If you are about to fly somewhere on vacation, you may wonder whether you can bring bar soap on a plane. After all, soap is an essential item for many people, and it can be challenging to find the right soap in a foreign country.
The good news is that bar soap is allowed on a plane, and you can pack it in your carry-on or checked luggage without any issues.
Contents
Can you fly with bar soap?
Bar soap is permitted as it is not considered a liquid by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
That is hardly surprising as it is solid but in many instances, it is not always obvious what the TSA thinks of as a liquid. The TSA defines liquids as items that are “pourable, squeezable, sprayable, spreadable or smearable.” Since bar soap is solid, it is exempt from the TSA’s liquid restrictions.
It can therefore be packed in any size in your carry on or checked bags.
When passing through airport security bar soap can be left in your carry on when it goes through the scanner.
Liquid Soap
However, if you’re traveling with liquid soap, it must meet the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule.
This means that you can only bring containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and they must be placed in a single quart-sized, clear plastic, zip-top bag. Each passenger is allowed one bag, and the bag must be placed in your carry-on luggage.
Can I take homemade bar soap?
Provided it is in solid form then you can take your homemade bar soap in either your carry on or checked bags. It doesn’t have to be manufactured soap or in a packet.
How to carry bar soap when traveling
If you’re planning to bring bar soap on a plane, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. Here are some of the most important ones:
Choose the Right Soap: When traveling, it’s best to choose a soap that comes in a sealed package or a travel case. This will help protect your soap from damage and prevent it from getting squished or melted during the flight.
Wrap It Up: If your soap isn’t in a package or travel case, wrap it up in a plastic bag or cling wrap to protect it. You can also use a small cloth bag to keep your soap clean and dry.
Use a Soap Dish: If you’re traveling with a larger bar of soap, consider bringing a soap dish. This will keep your soap dry and prevent it from sticking to other items in your luggage.
Pack in Your Carry-On: While bar soap is allowed in checked luggage, it’s best to pack it in your carry-on. This way, you can easily access it during the flight, and you won’t have to worry about your soap getting damaged or lost.
Follow TSA Guidelines: Even though bar soap is allowed on a plane, you should still follow the TSA’s guidelines for liquids and gels. This means that if you’re traveling with liquid soap or other toiletries, they must be placed in a clear plastic bag and meet the 3-1-1 rule.
Benefits of bringing bar soap on a plane
Now that we know that bringing bar soap on a plane is allowed, let’s talk about some of the benefits of doing so:
- Saves Space: As it is a solid it does not need to go in your quart-size liquids bag (unlike liquid soap) so it frees up space for other liquids you may want to take.
- Saves Money: Bringing your own bar soap is much cheaper than buying travel-sized toiletries at the airport or at your destination.
- Eco-Friendly: Bringing a bar soap reduces plastic waste from single-use travel-sized toiletries. This helps to minimize the environmental impact of air travel.
- Familiarity: Many people have their preferred soap brands or types that they’re comfortable using. Bringing your own bar soap ensures you have access to a familiar product, which can be particularly important for those with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Convenience: Having your own bar soap on hand means you don’t have to worry about running out or searching for a replacement at your destination.
- Hygiene: Having access to soap during a flight is essential for maintaining good personal hygiene. It helps to prevent the spread of germs and illnesses, particularly during longer flights.
Conclusion
You can bring bar soap on a plane without any issues. Since it’s not considered a liquid, it’s exempt from the TSA’s liquid restrictions. However, if you’re traveling with liquid soap or other toiletries, you’ll need to follow the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule.
By choosing the right soap, wrapping it up, and packing it in your carry-on, you can ensure that your soap arrives at your destination in good condition. With these tips, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you won’t have to compromise on your hygiene routine.
Bar soap FAQs
Can I bring any type of bar soap on a plane?
Yes, you can bring any type of bar soap on a plane, as long as it is solid and not liquid or gel-based. This means that traditional soap bars, shampoo bars, and body wash bars are all allowed.
Can I pack bar soap in my checked luggage?
Yes, you can pack bar soap in your checked luggage. However, it’s a good idea to place it in a sealed plastic bag or travel case to protect it from damage.
Do I need to declare bar soap at airport security?
No, you do not need to declare bar soap at airport security, as it is not a prohibited item. Simply place it in your carry-on or checked luggage, and you’re good to go. However, if you’re traveling with liquid soap or other toiletries that exceed the TSA’s liquid restrictions, you’ll need to declare them and place them in a clear plastic bag for inspection.
I have been traveling around the world by air since the early 70s and living overseas too. I worked for British Airways for a number of years and I am also a private pilot. About Me
