Nothing tests the vibe of an impending holiday like the trials of airport security. The hectic, free-for-all atmosphere is enough to make anyone feel a little scattered, struggling to separate your liquids into the little bag, praying they all fit. If you’re anything like me (who packs for a weekend city break with the same fervour of someone trekking across the Andes for a month) you’ll have a history of overcompensating, leading to heartbreaking product throw-outs to align with the hand-luggage liquid allowance. 

Not only does this mean you have to kiss goodbye to some of your favourite beauty products, but it also means more plastic waste. Have no fear-in this latest article, I get you clued up with the latest luggage travel rules, plus all the sustainable mini beauty essentials that mean you can breeze through airport security with confidence. 

Don’t get caught out at security – here’s a reminder of all the rules when travelling with beauty products 

• All liquid products must fit in containers 100ml or under (in hand luggage).
• All liquids must fit in 1, clear 20cmx20cm bag, which is separated from the rest of your luggage during security checks. I recommend investing in a liquids bag before travelling as it saves having to unpack and transfer all your products in the queue. Plus you can reuse the bag on your future trips!
• All products must fit comfortably inside the bag and seal easily.

Which beauty products count as liquids?

This is often where plane passengers get caught out, as more beauty products than you might think count as a liquid. Make sure to separate all liquid, cream, gel and paste beauty products. Essentially, unless it’s a powder, it belongs in your little clear bag. 

So now that’s all cleared up, let’s get into my travel-friendly, ethical beauty recommendations. All products below are 100ml or under and can safely accompany you in hand luggage for those short summer getaways.