Carry-On Liquids 2026: New Toiletry Size Rules and How to Pack It Properly

Carry-on liquid rules in 2026 are starting to change, but most airports still follow the standard 100ml rule. Here’s exactly what you can bring, what’s changed, and how to pack properly.

Quick Summary

• 100ml liquid rule still applies at most airports worldwide
• Some airports (like Heathrow) now allow larger liquids with new scanners
• Rules are not consistent between countries, airports, or terminals
• Safest option: pack travel-size and assume standard liquid rules

If you’re packing carry-on only, I’ve also broken down exactly what I take in my 12 travel essentials I’m using in 2026, including what actually works on long-haul flights.

Jump to: Liquid Rules 2026 • Full-Size Toiletries • What Counts as Liquid • Best Carry-On Products • Non-Liquid Options • 100ml Travel Sizes • FAQs

FAQs: How many 100ml bottles can you take in carry-on luggage? • What size container can you take on a plane for liquids? • What is the carry-on liquid limit in 2026? • Do carry-on liquid rules apply to domestic flights? • Do you need to take liquids out of your carry-on at security? • Can you take duty-free liquids in carry-on luggage? • What happens if your liquid is over 100ml in carry-on? • Is lip balm considered a liquid in carry-on luggage? • Can you take medication or baby liquids in carry-on? • Are carry-on liquid rules set by airlines or airports? • What size toiletry bag is allowed for carry-on liquids? • Common Mistakes

Carry-On Liquid By Country Rules By Country 2026: What’s Changed?

Carry-on liquid rules are starting to change in 2026, but not in a way you can rely on just yet.

Some airports, like Heathrow, have introduced new scanners that allow larger liquids and remove the need for plastic bags. It’s a big shift, and likely a sign of where things are heading.

But the reality is, these changes aren’t consistent across countries, airports, or even terminals. Most airports worldwide still enforce the standard 100ml (3.4 oz) rule, especially for international departures.

My advice: pack to the 100ml rule and assume it will apply. I use this clear 1L toiletry bag which actually fits the airport limits properly. I’ve had it for years, and the soft structure makes it much easier to get everything in without having to repack at security.

If you start bringing full-size toiletries or larger liquids, you’re taking a risk - and in most cases, you may as well check a bag. This is especially true in countries and on airlines with strict carry-on weight limits, which is a significant number of airlines outside of North America. A small luggage scale is one of those things that seems unnecessary until you need it, but it makes it easy to stay within limits.

For liquids themselves, using airless pump bottles and travel pod containers makes a noticeable difference. You can bring exactly what you need without carrying full-size products, and everything stays within the 100ml (3.4 oz) requirement.

It’s not worth getting caught at security or having to throw things out. Pack for the stricter rules, and if your airport is more relaxed, that’s just a bonus.

Carry on Liquids Rules 2026 Table

Country / Region	Liquid Limit	Plastic Bag Required?	Notes
Australia	100ml (3.4 oz) standard	Usually yes	Some major airports are trialling new scanners, but rules are not consistent yet.
United Kingdom (Heathrow)	Up to 2L per container	No	New CT scanners allow larger liquids and no bag required, but rollout can vary by terminal.
United Kingdom (Other Airports)	100ml (3.4 oz) in most cases	Yes (often strict)	Some airports are upgrading scanners, but many still enforce the standard liquid rules.
Europe (EU)	100ml (3.4 oz)	Yes	Standard across most airports. Some are introducing new scanners, but not widespread.
United States	100ml (3.4 oz)	Yes	Follows the TSA 3-1-1 rule. Enforcement is consistent.
Asia	100ml (3.4 oz)	Yes	Most countries follow standard international rules for carry-on liquids.
Middle East	100ml (3.4 oz)	Yes	Generally strict, especially at major international hubs.

Liquid rules can vary depending on where you’re flying from or through, especially across regions like Europe, Africa, and South America where enforcement can differ between airports.

Can You Take Full-Size Toiletries in Carry-On Now?

Short answer: sometimes, but not reliably.

Some airports, including Heathrow, now allow larger liquids in carry-on bags due to new CT scanners. In these cases, you may be able to bring full-size toiletries without following the 100ml (3.4 oz) liquid limit.

However, these updated carry-on liquid rules are not consistent across countries, airports, or even terminals. Most airports worldwide still enforce the standard 100ml (3.4 oz) liquid limit and require liquids to fit within a 1 litre (1 quart) clear toiletry bag.

This is where travellers get caught out.

You might be allowed to carry full-size toiletries through one airport, but if your return flight or connecting airport follows standard security rules, those same items can be confiscated.

Full-size toiletries in carry-on bags are only realistic if:

• You are checking a bag for part or all of your trip
• You are flying one-way from an airport with relaxed liquid rules
• You are not connecting through stricter airports
• You are willing to risk having items removed at security

For most travellers, the safest option is still to follow the 100ml (3.4 oz) carry-on liquid rule and pack travel-size toiletries.

