Heading out on a journey but unsure if you can pack perfume in your carry-on? You don't want to get caught at the TSA checkpoint with your precious fragrance being confiscated. While leaving it behind is an option, there are safe ways to bring your perfume along without risking a loss or damage to that expensive bottle. Continue reading to find out how much perfume is allowed on a plane and the best way to pack it securely.
How to Pack Perfume in Your Carry-on
TSA regulations permit you to carry perfume in your carry-on bag as long as the bottle is no larger than 3.4 oz. (100 mL). Be sure to place the bottle in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag when passing through airport security to ensure smooth screening.
Instructions
Is it allowed to bring perfume on a plane?

- The TSA's '3-1-1' rule is an easy way to remember the limits: you can carry up to a 3.4 oz (100mL) container, your liquids must fit in a 1-quart clear bag, and you’re allowed only 1 bag per passenger.
- The 3-1-1 rule applies even if the perfume is unopened and sealed.
- Any containers larger than 3.4 oz. (100 mL) need to be placed in your checked luggage, regardless of whether they are full or not.
- Note that the TSA officer ultimately decides what can pass through the checkpoint.
How to Pack Perfume in Your Carry-On

- Transfer your fragrance into a travel atomizer. These devices are simple to use and can be found widely online, such as on Amazon.
- Solid perfumes are another great alternative. While it might be trickier to find your preferred scent in solid form, brands like Lush, Glossier, and Diptyque offer quality solid options.
- Most regular perfume bottles are already within the TSA's size limit, so you might not need to transfer it to a smaller container.


- After passing through security, consider wrapping the clear bag in a soft item from your carry-on for extra protection.
How to Pack Perfume in a Checked Bag


- The safest option is to pack perfume in its original box, as most come with protective padding that helps keep the bottle safe.
- Alternatively, packing cubes can be used to organize your luggage and offer extra cushioning, like wrapping your perfume in socks or a towel.
Frequently Asked Questions for Traveling with Perfume

- If the airport offers rental lockers, you may be able to store your perfume there for the duration of your trip. These lockers typically cost $8 - $12 per day and may have rental duration limits. Check with your departure airport to see if lockers are available.

- Several countries, including the UK, Amsterdam, and Germany, may soon ease liquid restrictions as they implement advanced CT scanners in their airport security checkpoints.

- In the European Union, duty-free liquids must be carried as hand luggage with the receipt in a sealed security bag provided at the time of purchase. The bag must remain sealed until you reach your destination.

- Liquids in containers larger than 100 mL (3.4 oz.) must be placed in checked luggage.
- Expect changes to hold luggage liquid rules soon due to the installation of advanced CT scanners in security areas.


- Note: “Hand luggage” is a term commonly used in the United Kingdom for carry-on bags.

- Cologne is short for eau de cologne, a fragrance concentration. However, many people use the term specifically for men's scents.
Warnings
- Taking perfume on a plane means there's a risk of spills or breakage, especially during rough handling or turbulence. This could not only ruin your fragrance but also stain your clothes or other belongings.
- Exposure to heat and light can cause your perfume to oxidize or chemically degrade, leading to a loss of potency or a change in scent.
- Many people are allergic to certain fragrances, which can lead to headaches, skin reactions, or respiratory issues. Wearing or bringing perfume on a plane could cause discomfort or health concerns for other passengers.