TSA Liquid Rules 2025: Your Destination-Specific Packing Guide to Navigate Global Security Protocols

The dreaded security checkpoint scenario: you've packed perfectly for your international trip, only to watch a TSA agent confiscate your favorite moisturizer at the airport. What many travelers don't realize is that liquid restrictions vary significantly across countries and airports—and in 2025, these differences are more pronounced than ever.

While most travelers know about the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, understanding destination-specific liquid regulations can transform your packing strategy and save you from security checkpoint stress. With several major airports now piloting programs that allow larger liquid containers, and others maintaining stricter-than-standard restrictions, knowing where you're flying matters as much as what you're packing.

Understanding the Standard 3-1-1 Rule and Its Global Variations

The TSA's 3-1-1 rule has been the baseline for U.S. air travel since 2006, but it's far from universal. Here's what you need to know about how different regions interpret and enforce liquid restrictions.

The U.S. Standard: TSA's 3-1-1 Rule

The basic TSA rule allows:

• About 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per container
• 1 quart-sized (approximately 1 liter) clear, resealable plastic bag
• 1 bag per passenger

This applies to all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in carry-on baggage. Medications, baby formula, and breast milk are exempt but must be declared.

Where the Rules Diverge Globally

Not all countries follow the TSA model precisely. Here's a breakdown of major variations:

The 2025 Game-Changer: Airports Piloting Expanded Liquid Allowances

Several major airports have begun implementing next-generation CT scanning technology that allows passengers to carry larger liquid containers without restriction. This technology creates 3D images of bag contents, eliminating the need for liquid restrictions.

Airports Currently Operating With Expanded Allowances

As of November 2025, these airports allow liquids over 100ml in carry-on bags:

United States:

• Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) - Terminals 3 and 4
• Baltimore/Washington International (BWI) - Select checkpoints
• Boston Logan International (BOS) - Terminal C

Europe:

• London City Airport (LCY) - Full implementation
• Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) - Select security lanes
• Rome Fiumicino (FCO) - Terminal 3
• Shannon Airport (SNN) - All checkpoints

Asia-Pacific:

• Changi Airport Singapore (SIN) - Terminals 1 and 3
• Delhi Indira Gandhi International (DEL) - Terminal 3

What This Means for Your Packing Strategy

If your departure airport has implemented CT scanning technology, you can pack full-size toiletries in your carry-on. However—and this is crucial—you must still comply with restrictions at your destination and any layover airports.

Strategic Packing Example: Flying from London City to New York JFK via Dublin? You can pack full-size liquids departing London City, but you'll need to comply with standard 100ml rules when connecting through Dublin and entering the U.S.

Destination-Specific Restrictions That Catch Travelers Off-Guard

Beyond basic liquid rules, certain destinations impose additional restrictions that can surprise unprepared travelers.

Australia: The Powder Problem

Australia enforces a 350ml (12 ounce) limit on powders, including protein powder, baby formula, coffee, spices, and cosmetics like dry shampoo. This applies to both carry-on and checked baggage on inbound international flights.

Packing Tip: If you're traveling to Australia with powders, pack them in containers under 350ml or be prepared for additional screening. Consider purchasing these items locally instead.

China: Enhanced Cosmetic Screening

Chinese airports conduct additional screening on cosmetics and personal care items. Passengers may be asked to open containers or test products at security checkpoints.

Packing Tip: Keep all cosmetics easily accessible and be prepared for additional screening time. Arrive at the airport with extra time for security processing.

Middle East Hubs: Stricter Enforcement

Airports in Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH), and Doha (DOH) enforce liquid restrictions more strictly than many Western airports. Security personnel are less flexible about bag size and may reject bags that appear overfilled.

Packing Tip: Use a regulation-size clear bag that's not stuffed to capacity. Consider packing fewer items rather than trying to maximize space.

