Can Aerosol Cans Go on a Plane in Checked Luggage?

Aerosol cans are convenient and versatile products that we use for various purposes, such as personal hygiene, health care, beauty, and household maintenance. However, when it comes to flying, aerosol cans can pose some challenges and risks. You may be wondering if you can pack aerosol cans in your checked luggage without violating any rules or causing any safety issues.

The answer is yes, you can pack aerosol cans in your checked luggage, but you need to follow some guidelines and restrictions set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

In this post, we’ll explain what these regulations are, what types of aerosols you can and can’t bring, and how to pack them properly and securely.

TSA Rules for Aerosols in Checked Luggage

The TSA is responsible for screening passengers and baggage at US airports to ensure security and safety. The TSA allows aerosols in checked luggage, as long as they are not flammable or hazardous.

According to the TSA website, aerosols that are permitted in checked bags include:

• Cologne
• Deodorant
• Dry Shampoo
• Hairspray
• Hair texturizer
• Insect repellent
• Perfume
• Shaving cream
• Sunscreen

However, there are some aerosols that are prohibited in both checked and carry-on bags. These include:

• Aerosol insecticide (labeled as hazardous)
• Spray paint

If you’re not sure if your aerosol can is allowed or not, you can check the TSA’s list of prohibited items or use their online tool “What Can I Bring?“.

If you need clarification for an item not found on the TSA’s website, you can contact the TSA directly:

• Facebook Messenger: www.fb.com/AskTSA
• Text Message: Text “Travel” to AskTSA (275-872)
• Twitter: @AskTSA

TSA Rules for Aerosols in Carry On Luggage

For the most part, aerosols are allowed in carry-on luggage. However, they must adhere to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Each liquid container (including aerosols) can be no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Your containers must be packed in a 1-quart sized clear resealable plastic bag.

The table above lists common aerosol items and whether they can be packed in your carry-on baggage.

Typical aerosol products allowed in carry-on luggage include:

• Cologne
• Deodorant
• Dry shampoo
• Hair spray
• Hair texturizer
• Insect repellent
• Perfume
• Shaving cream
• Sunscreen

Typical aerosol products prohibited in carry-on baggage include:

• Aerosol insecticide
• Spray paint

You can contact TSA on Twitter if you’re not sure if your specific aerosol product is allowed.

FAA Rules for Aerosols in Checked Luggage

The FAA is the agency that regulates the safety of civil aviation in the US. The FAA limits the total amount of aerosols that you can bring in your checked luggage.

According to the FAA website, each passenger can’t travel with more than 70 ounces (2 kilograms) or 68 fluid ounces (2 liters).

Also, each container can be no heavier than 18 ounces (0.5 kilograms) or larger than 17 fluid ounces (500 ml).

These limits apply to restricted medicinal and toiletry items only. They do not apply to non-restricted articles that are not flammable or hazardous.

How to Pack Aerosols in Checked Luggage

To pack aerosols in your checked luggage safely and securely, you should follow these tips:

Check the Size and Quantity of Your Aerosol Cans

Checked Baggage

As mentioned earlier, according to the FAA, the total amount of aerosols that you can bring in your checked baggage can’t exceed 70 ounces (2 kilograms) or 68 fluid ounces (2 liters).

Carry On Baggage

For carry-on luggage, aerosol cans must be less than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in size and placed in a clear, sealable plastic bag with other liquids and gels. You can only bring one quart-sized bag of liquids and gels per passenger.

Some airlines may have different policies on the size and quantity of aerosols that you can carry, so make sure you check with your airline before flying or visit their website for more information.

Check the Type and Purpose of Your Aerosol Can

Aerosols that are personal, medicinal, and toilet items are those that are sprayed on your body, such as deodorant, hairspray, shaving cream, or perfume. These can generally be carried on board or in checked baggage, within quantity limits.

Aerosols that are non-flammable for sporting or home use, such as sunscreen, insect repellent, or stain remover, can also be carried on board or in checked baggage.

However, aerosols that are flammable or explosive, such as spray paint, lighter fluid, or fireworks, are not allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.

Hot Tip: Carefully read the labeling on your aerosol can. They usually have information about whether they are categorized as a hazardous (HAZMAT) item or other safety information.

Check the Airline and Destination Regulations

Airlines

Different airlines may have different policies on what aerosols are allowed and how they should be packed. It’s best to check with your airline before flying or visit their website for more information.

Destination Country

You should also check the regulations of your destination country, as some countries may have stricter rules on what aerosols are allowed or banned.

You may want to consider not packing the aerosol item altogether. Instead, you can research to see whether the product is available at your destination. You can then buy it when you arrive.

Hot Tip: If you plan to buy your aerosol product at your destination country, research the local cost of the item, converting the currency if necessary.

For example, through my travel experience, I’ve found that aerosol deodorants and spray sunscreens are much more expensive in Southeast Asia.

If you’re traveling domestically, you can order the item online and have it delivered to your destination accommodation.

Pack Your Aerosol Cans Properly

To prevent leakage or damage to your aerosol cans, you should pack them securely in your luggage. You can wrap them in plastic bags or bubble wrap to protect them from pressure changes or punctures.

You can also place them in a separate compartment or container to avoid contact with other items in your luggage. Make sure the caps or lids of your aerosol cans are tightly closed.

Don’t overpack your suitcase or force your aerosol cans into tight spaces. This could cause them to rupture or leak.

Label Your Aerosol Cans Clearly

To avoid any confusion or delays at the security screening, you should label your aerosol cans clearly with their contents and purpose. You can use a permanent marker or a sticker to write the name of the product and whether it is for personal, medicinal, or home use.

You can also include a note explaining why you need to bring the aerosol cans with you, especially if they are for medical reasons.

Final Thoughts

Aerosol cans are generally allowed in checked luggage within the US and abroad, but there are some rules and restrictions that you need to follow. You can bring personal care products, medicinal products, toiletry products, and household products that are not flammable or hazardous. You cannot bring flammable liquids or gases, explosive or corrosive materials, or oxidizing substances or organic peroxides.

You also need to limit the number of aerosols that you pack in your checked bags. The FAA limits the total amount per passenger to 70 ounces (2 kilograms) or 68 fluid ounces (2 liters), and the capacity of each container to 18 ounces (0.5 kilograms) or 17 fluid ounces (500 milliliters).

To pack aerosols safely and securely in your checked luggage, you should make sure they are not damaged or leaking; pack them in a plastic bag or a padded pouch; place them away from heat sources or sharp objects; label them clearly with their contents and purpose; do not overpack your suitcase; and check the regulations of your destination country before you travel.

By following these tips, you can avoid any problems or delays at the airport and enjoy your trip with your favorite aerosol products.

Sources

• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)