airplane travel liquid size

Here's the 411 on the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule

We've all been there. Waiting in the Transportation Security Administration line only to hear agents call for a "bag check," often because a traveler had a liquid product in their carry-on that's over the allowed limit (or some sort of other prohibited item).

It's a process that can sure slow things down, particularly on the busiest travel days. As you pack for your trip and consider what to put in your carry-on or checked luggage, it's important to consider what the TSA's limits are for liquids and similar products.

Since September 2006, the TSA has gone by the 3-1-1 rule when it comes to those types of products, including items like toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion -- sunscreen included.

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In short, the 3-1-1 rule is: Each liquid you bring through the TSA checkpoint must be in a 3.4-ounce or smaller container ("3"), all containers must be placed inside one clear quart-size plastic bag ("1") and each passenger is only allowed one plastic bag ("1").

If you meet those requirements, you should get through security without issue. However, if your liquid items are larger than 3.4 ounces each, you'll have to leave them in your checked bag.

There are a few exceptions, though.

The TSA has kept in place a temporary pandemic exception to the rule, allowing up to 12 ounces of liquid hand sanitizer in carry-on baggage.

Part of this exception: The hand sanitizer will have to be screened separately since it's technically over the limit. You'll need to remove it from your bag before it goes through the scanner.

There are also exceptions for larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels and aerosols. You can bring those products in larger, "reasonable" quantities, the TSA's website says. However, you must declare those items to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

This could, obviously, take a little more time than if you're traveling without those items.

This exception doesn't include sunscreen, despite calls to relax sunscreen restrictions at TSA checkpoints. Like other liquid products, sunscreen bottles over 3.4 ounces must go in your checked luggage.

There are also many liquids you cannot bring with you .

You can bring creamy cheeses, liquid chocolate, liquid coffee, creamy dips and spreads, gravy, honey, hummus, ice cream, jam, jelly, juice, syrup, peanut butter, salad dressing, sauce, salsa, soda, soup and yogurt as long as they are in a container of less than 3.4 ounces according to the TSA .

Related: Should you get TSA PreCheck or Clear — or both?

And yes, you can bring your water bottle with you, even if it weighs more than 3.4 ounces — as long as it's empty. This can also be a great way to save money at the airport, since -- as the TSA points out -- many airports have filling stations for reusable water bottles.

When in doubt, consult the TSA's list of what you can carry through the airport and check with your airline.

Additional reporting by Clint Henderson and Sean Cudahy.

Simple Flying

How much liquid can you take on an airplane.

The current 3-1-1 rule will change soon.

• The 3-1-1 liquid rule applies to carry-ons: each liquid container must be below 3.4 ounces, and each traveler is allowed a 1-quart-sized plastic bag, or below 1 liter in most other countries.
• Check the liquid rules when traveling internationally, as regulations vary by country.
• New 3D scanners at airports will see the easing of liquid rules and quicker security checks.

Air travel can be confusing when it comes to what is allowed in the cabin and what can be checked. Many items are prohibited and restricted due to safety and practicality considerations, and those rules have only become stricter since 9/11. It needs to be clarified as airports and countries often have variations in the rules.

However, with some welcoming news, we could see relaxation in the rules coming for the travelers . We will review the existing liquid rules worldwide and what is and could be changing in the future.

The 3-1-1 liquid rule

The 3-1-1 liquid rule is the standard for traveling in the United States. The 3 refers to a 3.4 ounce limit for each container, and the 1s refer to one plastic bag and one bag per person, respectively. For carry-ons, this is the official liquid rule according to TSA :

"Each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters.' The total amount of containers is limited to 'one quart-size bag."

Most countries around the world follow similar rules, with 100 milliliters being the limit for each liquid container. However, the total limit in the EU, Canada, and several other countries is one liter rather than a quart-sized bag.

For checked luggage, the rules are much more relaxed. There is generally no limit to the size or the total amount of liquid, but some hazardous liquids are prohibited. When traveling internationally, customs rules that often set limits on undeclared products need to be followed.

“Containers larger than 100 milliliters or 100 grams, even if only partially filled and whether they are opened or unopened, containing liquids, aerosols or gels are not allowed through the international security screening point.”

There are certain exceptions to the carry-on rules. Generally, liquids that fall under the ‘medically necessary’ category, including medication and prescriptions, are allowed onboard. Exceptions also include infant formula and baby food. Another instance where more than 3.4 ounces is permitted is when live fish is carried onboard in a clear container.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, TSA and transport authorities from other countries have made another exemption for hand sanitizers. They can be larger than 3.4 ounces but need less than 12 ounces or roughly 350 milliliters.

For medical and scientific personnel, non-infectious specimens in solutions can also exceed the limit. A set of instructions needs to be followed, which can be found here . Each country and airport also differ slightly on the exemptions to the liquid rule. An example is the exception given to COVID test kits in Canada, and it is recommended to consult an airport-specific source before traveling.

Why is there a liquid rule?

Today's liquid rules known worldwide were introduced in 2006 due to suspicion of terrorism. The security of air travel was already heightened at the time but was taken a step further due to a terrorist plot in the UK, sometimes known as the 2006 transatlantic aircraft plot.

In August 2006, the British police arrested individuals who had been producing liquid bombs and explosives and plotting a terrorist attack on flights departing London Heathrow to North America. The operation saw individuals under police surveillance arrested on August 9th in the UK.

From August 9th until mid-August, British and American airports operated under extraordinary security. Most flights were canceled in the UK on August 9th, and when limited operations resumed, no carry-on except boarding passes and wallets were allowed.

In fact, liquid was not allowed onboard airplanes until August 13th in the US and until November of that year in the UK. Since then, the amount has been limited to 100 milliliters with a limited total allowance.

Changes are coming

With new technologies, the liquid rules will become a thing of the past in the coming years. The latest 3D scanning machines, including the C3-standard Explosive Detection System Cabin Baggage (EDS-CB), would ensure the same security standards are met while making the travel experience more efficient and smooth.

When installed at airports, the new machines will mean relaxed liquid rules for travelers and fewer steps when getting through security. Some likely results are reduced workload for security workers and shortened lines and delays at major international airports.

