Wait, Don't Throw Out Your Disposable Razor!

When starting your low-waste journey, one thing you'll hear all the time is, use up what you have before making the sustainable switch. I know this comes out of my mouth at least three times a week when talking with customers. But today I'm here to contradict myself because, as a long-time low-waster, I have a little wisdom to share with you.

There is one time when you're going to regret having zero disposable razors: flying.

The TSA Safety Razor Dilemma

Here's the deal—you cannot fly with safety razor blades in your carry-on luggage. According to TSA regulations, disposable razors and cartridge razors are allowed in carry-on bags, but safety razor blades must be packed in checked luggage only. Even then, the blades need to be properly wrapped or sheathed to prevent injury to baggage handlers.

While I absolutely swear by my Leaf Safety Razor and my partner loves his Classic Safety Razor, there is one situation where we don't use them: traveling by air. If you're flying, do not pack a loaded safety razor in your carry-on unless you want to have a "fun" chat with TSA agents—and potentially lose your beloved razor blades at security.

The Simple Solution: Keep One Disposable Razor

This is why I recommend keeping your old disposable razor in your travel bag. Tuck it away in that little zippered pocket and never worry about this issue again. It's one of those practical exceptions to the use it up rule that will save you frustration (and money) down the road.

Think of it as your backup plan—not a failure of your sustainable lifestyle, but a smart strategy for navigating the realities of modern travel.

What If You Really Want Your Safety Razor on Vacation?

If you're determined to use your safety razor during your trip, you do have options:

Buy blades at your destination: The good news is that safety razor blades are generally universal, so any brand you find at local stores should fit in your razor. Pack your razor handle in your carry-on and pick up blades once you arrive.

Mail yourself blades: Some dedicated safety razor users will mail a pack of blades to their hotel or destination ahead of their trip. Just make sure to check with your accommodation first!

Pack in checked luggage: If you're checking a bag anyway, you can pack your safety razor and blades there. Just wrap the blades properly to prevent injuries.

The Bigger Picture

This is a perfect example of why sustainable living is about progress, not perfection. Sometimes the most eco-friendly choice isn't the most practical one, and that's okay. By keeping one disposable razor specifically for travel, you're still dramatically reducing your waste compared to someone who uses disposables year-round.

The goal isn't to never use a single disposable item again—it's to minimize waste where it makes sense and find sustainable solutions that actually work with your lifestyle.

So go ahead, keep that disposable razor in your travel kit guilt-free. Your future traveling self will thank you when you breeze through airport security without any razor-related drama.

Have you run into any other situations where your sustainable swaps don't work as planned? Share your stories and tips in the comments below!