TSA regulations (as of 2009) require that "all liquids, gels and aerosols" in carry-on luggage must be stored in nothing larger than 3.4-oz. containers, and that those containers need to be placed in a 1-qt., zip-top plastic bag. Anything else will be confiscated and thrown out, or the traveler will need to check his bags with the airline and pick them up at the destination.
While many travelers resort to stuffing drugstore samples and travel-size containers into quart-size plastic baggies, others prefer something a little snazzier to bring on weekend getaways, cruises, business trips, vacations and jaunts to see family.
Organize-It-Online.com and other stores sell reusable TSA gift bags, which include small plastic containers, pill boxes and plastic jars that are TSA-approved for size and clarity. Many of these are mix-and-match. This is especially useful for businesspeople and frequent travelers focused on convenience and economy, because they do not have to keep on purchasing smaller, 3-oz. versions of their favorite toiletries---and they won't have to go through the hassle of checking their bags. Organize-It-Online (see Resources) sells its TSA-compliant bag with interior plastic jars for $6.99 (2009).
Not a do-it-yourself person? TSA regulations have trickled down to stores like The Body Shop, Bath & Body Works and even grocery stores, which now sell travel-sized editions of hair gels, shampoos and soaps in clear plastic containers approved by the TSA. These are often the best for quick gift ideas, as they come pre-wrapped with ribbons, gift tags and pretty packing tissue.
For a new mom who likes to travel, consider the gifts offered by the online shop Tots On The Go (see Resources). This shop offers TSA-compliant vinyl bags and containers printed with child-friendly designs, like ladybugs, bumblebees and frogs, starting from $39.99 (2009). The store also offers travel kits for older children, so each child in the family can have a travel kit with shampoo, conditioner, soap and toothpaste. These make great holiday gifts.
In addition, the "Clear Bag System," sold in high-end stores by the 311 Travel Bag company, offers vinyl bag gift sets for men and women whose 3-oz. travel containers are equipped with pumps just like the convenience containers marketed in drugstores. The men's bag contains straightforward 3-oz. pump-action jars in a modern, black-and-silver design, while the ladies' bag comes with a container for eye cream, a spritz bottle for hair or body spray. The "Clear Bag System" also offers a wedding-themed "Celebration" gift set option.
If you're not interested in buying a full gift set or are on a budget, make your own set. Purchase a 1-qt., 7-by-8-inch clear vinyl bag from a makeup store or from Jbily.com (see Resources), and head off to a drugstore. This idea works for people who have special dermatological or medical needs, or simply prefer a particular brand over another. This method also enables the gift-giver to tailor the vinyl gift bag to the specifications of the recipient.