If you are flying from Heathrow the updated scanner rules may apply, meaning larger liquids can be carried without the 100ml restriction depending on your terminal and route.

This avoids delays at airport security, prevents items being thrown out, and ensures you meet liquid restrictions across all airports on your trip.

Tip: If you’re tight on space, remove bulky lids from some products when going through security. Most won’t leak in your clear bag, and it frees up more room than you’d expect. Just put the lids back on after.

What Counts as a Liquid in Carry-On Bags?

Not sure what counts as a liquid in carry-on bags? This is where most people get caught out.

Airport security doesn’t just look at obvious liquids. If something can be poured, squeezed, spread, or sprayed, it’s usually treated as a liquid and must follow the 100ml (3.4 oz) rule.

This quick guide shows what is considered a liquid (and restricted) versus what you can bring without limits.

Item	Item	Item
Toothpaste Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Bar Soap Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Mascara Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️
Shampoo / Conditioner Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Solid Shampoo Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Powder Makeup Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️
Moisturiser / Sunscreen Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Stick Deodorant Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Liquid Foundation Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️
Perfume (spray) Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Solid Perfume Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Makeup Wipes Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️
Hair Gel / Cream Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Stick Foundation / Blush Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Roll-on Deodorant Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️
Hand Sanitiser Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️	Snack Bars Non Liquid - No Limit ♾️	Peanut Butter / Yogurt Liquid - 100ml Limit ⚠️

If there’s any doubt, assume it’s a liquid - it’s the easiest way to avoid delays at security.

Best Carry On Approved Products for Travel 2026

Best Non-Liquid Toiletries for Carry-On

If you’re travelling carry-on only, switching to non-liquid toiletries makes everything easier. You don’t have to deal with the 100ml (3.4 oz) liquid limit, there’s no clear bag stress, and you avoid having to throw things out at security.

Solid toiletries like stick deodorant, shampoo bars, solid perfume, and cleanser sticks don’t count as liquids, which means you can pack more without restrictions. It’s one of the easiest ways to simplify your packing, especially on international flights where rules are stricter.

This matters even more on long-haul flights where you actually want access to your essentials without digging through your bag — especially if you’re flying premium cabins like Qantas business class, where what you keep within reach makes a difference. I’ve broken that down here: how to choose the best Qantas 787 business class seat.

Below are some of the best non-liquid travel products that actually work, are easy to pack, and make carry-on travel a lot less restrictive.

Sol de Janeiro Jelly Perfume Balm

Solid perfume that smells amazing and doesn’t count as a liquid. Easy, no leaks, and perfect for travel.

Buy On Amazon

Glossier Perfume Solid

Clean, subtle scent in a compact solid format. Great for travel and doesn’t use up liquid space.

Buy On Amazon

Salt and Stone Aluminum-Free Stick Deodorant

Solid deodorant that actually works and doesn’t count toward your liquid allowance.

Buy On Amazon

Stick Cleanser Face Wash

Face wash in a solid stick. No spills, no liquid limits, and easy to use on the go.

Buy On Amazon

Oceanly Skin Care Solid Stick Glow

Solid skincare stick that replaces liquids like serums or moisturisers. Lightweight and travel-friendly.

Buy On Amazon

Milani Blur Out Skin Tint Stick

Easy base product in stick form. Comes in loads of shades and blends well without counting as a liquid.

Buy On Amazon

Olay Cleansing Melts

Water-activated cleansing sheets that turn into face wash. Take up almost no space and perfect for travel.

Buy On Amazon

Hanni Stick Body Moisturiser

Solid body moisturiser you can swipe on. Great alternative to lotions for carry-on travel.

Buy On Amazon

Milk Makeup Blush Stick

Small, travel-friendly and a little goes a long way. Doesn’t take up your liquid allowance.

Buy On Amazon

Kitsch Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

Solid shampoo and conditioner bars (S and C shapes). Really good and perfect for avoiding liquids completely.

Buy On Amazon

Billie Floof Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo powder with blonde and dark options. No aerosols, no liquid restrictions, easy for travel.

Buy On Amazon

Colgate Wisp Pre Toothpasted Travel Toothbrushes

Pre-toothpasted mini toothbrushes. No liquids, no mess, perfect for travel.

Buy On Amazon

Best Travel-Size Toiletry Products (100ml Rule)

If you’re sticking with liquids, you’ll need to follow the 100ml (3.4 oz) carry-on rule. Every container must be under the limit and fit inside a single 1 litre (1 quart) clear bag, which fills up quickly if you’re not careful.

The easiest way to make this work is by using properly sized travel containers and choosing products designed for carry-on travel. Smaller formats, leak-proof bottles, and compact designs make a big difference when you’re trying to fit everything into one bag.

Below are the best travel-size liquid products and containers that fit within the 100ml rule and actually make packing easier.

