Whether you’re traveling with sunscreen, hairspray, or something else that’s an aerosol, it’s important to understand the restrictions prior to boarding so you know what to expect. Otherwise, your items will be taken away by security. Yes, you can take aerosol on a plane, but how much will depend on if you’re carrying on or checking your luggage.
Let’s explore more about the restrictions, so you don’t find yourself having to repurchase after passing through security.
Key Takeaways
- Aerosols are allowed on planes, but there are restrictions on the amount and how they are packed. The 3-1-1 rule applies to aerosols, which means you can bring a travel-size container of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on bag, and all your liquid items, including aerosols, must fit in a single, one-quart-sized bag.
- There are no restrictions on aerosols in checked luggage, but it’s still important to pack them properly to prevent leaks or damage to other items in your luggage. It’s recommended to pack aerosol cans in plastic bags or wrap them in clothing.
- If you do not follow the rules for bringing aerosols on a plane, your items will be confiscated by airport security. In this case, you will need to repurchase them either at the airport or your final destination.
How Big Should Aerosol Cans Be in Carry-on Luggage?
Aerosols are included in the overall liquids rule, so you are allowed to bring 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in a single travel-size container. All of your liquids, including aerosols, gels, creams, pastes, and more, need to fit in a single one-quart-sized bag, which will need to be removed from your bag as you pass through security.
These rules only apply to carry-on bags, and they were put in place as a security precaution. To put it simply, as you travel with carry-on luggage, you need to consider the 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 ounces for one passenger in a one-quart-sized bag.
Are There Restrictions On Aerosols In Checked Luggage?
No, the 3-1-1 rule only applies to carry-on luggage. There are no restrictions to what you can put in your checked luggage when it comes to liquid, though keep in mind that travel can be rough on your personal items, even if they are marked fragile.
As a best practice, you should always put any liquids and other breakable items in a bag to prevent them from leaking. It does not need to be a quart size, which is helpful when traveling with full-sized products.
What Happens If My Aerosol Is Confiscated?
If you don’t follow the rules, your items will get confiscated by airport security. There is nothing you can do if you bring items that are too big or do not fit in a single bag. If your items have been confiscated, you will simply need to repurchase them.
There are stores within the airport that can help with many basic toiletries like hairspray, sunscreen, mouthwash, and more, though they tend to be marked up. You can also purchase them when you get to your final destination, request some free of charge from your hotel, or buy them in the hotel shop.
Most airport security professionals are strict, so it’s best not to gamble when it comes to backing items that are too big.
So, Can I Take Aerosol On A Plane?
Yes! You can absolutely take aerosols on a plane, but you’ll want to be careful how much if you plan on carrying on. Keep the following rules in mind if you do.
- Aerosols apply to the liquid rule, so you are only allowed 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in your carry-on.
- All of your liquid items, including aerosol, gels, creams, pastes, and other liquids, must fit in a single, one-quart-sized bag.
- All passengers are only allowed one bag per person.
These rules do not apply if you are traveling with a child and have breast milk or other items to help care for the child. Unfortunately, none of those qualify as aerosol and, as such, would not be an exception to the rule.
If you do not adhere to the rules, your items will likely be confiscated, and you’ll need to replenish them. The 3-1-1 rule is in place to keep passengers safe while traveling, so it’s best not to take the chance. You’re better off spending your money on fun stuff while traveling instead of buying things you already had!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I bring aerosol cans in my carry-on bag?
Yes, you can bring aerosol cans in your carry-on bag, but they must be in a travel-size container of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less, and all your liquid items, including aerosols, must fit in a single, one-quart-sized bag.
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What is the 3-1-1 rule for bringing aerosols on a plane?
The 3-1-1 rule means you can bring a travel-size container of 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters of aerosol in your carry-on bag, and all your liquid items, including aerosols, must fit in a single, one-quart-sized bag.
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Are there any restrictions on bringing aerosols in checked luggage?
There are no restrictions on bringing aerosols in checked luggage, but it’s still important to pack them properly to prevent leaks or damage to other items in your luggage.
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What should I do if my aerosol is confiscated at airport security?
If your aerosol is confiscated at airport security, you must repurchase it at the airport or your final destination.
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Can I bring full-sized aerosol cans on a plane?
Full-sized aerosol cans are not allowed in carry-on luggage. If you want to bring them, pack them in your checked luggage.
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Can I bring hairspray or other aerosol products on a plane?
Yes, you can bring hairspray or other aerosol products on a plane as long as they comply with the 3-1-1 rule and other airline regulations.
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Can I bring aerosol products if I’m traveling with a child?
Yes, there are exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule for traveling with a child, such as breast milk or other items to help care for the child. However, these exceptions do not apply to aerosols.
