How Much Liquid Can You Take On A Flight?

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Written by Sanjeev Bhati

When people travel by flight, the experience is enjoyable since flying is quick, exhilarating, and offers a great adventure. However, there are guidelines that one should always adhere to while on the adventure, and one of the most essential rules is how much liquid one can take on a flight. This is one question that is usually most often encountered by travellers.
In this article, we will explore the various regulations and important information on how much liquid is allowed in your suitcase and practical tips for stress-free travel preparation.

Why are Liquids Allowed Only in Limited Amounts on Flights?

Liquids are allowed in limited quantities due to safety and security reasons because some dangerous substances, including explosives, can be made by using liquids that look harmless and difficult to detect because liquid it is about liquids make them very hard to detect during normal security checks.

Now the question is what can be made from liquid:

  • Dangerous liquids that look like water can be chemically combined to create explosives,
  • Liquid that looks like water, juice, or perfume is dangerous
  • A large quantity of liquid is not easy to detect and is difficult in an airport.

How Much Liquid is Allowed in Carry-on Luggage?

There is a simple rule that every airport security follows: 3-1-1, which means:

  • Each liquid container must be 100 ml (3.4 ounces) or less
  • The container should be transparent
  • The bag should have a 1-litre capacity only
  • One liquid bag per person allowed

And if the bag is over the limit, you are not allowed through security, even if it is partially empty.

Here are some of the items that you can carry-on bags:

  • Toothpaste
  • Face wash
  • Moisturizers
  • Perfumes
  • Deodorant sprays
  • Hand sanitisers
  • Hair gels
  • Styling creams
  • Shampoos

How much Liquid can you take in Checked Luggage?

In cases when there are no strict size restrictions on the liquids’ containers, carry-on bags give you the convenience of taking your liquids with you on the flight. Bottles for shampoo, lotion, or perfume can be packed with your checked bags because you can take advantage of the convenience of the carry-on bag. Nonetheless, you should be aware of the weight limits set by the airlines for the convenience of the carry-on bags not affected when the flight experiences pressure changes.

Duty-free liquid: what you need to know

When you purchase liquids from duty-free shops at an airport are allowed as per airline guidelines if purchased after security screening, sealed in a tamper-evident bag and accompanies by the original receipt.

Are medicinal liquids allowed?

Passengers are allowed to bring "medically necessary liquids in quantities larger than 100 millilitres," and it is advised that such passengers declare such goods at the security screening point and should bring a prescription, medical document, or note from their doctor, which will facilitate the screening process.

Can I bring Hand sanitizers?

Hand sanitizers are also considered liquids and should follow size limits. The maximum container size you can carry on is 100 ml, and a large bottle must be packed in checked baggage and everyone should follow these standard rules for all airports.

Are Baby liquids allowed on Flights?

While travelling with infants, baby-related liquids are exempt from standard liquid limits and allowing baby liquids includes essential feeding and care items required during the journey, such as:

  • Breast milk,
  • Baby food
  • Sterilized water for feeding
  • Baby milk and formula, these items will be inspected by security officers, so make them easily accessible.

What about Liquid Restrictions?

A smooth airport experience can be guaranteed by being aware of the quantity of liquid you are allowed to take along on an aeroplane flight. The flexibility offered by luggage is much higher compared to the constraints applicable to the luggage you can take alongside, which is strictly governed by the quantity of liquids allowed.
Here are some categories and guidelines:

  • Place liquids in zip-lock and leak-proof bags
  • Always pack liquids in the centre of your suitcase
  • Select solid alternatives
  • Alcoholic liquors or wines up to 2 litres

Are Frozen Liquids Liquid?

Frozen liquid means completely frozen, and if the substance is slushy or partially melted, then it meets the 3-1-1 requirements and security may not allow it through.

What are the Mistakes you Should Avoid with Flight Liquids?

  • Oversized containers in hand luggage
  • Packed liquid gifts, not considering size
  • Seal not properly done
  • Partially filled large containers are not allowed if you assume you can take.
  • Forgetting liquids in your pocket

Let's clear common thoughts about bringing liquids on flights

  • You can’t bring a water bottle on a flight – That’s true, you cannot carry water through security, but you can buy after screening or bring an empty transparent bottle to refill.
  • Make-up kits are considered a liquid – Powder items don’t count, but if there is liquid, gel, or cream, it will be considered under liquid
  • Taking food liquids on a plane – You must follow liquid rules in carry-on bags for soups, sauces, and gravies.

Does this Liquid Rule Apply to All Flights?

Certainly, this restriction is applied to most flights globally, whether you are flying domestic or internationally; these aviation security agencies follow similar guidelines for passenger safety, and this 100 ml container rule for carry-on baggage is widely accepted.


At Last!

A seamless airport experience can be ensured by knowing how much liquid you can bring on a flight. Checked baggage offers far greater flexibility than carry-on baggage, which has stringent liquid limitations. It can save time and avoid inconvenience to be aware of exclusions for duty-free goods, medical liquids, and infant food.

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)

No, water is not allowed through security, but you can buy it after screening.
Yes, lotion, gels, shampoos, and creams are all considered liquids at the airport.
Alcohol between 24% - 70% is usually limited to 5 litres per passenger.
Containers over 100 ml are not allowed in carry-on luggage, even if they are partially filled.
Yes, most airlines follow standard aviation security rules, but most airlines have strict rules regarding liquids.
When it comes to frozen liquid, then it means completely frozen, even if it feels slushy, then it is considered a liquid.