How Next Generation Airport Scanners Are Ending The 100ml Liquid Rule

Some airports have already relaxed the rules and made further exemptions. Amsterdam Schiphol, for example, states that liquid in containers larger than 100ml is permitted, but special checks are required. The 3D scanners at the Dutch airport have been available since 2021.

Some have gone a step further and scraped the 3-1-1 rule altogether. London City and Teesside airports in the UK have moved to a two-liter total liquid allowance with no limit on individual container size. More British airports are expected to adopt the new rule, and major changes are expected in June 2024 .

The Removal Of The 100ml Rule At UK Airports: Everything You Need To Know

In Ireland, Shannon airport scraped the rule in 2022 allowing any amount of liquid. In Spain, Madrid and Barcelona are expected to make changes to limits on carry-on liquid in the summer of 2024, while other Spanish airports, including Malaga and Palma de Mallorca, should follow going into 2025.

Elsewhere in Europe, other airports, including Geneva, Paris-Orly, Milan, and Helsinki, are trialing the new technology. The German airports of Munich and Frankfurt have also started converting their machines into 3D scanners, with the eventual rule change expected.

Here is a summary of all the major airports that have or will adopt the new liquid rules thanks to the new scanner technologies:

It is important to note that most airports trailing the 3D scanners still have the 100 ml cap or the 3-1-1 rule in place at the time of writing, and very few airports or countries have changed the official rules; travelers should check with the airport for the most up-to-date information.

In the US, TSA has not given any official details but is expected to follow the trend at some point. While there’s no timeline in place yet , the agency “anticipates the limit on liquids will be lifted in the coming years.”

Liquids Allowed in Carry-On Luggage

Joe Raedle  /  Staff  / Getty Images

If you're taking a flight for your vacation, you need to know the quantities and types of liquids that the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) allows passengers to bring onto an airplane in their carry-on luggage .

While good security is essential, TSA's regulations on liquid quantities certainly make it harder to take some necessary items on planes. Today’s travelers have to pay attention to exactly what they’re carrying, especially when it comes to shampoos, shaving cream, drinks, and anything resembling a fluid, as many of the TSA's rules forbid these items in certain quantities.

The TSA and airport screeners are strict about the amount and type of liquids that travelers can take with them on the plane. However, they've fortunately developed a handy guide to help passengers prepare for their trip. Known as the 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids, this rule states that most liquids, gels, and aerosols can be transported as long as each item is in a 3.4-ounce or smaller container and all items fit in a single one-quart plastic zip-top bag.

The 3-1-1 Rule

According to the 3-1-1 guidelines, travelers, in general, are allowed to bring on most liquids, from shampoo to hand sanitizer gels, as long as they meet the requirements of the 3-1-1 rule. Typically this means you can carry up to six 3.4-ounce bottles of shampoos, contact solution, and other liquid necessities as long as they are all contained within a zip-top bag.

You can also put liquids in your checked luggage (as long as they’re not prohibited items). However, if you do this, you should make sure the liquids are sealed really well so that they don't come up while being transported beneath the aircraft. The last thing you need on a business trip is to have your shampoos or other liquids leak all over your business suit or wardrobe. Fortunately, there are plenty of great TSA-approved travel toiletry bottles available to choose from.

Special Liquids and Larger Quantities

Travelers can also declare larger containers of selected liquids, such as baby formula or medications , at the checkpoint. Airport screeners will generally allow them in moderate quantities, and declared liquids don’t have to be in zip-top bags.

Medications, baby formula and food , and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces, but you'll need to declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. Also, it's worth noting that TSA screeners do allow you to bring ice through the security checkpoint as long as it's frozen solid. So if you bring ice, make sure to dump out any water before you hit the security checkpoint.

Examples of liquids that can be in excess of the 3.4-ounce rule include:

• Baby formula, breast milk, and juice (for babies)
• Both prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Liquids or liquid nutrition for people with disabilities or medical conditions
• Specialized medical liquids like contact solution
• Frozen items, if they’re frozen solid
• Medical or cosmetic items with liquid or saline

If you’re attempting to bring one of the above items with you, the TSA requires you to separate them, declare them to a security officer, and present them for additional screening. For complete information on the 3-1-1 rule, visit the TSA website, and for a complete list of prohibited items, visit the official TSA prohibited items list.

Why the TSA Limits Liquids

While it may seem like an arbitrary rule to some, the TSA 3-1-1 Rule actually took a considerable amount of negotiation and research to implement and was developed in response to an attempted attack on an airport in the United Kingdom.

On August 10, 2006, authorities in the United Kingdom arrested a group that was planning to destroy a number of airplanes by using an explosive mixture of a sports drink and other chemicals. After the arrest, the TSA rigorously tested a wide variety of liquids to determine which should be banned outright and what quantity of common household liquids was safe for passengers to bring aboard.

The United States adopted the 3-1-1 Rule in September of 2006, and the TSA screens all arriving international flights to make sure passengers comply with domestic regulations. Other countries have since adopted the same or similar regulations in order to ensure uniform administration of safety rules around the world. Canada, China, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, and all member states of the European Union follow the 3-1-1 Rule.

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UponArriving

TSA Liquid Rules Ultimate Guide (3-1-1 Explained) [2023]

Bringing your liquids through airport security is not always as straightforward as you might think.

There are several rules that apply when bringing your liquids through airport security checkpoints and, yes, many are obvious to those of us blessed with a shred of common sense.

But in some cases there are some less obvious restrictions that could apply to your liquids.

And when you start talking about things like baby essentials, medications, and liquids like alcohol, there are many lesser-known rules and exceptions that come into play.

Violating these rules can sometimes mean slowing down the flow of the screening checkpoint (something we all should want to avoid) but in other cases it could mean violating the law and you basically becoming an airport criminal.

And nobody wants that.

So it’s a good idea to get acquainted with how these rules work and in this article, I’ll give you a detailed breakdown of the 3-1-1 rule and also talk about the many different types of exceptions and additional rules that apply to different types of liquids such as medications and alcohol.

Table of Contents

What is the TSA Liquids “3-1-1 Rule?”

The TSA Liquids 3-1-1 Rule states that you can only bring liquids in containers no larger than 3.4 liquid ounces (100 milliliters) and that all of your liquid containers must fit “comfortably” into one clear, quart-size bag.

