Can you take spirits in hand luggage?

Short answer

Bottles must go in the hold or be bought duty-free. Spirits over 70% ABV are banned from both bags entirely.

General airport security guidance

Rule basis: Treated as a alcoholic liquid at airport security. Based on general aviation security guidance — rules can vary between airports.

What to do: Default to 100ml per container in a single 1-litre clear bag. Anything larger goes in checked luggage.

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

Check destination rules

This item may be restricted when crossing borders. Airport security rules and destination import rules are separate.

Triple-check

Security · Airline · Border

Security

Will spirits pass the checkpoint?

Limited

Spirits usually counts as a liquid, gel or paste — must fit the 100ml hand-luggage rule.

Source: DfT UK security guidance

Airline

Can spirits travel in cabin or checked baggage?

Cabin OK

Fine in cabin baggage within the 100ml rule, and fine in checked baggage if sealed.

Source: IATA passenger guidance

Border

Can you bring spirits into the destination country?

Usually OK

Personal-use quantities are rarely a customs problem on most routes.

Three separate rule systems · Any one can stop your item

In cabin baggage

Over the cabin liquid limit unless duty-free in a sealed STEB.

In checked luggage

24–70% ABV is capped at 5L per passenger in the hold (IATA rule). Over 70% ABV (some cask-strength spirits, some absinthe) is forbidden.

Duty-free

Duty-free spirits sealed in a STEB with the receipt are cabin-allowed. Transfer rules vary.

Customs caveat: Customs allowances vary widely on arrival. Check your destination's limit and declare anything over it.

Separate customs, airline, or import rules may apply. Check official guidance.

Examples

•700ml bottle: hold luggage or duty-free STEB
•Cask-strength 75% ABV: NOT allowed in either bag

Liquid Limits focuses on airport security and liquid-like travel items. Separate customs, import, airline, or destination laws may apply. For non-liquid items like plants, meat, weapons, cash, electronics, or luxury goods, check official customs guidance. What this site covers and doesn't cover.

Liquid Limits helps with airport security rules. Border and customs rules vary by destination, so always check official destination guidance before travelling internationally.

Check your airport liquid rule

Packing checklist for spirits

A short checklist for this trip — pack what you need to stay within the rules above.

Packing checklist

Packing cubes

Keep food and gifts protected in your bag.