Got a trip coming up? You may think you’ll have to surrender your wet shaving routine while you’re traveling, but that’s simply not the case. Today, there are plenty of products designed to give you a pleasurable shaving experience while still abiding by strict TSA standards. Whether these products are created specifically for travel or they are compact and sturdy by nature, we’ll be taking a look at smart travel choices for razors.
Check back for Part 2 soon!
Carry-on vs. checked bag
Before you begin packing, consider how long you’ll be traveling and whether you’ll be checking bags or bringing a carry-on only.
Razor blades are not permitted in carry-ons. However, the TSA allows you to bring a DE razor in your carry-on so long as it doesn’t have a razor blade inside. So if you wish to bring razor blades, you’ll have to put them in checked baggage. That being said, in our experience putting blades in checked baggage can still sometimes warrant a TSA inspection. If you want to avoid the hassle of possibly getting searched, try to ship your blades ahead of time or purchase them once you’re at your destination.
If this too sounds like a hassle, you can compromise and bring a cartridge razor or electric trimmer. While this may not be ideal, if your trip is on the shorter side (a business trip, for instance) you’ll be able to tolerate one to two days of acceptable shaves.
Travel-sized DE razors
There are quite a few great DE razor options out there for travelers. Merkur Progress features a slight but mighty frame with an adjustable head. And no need to worry about purchasing an additional case: our Merkur Progress Adjustable Safety Razor Travel Set includes a travel case and a 10-pack of Merkur Super Platinum Blades so you’re good to start shaving right after you land.
Merkur also makes a specialized travel razor with a four-piece design that lets you dissemble and fit it even into the tightest corners of your carry-on. Merkur’s travel razor retains the brand’s classic head, so if you’re familiar with Merkur, you won’t face a learning curve when transitioning over.
You can also consider a shavette, a straight razor-style razor that uses disposable blades. The Dovo Shavette Travel Kit comes in a leather travel case and includes a polishing cloth. Just remember you’ll have to figure out how to ship or acquire blades.
Cartridge razors and electric trimmers
If expediency is key, these two will get you seamlessly through TSA.
We recommend the Edwin Jagger Diffusion Fusion Razor for a comfortable shave with the heft you’re used to getting from a DE razor. The extra-long handle gives you optimal balance, while the smooth, ergonomic shape enhances comfort and control. The Edwin Jagger Diffusion Fusion Razor uses standard Gillette Fusion cartridges, which are available worldwide, so you can get a great shave anywhere you go.
For a high-functioning electric trimmer, the Philips Norelco PQ 208/40 Travel Electric Razor is a small version of the original Philips Norelco Electric Razor. You get 60 minutes of cordless shaving, and the razor’s lightweight design makes it perfect for travel. Independently floating heads follow the contour of your face.