Where does the 3-1-1 come from?

It’s just an easy way to memorize the different requirements that make up the rule and I’ll hit on those below.

3.4 fluid ounces or (100 mL)

The “three” indicates that your liquids must be contained within a container no larger than 3.4 fluid ounces or (100 ml).

(TSA uses 3.4 ounces because it’s easier to remember but really  100 ml comes out to 3.3814 fluid ounces. )

One of the biggest things that people get confused about is that the 3.4 ounce requirement applies to the size of the container and not the liquid within the container.

So let’s say that you have a 6 ounce container with only 2 ounces of fluid inside.

You may think that because you have under 3.4 fluid ounces of liquid, you are good to go but because your container is larger than 3.4 ounces, you cannot bring that through TSA.

The other big thing to know is that this refers to fluid ounces which relates to volume and is very different from ounces used for weight.

Some products like honey could weigh 4 ounces but still fit inside of a 3.4 fluid ounce container. It helps to know how to convert ounces/grams to fluid ounces .

Tip: Use the free app WalletFlo to help you travel the world for free by finding the best travel credit cards and promotions!

1 quart-sized resealable bag

The first “one” means that your liquids must fit within 1 quart-sized resealable bag. Typically, this will be a clear Ziploc bag which just makes things easy for everybody.

The key thing to note here is that the containers must fit “comfortably” inside this resealable bag.

What does “comfortably” mean?

It basically just means that the bag is not bursting at the seams. (Think about how a pair of jeans should fit when you’re being honest with yourself about your waist size.)

If you are not able to easily reseal your bag, then your contents may not be fitting comfortably inside.

In such a scenario, it’s possible that a TSA agent could ask you to throw something out in order to allow your bag to comply with the rules.

In my personal experience, I have not seen a lot of TSA agents enforce the “comfortable” requirement very strictly but if you have bottles poking out of your liquids bag, I could see that being an issue.

1 quart size bag per person

The last requirement is that you are allowed 1 quart size bag per person.

The easiest way to comply with this is to simply separate your liquids bag from your carry-on and have one liquids bag in your bin when going through security.

Otherwise, it could look like you are trying to bring through two bags of liquids.

The best packing tip I have for this is to keep your liquids bag at the top of your carry-on so that you can easily retrieve it.

There’s nothing worse than scrambling to find that liquids bag while trying to get ready to go through a screening checkpoint.

TSA Pre-Check liquids rule

TSA Pre-Check allows you to bypass the main security line and pass through a screening line that is usually much shorter and quicker. This also means avoiding the full body scanner in many cases. It basically makes you a VIP when it comes to airport security checkpoints.

If you have TSA Pre-Check , you can take advantage of several benefits including things like:

• Shoes can stay on
• Belt can stay on
• Light jackets can stay on
• Laptops allowed to stay in bag
• Liquids (3-1-1) can stay in bag

That last perk is the most relevant to the liquids rule as you will not have to remove your liquids bag and place them in one of the bins when going through security. You can simply leave them in your carry-on and pass through the metal detector without any issue.

I highly recommend that you look into getting Pre-Check in order to expedite your security screening. It will only cost $78 for five years and all you have to do is pass a background check. You can also get it if you are approved for Global Entry ( read how to get approved here ).

New hand sanitizer liquids rule

Due to the ongoing threat of coronavirus and the potential threat of spreading germs throughout airports and aircraft, TSA recently implemented a change with respect to hand sanitizer.

Passengers will now be allowed to bring one hand sanitizer bottle up to 12 ounces. These larger bottles will be screened separately so just be aware that it could add some extra time.

What exactly is a “liquid?”

In some cases, what constitutes a liquid will be very clear.

For example, it’s pretty much common sense that water inside of a water bottle is a liquid. The same applies for cologne, mouthwash, etc.

But liquids also can include less-obvious forms like aerosols, gels, creams, or pastes.

This means that several common items you would be bringing along for your trip could be considered a liquid like: toothpaste , lotion , sunscreen, shaving cream, shampoo , conditioner, and others.

You can find travel-sized products for most of these so it’s usually pretty easy to bring along items that comply with the TSA liquids rule.

Other items

You need to be mindful of other items that could be considered liquids like deodorant . For example, the following types of deodorants will be subject to the 3-1-1 rule:

• and Roll-On deodorants

Prohibited items

Just because you have something like an aerosol and it is in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces, that does not mean that you can bring it as a carry-on.

There are quite a few prohibited items like aerosol insecticide, bear spray, etc. that are not allowed as carry-ons. In fact, some of those items may not even be allowed on the plane at all. This is a good place to search if you are in doubt about whether or not you can bring a particular item.

Be aware that some items like hairspray may even have size restrictions when packed in your checked baggage.

Foods can also be liquids

One aspect of the TSA liquids rule that throws a lot of people off is that they forget many foods also qualify as liquids.

Here is a non-exhaustive list of food items that will fall under the liquids rule:

• Liquid chocolate
• Creamy dips and spreads
• Mashed fruits such as applesauce
• Jam and jelly
• Maple syrup
• Oils and vinegars
• Peanut butter
• Wet pet food
• Salad dressing
• Salsa and sauces

Basically anything that is usually poured, scooped, squeezed, slurped, or mashed will be considered a liquid for TSA purposes.

If your food is solid on the other hand , chances are you can bring it through.

TSA rules for liquid medications

The liquids rule provides exceptions for medical supplies and medications .

TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in “reasonable quantities” than your 3-1-1 allowance.

You do not have to have a prescription for these items but keep in mind that you need to comply with state laws regarding prescriptions and controlled substances.

This leaves two questions often to be asked and answered.

The first is what is considered “medically necessary?”

For example, is contact lens solution medically necessary?

It seems the answer to that is probably yes given the TSA states, they allow “larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip” on the page regarding contact lenses.

So if in doubt check the website and then inquire with AskTSA if you still don’t know.

The second question is what is considered a “reasonable quantity?”

What is deemed as a reasonable quantity is a subjective determination.

According to the TSA, you should bring what’s necessary for the duration of your trip (e.g., seven days) plus a day or two just in case things get delayed or canceled.

