed to a few of our other readers though. I would highly recommend that you join our TFG facebook group and post your question there about: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelfashiongirls/ Its a fabulous community of helpful female travelers that have the best advice and recommendations to share. ?

Same thing happened to me. I read online in another forum that it’s the sunscreen that reacts with the plastic. I read suggestions that it won’t react with nalgene plastic (I have not tried this personally yet). They sell these in travel size at the Container Store and on Amazon.

Regarding packing liquids: I always use plastic wrap under the top. If it’s an “oily or greasy” type product, I use a snack size ziplock bag to hold each. I either use ziplocks in addition to cubes when I pack, or I take an assortment of them so I can easily pack for a day trip or overnight stay without having to take a large bag with me.

Hi Terri, thank you for taking the time to share how you like to pack your liquids with us, your travel hacks are fantastic!! 🙂

as im watching the packing cubes video, where are the socks, undies. bras packed? thanks sue

Hi Sue, have a look at this TFG article for some help: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-use-packing-cubes-8-step-strategy-to-travel-carry-on-only/ Hope you find it useful! 🙂

Can anyone recommend small spray bottles that don’t leak for hair products?

Hi Cindy, thank you for your question! Have a look at the recommendation for small containers on this TFG article: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/how-to-travel-with-perfume/ Also I have gone ahead and published your question on TFG’s facebook page to get you the best suggestions. Our readers have the best tips so keep an eye out for their replies from Friday: https://www.facebook.com/TravelFashionGirl/ hope this helps!! 🙂

I am traveling to Ghana in June. This is my first international trip and I will be gone for 3 weeks. I’m anticipating checking 1 bag but want to pack my toiletries (shampoo, conditioner and stuff) but would rather not re-purchase them in Ghana. Any suggestions

Hi Sharon, thank you for your comment! We have a variety of articles featuring different ideas for travel toiletries. Take a look: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-toiletries/ https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/downsize-toiletries/ Hope this helps. Have a wonderful time 🙂

Does anyone know where to find lightweight swimsuits without the awful foam cups they all seem to have? I am trying ( rather desperately!) to find a suit that will pack flat! I could also do without all the multiple heavy layers that most suits seem to have these days. HELP please??? Connie

Hi Connie, thank you for your comment! Take a look at this post https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/travel-swimwear/ Hope you find it helpful 🙂

Hi Alex, I finally found those swimsuits at “ Title Nine” last year. I think the weight was about half of those I’d tried before. I ended up with all mix and match…with black or blue bottoms (one is the paddleboard short), and two colorful tops. All work very well!

Connie, have you looked at Lands End?? Their “tugless tank” swimsuit is just the ticket…comes with or without cups. Otherwise, if you want a simple one-piece suit, check out a sporting goods store for a Speedo or Arena swimsuit. During the warm months, Costco often has a large quantity of these suits for sale.

How do you label the containers? From one trip to the next, I do not remember what is in each container. Everything I have tried gets wet and peels off.

I have a Brother P-Touch labeler. It has several size choices for printing labels. The trick to keep the print from rubbing off is to put a piece of wide packing tape (like scotch tape, but wider) over the label. It works for anything, except items going directly into the shower.

Great idea Linda!

THANKS!!! That was my question also!!!

I use a sharpie on the outside or top of the lid. Once I’m back home, I wipe it off with some rubbing alcohol.

I’m a nurse, and I use the white paper tape meant for wound dressing. It’s a great all-purpose tape for travel. You can write on it with a sharpie, and still read the words even after it has been in the shower. The tape is easy to remove when you are done. I normally keep a sharpie and a roll of paper tape in my kit instead of duct tape. Check your Dollar Store for paper tape in the medical section.

Hi, I usually use the P-touch since you can make the letters very small. I also leave a bit of extra tape on each end so the ends overlap on round bottles and pots. Hope this helps…. Connie

Loved the tip on stackable and individual pots! I ordered them through the link – but got the ones with colored lids – pink and purple, woo hoo!

