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Liquid Limits

What to do if your return airport has stricter liquid rules

The airport you depart from sets the rule. On the return, that's a different airport with potentially different limits. Plan for the stricter side.

Last updated · Reviewed against current airport security guidance

Short answer

The airport you depart from sets the rule. On the return, that's a different airport with potentially different limits. Plan for the stricter side.

General guidance

Rule basis: General airport security guidance — rules can vary between airports and change over time. Confirm with your departure airport before you fly.

What to do: Pack to 100ml per container in a single 1-litre clear bag unless you've confirmed a larger allowance at both your departure airports.

Liquid Limits is a travel planning tool, not an official aviation source. Always confirm with the airport before you travel.

At a glance

Security

Will this pass the checkpoint?

Check rules

Rules vary by airport — some still enforce 100ml, others now allow 2L containers in CT scanners.

Source: Airport operator pages
Airline

Can this travel in cabin or checked baggage?

Cabin OK

Most airlines defer to airport security on liquids in the cabin.

Border

Can you bring this into the destination country?

Usually OK

Liquids themselves are rarely a customs issue — but contents (alcohol, dairy, CBD) might be.

Three separate rule systems · Any one can stop your item

Pack to the stricter rule from the start

Liquid Limits defaults to the stricter of the two airports. If you pack within that limit on the way out, you'll pass on the way home too.

Bought something abroad? Check before binning it

Sealed duty-free in a STEB bag with the receipt may still pass even at strict airports — as long as the seal is intact and it's within 36 hours. Bigger souvenir bottles need to go in checked luggage.

If you're not checking a bag

Cheap option: buy a hold-luggage allowance just for the return. Cheaper option: post the bottle home from the destination.

If you're connecting

Each transfer security check applies its own airport's rule. STEB liquids over 100ml can be confiscated at re-screening in the US and some Asian hubs.

Check your trip

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