If you stick to what you think will be necessary for the duration of your trip, I don’t think you will often run into trouble. But if you’re bringing a six month supply of medication on a four day getaway, that’s when you might start to run into trouble if questioned.

TSA states that you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

You also want to remove these from your carry-on so that they can be screened separately from your belongings. (You do not have to put your liquid medication in a plastic Ziploc bag.)

Just be aware that if one of your liquid items declared as medically necessary sets off the alarm, it may require additional screening and may not be allowed.

Baby essentials

You are allowed to bring formula, breastmilk, and juice for infants or toddlers in “reasonable quantities” through airport security. According to the TSA, reasonable quantities for baby essentials typically means the duration of the flight.

When bringing these items through security, be sure to separate these from your carry-on bag so that they can be screened separately from the rest of your items.

If you are carrying liquids in excess of 3.4 ounces, you are advised to inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you have excess liquids. You can do this when you are unloading your items into the bin.

In many cases, excess liquids will be screened by x-ray.

It’s also possible that an officer may ask you to open up the container and potentially even transfer a small quantity of the liquid for testing.

If you are worried about the effects of an x-ray machine on your liquids, The Food and Drug Administration states that there are no known adverse effects from eating food, drinking beverages and using medicine screened by X-ray.

If that is not good enough assurance for you, you can ask to avoid the x-ray machine.

Additional steps may be able to be taken to clear the liquid but the traveler will likely have to undergo additional screening procedures which could include a pat down and a thorough screening of all of your carry-on property.

You will also be allowed to bring along ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool formula, breast milk and juice.

If these are in a partially frozen state or perhaps appear like a slushy they will be subject to the same screening as described above.

Other permitted baby items include gel or liquid-filled teethers, canned, jarred and processed baby food.

Just always be aware that these items may have to undergo additional screening.

TSA liquid rules for alcohol

Bringing alcohol through TSA presents a number of different challenges.

First, your alcohol in most cases will have to comply with the liquids 3-1-1 rule. This means that you won’t be able to bring in regular bottles of liquor or beer.

It is possible to find small bottles that are under 3.4 ounces (mini-liquor bottles are often around 1.7 ounces, so this means that they are small enough to be brought on the plane as a liquid).

But contrary to what many people think, it’s also permitted to bring your own alcohol in one of your own containers.

The catch is that there are specific restrictions about what type of alcohol is allowed on board and that can be allowed as a carry-on. You really need to make sure that you are abiding by these rules because you could be violating federal law otherwise.

The first regulation to know is that alcohol beverages with an alcoholic percentage above 70% (140 proof) is never allowed on the plane . In fact, alcohol with such a high alcohol percentage is considered a hazardous material.

If the alcohol content is above 24% but not above 70% then the alcoholic beverage must be in its retail packaging. A lot of popular alcoholic beverages for within this range. Here are some  ranges  for the alcoholic content of some common beverages:

Alcohol Percentage Content

• Vodka | ABV: 40-95%
• Gin | ABV: 36-50%
• Rum | ABV: 36-50%
• Whiskey | ABV: 36-50%
• Tequila | ABV: 50-51%
• Liqueurs | ABV: 15%
• Fortified Wine | ABV: 16-24%
• Unfortified Wine | ABV: 14-16%
• Beer | ABV: 4-8%
• Malt Beverage | ABV: 15%

And finally, one of the most important things to remember is that you are not allowed to serve yourself your own alcohol when flying.

Instead, you must request a flight attendant to serve you the alcohol or else you will be violating FAA regulations. Some flight attendants will happily serve you your own beverage but others will not be so inclined.

If you purchased alcohol at duty free store, different rules apply in that scenario. Basically, you can bring your duty free alcohol through TSA security but you have to comply with three separate requirements:

• The duty free liquids were purchased internationally and you are traveling to the United States with a connecting flight.
• The liquids are packed in a transparent, secure, tamper-evident bag by the retailer and do not show signs of tampering when presented to TSA for screening.
• The original receipt for the liquids is present and the purchase was made within 48 hours.

Read more about this rule  here .

Checked baggage liquid rules

Many times, you can simply place your liquids in your checked baggage and not have to worry about that pesky 3-1-1 rule.

This is usually the way to go on longer trips when you might be bringing large quantities of things like shampoo or shaving cream.

But as mentioned above, you still need to make sure that the type of liquid is allowed on a plane. Certain materials may be considered hazardous and you could be violating the law by bringing those on board.

If you are loading up your checked baggage with a bunch of liquids, make sure that you double bag if there is potential for the liquids to spill!

TSA Liquid Rules FAQ

The TSA 3-1-1 rule does not apply to checked baggage. However, there are some restrictions on what liquids can be transported in your checked baggage. There may also be limitations on the quantity of liquids when it comes to importing large quantities of things like alcohol. At some point, you might have to obtain a license for certain goods.

TSA definitely enforces the liquids rule and I would recommend not trying to circumvent the rule. It’s possible that an agent may be more lenient than another in certain circumstances but I would always assume that an agent will be enforcing strictly so that I don’t run into any unexpected issues.

TSA has the rules in order to detect potential explosives and other harmful materials that exist in liquid state.

The same liquid rules apply for both domestic flights and international flights. One difference that you might encounter is when you purchase duty free goods before an international flight. See the duty-free section above for more details. Also, when flying internationally it is recommended that you get to the airport extra early. It is possible that you could get hit with SSSS and be forced to undergo a heightened security screening, so always plan out extra time.

While you might view your makeup as special, there are no special rules for your makeup when it comes to TSA. They must abide by the same 3-1-1 rule explained above. Read more about makeup rules here.

No, you do not have to take out your liquids if you have TSA Pre-Check.

The same TSA liquids rule will apply to all airlines. So if you’re flying American or Delta, the rules will be the same as if you were flying Southwest or United. With that said, some airlines do have some differences in how they handle acceptable baggage so you should make sure to read up on the latest baggage policies for the airlines.

If you are traveling from an “international last-point-of-departure” to the U.S ., powder-based substances in carry-on baggage greater than 350mL or 12 oz. may require additional screening. If your substance is over 12 ounces and cannot be cleared it will not be allowed onto the aircraft cabin. TSA recommends that you transport powders in your checked baggage.

