How many ml of liquid can I take in hand luggage?

Under the long-standing rule, each liquid container in hand luggage must hold no more than 100ml, and all containers must fit inside one small, transparent, resealable bag. Some airports with newer scanners have relaxed limits, but you should always plan for the 100ml rule unless the airport clearly states otherwise.

What counts as a liquid at airport security?

Liquids include water and drinks, but also gels, pastes, creams, lotions, aerosols and similar — so toothpaste, sunscreen, deodorant sprays, mascara and soft cheeses can all count. If it can pour, spread or spray, treat it as a liquid.

Do the liquid rules still apply at every airport?

Rules can vary because some airports have installed advanced CT scanners that allow larger liquids and keeping the bag packed, while others still enforce the 100ml limit. Because it is inconsistent and can change, the safest approach is to pack to the 100ml rule for every trip.

Are there exceptions to the 100ml liquid limit?

Yes — essential medicines, baby food and baby milk are generally allowed in larger quantities when needed for the journey, though you may be asked to present them separately and they may be screened. Declare them at security rather than hiding them in your bag.

Liquids in Hand Luggage: The 100ml Rule Explained (2026)

Reviewed by the ScanFlyGo team · Last updated: July 2026. Security rules vary by airport and change — always check your departure airport's current guidance.

Quick answer

The classic rule is simple: every liquid in your hand luggage must be in a container of 100ml or less, and all containers must fit inside one small, clear, resealable bag. Gels, pastes, creams and aerosols count as liquids too. Some airports with newer scanners now allow larger liquids, but because the rules are inconsistent, always pack to the 100ml limit unless your airport clearly says otherwise.

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What the 100ml rule actually means

The limit is per container, not a total. A 100ml bottle counts even if it's half empty, and a 200ml bottle isn't allowed even with only a little inside — security judges the container size, not the amount. Everything must fit comfortably in a single transparent, resealable bag, roughly one litre in capacity, presented separately at the checkpoint.

What counts as a "liquid"

It's broader than drinks. If something can pour, spread or spray, treat it as a liquid.

Water, drinks, soups and syrups
Toothpaste, creams, lotions and sunscreen
Deodorants, perfumes and other aerosols
Mascara, lip gloss and liquid make-up
Jam, honey and soft cheeses

The newer scanner exceptions

Some airports have installed advanced CT scanners that produce detailed 3D images, allowing larger liquids and letting you leave items in your bag. Where these are fully rolled out, the 100ml limit may be relaxed. But the rollout is uneven — different airports, and even different lanes, may still enforce the old rule — so never assume. Pack to 100ml and enjoy any relaxed rule as a bonus.

Exceptions that are usually allowed

Item	Typical allowance
Essential medicines	Permitted in needed quantities; may require screening or proof
Baby milk & baby food	Reasonable amounts for the journey; may be tested
Special dietary liquids	Allowed when required; declare at security

Declare these to staff rather than tucking them away — you may be asked to present them separately.

How to pack for a fast checkpoint

Keep your clear bag near the top of your carry-on so you can lift it out in one motion. Use travel-size bottles or decant into 100ml containers, and consider solid alternatives — bar soap, solid shampoo, toothpaste tablets — which don't count as liquids at all. The less you carry through the scanner, the faster you clear it.

Frequently asked questions

How many ml can I take?

Up to 100ml per container, all inside one small clear resealable bag, unless your airport's newer scanners clearly allow more.

What counts as a liquid?

Drinks plus gels, pastes, creams, aerosols and similar — if it pours, spreads or sprays, treat it as a liquid.

Do the rules apply everywhere?

No — some airports allow larger liquids with advanced scanners, but the rules are inconsistent, so plan for 100ml every time.

Any exceptions?

Yes — essential medicines, baby food and baby milk are generally allowed in larger amounts; declare them and expect screening.

The bottom line

The 100ml rule is about container size, and "liquid" covers far more than drinks. Pack a single clear bag, lean on solid toiletries, and treat any relaxed-scanner airport as a bonus rather than a plan. Sort security before you fly and you'll breeze through the checkpoint. Start a live search on ScanFlyGo and browse the popular routes, then track your flight on the day.

Some links on ScanFlyGo are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Security rules are general guidance and vary by airport; always confirm with your departure airport before travelling.