Great idea! Love using different colors 🙂

This is sort of a random question, but have you ever successfully packed coconut oil without having it leak and get your other toiletry bottles all greasy? If so, what containers have you used? I only need a very small container for it – it’s my face moisturizer and I use only a tiny amount every day. I’ve tried small pots, and I’m not sure what brand they are as I got them as a gift a long time ago, but they have leaked every time no matter how tightly I screw on the lid. Recently, I tried using a plastic travel bottle – the type you would normally use for shampoo – and just unscrewing the lid to dip my finger in… it only leaked a little, but it’s way too large, and it’s also not exactly convenient to have to try to stick your finger into one of those bottles when the oil is solid, haha.

Any thoughts on pots or other small containers that would be easy to access but leak-proof even when the oil melts?

Hi Joanna, I use the small pots featured in this post to travel with coconut oil. However, I have the cold pressed kind that’s in solid form not liquid. A tip is to place saran wrap between the pot and the lid – it keeps liquids from leaking 😉

get it as unrefined as possible and just freeze it in a gootube use the saran wrap trick. By the time it melts you will most likely be at the hotel if you pack it right. I made it on a 16 hour flight in a hot September (From Atlanta) this way. It was 75% solid when I used it the next morning, no leaks.

I have a few empty half-ounce bottles which originally held hand sanitizer. They have a secure top, and are tiny. If you were to warm the oil slightly, it would melt enough to decant into the container. Coconut oil is liquid at body temperature. If the oil is solid, you could melt it by running water from the hot tap over the bottle. I normallly use a one-ounce Nalgene bottle from the mountain supply store. I always use a piece of plastic bag or Saran under my caps for flying.

I use screw top contact lens cases for my eye and face creams, foundation, concealer, and any other “liquid” makeup item. They are small, typically won’t leak, and very packable. I have been doing this for years

Great idea Kimberly!

Kimberly, Ditto here! I mostly use tinted gel type make up, so one lens container has two colors of gel blush with the other carrying two shades of face gel. A little of this stuff goes a long way if ( as I do) applied with water and moisturizer at the same time. No leakes at all! For the rest I save every tiny bottle of eye drops etc. for lotions, shampoo and conditioner.

The GoToobs are terrible, actually. 🙁 They leaked from about the third time I used them, but I kept giving them another chance since I haven’t had time to find other containers. This time I arrived at my destination with the contents of all three containers everywhere. I’ve lost a huge quantity of product and had to clean up progressively larger messes.

oh no that’s too bad. the best way to avoid spills is to only fill any bottle 3/4 and add a piece of saran wrap in between the lid and the bottle. see if that helps out 🙂

I use 3 oz. containers from U.S. Plastics. Inexpensive, commercial grade, wide mouth/easy to refill.

Great tip! Thank you for reading!

I love the Go Toobs – after 3 years, the tops were no longer clicking shut tightly. I checked online to see if I could just purchase the tops. Turns out the Go Toob company has a lifetime guarantee for their products, so I emailed them and they sent me a batch of new tops! How amazing is that!!!!

WOW even more of a reason to love them!

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What is the 3-1-1 liquids rule?

Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.

10 Full-Size Liquids You Can Actually Take Through Airport Security

By Rachel Chang

For the better part of two decades, we’ve limited the liquids we carry through airport security. The magic number settled upon was 3.4 ounces, or 100 milliliters, of liquid in a container—an amount that became an  international standard developed by explosives experts . 

As frequent travelers are well aware, bottles that are 3.4 ounces or less can be stashed into a single one-quart plastic bag, and each traveler is allowed one—in a rule that’s been dubbed the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Oversized liquids can still be packed, but need to go into checked-in baggage.

But as screening devices have become more savvy, there has been talk of those limits being eliminated, especially as a  recent report said the UK will scrap the rules by 2024. “The introduction of new technologies has played a significant role in how aviation security has evolved over the past 20 years, thanks to strong industry partnerships and TSA’s agility in adopting technology that enhances security and improves the passenger experience,” a TSA spokesperson says. While there’s no timeline in place yet, the agency “anticipates the limit on liquids will be lifted in the coming years.”

So in the short run, travelers still need to limit the fluids they pack in carry-ons. But, as with all rules, there are exceptions. “TSA requires additional screening to ensure the safety of these liquids,” the spokesperson says of the items. “Travelers in this group should notify security of their medically-necessary liquids.”