TSA has several rules you need to follow when it comes to drinking liquids through airport security. The most well-known is the 3-1-1 rule but there are other considerations you need to think about like foods that might trigger the rule and exceptions for medical and baby essentials. In the end, try to be as reasonable as possible with what you are bringing through and you will run into few problems.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

I will be traveling from Mexico April 25th. Will I be able to bring back a bottle of Tequila in my check in luggage probably wrapped safely? Thanks, Regina Green

The above is good detail but how about: electric shaver and charger electric toothbrush

Yes and yes!

Check these out:

https://www.uponarriving.com/tsa-rules-razors/ https://www.uponarriving.com/tsa-toothpaste/

I will be leaving Chicago going to Manila via Istanbul on 21 July 2022, Turkish Airways. I will be bringing 4 bottles of Scotch whiskey in original container, unopened and sealed and properly packed with bubble wrap. Is this allowed?

How do I know which states allow medication‘s to be in a travel organizer, and not in their original bottles? I am flying from Philadelphia with a layover in Ireland, and finally to Paris on Aer Lingus.

Hand sanitizer rules have reverted back to the 3-1-1 guidelines.

Thanks for this update. Do you have a source on that? Couldn’t find updated info.

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TSA Liquids Rule Explained: What Size Liquid Can You Bring on a Plane?

What you can and can’t bring on a plane, including the amount allowed, can be very confusing for even the most experienced of flyers, especially when it comes to liquids.

According to TSA regulations, you are allowed to bring liquids in containers that don’t exceed 3.4oz/100ml in your carry on.

There are also limits when liquids are packed in your checked bags, which many people are not aware of, though the limits are much greater.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Carry on Bags
• 1.2 Checked Bags
• 2 No Differences For International Flights
• 3 Airlines Follow TSA Regulations
• 4 How to Pack Liquids for Flying
• 5 You Will Be Able to Bring 7-8 Bottles in Your Carry On
• 6.1 Carry On Bags
• 6.2 Checked Bags
• 7 A Loophole to Bring More Than 3.4 Oz/100ml On a Plane
• 8 Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule
• 9 Liquids That Are Forbidden
• 10 Surprising Items That Qualify As Liquids
• 11 What the 3-1-1 Rule Stands For
• 12 Why the 3-1-1 Rule Exists

What Size Liquid Can You Take on a Plane?

Carry on bags.

The TSA has a rule in place called the 3-1-1 Rule .

The 3-1-1 Rule states that “each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters .”

These containers must also fit in a 1-quart sized, resealable bag.

You are required to take this bag out of your carry on and place it in a screening bin as you go through airport security.

Note that it is the size of the container itself and not how much liquid is in the container that matters.

So, if you have a bottle that contains just 1ml of liquid inside a 4oz container, it still won’t be allowed through.

Checked Bags

Not many passengers are aware that there are restrictions on the quantity of liquids you can pack in their checked bags.

According to the TSA:

• A container must not exceed 0.5 kg (18 ounces) or 500 ml (17 fluid ounces).
• The total aggregate quantity of your toiletry products must also not exceed 2 kg (70 ounces) or 2 L (68 fluid ounces).

No Differences For International Flights

Even though it may not be called the 3-1-1 rule worldwide, the rules remain the same if you’re flying internationally.

So regardless if you’re flying from or within Mexico, Canada, the UK, Europe or any other country, you are only allowed to pack liquids (as well as gels and aerosols) in containers that are no larger than 3.4oz/100ml in your carry on.

Airlines Follow TSA Regulations

All airlines follow TSA regulations .

So this means that regardless if you’re flying with Delta, Southwest, American Airlines, JetBlue, or any other regional or major air carrier worldwide, you are only allowed to bring liquids in containers that do not exceed 3.4oz/100ml in your carry on.

How to Pack Liquids for Flying

There are a few guidelines you should follow to make your next flight go as smoothly as possible.

• Make sure that no container you want to bring is no larger than 3.4oz/100ml.
• Buy travel-friendly products of your favorite products.
• If the company doesn’t sell travel-friendly sizes, buy your own 3.4oz/100ml containers and transfer the liquids into them.
• Consider packing non-liquid alternatives instead (you can bring a bar of soap on a plane on a plane , for example, with no restrictions. The same applies to sunscreen sticks ).
• Share toiletry space with your travel partner, as the 3-1-1 Rule applies to each passenger.
• Store your items in a clear bag that is no larger than 1 quart.
• Use your checked luggage for liquids in larger containers.

You Will Be Able to Bring 7-8 Bottles in Your Carry On

In total, you can take 32 ounces (or 1 quart) of liquids on a plane.

But as the containers themselves will take up space in the single quart-sized bag, you won’t be able to take a full 32 ounces of liquids in your carry on.

You will be able to bring about 25 ounces in total, in 7 or 8 travel-sized 3.4oz/100ml containers onto a plane in your carry on.

How Many Ounces in Total Can You Take On a Plane?

Carry on bags.

As just mentioned, you can bring 32 ounces (or 1 quart of liquids on a plane), though it will more likely be 25 ounces in 7-8 bottles.

If liquids are packed in your checked bags, each container must not exceed 18 ounces or 17 fluid ounces).

The total aggregate quantity of your toiletry products must also not exceed 70 ounces or 68 fluid ounces.

A Loophole to Bring More Than 3.4 Oz/100ml On a Plane

There is a loophole that lets you bring more than 3.4oz/100ml of liquids on a plane, though it only works with very few items and under certain circumstances.

If you are traveling with a young child or baby, you can say that the item is for them.

Of course, this will only work for bringing a water bottle on a plane and not items like alcohol, coffee or tea . 

Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule

There are several exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule.

The following items, if packed in your carry on bags, are allowed to exceed 3.4 oz/100ml:

• Breast milk and formula
• Liquid medication
• Hand sanitizer
• Jumbo disinfecting wipes
• STEB items (secure, tamper-evident bags purchased at the airport)
• Cough syrup
• Gel-filled bras
• Saline solution
• Ice packs (must be frozen solid)

Liquids That Are Forbidden

There are several liquids that, even if under 3.4 oz/100ml, you are not allowed to bring on a plane in either your carry on or checked bags.

