Will Shaving Cream Explode on a Plane? 8 Items That Can

Disclosure: We earn a commission on qualifying purchases made through links at no extra cost to you. We are also a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.

As air travel has become increasingly popular, so too have the questions and concerns about what is allowed to be brought on a plane. One such question is, “will shaving cream explode on a plane?” The answer is no — shaving cream cans are not aerosols and will likely not explode in an airplane cabin or checked luggage.

Related: Best Travel-Size Shaving Cream

Shaving Cream Ingredients

Shaving cream is typically made up of water, soap, glycerin, and other ingredients that help create a lather when applied to the skin. These ingredients are all non-flammable and therefore do not pose any risk of explosion in an airplane cabin or checked luggage.

Will Shaving Cream Explode on a Plane?

The fear of explosives on a plane is a concern for many people, especially with strict regulations and security measures. However, the idea that shaving cream could be a threat is a myth. Despite rumors and rumors circulating about the dangers of shaving cream on a flight, it is unlikely that you will ever encounter any issues.

Rest assured, you will not be flying at risk of your toiletries causing any explosions. While it never hurts to be cautious with any liquids or gels you may bring on board, there is no reason to fear shaving cream.

How Much Shaving Cream Can You Bring on a Plane?

However, it’s important to note that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does restrict the amount of shaving cream you can bring on board – 3.4 ounces for carry-on luggage and 68 ounces for checked luggage.

It’s also important to note that while shaving cream may not explode on a plane, other items such as lithium batteries, cell phone batteries, laptop batteries, and aerosol products can be vulnerable to explosions due to their volatile nature. Therefore, checking with the TSA website before bringing any potentially hazardous items onto a plane is essential.

8 Items that Can Potentially Explode on a Plane

These items can pose a danger due to chemical reactions, air pressure changes, and temperature fluctuations.

Here is a short list of items that may pose a risk to the overall safety of the aircraft, along with an explanation of why they are considered hazardous and the necessary precautions that should be taken.

  1. Batteries: Lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries can overheat and catch fire if damaged, short-circuited, or exposed to high temperatures. To minimize the risk, passengers should carry spare lithium batteries in their carry-on luggage and ensure they are protected from damage and short circuits. Devices containing lithium batteries should be turned off and not charged during the flight.
  2. Fireworks: Fireworks contain explosive materials that can ignite, causing a fire or explosion onboard. Fireworks are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage.
  3. Flammable liquids: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint thinner, and lighter fluids can ignite at low temperatures, posing a significant fire risk. These liquids are generally not allowed in either checked or carry-on baggage. There are some exceptions for small quantities of specific liquids like alcohol and certain toiletries.
  4. Gas cylinders: Compressed gas cylinders, such as those used for camping stoves or scuba diving equipment, can explode due to changes in air pressure or temperature. Gas cylinders are typically not allowed in checked or carry-on luggage, although there are some exceptions for medical or personal care items.
  5. Aerosol cans: Aerosol cans, including deodorants and spray paints, can rupture due to changes in air pressure, leading to a rapid release of their contents and potentially causing a fire. While some aerosols for personal care or medical purposes are allowed in limited quantities, others are entirely prohibited.
  6. Chemicals and toxic substances: Corrosive, oxidizing, or toxic chemicals such as bleach, acids, and pesticides can react with other substances or cause damage to the aircraft and its occupants. These substances are generally not allowed in checked or carry-on luggage.
  7. Strike-anywhere matches and lighters: Strike-anywhere matches can ignite easily due to friction, posing a fire risk. Lighters containing flammable liquids or gases can also be hazardous. These items are generally not allowed in checked luggage, and only one lighter per passenger is permitted in carry-on luggage.
  8. Oxygen generators: Chemical oxygen generators can produce high levels of heat and oxygen, increasing the risk of fire. They are not allowed in either checked or carry-on baggage.

To ensure safe travel for everyone onboard, passengers should follow airline and aviation authority guidelines regarding hazardous items. 

Always check the regulations before packing and inform the airline staff of any potentially dangerous items you may need to carry for medical or personal reasons.

By taking these precautions, we can all contribute to a safer flying experience.

Conclusion

While there may be some misconceptions about whether or not shaving cream can explode on a plane, it’s important to remember that these cans are not aerosols and will most likely not cause any harm during air travel. However, it’s still important to check with the TSA website before bringing any potentially hazardous items onto a plane.