Liquids in hand luggage: Current 100ml rules 2026 simply explained

The 100ml rule for liquids in hand luggage will continue to apply at most airports in 2026: each container may hold a maximum of 100ml (maximum fill volume printed on the container). All liquids must be stored in a transparent, resealable 1-liter bag. Only one bag per person is allowed. Creams, gels, pastes, sprays, and viscous foods such as honey or yogurt are also considered liquids.

Why is there a 100ml rule?

The liquid rule was introduced in 2006 after a foiled terrorist attack in the UK. Terrorists planned to attack several airplanes with explosives hidden in drink bottles. Since then, strict security regulations for liquids in hand luggage have been in effect worldwide.

The rule is intended to prevent dangerous liquids from being smuggled on board. Although modern CT scanners can now analyze larger quantities of liquids, widespread use of this technology is still pending.

The 100ml rule explained in detail

Rule 1: Maximum container size 100ml

Important: The maximum fill volume printed on the container is decisive, not the actual amount contained.

•      Allowed: 100ml tube with 50ml content

•      Not allowed: 200ml tube that is only half full

•      Solution: Transfer product to a smaller container (max. 100ml)

Rule 2: The 1-liter bag

All liquids must be stored in a transparent, resealable plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter.

Bag requirements:

•      Transparent: Security personnel must be able to see the contents

•      Resealable: With zipper, press seal, or zip-lock

•      Maximum volume: 1 liter (approx. 20 × 20 cm)

•      Closable: The bag must be able to close completely

•      Normal freezer bags with zippers are allowed

Rule 3: One bag per person

•      Each passenger may only carry one 1-liter bag

•      It is not permitted to use several smaller bags

•      When traveling with children: Each child with their own ticket may have their own bag

What counts as liquid? The complete overview

Rule of thumb: Anything that smears, flows, sprays, drips, or would stick to a wall if thrown is considered a liquid.

Many travelers are surprised how many products fall under the liquid rule. Here is the complete list:

Beverages

•      Water, juice, soda, cola

•      Coffee, tea, energy drinks

•      Alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, spirits)

•      Smoothies and protein shakes

Cosmetics and personal care products

•      Creams: Face cream, hand cream, body lotion, day cream, night cream

•      Sunscreen: Sun cream, sun spray, after-sun lotion

•      Cleansing: Shower gel, shampoo, conditioner, hair rinse, face cleanser

•      Perfume and deodorant: Perfume, eau de toilette, roll-on deodorant, spray deodorant

•      Dental care: Toothpaste, mouthwash, gum gel

•      Hair styling: Hair gel, hair wax, hair oil, hairspray, styling mousse

•      Shaving: Shaving foam, shaving gel, after-shave lotion

Make-up and decorative cosmetics

Food

Caution: Many foods count as liquids, even if they appear solid at first glance!

•      Viscous foods: Honey, jam, Nutella, peanut butter

•      Dairy products: Yogurt, curd cheese, cream cheese, pudding

•      Soups and sauces: Ready-made soups, pesto, ketchup, mayonnaise

•      Spreads: Liverwurst, spreadable cheese, hummus

•      Oils and vinegar: Olive oil, balsamic, salad dressing

•      Syrups and sauces: Maple syrup, chocolate sauce

Other liquids

•      Disinfectants (under 70% alcohol content)

•      Contact lens solution

•      Eye drops

•      Liquid medicines (see exceptions)

•      Adhesives and glue

•      Shoe polish

Exceptions to the 100 ml rule

There are some important exceptions where larger quantities of liquids are allowed:

1. Medicines

•      Liquid medicines may be carried in the quantity required for the journey

•      Do not need to be stored in the 1-liter bag

•      Recommended: Carry a doctor's certificate or prescription

•      Keep medicines in original packaging with label

•      Examples: Insulin, eye drops, cough syrup, nasal spray

•      Present separately at the security check

2. Baby food and special dietary foods

•      Baby food allowed in the quantity required for the journey

•      Baby formula, pre-formula, breast milk

•      Water for baby bottles

•      Baby purees and jars

•      Special dietary foods for medical purposes

•      Must also be presented separately at the checkpoint

3. Duty-free purchases

•      Liquids purchased after the security check are allowed

•      Must remain in a sealed, transparent duty-free bag

•      Proof of purchase must be in the bag

•      Caution with connecting flights: Duty-free items may be confiscated during a renewed security check

•      USA special rule: Duty-free liquids must be checked into hold luggage upon arrival

CT scanners 2026: Where are the relaxed rules in effect?

Modern CT (Computed Tomography) scanners can examine liquids more precisely. At some airports with this technology, liquid rules have already been relaxed - but it's a patchwork.

