Janet is a freelance journalist and photographer with many years of experience writing for an assortment of online blogs, newspapers, and magazines. She is an avid traveler and photographer.
Regardless if you are traveling for business or pleasure, many travelers like to carry Lysol to eliminate viruses and bacteria on commonly touched hard and soft surfaces. Common questions passengers have are if TSA regulations allow them to bring Lysol spray on board an aircraft, what size is allowed and where to get travel size spray.
TSA Regulations
The TSA has determined that liquids, aerosols such as Lysol, and gels are safe to bring aboard aircraft in limited quantities. There are certain exceptions for baby formula and medicine.
All aerosol type products including Lysol, hairspray, antiperspirants, shaving cream, body mists and other toiletry products must be stored in containers 3.4 ounce (100 milliliters) or smaller. Many U.S. travel sizes come in one to two ounce package sizes in order to meet this regulation.
Aerosol travel size items must fit in a sealed one-quart, clear plastic, zip-top bag that is separate from the rest of the items in carry-on luggage. It is important to note that only one plastic zip-top bag is permitted per passenger inside carry-on baggage. Any aerosol that sets off an alarm during screening will be subject to additional screening.
TSA officers may test liquids, gels or aerosol products for explosives or concealed prohibited items. If officers are unable to use X-rays to clear these items, they may ask to open the container and examine the contents of the item further.
Medical Exceptions
The TSA has ruled that there are certain exceptions to the 3.4 ounce rule in regard to medications. Passengers must present the TSA officer with a TSA notification card that details a health concern that can affect screening. With the proper documentation, passengers may be able to bring medically necessary aerosols, liquids, medications and creams beyond the standard limits. It is unlikely that Lysol would fall under this exception unless you have specific medical documentation indicating as such.
Travel Size Aerosol
Many retailers offer travel size Lysol products for travelers. The typical one-ounce container typically retails for about $2 to $3 each.
Lysol To Go Disinfectant SprayOne of the cheapest places to get the travel size Lysol spray is officesupply.com, but you'll need to create an order of $45 or more to qualify for the free two-day shipping.
Walmart also offers the one ounce spray in a "crisp linen" scent, both online (orders of $35 or more ship free) and for in-store pickup, which is usually a little cheaper. Most reviews are positive, but several customers prefer the original scent.
Target sells Lysol To Go online; however, it will only be shipped when included in an order of $25 or more. Alternatively, you can order online for pickup at a local Target store.
Double check to make sure the nozzle works and spray is released before packing. If you want to travel with a full size container of Lysol or any other aerosol product, then pack it in your checked suitcase.
Aerosol Alternative
The best alternative to bringing a Lysol spray on an aircraft is to bring on anti-bacterial wipes, disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizing wipes or gel. It is important to note the difference.
In general, antibacterial wipes are used on hands to kill bacteria and prevent its transmission; disinfectant wipes are used on hard surfaces such as trays, armrests and seats. Liquid hand sanitizers kill germs but will not remove traces of food, dirt and grime. Wipes are more portable than an aerosol spray and passengers don't have to worry about the nozzle malfunctioning.
Traveling With Lysol
There is something about airplanes that denotes germs. The best way to stay healthy on a flight is to board healthy and to make sure you spray or wipe off your belt buckle, arm rests, seat cushions and tray table with Lysol. Before packing your travel size spray, be sure that the nozzle is functioning, that spray is coming out, and that the product is not leaking. To be extra careful, add disinfectant wipes to your germ-free arsenal for an extra layer of protection.
