Getting ready for a flight can be a bit hectic. You’re busy packing, checking your tickets, and making sure everything’s in order. One thing that may pop up on your mind is whether you can bring mouthwash with you onto the plane.
As of 2023, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) allows passengers to bring smaller containers of liquid, including mouthwash, onto your carry-on bag. The liquid must be in a 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less container, and is stored in a quirt-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag.
The rule generally applies to all domestic and international flights. As such, you are highly encouraged to make the necessary preparation to avoid the situation where you are required to dispose your mouthwash.
In the rest of this article, we will take you through the ins and outs of traveling with mouthwash, and what you can do to clear your airport security check without issues. So fasten your seatbelt, and prepare for lift-off with your mouthwash!
How Many Bottles of Mouthwash Can I Bring Onto the Plane?
If you are looking to bring multiple bottles of mouthwash onto the planes, there are several guidelines you need to follow to ensure a seamless security check. Here are what you should adhere to:
- Container Size: Each container of liquid, must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. Any container larger than 3.4 ounces will be rejected, even if there is less than 3.4 ounces of liquid.
- Quart-Sized Bag: All your liquid containers, including mouthwash, must fit into a single quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag.
- Quantity Limit: Passengers are limited to one quart-sized bag of liquids per person. This means that you can bring as many 3.4-ounce (100-milliliter) containers of mouthwash that can fit into the quart-sized bag.
This is referred by the TSA as the 3-1-1 Rule, where you can bring multiple 3.4-ounce container, all in 1 clear quart-sized bag, and each passenger can only use 1 bag to store the liquids.
Note that the quart-sized bag is subjected to inspection at the airport security checkpoints, and you may be forced to remove all containers from the bag if it does not meet the requirements. If you have larger bottles of mouthwash or need to bring more than what can be fitted in the quart-sized bag, pack them in your checked luggage to avoid any potential issues at the checkpoint.
How Big Is A Quart Size Bag?
A quart-size bag, as referred to in airline security guidelines, is typically a resealable plastic bag that measures approximately 7.5 inches by 8 inches (19 centimeters by 20 centimeters). The key consideration is that the bag should have a capacity of one quart or approximately one liter.
These bags are mostly purchased to pack your carry-on toiletries and cosmetics that may include liquids. For example, you may pack your mouthwash, toothpaste, sunscreen, and sanitizer. To speed up the security check process, use a clear bag so that the airport security personnel can easily inspect the contents of your liquids.
There are several TSA-compliant quart-sized bag that you can purchase over at most online marketplace like Amazon and Ebay.
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Please note that these rules and regulations can change over time, and new policies may be implemented by the TSA or the airlines. Airlines may have their own specific rules regarding liquids, so it is a good idea to verify their policies to avoid any issues at the airport. To ensure you have the most up-to-date information on bringing mouthwash or any other liquids on a plane, I recommend checking the TSA website or contacting your airline before your flight.
Can I Bring Alcoholic Mouthwash Onto the Plane?
Today, most big-brand mouthwash contain a certain percentage of alcohol as part of the ingredient. The alcohol, which is typically in the form of ethanol or ethyl alcohol, act as a antiseptic and helps to kill harmful bacteria that contribute to bad breath, gum disease, or tooth decay.
But can you bring mouthwash that contains alcohol onto the plane? The answer is YES, you can bring these mouthwash onto the plane. You can bring bottles of alcohol in your carry-on bag as long as they are in a 3.4-ounce container and fit into the quart-sized bag.
However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates (as seen on the official website) that passengers are strictly prohibited from drinking alcohol onboard an aircraft unless it is served by the air carrier. This applies on all U.S.-based airlines even if the plane is flying outside of U.S. airspace.
Also, passengers are only allowed to bring up to 5 litres (approximately 1.3 gallons) of alcohol in a checked-in luggage, and all bottles must be in unopened retail packaging.
What Type of Mouthwash Can I Bring?
You can generally bring any type or brand of mouthwash onto a plane as long as it adheres to the specific regulations regarding container size and quantity limits. The type or brand of mouthwash you choose is generally not restricted, so you can pack the one that suits your preferences and oral care needs.
In fact, you can bring any form of liquids, aerosols, and gels onto your carry-on bag, as long as they fit into the quart-sized bag. However, if you have any medication or medical supplies such as a prescription mouthwash, please inform the security personnel at the security checkpoint. You may need to present a note from the doctor to prove that you are required to bring these for medical reasons.
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How to Pack Mouthwash to Bring Onto Plane?
If you are preparing to bring your mouthwash onto a plane for your next trip, here are some important tips you shoud follow:
- Ensure that you are following the 3-1-1 rule. This means that the container that stores the mouthwash is 3.4-ounce or smaller, and that you are storing it in a quart-sized clear bag.
- Keep your clear bag readily accessible on the carry-on bag so that you can remove it during the security check at the airport.
- Ensure that the container is tightly sealed in the clear bag so that in the event of a leakage, the carry-on bag does not get damaged.
- If you are traveling with a prescription mouthwash that is in a container larger than 3.4 ounce, make sure you have a doctor’s note and inform a TSA staff during the security check.
Follow the tips above to ensure a smooth experience at the airport security checkpoint!
Closing Thoughts
In conclusion, bringing a bottle of mouthwash onto a plane is indeed possible, but it’s essential to be mindful of specific guidelines and regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
As a rule of thumb, adhere to TSA’s 3-1-1 rule to ensure a hassle-free experience at the airport’s security checkpoint. By following the guidelines and staying informed about any changes in regulations, you can maintain your oral hygiene routine and enjoy fresh breath while traveling by air.