Dry shampoo comes in three forms, powder, spray, and paste, and it has become increasingly popular in recent years especially among travelers who want to freshen up on the go without washing their hair.
But can you carry dry shampoo on a plane? and what are the actual rules when it comes to flying with dry shampoo?
Let’s clear things up.
Yes, you can bring dry shampoo on a plane in both your carry-on and checked baggage. But, there are a few important regulations you need to follow, especially regarding size and form (aerosol or powder).
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about traveling with dry shampoo, whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.
Let’s dive right in.
Want to travel with regular shampoo instead? See our guide on bringing Head & Shoulders, Pantene, and other liquid shampoos through airport security.
Does TSA Allow Dry Shampoo?
Whether you use Amika dry shampoo, Batiste, Living Proof, or any other brand, the TSA allows dry shampoo through airport security but only in limited quantities when carried on.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Dry shampoo in aerosol form is considered a liquid / aerosol by the TSA.
- You can only bring containers that are 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller in your carry-on.
- All aerosol toiletries must fit inside a single quart-sized zip-top bag.
Here is a TSA Screenshot for Dry Shampoo:
You’re allowed one quart sized bag per passenger, and it must be removed from your carry-on and placed in a bin for screening.
| Shampoo | Carry-on bags | Checked bags |
|---|---|---|
| Dry shampoo | 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less for each container | 18 oz / 500 ml or less for each container |
| Regular shampoo like Head & Shoulders etc .. | 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less for each container (Read more) | 18 oz / 500 ml or less for each container |
| Baby powder shampoo | Allowed | Allowed |
| Dry powder shampoo | Allowed | Allowed |
| Shampoo bars | Allowed | Allowed |
| Dry shampoo wipes | Allowed | Allowed |
| DIY dry powder shampoo | Allowed | Allowed |
| Dog dry shampoo | Allowed | Allowed |
Even though you may be tempted to bring a slightly larger container, TSA agents typically won’t let any larger containers of aerosols go on board, even if the excess is just half an ounce.
For example Katy asked the TSA on X if she can bring a 4.5 oz (133 ml) dry shampoo in her carry-on.
The AskTSA confirmed it was too large, even though it was just a bit over the limit.
In this case, the can needed to go in checked baggage.
Tip: If you’re traveling to a humid climate, consider bringing both aerosol and powdered dry shampoo to keep your hair fresh on the go.
Can You Bring Dry Shampoo in Checked Luggage?
Yes, you can.
Dry shampoo is allowed in checked bags, but since most dry shampoos are aerosols, they still fall under the FAA hazardous materials guidelines.
Here are the limits for liquids in checked luggage:
- Single aerosol container: Must not exceed 18 oz / 500 ml
- Total aerosol limit: Up to 68 fl oz / 2 liters per passenger (combined across all toiletry items)
Most dry shampoo bottles are under these limits, so you’re unlikely to run into any issues just make sure the cap is secure and the container isn’t damaged or leaking.
Important: Aerosols are flammable and need to be packed securely to avoid accidents in the cargo hold.
Can You Bring Dry Shampoo on International Flights?
TSA rules apply to flights departing from or within the U.S., but most other countries and airlines have similar policies for liquids and aerosols.
That means:
- You can bring dry shampoo on international flights as long as each container in your carry-on is 100 ml / 3.4 oz or smaller
- Larger containers must go in checked baggage
- Security procedures may vary by country, so it’s always best to check your airline’s baggage rules before flying
If flying internationally with a layover, be sure to check rules for both your departure and connecting airports.
American Airlines and Southwest both follow TSA 3.4 oz rule for aerosols, but Emirates may enforce tighter restrictions for international flights
Airline Policies on Dry Shampoo
American Airlines, United, Southwest, Delta, and most major airlines follow TSA guidelines.
Dry shampoo in aerosol form is allowed in carry-on if it is under 3.4 oz (100 ml) and need to be placed inside a quart-size bag.
Larger cans must go in checked luggage, up to 18 oz per container.
Tips For Traveling With Dry Shampoo
Here’s how to make flying with dry shampoo easy and stress free:
1. Use Travel-Sized Bottles
Buy travel sized versions of your dry shampoo usually 1 to 2 oz. Most brands have TSA approved sizes, so stick to those.
If it’s larger, it probably won’t get through security in your carry-on.
2. Go With Choose Powder Shampoo
Powder dry shampoo doesn’t count as a liquid or aerosol, so it won’t need to follow the 3.4 oz limit.
Just remember, if your powder is over 12 oz (350 ml), expect extra screening sometimes that means delays.
3. Pack It in Your Carry-On
It’s best to pack your dry shampoo in your carry-on bag.
That way, if your checked luggage gets lost or delayed, you won’t be stuck without it.
4. Protect Aerosol Bottles in Checked Bags
If you do pack aerosol dry shampoo in your checked luggage, put it in a sealed plastic bag or hard case.
Otherwise, it might leak or spray unexpectedly and cause a mess.
5. Consider Alternatives
If dry shampoo cans stress you out at security, try wipes, shampoo bars, or making your own powder blends.
They’re easier to carry and will speed up the airport screening process.
Final Thoughts On Taking Dry Shampoo On a Plane.
You can bring dry shampoo in both your carry-on and checked bags without any issue.
Just keep in mind that aerosol dry shampoos must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less when carried in carry-on, and up to 18 oz (500 ml) is allowed in checked luggage.
Powder and wipe forms of dry shampoo are usually easier to travel with since they aren’t subject to the same liquid restrictions.
If you want to avoid TSA liquid rules altogether, consider switching to powder or solid shampoo.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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