Cabin Baggage Liquid 100ml Rule (LAGs) 2026: Clear Pouch, STEB Bags & Exemptions
Under ICAO aviation security standards, passengers can carry liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) in cabin hand baggage only in containers of 100 ml (3.4 oz) or less, all enclosed within a single transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic pouch. Containers exceeding 100ml (even if half-empty) will be confiscated at the security X-ray checkpoint. Baby formula and prescription medicines are exempt.
1. The 3 Core Conditions of the International 100ml LAGs Rule
- Max Container Capacity 100ml: The container capacity itself must not exceed 100 ml. A 200ml bottle with only 50ml of liquid inside will be confiscated.
- 1-Liter Clear Resealable Pouch: All 100ml containers must fit comfortably inside a clear, transparent, resealable plastic bag (approx. 20 x 20 cm).
- One Bag Per Passenger: Each passenger is permitted only one 1-liter liquid bag, which must be presented separately for X-ray screening.
2. What Classifies as a 'Liquid' Under Security Screening?
Aviation security treats gels, pastes, lotions, and pressurized aerosols as liquids:
- Toiletries & Cosmetics: Toothpaste, shaving foam, hair gel, perfumes, lip gloss, moisturizers, mascara, and liquid foundation.
- Oils & Foods: Mustard oil, ghee, honey, jams, peanut butter, yogurt, and curry sauces.
- Pressurized Sprays: Deodorants, hairspray, and body mists.
3. How to Transport Large Bottles of Oil, Ghee & Liquids
Bottles of 500ml or 1 liter cannot be carried into the airplane cabin. To safely transport them in checked baggage:
- Avoid glass bottles; transfer liquids into durable food-grade plastic containers.
- Wrap the bottle neck with electrical tape or Teflon plumber's tape to prevent screw-cap loosening.
- Double-seal the container in two separate heavy-duty zip-lock plastic bags.
- Place the sealed package in the center of your suitcase surrounded by soft clothes for impact cushioning.
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Cabin Baggage Liquid Security Protocols: 100ml Containers, STEBs & Exceptions
The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and aviation security agencies across the globe strictly enforce the Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) standard to prevent liquid explosives from entering passenger aircraft cabins. Understanding these exact volumetric specifications ensures smooth processing at airport security checkpoints.
Exact Security Parameters for Carry-On Liquids:
- Container Capacity Restriction (100ml Rule): The security rule applies to the physical volume capacity of the container, NOT the remaining contents inside. A 200ml bottle containing only 50ml of shampoo will be confiscated immediately because the container capacity exceeds 100ml.
- One-Liter Transparent Bag: All 100ml liquid containers must fit comfortably inside a single, transparent, resealable clear plastic bag (maximum dimensions: 20cm x 20cm / 1 liter capacity). Each passenger is legally restricted to one clear plastic bag.
- Security Tamper-Evident Bags (STEBs): Liquids, perfumes, and liquor purchased at airport duty-free shops after passing security screening must remain sealed inside official STEB bags with the purchase receipt visibly attached until you arrive at your final destination. Breaking the seal before transit screening results in confiscation.
- Baby Food & Medical Liquid Exemption: Infant formula, breast milk, sterilized baby water, and essential prescription liquid medications are legally exempt from the 100ml limit. However, you must present these items separately to the security screener for visual and explosive trace detection (ETD) verification.
β Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the international 100ml liquid (LAGs) aviation security rule? βΌ
Under International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) rules, all liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) carried in cabin hand luggage must be in individual containers holding no more than 100 ml (3.4 oz) each. All containers must fit inside a single transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.
2. Which items count as liquids under airport security screening? βΌ
Liquids include water, beverages, perfumes, toothpaste, hair gels, lotions, face creams, lip balms, liquid makeup, oils, syrups, peanut butter, and liquid foods like honey or yogurt.
3. How can I carry large bottles of mustard oil, ghee, or honey on flights? βΌ
Bottles exceeding 100ml cannot be taken in cabin hand luggage. They must be packed inside checked suitcases. Use leak-proof plastic bottles, double-seal them inside airtight plastic zip bags, and cushion them between soft clothing.
4. Can I carry liquids purchased at airport duty-free shops on connecting flights? βΌ
Duty-free liquid purchases exceeding 100ml are allowed on connecting flights ONLY if sealed at the duty-free shop inside an official Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with the store receipt visible inside. Never open or break the seal before reaching your final destination.
5. Are baby milk and essential liquid medicines exempt from the 100ml limit? βΌ
Yes. Reasonable quantities of baby milk/formula, sterilized baby food, and essential prescription liquid medicines are exempt from the 100ml container rule. You must declare them separately to security screeners at the X-ray checkpoint.