Technically, a makeup wipe is a solid object soaked in liquid. But the TSA doesn’t care about your philosophical debates. They care about “generally recognized” liquids—i.e., anything that can spill, smear, or be weaponized. Spoiler: wipes are NOT considered liquids by the TSA, but only if they’re packaged in a way that doesn’t scream “I’m a liquid in disguise.”
Here’s the kicker: the rule is about volume, not state of matter. A single wipe is a solid with a squishy heart. But if you stuff a backpack full of them, the TSA might think you’re smuggling a giant liquid slug. Don’t be that person. The official stance is that wipes are fine in your carry-on—up to 100 wipes per bag, because the TSA has no idea what normal travel hygiene looks like.
Why This Rule Exists (And Why It’s Hilarious)
The TSA’s liquid rule was born from a plot to blow up planes with liquid explosives. So, they banned everything from your favorite shampoo to grandma’s gravy. But wipes? They’re too stupidly genius. A terrorist would have to wring out 300 wipes to make a bomb, and by then, their hands would smell like cucumber melon. The risk is zero, but the confusion is infinite.
I once watched a woman argue with an agent for ten minutes because her moisturizer was “basically a solid.” The agent just pointed at the “3.4 ounces or less” rule. The woman held up a face cream and screamed, “It’s a cream, not a liquid!” The agent deadpanned: “Ma’am, it’s a colloid.” I almost applauded. The point is: if it’s not a solid—like a rock or a dry grimace—the TSA will be suspicious.
