How to Travel with Protein (3 Simple Solutions)
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The key to optimal results with taking supplements is taking them consistently. So it’s understandable that when you’re packing for your next flight, you might be wondering whether you can pack protein powder in your carry-on luggage.
While there are no TSA (Transportation Security Administration) rules against bringing a supplement on board a plane as there are with liquids over 3 ounces, some people might be wary about carrying a bag of undisclosed powder in a plastic bag.
The TSA regulations state the following regarding dietary supplements: “Powder-like substances greater than 12 ounces (oz)/350 milliliters (ml) must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening and containers may need to be opened. For your convenience, we encourage you to place non-essential powders greater than 12 oz/350 ml in checked bags.”
With this in mind, there are three options available to you for traveling with protein on a plane:
Putting protein powder into a plastic bag
Using ready-to-drink protein shakes
Using single-serve travel packs of creatine
Let’s explore the pros and cons of each.
Put Protein Powder in a Plastic Bag
Putting protein powder into a plastic bag is probably the most obvious way to transport it with you during air travel. You’ll simply need to take protein powder from its original container and place the required amount of individual servings of powder into a plastic bag (or a double bag in case of leaks and spills)—and don’t forget the scoop!
Pros
Cost-effective: This is arguably the most cost-effective solution
Quick and easy: It’s relatively quick and easy to take protein powder from its original container and put it into one or more plastic bags.
Customizable portions: You can take the exact number of servings needed
Works with any brand: Not limited to specific products
Cons
Mess and hassle: It can get messy and there’s no guarantee the powder might not spill in your luggage during transit
Remember the scoop: You’ll need to pack the scoop with you to ensure accurate measurements
TSA misunderstandings and delays: It might be suspicious to TSA agents and cause them to do a secondary inspection of your hand luggage as you pass through airport security, particularly as you’re traveling without the original packaging.
Get Ready-to-Drink Protein Shakes
There are an increasing number of ready-to-drink protein shakes on the market which offer a great alternative to protein powder. These are available as either shelf-stable products or require refrigeration, depending on ingredients and formulation. These could be bought on arrival at your destination or packed in your checked luggage (anything over 3.4 fluid ounces will not comply with TSA rules for your carry-on bag).
Pros
Zero preparation: Ready to drink immediately
No mixing required: No mess or equipment needed
TSA compliant for checked luggage (liquids over 3.4oz must be checked)
Consistent taste: No risk of poor mixing affecting flavor
Wide availability: Can often buy at destination
Cons
Much more expensive: Cost per serving is typically much higher than powder
Heavy and bulky: Takes up significant luggage space and there’s risk of mess or spillage
Limited carry-on options: Anything in your carry-on bag must be under 3.4 fluid ounces
Shorter shelf life: Especially refrigerated versions, which might not fare well for long-haul or international travel
Limited flavor options: Protein powders are usually available in more flavors
Unwanted ingredients: Ready-to-drink formulations often contain more additives and preservatives
Get Single-Serving Travel Packs of Protein Powder
Whether it's for international flights or a hectic day that involves going straight from the gym to the office, you don't want to miss out on your regular protein supplement. That's why Momentous introduced travel packs, available in both whey and plant protein, to maximize convenience and minimize the mess and hassle.
They deliver the same clean, high-performance formula in convenient single-serving packets. Each pack contains 20 grams of grass-fed, cold-processed whey protein isolate sourced from European dairy, enhanced with ProHydrolase® enzymes for better digestion and absorption. Whether you’re traveling, training two-a-days, or just need the convenience, these packs make it easy to stay consistent any time, anywhere—all while staying well within TSA guidelines and restrictions.
As with the regular protein powder tubs, these travel packs are also NSF Certified for Sport, guaranteeing purity, potency, and safety, making them highly popular with athletes and fitness enthusiasts.
Pros
Convenient: The travel packs fit easily in your gym bag or carry-on bag
Mess-free and hassle-free: No need to carry a scoop or plastic bag; each packet contains 20 grams of protein.
TSA-friendly: Branded packaging looks legitimate (unlike unknown powders in bags), reducing the likelihood of awkward questions from security personnel or delays at airport security checkpoints
Same quality as home: Identical to your regular protein, ensuring you stay consistent with your at-home routine
No equipment needed: Mix in any container
Enhanced absorption: ProHydrolase® enzymes for better digestion
Cons
Expense: More expensive than taking powder from your larger tub and putting it into a plastic bag
Less environmentally friendly: More packaging waste than bulk powder
Emma-Kate Lidbury
Emma-Kate Lidbury is a freelance writer and editor with 20 years of experience working in the health and fitness world.
