UA · United States · updated 2026-06-01
United Airlines baby milk & formula rules
Baby milk, formula, expressed breast milk, sterilised water and baby food are exempt from the 100 ml rule on United Airlines flights. You can carry a reasonable amount for the journey — security may ask you to open or taste-test containers, and they do not have to fit in the clear bag.
Send these rules to whoever you're travelling with.
What to know before you pack
- Bring the milk in individual bottles or cartons rather than one large container so screening is faster.
- Frozen breast milk is often refused in the cabin — it must be liquid enough to be screened. Check it into the hold if it is solid.
- Ice packs and cool bags are usually allowed when carrying baby milk, but may be tested separately.
- Baby formula, breast milk and juice for infants are TSA-exempt.
- Medications in liquid form are TSA-exempt when declared.
- Vape devices and spare lithium batteries: cabin only.
United Airlines cabin bag at a glance
Personal item: 43 × 25 × 22 cm
Overhead bag: 56 × 35 × 22 cm · paid on some fares
Frequently asked
How much baby milk can I take on United Airlines?
Enough for the flight plus delays. There is no fixed millilitre limit for baby milk, but security officers can question quantities well beyond the journey length.
Does the baby need to be travelling with me on United Airlines?
For baby milk exemptions in the UK and most of the EU, yes — the infant should be travelling. Expressed breast milk is the usual exception and can be carried without the baby.
More United Airlines liquid topics
Sources
- United carry-on baggage — checked 2026-06-01