The general international rule for carrying liquids in hand luggage on planes in 2025 is that liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml each. These containers must be placed together in a transparent, resealable plastic bag that holds no more than 1 liter in total. This rule applies broadly, including liquids such as drinks, cosmetics, toiletries, gels, creams, and pastes. Exceptions include medicines, baby food, and duty-free liquids which can exceed this limit if properly packaged. Checked luggage does not have these liquid restrictions and can contain larger amounts. However, there are some variations depending on the airport. Certain airports, such as Edinburgh and Birmingham in the UK, have introduced new screening technologies allowing passengers to carry liquids up to 2 liters per container in hand luggage without needing to remove them at security. Many EU airports are preparing to phase out the 100 ml limit as new detection equipment is approved. For international flights, it is safest to follow the 100 ml per container and 1-liter total bag rule unless flying from an airport known for relaxed restrictions due to advanced screening technology. Always check the specific rules for your departure and transit airports before traveling. In summary:
- Standard limit: 100 ml per container, all containers in a 1-liter transparent resealable bag in carry-on luggage
- Checked luggage: Larger liquids allowed
- Exceptions: Medicines, baby food, duty-free liquids
- Some airports allow up to 2 liters per container due to advanced scanning tech
- EU airports may soon relax the 100 ml rule with new technology but not universally yet
This is the current baseline for internationally carried liquids on planes in 2025.
