Quick Answer
✅ Yes. Soap is allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage.
✈️ Bar soap is solid → no size limits in carry-on.
⚠️ Liquid soap, body wash, and shampoo must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule in carry-on (≤ 3.4 oz / 100 ml per container).
Details
- Bar soap:
- Not considered a liquid or gel.
- Unlimited in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Liquid soap / body wash:
- Must be ≤ 3.4 oz (100 ml) in carry-on.
- Larger bottles must go in checked luggage.
- Foaming soaps / refill bottles:
- Count as liquids → same 3-1-1 rule applies.
- Checked luggage:
- Any size soap permitted, liquid or solid.
TSA Soap Rules Summary
| Soap Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Bar soap | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Liquid soap ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Liquid soap > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Body wash / shower gel | ✅ ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Bar soap = easiest: Avoids liquid limits and TSA hassles.
- ✈️ Foaming bottles: Even if “mostly air,” TSA treats them as liquids.
- ✈️ Leak risk: Always pack liquid soap in a sealed toiletry bag to prevent spills.
- ✈️ International flights: Nearly all countries follow the same 100 ml liquid rule.