Liquids in hand luggage
100 ml rule, exceptions and airport security
How much liquid can you take on a plane?
Here is the simple answer – what counts as a liquid, how to pack it and which exceptions apply.
Each liquid container may hold no more than 100 ml – even if it is not full.
Liquids should be packed in one transparent, resealable 1-litre bag.
One bag per passenger.
Essential medicines, baby food and special dietary items can be exempt from the standard 100 ml limit.
More than just water.
The rules also cover gels, creams, pastes, sprays and products with a similar consistency.
Three rules cover most trips.
Across the EU, the standard rule is containers of no more than 100 ml packed in one transparent, resealable 1-litre bag.
A 150 ml bottle is not allowed under the standard rule just because it only contains 50 ml. A completely empty drink bottle can normally be taken through security.
Max 100 ml per container
Bottles, jars and tubes containing liquids may hold no more than 100 ml each.
Everything goes in one 1-litre bag
The bag should be transparent, resealable and able to close completely.
Check your departure airport
Security procedures can differ between airports. At some airports with newer scanners, liquids may stay inside your bag – but the 100 ml container limit can still apply.
These can be handled differently.
Some liquids can be carried outside the normal 1-litre bag when they are needed during the journey.
Liquid medicine
Essential liquid medicines may be carried in larger quantities when needed for the journey. Be prepared to show them separately at security if asked.
Baby food & special diet
Baby food and liquids needed for special dietary requirements may be carried in the quantity needed for the journey.
Duty free
Duty-free liquids bought after security or on board can be carried under separate rules. During transfers, the items and receipt may need to remain sealed inside the security bag.
Check the rules again.
The practical security procedure can vary between countries and airports, including within Europe. Check the rules for your departure airport and any transfer airport before travelling home.
The 100 ml rule applies to hand luggage. Different safety and airline restrictions can still apply to checked baggage.
Quick answers before security.
Can I take an empty water bottle?
Yes. A completely empty drink bottle can normally go through security and be refilled afterwards.
Can I take a 150 ml bottle if it is almost empty?
No. Under the standard EU rule, the container itself may hold no more than 100 ml.
Do I always need to remove liquids from my bag at security?
No. Some airports with newer scanners allow liquids to stay inside your hand luggage. Follow the instructions at your departure airport.
Does the 100 ml rule apply to checked baggage?
No. The 100 ml limit applies to hand luggage. Other restrictions can still apply to flammable, pressurised or otherwise restricted products.
Do toothpaste and cream count as liquids?
Yes. Gels, creams, pastes and products with a similar consistency are covered by the liquid rules.
Are the rules the same on my return journey?
Not always. Airport procedures can differ, so check your departure and transfer airports before your return flight.