United Kingdom: Temporary Reversals

In 2024-2025, some UK airports temporarily reverted to strict 100ml limits after initially relaxing rules, creating confusion for travelers. Always check your specific departure airport's current policy before traveling.

The Duty-Free Dilemma: Understanding Transfer Rules

Purchasing duty-free liquids creates unique challenges when you have connecting flights, especially on international routes.

Duty-Free Liquid Rules by Connection Type

Same-Country Connections: Generally allowed to carry duty-free liquids through security if properly sealed in Security Tamper-Evident Bags (STEBs).

International to Domestic U.S. Connections: You must clear customs and re-check duty-free purchases. Liquids over 3.4oz cannot go through domestic security.

International to International Connections Within EU: Allowed if liquids are in sealed STEBs with receipt showing purchase within 36 hours.

Connections Through Middle East Hubs: Most Gulf airports allow duty-free transfers, but Australia-bound passengers face restrictions.

The Australia-Bound Exception

If your final destination is Australia, you cannot bring duty-free liquids purchased at overseas airports through Australian security, even in sealed bags. This catches many travelers connecting through Singapore, Dubai, or Hong Kong.

Solution: Purchase duty-free items on the final flight to Australia or shop after clearing security at Australian airports.

Strategic Packing Methods Based on Your Route

Your packing strategy should adapt to your specific journey, not just follow generic advice.

Direct Flight Strategy

For direct flights to destinations with standard 100ml rules:

• Pack a single quart-sized bag with essential liquids
• Place full-size toiletries in checked baggage
• Keep medications and essential items in carry-on
• Consider solid alternatives (bar shampoo, solid perfume)

Hub Connection Strategy

When connecting through major hubs:

• Research the strictest airport on your route and pack accordingly
• If connecting through Middle East hubs, pack conservatively
• Avoid duty-free liquid purchases if you have multiple connections
• Keep liquids easily accessible for multiple security screenings

Multi-Country Trip Strategy

For trips involving several countries:

• Pack minimal liquids and purchase locally when needed
• Use solid toiletries to avoid liquid restrictions entirely
• Consider shipping toiletries to your first destination
• Maintain a reliable eSIM connection to research local regulations as you travel—having instant internet access without hunting for WiFi lets you quickly verify current restrictions at each destination

CT Scanner Airport Advantage Strategy

When departing from airports with CT scanning:

• Pack full-size essentials for your trip
• Still prepare a 100ml backup kit for return journey
• Verify your return airport's capabilities before departure
• Keep receipts showing purchase after security if questioned

Country-Specific Liquid Allowance Deep Dive

European Union Regulations

EU airports follow consistent 100ml rules, but enforcement varies significantly. Northern European airports (Netherlands, Germany, Scandinavia) tend toward stricter enforcement, while Southern European airports may be more lenient.

Special Consideration: Some EU airports still require electronics to be removed from bags even with CT scanners. Check specific airport requirements.

United Kingdom Post-Brexit Variations

The UK maintains alignment with EU rules but implements them independently. Some airports have different screening procedures for domestic versus international flights.

Packing Strategy: Treat UK airports as potentially stricter than EU counterparts. Pack conservatively and arrive early for security screening.

Asia-Pacific Differences

Asian airports generally follow international standards but often have faster, more efficient security processes. Japan's airports are notably relaxed about bag presentation, while Chinese airports conduct more thorough screening.

Cultural Note: In many Asian airports, security personnel are less conversational during screening. Have your documents ready and follow instructions promptly.

Latin American Variations

Many Latin American airports follow U.S. TSA guidelines but may have older screening equipment and longer security lines. Some countries impose additional restrictions on alcohol and perfumes.

Packing Strategy: Pack extra conservatively and allow additional time for security screening at Latin American airports.

Medications and Medical Exemptions: Universal Rules

While liquid restrictions vary globally, medical exemptions remain relatively consistent worldwide.