Liquids are only one part of your carry-on setup. If you’re trying to pack properly for flights, it helps to think about your full kit — skincare, comfort, and essentials you’ll actually use mid-flight.

I’ve put together a full breakdown here: 👉 12 travel essentials I’m using in 2026

MCoBeauty Mini Brow Laminate Sculpt Set

Travel-size brow set that keeps everything in place. Small, easy to pack, and perfect for carry-on.

Check Price

Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Facial Spray

Hypochlorous spray that calms skin instantly. Great for flights, irritation, and travel breakouts.

Buy On Amazon

EltaMD UV Clear Tinted Face Sunscreen

Lightweight tinted sunscreen that actually looks good on skin. Easy daily SPF for travel.

Buy On Amazon

LUMIFY Eye Drops for Red Eyes

Instantly brightens tired eyes. One of those things you’ll wish you packed on long flights.

Buy On Amazon

SmartMouth Original Travel Mouthwash

Actually works and lasts. Perfect for feeling fresh after long flights or travel days.

Buy On Amazon

Patchology Jade Eye Roller with Vitamin C

Cooling eye roller that helps with puffiness. Good for early flights and jet lag mornings.

Buy On Amazon

Medik8 Hydr8 B5 Hydrating Serum

Lightweight hydrating serum that layers well and keeps skin from drying out while travelling.

Buy On Amazon

Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Skin Tint

Hydrating skin tint with light coverage. Easy base product for travel days.

Buy On Amazon

ONE/SIZE The Sweat Waterproof Mattifying Primer

Travel-size sweat proof primer perfect for long travel days.

Check Price

Summer Fridays Jet Lag Face Mist

Lightweight facial mist that hydrates and refreshes tired skin. Perfect for long flights & dry cabins.

Buy On Amazon

O&M Know Knott Hair Detangler Spray

Lightweight detangling spray that smooths knots and adds shine without weighing hair down. A cult-favourite Australian haircare staple, perfect for travel and post-flight refresh.

Buy On Amazon

Color Dept. Hand Cream (Vanilla & Bergamot)

Hydrating hand cream with a warm vanilla and fresh bergamot scent. Absorbs quickly without feeling greasy, making it perfect for dry cabin air and everyday use on the go.

Buy On Amazon

Carry-On Liquid Rules FAQs

How many 100ml bottles can you take in carry-on luggage?

You can take multiple liquids as long as each container is 100ml (3.4 oz) or less and everything fits within a single 1 litre (1 quart) clear toiletry bag. There is no set number of bottles, only the space limit of the bag.

What size container can you take on a plane for liquids?

Carry-on liquid containers must be 100ml (3.4 oz) or less. This is based on the container size, not how much liquid is inside it. A larger bottle that is partially full will still be rejected. Using travel-size airless pump bottles or travel pod containers makes it easier to stay within the limit.

What is the carry-on liquid limit in 2026?

The standard carry-on liquid limit is still 100ml (3.4 oz) per container, with all liquids fitting into one clear 1 litre (1 quart) bag. Some airports are changing, but most still enforce this rule.

Do carry-on liquid rules apply to domestic flights?

Yes, in most cases. Some domestic airports may be more relaxed, but the 100ml (3.4 oz) liquid rule is still widely applied and should be expected.

Do you need to take liquids out of your carry-on at security?

At most airports, yes. Liquids must be removed from your bag and screened separately, unless the airport has newer scanners that allow them to stay inside.

Can you take duty-free liquids in carry-on luggage?

Yes. Duty-free liquids are allowed if they are sealed in a security bag with proof of purchase. Restrictions may still apply for connecting flights.

What happens if your liquid is over 100ml in carry-on?

Liquids over 100ml (3.4 oz) will usually be confiscated at airport security, even if the container is not full.

Is lip balm considered a liquid in carry-on luggage?

It depends on the type. Solid lip balm sticks are usually allowed, while softer or gel-based lip products may be treated as liquids.

Can you take medication or baby liquids in carry-on?

Yes. Essential medication, baby formula, and medical liquids are usually allowed in larger quantities, but you may need to declare them at security.

Are carry-on liquid rules set by airlines or airports?

Carry-on liquid rules are set by airport security, not airlines. However, airlines may have additional carry-on size and weight restrictions.

What size toiletry bag is allowed for carry-on liquids?

You are allowed one clear toiletry bag with a capacity of 1 litre (approximately 1 quart). Using a flexible clear toiletry bag helps fit more within the allowed limit.

Common Carry-On Liquid Mistakes

Carry-on liquid rules are simple, but this is where people get caught out. A few small mistakes can slow you down at security or get items thrown out.

• Bringing half-full bottles over 100ml - the container size is what matters
• Overpacking liquids instead of using solid alternatives
• Not checking rules for connecting airports
• Assuming all airports follow the same liquid rules
• Using bulky toiletry bags that don’t fit the 1L limit properly

If you want to avoid delays at security, pack for the strictest rules and keep it simple.