Airports with relaxed rules (as of February 2026)

* Only at security checkpoints with CT scanners – not predictably guaranteed

Important notes on CT scanners

•      Unpredictable: You cannot know in advance which security lane you will go through

•      Terminal-dependent: Different rules may apply within the same airport

•      Critical for transfers: The 100 ml rule may apply again at the destination or transfer airport

•      Safest approach: Always plan with the 100 ml rule, even if relaxations are theoretically possible

International Differences: USA, UK and Other Countries

USA: The TSA 3-1-1 Rule

In the USA, the TSA 3-1-1 rule applies, which is essentially the same as the EU regulation:

•      3: 3.4 ounces (approx. 100 ml)

•      1: 1 quart-sized bag (approx. 1 liter)

•      1: 1 bag per person

USA specifics:

•      TSA PreCheck members have some relaxations

•      Powders over 350 ml must be screened separately

•      Food is more strictly controlled than in Europe

United Kingdom

•      The 100 ml rule still applies at all UK airports

•      Planned relaxations have been postponed multiple times

•      Some airports have CT scanners but still apply the old rule

Australia and Asia

•      Australia: 100 ml rule applies

•      Japan: 100 ml rule, very strict controls

•      Singapore: 100 ml rule, automated security checks

•      Dubai: 100 ml rule, generous duty-free areas

Practical Tips: How to Get Through Security Stress-Free

Before the trip

1.    Prepare liquid bag: Pack your 1-liter bag at home

2.    Buy travel sizes: Invest in refillable 100 ml bottles

3.    Decant products: Transfer your favorite products into smaller containers

4.    Large bottles in checked luggage: Anything over 100 ml belongs in your checked bag

5.    Label: Mark decanted products to avoid confusion

At the airport

6.    Keep bag handy: Place the liquid bag on top of your carry-on

7.    Present separately: Take the bag out at security and place it separately in the tray

8.    Prepare electronics: Present laptop and tablet separately as well

9.    Allow time: Allow 15-20 minutes for security control

10. After security: Refill your empty water bottle at the water dispenser

Smart Alternatives to Liquids

These solid products are not subject to the liquid rule and save space in your bag:

Advantages of solid products:

•      Not subject to the liquid rule

•      Cannot leak

•      Are often more economical and long-lasting

•      More environmentally friendly (less plastic)

•      Save space and weight

Avoid common mistakes

Checklist: Packing Liquids for Carry-On

What you need

✓    Transparent, re-sealable 1-liter bag

✓    Refillable 100 ml containers (travel sizes)

✓    Funnel for decanting

✓    Labels or waterproof pen for labeling

Step-by-step packing instructions

11. Decide which liquids you really need

12. Transfer large bottles into 100 ml containers

13. Label all decanted containers

14. Check that all containers are tightly closed

15. Pack all liquids into the 1-liter bag

16. Ensure the bag can be completely sealed

17. Place the bag at the very top of your carry-on (easily accessible)

18. Pack medicines and baby food separately

What happens in case of violations?

If you do not comply with the liquid rules, the following may happen:

At the security check

•      Confiscation: Liquids over 100 ml will be confiscated and disposed of

•      No return: You will not get the products back

•      Time loss: You will have to repack your luggage, which takes time

•      Additional checks: In case of suspicion of dangerous substances, a detailed check may be carried out

• 

Your options on site

19. Throw away liquid: Fastest option, but product is lost

20. Repack into checked luggage: Only possible if you still have time and can return to check-in

21. Decant: Some airports have services for decanting (for a fee)

22. Hand over to accompanying person: If someone is seeing you off, you can give them the product

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

How many 100 ml bottles fit in the 1-liter bag?

Theoretically 10 bottles of 100 ml each. In practice, usually 6-8 containers fit, as the bag must still be able to close completely.

Does deodorant count as a liquid?

Yes, roll-on deodorants and deodorant sprays count as liquids. Only deodorant sticks are exempt.

Can I have sunscreen in my carry-on?

Yes, but only in containers up to 100 ml and in the liquid bag.

What about make-up remover wipes?

Wet wipes and make-up remover wipes do NOT count as liquids and can be carried in unlimited quantities.

Can I take a larger tube if it's almost empty?

No, the maximum fill quantity printed on the tube is decisive, not the actual content.

Does mascara count as a liquid?

Yes, mascara counts as a liquid and must be placed in the bag.

What happens to duty-free purchases on connecting flights?

Even sealed duty-free items can be confiscated during a new security check. Inform yourself beforehand about the rules at the connecting airport.

Does honey count as a liquid?

Yes, honey is viscous and counts as a liquid (max. 100 ml).

Can I bring hand sanitizer?

Yes, but only if the alcohol content is below 70% and a maximum of 100 ml.

Can I use my own bag?

Yes, as long as it is transparent, re-sealable, and holds a maximum of 1 liter. Simple freezer bags with zippers are allowed.

Conclusion: Travel relaxed with the right preparation

The 100 ml rule for liquids in carry-on luggage may seem complicated at first glance, but with the right preparation, it's not a problem. Key points summarized:

Pro tips for stress-free travel:

•      Invest in refillable 100 ml containers

•      Try solid alternatives (shampoo bars, solid soap)

••      Take an empty water bottle with you and fill it after security

•      If in doubt: Rather pack in checked luggage

Even if modern CT scanners at some airports allow larger quantities of liquids – the classic 100 ml rule will remain the safest standard in 2026. Those who adhere to it are guaranteed to get through security relaxed and without stress.

Have a good trip!