These items include:

• Most flammable liquids ( you can bring nail polish on a plane , though)
• Most toxic liquids
• Aerosols that do not qualify as toiletries
• Alcoholic Beverages over 70% ABV (140 proof)
• Insecticide
• Spray Paint
• Spray Starch
• Cooking Spray

Surprising Items That Qualify As Liquids

There are also items that you wouldn’t expect to count as liquids, but actually do.

• Peanut butter
• Hair mousse
• Snow globes

What the 3-1-1 Rule Stands For

The 3-1-1 Rule stands for 3 ounces, 1 passenger, 1 quart-sized bag.

While the limit is actually 3.4 ounces instead of 3 ounces, we guess that 3.4-1-1 Rule didn’t have the same ring to it.

Why the 3-1-1 Rule Exists

The 3-1-1 Rule exists because terrorists have previously tried to sneak liquid explosives on a plane on more than one occasion.

While the rule is frustrating, it exists for the safety of passengers.

Ella Dunham

Ella Dunham, a Freelance Travel Journalist and Marketing Manager, boasts an impressive career spanning eight years in the travel and tourism sectors.

Honored as one of "30 Under 30" by TTG Media (the world’s very first weekly travel trade newspaper), a "Tour Operator Travel Guru" and "Legend Award" winner, Ella is also a Fellow of the Institute of Travel, a Member of the Association of Women Travel Executives, has completed over 250 travel modules, and hosts travel-focused segments on national radio shows where she provides insights on travel regulations and destinations.

Ella has visited over 40 countries (with 10 more planned this year).

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Everything You Need to Know About TSA Liquid Rules

Here's what to know before you fly with shampoo, medication, or any other liquids you may need during your travels.

Dealing with airport security can be one of the more daunting aspects of air travel , from the detailed rules about what you can and can't bring on board to the long lines that often form at checkpoints.

One rule that frequently trips up travelers is the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) 3-1-1 regarding liquids in carry-on bags . We're here to walk you through the finer details of the rule and provide helpful tips for packing liquids when you're flying.

What is the TSA's 3-1-1 rule?

In 2006, British security officials thwarted a plot to bomb an aircraft with liquid explosives carried on board. Since then, security agencies around the world have limited the amount of liquid passengers can bring through airport security.

For the TSA, which regulates travel in the United States, all liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. All liquids must fit into a single, clear quart-size bag — passengers can only pack one of these bags in their carry-on.

The 3-1-1 designation is a simple way to remember these numbers: individual liquid containers must be 3.4 ounces or smaller, they must fit into one clear, quart-size bag, and there is only one bag allowed per passenger.

Liquids that do not comply with the 3-1-1 rule must be packed in checked bags, or thrown out at airport security. Some liquids, such as gasoline or other flammable liquids, are prohibited entirely, both in checked and carry-on bags. You can find a full list of permitted and prohibited items on the TSA's website .

If you're unsure if a specific item adheres to the 3-1-1 rule, you can always contact the TSA before your trip. "Tweet your questions and comments to @AskTSA or via Facebook Messenger , weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET," TSA spokesperson Jessica Mayle tells Travel + Leisure . "You can also call the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673."

Are there any exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule?

The TSA does exempt some items from the 3-1-1 rule: medically necessary liquids, formula, and breast milk. You can bring more than 3.4 ounces of these liquids on board, but you may have to undergo additional security screening.

"Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you're carrying them," says Mayle. "These liquids are typically screened by X-ray, but TSA officers may also test them separately for explosives or concealed prohibited items. Officers may ask you to open the container and/or have you transfer a small quantity of the liquid to a separate empty container, or dispose of a small quantity, if feasible."

If you don't want your exempt liquids to be screened by X-ray, inform your TSA officer, and they will use alternative security measures to clear the items.

And that's not all. "There's an exception for hand sanitizer, which has a temporary 12-ounce limit," says Mayle. But as COVID-19 travel restrictions and protocols continue to lift, the temporary special case for hand sanitizer could change, too.

Another exception is liquids purchased after security in an airport. In domestic U.S. airports , you can bring nonalcoholic drinks and other liquid items purchased airside onto your flight. (This is not always the case in international airports.) Duty-free liquids, however, will be sealed in a tamper-safe bag before boarding — sometimes they're permitted in the cabin, and other times they may be stowed elsewhere on the plane.

Packing Tips for Liquids in Carry-on Bags

• While many products are sold in 3.4-ounce containers suitable for travel, not all of them are. Consider rebottling your liquids into travel-size, leak-proof cases.
• "Another way to save space in your quart-sized bag is to pack solid versions of products, which you can put in your luggage or carry-on bag without needing to place it in the quart-size bag," travel advisor Ateet Ahuja of Complete Getaways tells T+ L. "For example, you can bring a stick or solid version of some perfumes and shampoo bars instead of liquid shampoo."
• Buy your liquids, like shampoo or mouthwash, at your final destination. "While you'll spend a little extra, the cost far outweighs the potential of it spilling or leaking in your bag," says Ahuja.
• On that note, prepare for spills — Ahuja advises wrapping a small hand towel around your quart-size bag.
• Pack your nonliquid toiletries separately to save space in your quart-sized bag.
• Pack your liquids bag in an easy-to-access space, like an external compartment or the top of your carry-on bag. According to Ahuja, "This will save you time in the TSA line."

Calling All Travelers: These Are the Official TSA Liquid Rules

You don't want security to throw away your new, full-size bottle of shampoo do you?

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

We've all fallen victim to TSA while traveling; here's a refresher so you don't make the same mistakes again.

TSA Liquid Rules:

According to the TSA website , these rules apply for liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes.

All liquids must be in a 3.4oz or smaller container. Your serums, creams, cleansers, and masks are too expensive to lose, so check their sizes and if they're too big, leave them at home or transfer them to a smaller container.

They have to be able to fit in a quart-size bag. Before you throw 10 containers of liquids into your carry-on, make sure that everything can fit in a quart-size bag. Think about what you really need for your trip, a la Marie Kondo , and remember you can always buy things once you arrive at your destination.

Powders must be in 12oz containers or smaller. TSA placed new restrictions on powders in 2018. Ensure that your makeup, protein powder, and baby powder are in containers within that range, or put them into a checked bag.