In general, those  exceptions need to pass a three-prong test . They need to be required during the duration of your flight or at your destination, they can’t be available at the airport in the area past security, and they can’t be available at the destination. But when it comes down to it, the  TSA says on its site , “The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.”

Here are some of the most common exceptions of oversized liquids that can be taken through security. 

Prescription liquids, creams, and gels

Medication that has been prescribed specifically for you is perhaps the most common item that qualifies as an exception. TSA recommends that it’s clearly labeled so there's no question about what is inside. “You are responsible for displaying, handling, and repacking the medication when screening is required,” the agency’s site dictates. Depending on the situation, medication can either be screened visually or with an x-ray machine. It may also be tested for traces of explosives.

In some situations where the officers aren’t able to properly screen the item, you may be asked to open the container and transfer it to an empty container to test, or possibly dispose of a small quantity. 

In cases where you would like to make sure the medication isn’t opened or X-rayed, simply inform the TSA officer. “Additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid and you will undergo additional screening procedures to include a pat-down and screening of other carry-on property,” the site says.

Liquid medications and contact lens solution

In general,  liquid medications that are not prescriptions and  contact lens solutions are limited to 3.4 ounces, but TSA does allow “larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip,” with the caveat you must declare them to security officers first. 

Breast milk and infant formula

Passengers traveling with infants have enough to worry about on their flights—and being able to provide the little ones with the proper nourishment should not be one of those concerns. Technically, TSA categorizes  breast milk and  baby formula as “medically necessary liquids.” The child doesn’t need to be present for the exception. 

In order to expedite the process, TSA suggests—but doesn't require—that the liquids be transported in clear and translucent bottles, so that they can be screened by the Bottle Liquid Scanners. (Those in pouches may not be able to.) While there is a chance you may be asked to open them, nothing will ever be placed in the liquid. The agency also adds that the screening process shouldn't affect the formula, but if you prefer they not be x-rayed, alternative testing means can be taken.

Baby and toddler food and drinks

In addition to breast milk and formula, food and drinks for babies and toddlers are also allowed, including puree pouches. They also technically fall into the “medically necessary” category.  Water for babies is also allowed in “reasonable quantities.” 

Liquid teethers

TSA also recognizes how important teethers are to babies and has “ liquid-filled teethers ” specifically called out as an item that can be brought through the security check.

Ice, gel, and freezer packs and other accessories to medically necessary items

Ice, gel , and freezer packs that are required to keep other medically necessary items in their required cool state are also exceptions, no matter what state they are in (solid ice or liquid gel). Additionally, IV bags or other accessories to medical supplies are also allowed. 

Hand sanitizer 

In the age of the COVID-19 pandemic, one major allowance was added to the list— hand sanitizer . While they may be readily available beyond security check and at your destination, the hygiene item was added, especially for use on the plane, as some experts have said that extra precautions should be taken on airplanes and airports to prevent the spread of germs .

Until further notice, hand sanitizers of up to 12 ounces are allowed since “TSA understands that COVID-19 is at the forefront on the minds of travelers, as health officials are encouraging that individuals wash their hands frequently,” the  site says . 

Live fish in water

Assuming your  live fish in water needs more than 3.4 ounces of water, this is another exception to the rule, as long as they’re in a clear transparent containers and properly inspected by the TSA officer. 

Biological specimens 

Liquid exceptions can be made in the name of science.  Non-infectious specimens in preservative solution can be carried through if it’s for scientific research. But they’ll need to be very specifically packed.

There can be up to 30 milliliters of free liquid in a heat-sealed inner plastic bag and then no more than one liter in the outer packaging, which needs to be marked: "Scientific research specimens, 49 CFR 173.4b applies." (Specific instructions for the regulation are  here .)

Duty-free purchased items in officially sealed bags

Shopping at the airport? Those liquid souvenirs can be taken home as well, as long as they are properly sealed by the cashier in a  security tamper-evident bag (STEB). The system was “developed to allow an exemption" to liquid volume rules for items purchased at duty-free airport retailers or on board an aircraft, according to the  International Civil Aviation Organization . 

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