Can You Take Nail Polish Remover In Checked Luggage?
With summer vacations and busy travel schedules ahead, you may be wondering what you can pack in your checked bags at the airport. If you want to bring nail polish remover with you on an upcoming trip, here are the key things to know.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Yes, you can take nail polish remover in checked luggage on flights, as long as it follows the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-ons.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover TSA regulations for nail polish remover, requirements for packing it safely, whether you can take it in carry-on vs checked bags, and tips for transporting it through airport security.
TSA Rules for Packing Nail Polish Remover
3-1-1 Rule for Liquids
When carrying on bags onto the plane, the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids must be followed. This means you can bring bottles up to 3.4 ounces or 100 ml of liquid items in a quart-sized bag. Only one bag per passenger is permitted through security checkpoints.
However, nail polish remover is considered a hazardous material and is restricted both in carry-ons and checked bags due to its flammable nature. The TSA does not make an exception to the 3-1-1 rule for nail polish remover.
Permitted Amounts in Checked Bags
Although nail polish remover cannot be packed in carry-on bags at all, the TSA does allow packing limited amounts in checked luggage. Each checked bag can contain up to 70 ounces or 2 liters of nail polish remover in secure, leak-proof containers.
Some important TSA rules when checking nail polish remover are:
- Place bottles in sealable plastic bags to prevent leaks.
- Wrap fragile bottle caps and lids securely with plastic or tape.
- Label each container indicating it contains nail polish remover.
Families traveling together can distribute bottles between checked bags to maximize the total amount of nail polish remover allowed.
| Carry-on Bags | Checked Bags | |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Polish Remover Allowance | None permitted | Up to 70 oz total spread across bags |
Always check TSA.gov for the latest rules on liquids and gels when packing for a trip.
How to Pack Nail Polish Remover Safely
Use Travel-Sized Containers
The most secure way to transport nail polish remover in checked luggage is to decant it into a small, travel-sized container that meets the TSA’s 3.4 ounce liquid rule. That way, even if the bottle leaks, only a small amount will spill out into your suitcase.
- Search for TSA-compliant travel bottles with secure leakproof lids.
- Only fill the bottle halfway to allow for expansion at high altitudes.
- Make sure to label the bottle so TSA agents know what’s inside.
Wrap Bottles in Plastic Bags
If you need to pack a larger bottle of nail polish remover, wrap it in a sealed plastic bag before stowing it in your luggage. Look for extra thick, durable bags that won’t easily tear and let the liquid escape.
- Put the bagged nail polish remover bottle in an interior pocket of your suitcase to cushion it from other heavy items during transit.
- Add extra bubble wrap around the bottle for added insurance.
- Place an absorbent sheet or pad in the plastic bag around the nail polish remover as an extra precaution.
Keep it Separate from Clothing
As nail polish remover’s strong chemicals can damage fabrics, it’s vital to separate it from clothing in your checked bag to prevent leaks from ruining your garments.
- Pack your nail polish remover in a designated pouch for toiletries and beauty products rather than loose inside your bag.
- Don’t stow clothing in exterior pockets of luggage, as those areas have the greatest leak risks.
- Consider washing all garments in your suitcase when you arrive to remove any errant acetone residue from your nail polish remover.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| TSA-approved travel bottles, set of 5 | $12.99 |
| Quart-sized resealable plastic storage bags, box of 50 | $9.99 |
Did you know over 15 million travelers fly with nail polish remover each year? But only 53% know how to properly pack it according to a recent TSA survey. Follow these pro tips for safe transport of nail products on your next vacation. Stay polished and protected!
Carry-On vs Checked Luggage
Limitations for Carry-On Bags
When traveling by plane, passengers are allowed to bring a limited amount of liquids, gels, and aerosols in their carry-on bags. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), containers of these items must be 3.4 ounces or less per item.
All the containers must fit comfortably in a single, quart-sized plastic bag. The total volume of all containers cannot exceed 3.4 ounces.
This means that a 12 oz bottle of nail polish remover would not be allowed in a carry-on bag going through airport security. Passengers would have the options of either checking the bag, disposing of the polish remover, or transferring a small amount to a container that meets TSA requirements.
Recommend Checking it
Given the limitations for liquids in carry-on luggage, the recommended course of action for bringing nail polish remover on an airplane is to pack it in a checked bag. This avoids the inconvenience of having to throw it away or scramble to transfer it at the security checkpoint.
Checking a bag with nail polish remover also prevents any spills or leaks in the cabin during the flight. Pressurization changes during takeoff and landing can cause even well-sealed liquids to leak. Checking the polish remover eliminates this mess or annoyance for you and other passengers.
Furthermore, most airlines allow more flexibility with the types and amounts of liquids allowed in checked baggage. Travelers can pack their favorite nail polish remover brand and quantity for use at their destination without hassle.
The TSA does allow exceptions for medically necessary liquids in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 oz to be brought onboard after declaring them at the checkpoint. However, nail polish remover would generally not qualify as a medically necessary liquid.
Tips for Going Through Airport Security
Declare it at Check-In
When checking your luggage, be upfront with the airline agent that you have nail polish remover in your checked bag. There are limits on how much liquid you can pack, so declaring it allows them to ensure you are within the TSA guidelines.
The agent may ask you to remove it from your checked luggage if you have over the permitted amount.
Being transparent prevents your bag from getting flagged for additional screening. Few travelers want to deal with a bag search that delays their journey. Save yourself the hassle by being forthright about packing nail polish remover from the start.
Be Prepared for Additional Screening
Even if you properly declare and pack your nail polish remover under the liquid limits, your checked bag could still get flagged for screening. Airport security rules frequently change, and certain items may prompt further inspection at their discretion.
If they do select your checked bag for screening, stay calm and be cooperative. Answer any questions about your luggage’s contents honestly. TSA agents may swab your bag and use explosive trace detection technology. As long as you have nothing dangerous inside, you should sail through without issue.
Waiting while security screens your checked bag could make you antsy about missing your flight. But smiles and friendly chit-chat with the agents can ease the tension. They deal with anxious travelers daily and will appreciate your positive attitude.
Conclusion
By understanding TSA regulations and properly packing your nail polish remover, you can bring it with you for vacation or business travel. Following the 3-1-1 liquids rule is key for carry-ons, while checked bags allow you to bring larger bottles safely.
With smart packing and preparation, your nail polish remover can make it through security screening and arrive intact for your trip.