Travel-Size Beauty Essentials

Drunk Elephant The Littles™ Set

Sunday Riley Power Couple Kit

Drybar The Four Pack

Ole Henrikson Truth Serum®

SK-II Facial Treatment Essence Mini

LA MER The Moisturizing Soft Cream

Fresh Rose Deep Hydration Toner

LE LABO Santal 33 & AnOther 13 Set

Kiehl's Since 1851 Super Age-Correcting Collection

Shiseido Urban Environment Oil-Free Sunscreen

R+Co Television Perfect Hair Shampoo

COOLA Suncare Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 30

Anything else has to go into a checked bag. If you can't part with your full-size products, they have to go into a checked bag to avoid getting tossed into the TSA product graveyard. If you're looking to save money, share one checked bag with your whole group.

Only empty water bottles will pass the TSA checkpoint. If you bring a refillable water bottle, make sure it's empty before you approach security. You can fill it up after you go through the checkpoint or buy water in the terminal.

There are exemptions. If you use a medication that comes in liquid, aerosol, gel, cream, or paste form and the container is larger than 3.4oz, it's exempt from the above rules. Similarly, if you're carrying baby formula, breast milk, or other liquid foods for your child, these are also exempt.

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Learn What I Can Bring on the Plane

Learn what you can bring on the plane by reviewing the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) list of what you can bring on the plane, what you cannot bring on the plane, and TSA's Liquids 3-1-1 rule.

Please note that the final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

For items not listed on the site, simply snap a picture or send a question to AskTSA on Facebook Messenger or Twitter . TSA looks forward to answering your questions, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET weekdays; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends/holidays.

What Can I Bring?

Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport.

What Should I Not Bring?

Know what you can pack before arriving at the airport by checking the prohibited items list.

Liquids 3-1-1 Rule

Read TSA’s liquid rule when bringing liquids in carry-on and checked luggage.

Other Travel Considerations

TSA.gov also has information to help those in specific situations, including:

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The Airline Liquid Limit You Need To Know Before Flying

Last Updated on December 4, 2021

Your airline should inform you about the liquid limits for flying or they will be published somewhere on your airline’s website.

But it’s not your airline that sets the rules or enforces them.

It doesn’t matter if your airline is Alaska, Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, JetBlue, Southwest, or Spirit. All airlines have the same liquid allowance because the liquid regulations are set by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) and enforced at the airport by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

There are actually three limits that you need to know about before flying.

Let’s take a look at them now.

TSA / Airline Carry On Rules

Your carry-on bag will be inspected at the airport security checkpoint by the TSA and they will make sure you are not exceeding the liquid allowance. Your airline won’t look inside your luggage at all.

Limit A – Travel Size Containers

The first airline liquid limit is that you must pack liquids in travel sized containers. Travel sized means bottles or containers that are 3.4 ounces or less .

If 3.4 oz strikes you as a strange amount to choose it’s because that it’s equivalent to 100 ml.

It’s the size of the container that is important, not the amount of liquid remaining in the container. So you can’t bring a 5 oz bottle when there is only 3 oz remaining inside.

Refillable travel size containers are a great money saving purchase because you can just fill them up from the big bottle you have at home. Buying travel size versions of products is expensive.

I like to use a collection of bottles and containers of different sizes. There is no sense in packing 3.4 oz of liquid if you only need 1 oz for your trip. A kit like this would be perfect:

The TSA considers liquids, gels, aerosols, pastes, and anything that you can smear or spread to be a liquid.

My favourite example of this is peanut butter . Peanuts are treated as a solid, but peanut butter is considered a liquid by the TSA.

Limit B – All Containers Must Fit Inside A Quart Size Bag

The second airline liquid limit is that all your travel size liquids must be packed in a one quart size bag .

You can buy a reusable ‘ TSA Approved Toiletry Bag ’ that isn’t actually TSA sanctioned but will work anyway. Or you can use a simple resealable bag like a Ziploc plastic baggie that has the capacity of 1 quart .

You might be able to fit 6 or 7 travel size bottles in a quart size bag. If you buy a reusable one then you’ll probably fit more since they are not actually quart-sized but you’ll probably get away with it.

Limit C – Only One Bag Per Passenger

The third airline liquid limit is that you are only permitted one plastic bag per passenger . You can’t bring two liquids bags if you are bringing two suitcases. It’s 1 bag each maximum.

There is no way around the one bag rule. If you are struggling to fit all the liquids you need in one bag the best way to deal with that is to try to substitute solid versions of products.

For example, a solid bar of soap can replace shower gel.

A solid stick deodorant can replace an aerosol spray.

You can even buy solid toothpaste tablets that might suffice until you are able to visit a local shop.

My top tip is that the TSA doesn’t consider wet wipes to be a liquid .

So if your liquid product is available in a wet wipe form then the wipes will make a great substitute and free up space in your liquids bag. Makeup cleansing wipes are a good example.

These three airline liquid rules are called the 3-1-1 by the TSA:

• 3 .4 oz containers
• 1 quart sized bag
• 1 bag per person

There also a 4th restriction about the type of liquids you can pack. Let’s call it Limit D.

Limit D – No Flammable Liquids Unless They Are Toiletries

You can’t bring flammable liquids or hazmat liquids even in containers smaller than 3.4 oz unless they are toiletries.

My favourite example of this is that you can bring bug repellant that you apply to your skin, but you can’t pack an aerosol bug killer spray even if it’s under 3.4 oz because it’s flammable and not a toiletry.

The TSA defines a toiletry as something that you use on your skin.

Exceptions To The Airline Liquid Limit

The liquid limit that your airline talks about is only for getting past the TSA security checkpoint.

It’s not a limit to how much liquid you can bring on the plane, it’s a limit to how much liquid can be in your carry-on bags when you go through the screening process at airport security.

That means that if you buy any liquids after the security checkpoint then you can bring them on the plane no matter what size they are. So you can fill up your water bottle after the TSA checkpoints.

There are also a few cases where you can bring containers larger than the 3.4 oz regulations normally permit.

• You can bring breast milk, juice, liquid foods, or drinks for infants in reasonable quantities
• On international flights you can carry duty free liquids in a secure tamper evident bag
• You can bring medically necessary liquids in containers larger than 3.4 oz and you don’t need a doctors note.

