Security Check-in

There's nothing more important to us than your safety. The guidelines for security check-in depend on your itinerary. Different government agencies of the various countries we fly to have different requirements. We'll point you to where you can find detailed instructions for every possible itinerary.

Liquids and Containers

Most countries now prohibit or strictly limit the size of containers with liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes (including the empty containers) during security check-in. Your preparation may help to prevent some real hassles at security check-in or even the frustration of having personal property confiscated. For U.S. arrivals, the items may be placed in your checked luggage after passing through Customs and Immigration. For non-U.S. arrivals, we suggest you do not purchase any liquids, gels or creams.

Examples of liquids and gels included in these security measures are:

• Beverages
• Creams
• Hair gel
• Hair spray
• Shampoo
• Suntan lotion
• Toothpaste
• Other items of similar consistency

You'll fly through the security check-in in most countries by following these guidelines for your carry-on baggage.

• For all liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes limit each container to a maximum size of 3.0 oz/100ml.
• Place all such items in a single quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag.
• Remove your quart-size bag from your carry-on and place in the provided bin at the security checkpoint.




Read the TSA's 3-1-1 For Carry Ons policy.

In some airports it's possible to purchase toiletry items of the approved size and take them on the plane once you've cleared security check-in. However, if your continuing travel takes you through airport checkpoints in other countries where they're prohibited, they could still be confiscated.

Special provisions are usually made for necessary items such as medications and baby formula.

For specific guidelines, visit the website resources below for links to the appropriate government agency.

Return to top

Duty-free Items

Some countries have a program that lets you purchase duty-free items which are placed in a specially sealed bag by the vendor. You can then travel within that country/region with the item in your possession or in your carry-on.

If your travel takes you through a security check-in in a country that does not recognize the same program, you may or may not have the opportunity to place the item in your checked baggage. If you're unable to place the item in your checked baggage, it may be confiscated.

For specific guidelines visit the website resources below for links to the appropriate government agency.

Return to top

Packing/Check-In Suggestions

These simple hints will usually help you to breeze right through security checkpoints.

• Travel light—minimal clutter will speed up the screening process.
• Leave cigarette lighters at home.
• Leave your pocket-knives, scissors, and any other sharp objects at home or put them in your checked baggage.
• Pack any spare lithium batteries for laptops, cellphones, etc. in your carry-on luggage only. Read DOT's Spare Battery Tips.
• Be ready to take off your shoes and put belts, mobile phones, and metal objects in your carry-on.
• Take your laptop out of its case and place it in the container provided for you.
• Have acceptable identification and your boarding pass out and ready to show.
• See Check-in Requirements for info about when to arrive at the airport.

Return to top

Other Website Resources

Use the links below to access the security guidelines of the government agencies for the countries that you're traveling to and through.

Return to top