I recently bout the RS hanging toiletry bag for my Europe travel, but is it TSA approved or do I need to use a clear TSA 3-1-1 bag.
TSA requires resealable one quart plastic bag for liquids etc,
I haven't bothered putting my (<100mL) toiletries in a separate bag, or pulling them out for separate inspection, in 7 years or more. I do always have a handful of various-sized ziplocs in case someone gets stroppy, but I just leave my things in my hanging toiletries case (I have a Muji one) in my carryon.
TSA does not approve luggage or accessories like a toiletry bag. You still have to meet the requirements for inspection. Rick Steves doesn't claim any special privileges for this bag either. Its just a handy way of carrying toiletries while touring around.
Your liquids have to be in a clear quart sized bag. The toiletries kit Rick sells is good for your non liquid toiletries in your carry-on, and I transfer my liquids into it at my first destination.
I follow the rules and put my liquids in a clear plastic quart bag and then put then reassemble them in my LLBean toiletry kit after I clear TSA or get to my first hotel. However last summer we got TSA precheck and now we don't have to remove our liquids from our bags.
In Berlin, airport security opened my RS toiletry bag because they thought my deodorant was a gel. It was solid.
Put liquids in the clear bags to save any hassle at the security check
Why not just follow the rules and put your liquids in a clear plastic zip lock quart bag? Why invite a hassle? It's just not worth it. Reassemble your kit when you get to your first hotel.
I have used Rick Steves' toiletry bag for years but put liquids in the clear 1 quart bag until I had TSA pre check through Global Entry.
Thank you everyone for helping me out. This is the first time I have done carry on luggage, since I have always checked it. I will do the quart bag and then leave my toiletry empty until I get to my destination.
My hanging toiletry bag always has plenty of stuff in it even without the liquids. I use mineral makeup, so that goes in, along with brushes, razor, magnifying mirror, toothbrush, glasses, all my Rx and OTC meds in tiny ziplocks, emergen-c, bandaids, deodorant ... I love the RS bag because it holds so much so well, with all the pockets on sides, the flap, inside and on the back. I keep almost everything that needs to go in the bathroom in there. And I have the older version of the bag which is a little smaller than the new one.
I like hanging toiletry bags. Some hotels have pedestal sinks with no counter space. I like the organization as well. Put all non- liquid/paste/gel items in your toiletry bag. Only use the 311 for liquids, creams, gels, pastes. Make sure these items are in marked 3 oz. or less containers in a hefty 1 quart freezer bag (ziplock). Freezer bags are heavier material.