What Qualifies for Exemption

• Prescription medications in any amount
• Over-the-counter liquid medications in reasonable quantities
• Baby formula, breast milk, and baby food
• Medically necessary liquids (including special dietary needs)

How to Pack Medical Liquids

• Declare medical liquids at security checkpoint
• Keep medications in original packaging when possible
• Carry prescription documentation or doctor's letter
• Pack medical liquids separately from regular toiletries
• Expect additional screening for large quantities

Pro Tip: Having instant connectivity through an eSIM means you can quickly access digital copies of prescriptions or medical documentation if questioned at security, without relying on airport WiFi.

Solid Alternatives: Bypassing Liquid Rules Entirely

The smartest packing strategy might be avoiding liquids altogether.

Effective Solid Toiletry Swaps

Personal Care:

• Shampoo and conditioner bars
• Solid perfumes and colognes
• Deodorant sticks
• Solid face cleansers
• Toothpaste tablets

Skincare:

• Solid moisturizer bars
• Solid sunscreen sticks
• Solid makeup (powder foundation, cream-to-powder products)

Other Solutions:

• Sheet masks instead of liquid serums
• Solid laundry detergent for travel
• Dry shampoo powder (check Australia restrictions)

When Solids Don't Work

Some items genuinely need to be liquid. For these essentials:

• Contact lens solution (pack in 100ml bottles)
• Prescription liquid medications (exempt from restrictions)
• Specialized skincare treatments (pack in checked baggage)

Airport-Specific Intelligence: Major Hub Breakdown

U.S. Major Hubs

Atlanta (ATL): Standard TSA rules, long security lines during peak hours. TSA PreCheck highly recommended.

Los Angeles (LAX): Standard rules with stricter enforcement at international terminal. Allow extra screening time.

New York (JFK): Varies by terminal. Terminal 4 (international) has strictest enforcement.

European Major Hubs

London Heathrow (LHR): Strict enforcement, especially Terminal 5. Plan for thorough screening.

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG): Standard EU rules but notoriously slow security. Arrive early.

Frankfurt (FRA): Efficient security with strict but fair enforcement. Well-organized process.

Asia-Pacific Major Hubs

Singapore Changi (SIN): CT scanners in terminals 1 and 3 allow larger liquids. Efficient, fast security.

Tokyo Narita (NRT): Standard rules with courteous, efficient screening. Generally smooth process.

Dubai (DXB): Strict enforcement with additional screening. Very thorough security process.

Practical Packing Checklist for Different Journey Types

Short Trip (1-5 days) Direct Flight

• Single quart-sized bag with 3-5 essential 100ml containers
• Solid toiletries for everything else
• Medications in carry-on
• Full-size items in checked bag if checking luggage

Long Trip (1-2 weeks) With Connections

• Minimal carry-on liquids (2-3 essentials only)
• Solid alternatives for most toiletries
• Plan to purchase items at destination
• Research local drugstore options before departure

Multi-Country Adventure

• Solid toiletries exclusively in carry-on
• Small 100ml emergency liquid kit
• Reliable connectivity to research local restrictions (eSIM recommended)
• Flexible mindset about purchasing locally

Business Travel With Presentations

• Professional appearance products in 100ml containers
• Backup solid products in checked luggage
• Consider shipping materials ahead to hotel
• Premium lounge access for emergency purchases

How to Handle Security Checkpoint Confiscations

Despite best planning, sometimes items get confiscated. Here's how to handle it professionally.

Your Rights at Security

• Request to check the item if you have checked baggage
• Ask to transfer liquid to a compliant container if available
• Request supervisor review if you believe confiscation is incorrect
• Remain calm and professional throughout

Items Worth Fighting For

• Prescription medications (should never be confiscated)
• High-value cosmetics or perfumes
• Irreplaceable items with sentimental value

Items to Let Go

• Generic toiletries easily replaced
• Items marginally over size limits
• Duty-free purchases when connecting through restricted airports

Time Management: Don't miss your flight arguing over a $10 bottle of shampoo. Sometimes letting go is the smartest choice.

