Can You Take Vaseline On A Plane? 2026

Vaseline or petroleum jelly is used worldwide, as it relieves dry skin and prevents chafing, but can you bring Vaseline on a plane?

The short answer is yes, you can take Vaseline (petroleum jelly) on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags. In carry-on luggage, it must be in a container of 3.4 ounces / 100ml or less and placed inside a quart-sized clear plastic bag with other liquids, you can place larger containers in checked baggage.

In this post I will cover everything you need to know about  taking Vaseline and other types of petroleum jelly and how to pack them for your next flight.

Let’s dive right in.

Can You Bring Vaseline Through TSA?

Is Vaseline a Liquid According to the TSA?

Although the TSA didn’t specifically mention Vaseline on its website, they have a long list of similar items like creams and gels.

In the screenshot below, Elena didn’t know if her item was considered a liquid; all she knew was that its texture was similar to Vaseline.

But here is the TSA’s definition of what counts as a liquid:

If you can pour it, pump it, squeeze it, spread it, smear it, spray it, or spill it, it’s subject to the 3-1-1 limits, 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less for each container or less placed in a single quart sized bag with other toiletries.

So, according to the TSA, Vaseline is considered a liquid.

You will need to take small containers (3.4 oz / 100 ml or less) in a quart-sized bag. You can place as many as you want in your toiletry bag, as long as they fit.

I checked X to find more info and see exactly how they answered some travelers’ questions.

Here is a short answer from the TSA to Kosalko stating that petroleum jelly must be 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less if placed in carry-on bags.

The same answer was given to Sara about taking a small container of Vaseline.

If you need to take a large tube of Vaseline for medical use, you will need a prescription; otherwise, it will depend on the security officer to decide whether your Vaseline will be allowed or not.

Though this was not specifically mentioned by the TSA in the response below.

All they said to Rakeiba was to let the officers at the security checkpoint know she had these items and place them in a separate bin for X-ray screening.

Don’t stress too much about finding a travel-size Vaseline container.

Most containers and tubes come in small, travel-friendly sizes, so if you need to take more Vaseline, you can place several containers inside your toiletry bag as long as you have enough space.

Can You Bring Vaseline In checked baggage?

There are no limits on how much Vaseline you can bring in a checked bag, as long as you don’t exceed your airline’s weight limits.

If you are worried that your Vaseline will spill inside your bag, you can follow the packing tips below, or you can simply take a small container inside your carry-on bag.

How To Pack Vaseline in Your Luggage?

Vaseline is not difficult to keep safe during travel, as it is not a fully liquid substance that easily spills inside your bag.

Even so, you should still take some precautions. You can place it in a sealed container if it does not already come in one, or keep it in a tube.

For tubes, you can also use tape. It’s a good way to secure the flip-top cap in case it gets squeezed by another item.

You can also add a layer of protection by placing it inside a Ziplock bag or sandwich bag. That will help keep the Vaseline contained if the container opens during your journey.

Final Thoughts

According to Vogue, airplane cabins can have humidity levels as low as 10% to 20%. This can make your skin dry during flights, which is why Vaseline is such a must have product.

So you can take Vaseline in your carry-on bag, but only in travel-size containers.

Each container must be 3.4 oz / 100 ml or smaller because Vaseline is considered a liquid by the TSA.

Alternatively, if you want to bring larger containers or tubes, you can place them in your checked bag.

Just make sure to secure them properly inside your luggage.

I hope this helps.

Happy travels.

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Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.