Liquids in Cabin Bag: Rules, 100ml Hacks & Toiletry Pick

Airport security queues can quickly turn stressful when travellers are told their liquids in cabin bag don’t meet regulations. Toiletries get pulled out, bags are unpacked in a hurry, and security lines slow to a crawl. The 100ml liquid rule is one of the most common reasons for delays yet it’s one of the easiest rules to follow when you know how to prepare.

EUME’s travel-ready toiletry systems take the guesswork out of liquid packing. With over 4.5 billion annual air passengers worldwide, and millions delayed by liquid-related issues, the right liquid bag for travel can save both time and stress. EUME’s leak-proof organisers, waterproof materials, and compliance-focused designs make liquid packing fast, secure, and globally approved.

What Are the Rules for Liquids in Cabin Bags?

Most international airports follow the same 100ml liquid rule. Each liquid must be in a container of no more than 100ml, and all your liquids should fit inside one transparent, resealable bag of up to 1 litre. This applies whether you’re flying from Heathrow, JFK, Dubai, or Singapore.

Why Airport Security Limits Liquids in Hand Luggage

The rule was introduced after the 2006 transatlantic plot involving liquid explosives disguised as drinks. Tests showed around 500ml of liquid explosive could cause serious damage to an aircraft.

The 100ml container limit ensures no single item could carry that risk while still allowing passengers to bring toiletries and essential liquids.

What Counts as a Liquid in Hand Luggage

The definition of liquids in cabin bag is broader than many expect. It includes:

• Gels, creams, and lotions
  
• Oils, serums, and perfumes
  
• Shampoos, conditioners, and liquid soaps
  
• Toothpaste and mouthwash
  
• Mascara, liquid eyeliner, and lip gloss
  
• Liquid or soft food items like honey, yoghurt, and jams

If it isn’t solid at room temperature, security will count it as a liquid.

How Much Liquid Can You Carry in a Cabin Bag

The 100ml liquid rule applies to the container’s capacity, not just the liquid inside. A half-filled 200ml bottle is still prohibited because the bottle itself exceeds the limit. All liquids must fit comfortably inside your liquid bag for travel without forcing the seal shut.

Can You Take Multiple 100ml Liquids in Your Hand Luggage?

Yes, as long as they all fit in your one permitted liquids bag. Many travellers can fit 8–10 small bottles inside a standard 20cm x 20cm or US quart-size bag.

The EUME Toiletry Kit is designed with travel-sized, leak-proof containers and an airport-approved transparent pouch so you can make the most of your allowance.

Best Hacks for Packing Liquids in Cabin Bags

Smart packing starts with the right bag. The EUME travel toiletry bag is made from waterproof nylon with an embossed taffeta lining for extra water resistance. It’s designed for both men and women, with details like a back zip for quick access, a sturdy vegan leather handle, and a hook for hanging in washrooms or near sinks.

Inside, there’s a spill-proof zip pocket, a detachable spill-proof pouch, elastic loops to hold toiletries in place, and mesh pockets for smaller items. Vegan leather pullers and a front circular zip make retrieval quick and easy, while its compact 23.5 x 10 x 20 cm size and 0.4kg weight keep it light enough for hand luggage.

How to make the most of your liquid allowance:

• Pack heavier-use liquids like shampoo in 100ml leak-proof bottles
  
• Use 50ml bottles for moisturisers or lotions to save space
  
• Store serums and perfumes in smaller 15–30ml bottles
  
• Place liquids in spill-proof compartments to protect clothes and electronics
  
• Keep your transparent liquid bag accessible for quick security checks

Special Cases: Baby Food, Medications & Exceptions

Certain items are exempt from the 100ml liquid rule. These include:

• Baby food, formula, and breast milk when travelling with an infant no volume limit, but must be declared
  
• Prescription medicines in original packaging, with supporting documents if required
  
• Liquid medical products like insulin or cough syrup, even if over 100ml.

Duty-Free Liquids and How to Travel With Them

Buying duty-free can be a great way to pick up larger liquid products, but be careful if you have connecting flights in another country. You may be required to go through security again, where the 100ml liquid rule still applies.

Tips for managing duty-free liquids:

• Buy large bottles only when your airport is your final destination
  
• Keep receipts and store items in tamper-evident bags
  
• Check connection airport rules before purchase
  
• Use an expandable section of your EUME case for bulky items

Toiletry Picks That Work With the 100ml Liquid Rule

Choosing the right toiletries is key to making the most of your liquid bag for travel. Concentrated and multi-purpose products mean fewer bottles without sacrificing your routine.

Your Global Travel Solution With EUME

Mastering liquids in cabin bag regulations isn’t about carrying less it’s about packing smarter. The EUME toiletry kit is built for efficiency, compliance, and style, offering waterproof protection, intelligent compartments, and travel-ready sizing. Backed by an 18-month warranty, it’s a long-term investment in stress-free travel.

When your liquid bag for travel is organised and compliant, you move through security faster, protect your belongings from leaks, and keep your routine intact no matter where you land. EUME makes that possible.

Shop from EUME now.

FAQS

What liquids are banned in cabin luggage?

Liquids that exceed the 100ml liquid rule in a single container are not allowed, even if partly full. Prohibited examples include large bottles of alcohol, full-sized shampoos, and big jars of spreads like peanut butter. Pack them in checked baggage instead of your liquid bag for travel to avoid confiscation.

Why is the limit 100ml? TSA science explained

The 100ml liquid rule is based on safety tests showing that containers over 100ml could hold enough liquid explosives to pose a risk to an aircraft. Security agencies worldwide adopted this standard after the 2006 plot to ensure consistent safety screening without banning essential toiletries in liquids in cabin bag allowances.

Can I carry perfume in my cabin bag?

Yes, as long as your perfume bottle is 100ml or smaller and fits into your liquid bag for travel. For example, a 30ml travel-size fragrance is ideal it complies with the rule, saves space, and keeps your favourite scent handy for in-flight or post-arrival use.