Toiletries

TSA and our security partners conducted extensive explosives testing since August 10, 2006 and determined that liquids, aerosols and gels, in limited quantities, are safe to bring aboard an aircraft. The one bag limit per traveler limits the total amount each traveler can bring. Consolidating the bottles into one bag and X-raying them separately from the carry-on bag enables security officers to quickly clear the items. 3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure. Most hotels will have toiletries - I wouldn't mess with the hassel - Pack light - and enjoy -

I am aware of the ounce limit but for convenience sake I am wondering if I can just leave the 3 oz bottles in the kit instead of putting them in a zip lock. I could use their shampoo but I like my facial and skin lotion better. Thanks

Sorry: http://www.tsa.gov/311/ That link will tell you what you need to know...one QUART-sized bag. If you really want to be a minimalist - skip the toiletry bag and just add an extra ziploc bag or two...;-)

You still need to put the bottles etc. in a ziploc bag. I gave up on the toiletry kit - they seem to take up more room and weigh more than just putting everything into plastic baggies and distributing them through your suitcase. My kit took up as much room as a folded skirt, pants or top....Also I don't bother with anything other than travel sizes of cleanser, toner and moisturizer and maybe a light coloured lipstick and some cotton wipes and for a long-haul flight a travellers tube of toothpaste and a toothbrush. I find most travel sizes of cosmetics will last two-three weeks. I must admit that I do check my carry-on sized suitcase - that after a hellish journey to Europe with it stuffed under my seat because there was no room in the overhead. You should be able to buy all the standard brands of cosmetics in Europe (if that is where you are going). I have bought Estee Lauder everywhere, also Clarins and Clinique. So why not go with travel sizes and stock up there? Or, buy it at the duty free shops - after you go through security? Of course if you are taking another flight at your destination you will still have to do the Ziploc thing.

No, the answer is no. If you choose to leave any liquids or gels in the carryon bag, you risk wasting a lot of time at the other end of the conveyer belt while they unpack your carryon. If you must, you could pack all the liquids and gels you want and check your bag, but that leads to other risks. I am a diehard Oil of Olay girl, and have found that the towel cleansers that they sell work well and can be stored in your bag. Take the liquids that are necessary, but make sure that they fit into that handy-dandy ziplock bag, then don't forget to take it out and separate it from the rest of the bags. Put it with your shoes, belts change keys jackets etc that you must declare at security.
Good idea just to buy what you can when you get there.

Thanks everybody for your suggestions!!