Whether traveling for a short business trip or an extended vacation, some men are adamant about bringing their trusty safety razors with them on the road.
However, traveling with a safety razor and blades can be tricky due to airport security regulations, confusion with types of razors, and the need for proper storage.
This article will cover how to travel with a safety razor, how to store it and its blades, explore eco-friendly alternatives for on-the-go shaving, and address the confusion surrounding different types of razors and airport regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Safety razors without blades are allowed in carry-on luggage, but blades must be in checked baggage.
- Consider purchasing blades at your destination or shipping them ahead of time to avoid checking a bag.
- Pack shaving soap, brush, and aftershave according to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule.
- Eco-friendly alternatives to safety razors while traveling include reusable cartridge razors and electric razors.
- Properly store your safety razor in a case or pouch and safely store blades in a blade bank, dispenser, or a small, labeled container.
- When traveling by vehicle, keep your safety razor and blades properly stored to avoid damage and accidental cuts.
One of the biggest concerns when traveling with a safety razor is getting through airport security. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has specific rules for carrying razors and blades in your luggage.
According to the TSA website, safety razors without blades are allowed in your carry-on luggage, but the blades themselves must be in your checked baggage. There are no exceptions to the rule.
It’s also important to note that straight razors, featuring a removable blade, are considered sharp objects and are not allowed in carry-on bags.
Avoiding Checked Baggage Fees
But let’s be real, who wants to pay for checked baggage?
One option that many men will opt for is to simply purchase new blades once they arrive at their destination. This will be cheaper than paying to check your luggage. However, where there could be a problem is your preferred brand of blades may not be available at your destination.
You’ll need to go with whatever the drugstore or supermarket has in stock.
Additionally, this does require an additional trip to the store, which may not be convenient if you are taking a taxi or another form of public transportation.
Alternatively, you can order blades online and have them shipped to your destination if you’re staying at a hotel, Airbnb, or with friends and family.
Packing Your Wet Shaving Gear
Besides your safety razor and blades, you’ll also need to pack your other wet shaving essentials, such as shaving soap, brush, and aftershave. To comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule, ensure that any liquid or cream products, including shampoo, toothpaste, gel, lotion, and deodorant, are in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or fewer and packed in a single, clear, quart-sized bag.
For your shaving brush, consider investing in a travel brush with a protective case, or use a small plastic container to protect the bristles.
Eco-Friendly Shaving Alternatives for Travelers
If you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to safety razors for your travels, consider trying a reusable cartridge razor with a wooden or metal handle. While not as eco-friendly as a safety razor, reusable cartridge razors still produce less waste than disposable plastic razors.
You can also look for cartridge razors with recyclable handles, such as those offered by Public Goods.
Another option is to bring an electric razor or beard trimmers, which don’t require any blades or shaving products, reducing the amount of waste generated during your trip. Just make sure the razor’s battery is charged or that it’s compatible with the electrical outlets at your destination. Also, keep in mind that lithium batteries, including lithium metal and lithium-ion, and battery chargers for electronics may have specific regulations for carry-on and checked luggage.
Of course, brands like Gillette and Bic often offer disposable razors, which can be easily found in drugstores or supermarkets. Just be sure to dispose of them in an environmentally friendly way once you’re done with them.
Storing Your Safety Razor During Travel
Proper storage of your safety razor and blades is essential for both safety and maintenance. Here are some tips on how to store your safety razor while traveling:
Protecting Your Safety Razor
Invest in a safety razor travel case, pouch, or cap, which will protect the razor from damage and help prevent accidental cuts. There are many options available, from leather cases to fabric pouches. Make sure to choose one that fits your razor’s specific dimensions and your travel needs.
Alternatively, you can wrap your safety razor in a soft cloth, such as a microfiber towel, to protect it during transit. Just be sure to wrap it securely so it doesn’t come undone in your luggage.
Storing Blades Safely
To safely store your safety razor blades, small plastic blade dispensers work best. They typically can store about five blades and include a small blade bank on the back to store the used blades. Plus, as we found out, five blades should last you about 25 shaves, so you won’t have to worry about running out of blades during your trip.
Transporting Your Safety Razor in Vehicles
When traveling by car, bus, or train, you have more freedom to pack your safety razor and blades in your luggage without worrying about security regulations. However, it’s still important to properly store your razor and blades during transit to protect them from damage and prevent accidental cuts.