If you have a container of liquid that is larger than 3.4 ounces and you think it qualifies for an exemption then feel free to place it in a separate bin at the x-ray machine for additional screening.

Airline Checked Baggage Liquid Limits

Liquids are not limited in checked bags as strictly as they are in carry-on luggage.

Only Limit D from above applies. You cannot pack flammable or hazmat liquids in checked bags because of the fire risk.

You can pack as much beer or low strength wine as you like but you can only pack 5 litres of alcohol that is between 24% and 70% ABV. Alcohol over 70% ABV is prohibited because it’s too flammable.

Lastly any toiletry aerosols that you pack in checked luggage should be in containers smaller than 18 oz and you are only allowed to pack 70 oz per person of toiletry aerosols in checked luggage.

The Bottom Line

The liquids rule that your airline talks about is actually the FAA carry-on liquids rule that will be enforced by the TSA at the airport.

There are 3 limits or restrictions. Containers can be 3.4 oz maximum . They all need to go in a one quart size bag . And you can only bring one liquids bag per person.

There are exceptions to the regulations for medically necessary liquids or liquids for babies and infants.

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The U.K. Ended Its Travel-Size Liquid Rule for Carry-Ons—Will the U.S. Do the Same?

By Jessica Puckett

Passing through airport security in the U.K. is about to get easier and more streamlined, as U.K. officials announced that the rule mandating liquids in carry-on bags be 100ml (3.4 ounces) or less will no longer be enforced, starting in June 2024. 

When the rule ends, passengers will be able to carry-on liquids measuring up to two liters in volume, the BBC reports . Additionally, passengers will no longer need to remove electronics from bags, such as laptops. Previously, major airports in the U.K., such as London Heathrow, were known for their stringent enforcements of the liquid rules.

In the U.S., similar policies are still in effect at airports around the country, with the TSA enforcing its so-called “ 3-1-1 ” liquid rule for carry-on bags: all liquids must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit in a single, one-quart clear bag. (Though there are  some exceptions to those rules.)

The more relaxed screening policies in the U.K. are possible thanks to new X-ray scanners that use computed tomography (CT) technology to produce more detailed, 3D images of luggage contents. (The technology is similar to a CT scan you might get at a hospital.) Most airports in the U.K. will need to upgrade their X-ray machines to the newer high-tech versions by June 2024. 

The same enhanced CT technology has been in use at U.S. airports for several years now, with the TSA rapidly expanding the scanners to dozens of airports nationwide. As of May 2022, the agency said it had deployed at least 402 CT units to 163 airports around the country. Over the summer, officials installed more of the scanners at additional airport checkpoints in anticipation of an uptick in air travelers, including at Billings Logan International Airport in Montana , Albany International Airport in New York, Buffalo Niagara International Airport in New York, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and Raleigh-Durham International Airport in North Carolina, the TSA  said in a release . 

With that in mind, will the TSA follow the U.K.’s lead and ditch its rules for carry-on liquids? Currently at U.S. security checkpoints with CT scanners, passengers already have somewhat more relaxed screening rules, as they aren’t required to remove their travel-size liquids, electronics, or food from their carry-on bags, according to the TSA. That was a precursor step to the new U.K. policy at  London City airport , which received CT scanners in November 2022 and announced that passengers no longer had to remove any items from their bags. 

But some industry analysts say scanning equipment is only one piece of the puzzle . “I believe that TSA and other aviation security organizations will study the results from the UK’s decision closely and carefully,” says Henry Harteveldt, an aviation expert and president of Atmosphere Research. “If behavioral profiling and other similar tools allow security organizations to potentially detect people who may pose a danger to airline crews and passengers, it may help reduce the need for measures such as the 100ml limit on liquids and the TSA’s 3-1-1 policy.”

Indeed, it seems U.S. officials plan to take it slow when considering any changes to the current TSA 3.4-oz liquid rule, which has been the international standard since it was implemented in 2006. “Computed Tomography technology produces 3-D images that can be rotated and combined with advanced detection algorithms to produce a substantial improvement in security screening,” Robert Carter Langston, TSA's press secretary, said in an emailed statement. “While we have them deployed at more checkpoints, we are years away from announcing a change to the current liquids rule.” 

Although U.S. passengers still need to pack travel-size liquids for the time being, that doesn’t mean that the security checkpoint hasn’t been seeing other improvements. Aside from rolling out more CT scanners, TSA has been deploying credential authentication technology: new ID scanners that don’t require passengers to show their boarding passes . Earlier in 2022, the agency also began accepting digital IDs from the Apple Wallet app at certain airports and testing an expansion of facial recognition to whisk travelers through even faster.

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Hand luggage restrictions at UK airports

There are restrictions on what items you can take in your hand luggage and hold luggage when boarding a plane in the UK.

There are different rules if you’re taking goods to sell or temporarily abroad for business reasons , for example sales samples, professional equipment or musical instruments for a performance.

Airport security staff will not let anything through that they consider dangerous - even if it’s normally allowed in hand luggage.

Hand luggage allowances

Check with your airline how many and what size bags you can take on the plane with you.

Check the rules for electronic items and devices you’re allowed to take on a flight before you travel - there are different rules depending on which country you are travelling to or from.

Taking liquids through security

There are restrictions on the amount of liquids you can take in your hand luggage. Check the rules for liquids before you travel.

If possible, pack liquids in your hold baggage (luggage that you check in).

The rules for taking liquids through security in your hand luggage have changed for some UK airports. Check with the airport before you travel.

Liquid restrictions outside the UK

Countries outside the UK might have different rules on carrying liquids as a transit or transfer passenger. You should check these rules with the relevant airlines and airports before travelling.

You can only carry 1 lighter on board. You should put it inside a resealable plastic bag (like the ones used for liquids), which you must keep on you throughout the flight. You cannot:

• put it in your hold luggage
• put it in your hand luggage after screening

Food and powders

Food items and powders in your hand luggage can obstruct images on x-ray machines. Your bags may need to be checked again manually by security. You can put these items in your hold luggage to minimise delays.

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Medications (Liquid)

TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection.

Learn more about transporting medication on your next flight.