Technology and Future Trends

The liquid restriction landscape continues evolving as airport security technology advances.

CT Scanner Rollout Timeline

The TSA plans to deploy CT scanners at all U.S. airport checkpoints by 2040, but major airports will see implementation much sooner. European airports are on a similar timeline, with most major hubs expecting full implementation by 2030.

What This Means for Travelers

• Gradually increasing flexibility at departure airports
• Continued restrictions at smaller regional airports
• Need to verify capabilities at specific airports
• Transition period confusion as rules vary by location

Staying Informed

• Check airport websites before travel
• Download airline apps for security updates
• Sign up for TSA notifications
• Maintain connectivity while traveling to access real-time information

Expert Tips From Frequent Flyers

Professional Travel Hackers' Strategies

The Decant Method: Decant products into exactly 100ml bottles, never 101ml. Security scanners can detect the difference.

The Solid Strategy: Experienced travelers carry zero liquids, using exclusively solid alternatives.

The Purchase Plan: Buy toiletries after security at departure airport or upon arrival at destination.

The Dual Bag System: Pack a compliant liquid bag for security, with backup full-size items in checked luggage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Assuming all airports follow the same rules
• Purchasing duty-free liquids before multiple connections
• Packing liquids in checked bags without proper protection
• Forgetting about return journey restrictions
• Not researching destination-specific requirements

Your Destination-Specific Action Plan

Planning your liquid packing strategy should happen during trip planning, not while packing your bag the night before departure.

Pre-Trip Research Checklist

• Identify all airports you'll pass through (departure, connections, arrival)
• Research each airport's current liquid restrictions
• Check for CT scanner availability at departure point
• Verify duty-free transfer rules for your specific route
• Note any destination-specific restrictions (Australia powders, China cosmetics)
• Plan solid alternatives where possible
• Create backup purchasing plan for destination

Packing Day Strategy

• Assemble compliant liquid bag first
• Add solid alternatives second
• Pack full-size backup items in checked luggage
• Place medications and exemptions separately
• Double-check container sizes with measuring tool
• Ensure bag seals completely
• Keep liquids easily accessible in carry-on

At the Airport

• Have liquid bag ready before reaching security
• Remove liquids from carry-on without being asked
• Declare medical exemptions proactively
• Follow security personnel instructions precisely
• Don't argue about borderline items
• Allow extra time for additional screening if needed

Conclusion: Master Destination-Specific Rules for Stress-Free Travel

Understanding that liquid restrictions vary significantly by destination transforms how you approach packing. The standard 3-1-1 rule is just a baseline—successful travelers adapt their strategy based on specific routes, connection points, and destination requirements.

As airports worldwide continue implementing CT scanning technology, we're entering a transition period where rules vary dramatically by location. The key to stress-free travel isn't memorizing every regulation—it's developing a flexible packing strategy that accounts for the strictest checkpoint you'll encounter.

Whether you're departing from a cutting-edge airport allowing full-size liquids or connecting through a hub with enhanced restrictions, proper planning prevents security checkpoint surprises. Research your specific route, pack strategically for your journey's most restrictive point, and consider solid alternatives whenever possible.

Remember: the goal isn't to pack everything you might want—it's to pack smartly for the security checkpoints you'll actually face.

Stay Connected, Stay Informed Throughout Your Journey

Security regulations change frequently, and having reliable connectivity while traveling means you can verify current restrictions at each destination, access digital documentation if questioned, and adapt your plans in real-time. AlwaySIM's global eSIM coverage ensures you're never stuck hunting for airport WiFi when you need to quickly research security requirements at your next connection point. With instant connectivity in over 190 countries, you can focus on enjoying your journey while staying informed about the regulations that matter at each destination.

Ready to travel smarter? Get your AlwaySIM eSIM before your next trip and maintain the connectivity you need to navigate global security requirements with confidence.