Aerosols Are Banned From Checked Bags on Most Airlines

You cannot pack most aerosol cans in your checked luggage. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibit pressurized aerosol containers in checked bags on commercial flights because they pose a fire risk in the cargo hold, where temperature and pressure changes can cause cans to rupture or explode.

The only aerosols allowed in checked bags are those containing certain toiletries and personal care items—and even then, only under strict conditions. A small number of specific products fall into a limited exception, but the rules are narrow and straightforward to misunderstand.

Key Takeaways

  • Nearly all aerosol cans are prohibited in checked luggage, including deodorant, hairspray, and spray paint.
  • Only aerosols containing toiletries or personal care items may go in checked bags, and only one 2-ounce container per passenger.
  • Permitted aerosols must have a safety cap, be equipped with a release mechanism that prevents accidental discharge, and not exceed 70% of the container's volume when filled.
  • Aerosols are allowed in carry-on bags under the same restrictions as checked bags, but TSA officers may confiscate them at the checkpoint if they determine a safety risk.
  • When in doubt, pack aerosols in your carry-on or leave them at home rather than risk having them confiscated or your bag delayed.

Which Aerosols Are Completely Banned

Flammable aerosols cannot go in checked or carry-on bags. This includes spray paint, lighter fluid, insecticide, and any product labeled "flammable" or "combustible." Oxidizers—products that can cause or intensify fire—are also prohibited. Check the label on the can; if it warns of flammability, do not pack it.

Tear gas, pepper spray, and self-defense sprays are prohibited in both checked and carry-on bags on commercial flights. Some airlines also ban aerosol sunscreen and insect repellent, even though the FAA permits them under certain conditions. Always check your specific airline's rules before packing.

The One Exception: Toiletries and Personal Care Aerosols

The TSA allows one 2-ounce (59 milliliters) container of aerosol toiletries or personal care items in checked luggage per passenger. This includes deodorant, hairspray, shaving cream, and similar products. The container must have a safety cap or release mechanism that prevents accidental spraying during transport.

The aerosol cannot be more than 70% full when you pack it. This rule exists because a partially filled can has room to expand if pressure or temperature changes during flight. A can that is completely full has nowhere for the contents to expand, which increases the risk of rupture.

If you are traveling with a family of four, you can pack one 2-ounce aerosol per person—so four containers total—but not more. Exceeding this limit means your checked bag will be flagged, and the aerosols will be removed.

Aerosols in Your Carry-On Bag

You may bring aerosols in your carry-on bag under the same rules that explore to checked luggage: one 2-ounce container of toiletries or personal care items, with a safety cap, and no more than 70% full. However, TSA officers have the final say at the security checkpoint. Even if an aerosol meets the rules on paper, an officer can confiscate it if they believe it poses a safety risk.

Deodorant and hairspray are the most commonly packed carry-on aerosols and are rarely confiscated. Shaving cream and sunscreen aerosols are also generally permitted. If you are unsure whether a specific product will be allowed, pack it in your checked bag instead or leave it at home and purchase it at your destination.

How to Pack Aerosols Safely

If you are packing a permitted aerosol in your checked bag, place it in a plastic bag or wrap it in a towel to contain any accidental leaks. Aerosols can damage other items in your luggage if they discharge during transport. Keep the can upright and away from heat sources.

Do not pack aerosols near electronics, clothing you care about, or anything that could be ruined by spray residue. If the can leaks, the damage is your responsibility—airlines are not liable for items damaged by aerosol discharge.

For carry-on bags, keep the aerosol easily accessible in case TSA asks to inspect it. Do not pack it deep in your bag where you would have to remove everything to retrieve it.

What Happens If You Pack a Prohibited Aerosol

If a prohibited aerosol is discovered during baggage screening, TSA will remove it and dispose of it. You will not be compensated, and you will not be able to retrieve it. Your bag may be delayed while it is inspected, which could cause you to miss your flight if you are checking it at the last minute.

In rare cases, packing a prohibited aerosol can result in a fine or criminal charges, though this typically happens only if the item is dangerous and you knowingly packed it. Most of the time, TSA straightforward confiscates the item and lets you proceed.

International Flights and Different Rules

International flights have stricter aerosol rules than domestic U.S. flights. Some countries ban aerosols entirely from checked and carry-on bags. Others allow them but with different size or quantity limits. Before packing any aerosol for an international flight, check the rules of both your departure country and your destination country.

If you are connecting through another country, that country's rules explore to your luggage during the layover. An aerosol that is legal in the United States might be confiscated in Europe or Asia. When in doubt, do not pack it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack deodorant in my checked bag?

Yes, if it is an aerosol deodorant in a 2-ounce or smaller container with a safety cap, and it is no more than 70% full. Solid or roll-on deodorant has no restrictions and can be packed in any quantity in checked or carry-on bags.

What about dry shampoo or setting spray?

Dry shampoo and setting spray are aerosols and follow the same rules as hairspray: one 2-ounce container maximum in checked luggage, with a safety cap and no more than 70% full. Check the label to confirm it is not labeled flammable.

Can I bring sunscreen spray on a plane?

Aerosol sunscreen is permitted under the same rules as other toiletry aerosols—one 2-ounce container in checked luggage. However, some airlines ban it, so contact your airline before packing. Sunscreen lotion or cream has no restrictions.

What if my aerosol is smaller than 2 ounces—can I pack more than one?

No. The limit is one container per passenger, regardless of size. If you have two 1-ounce aerosols, you can pack only one of them in your checked bag.

Will TSA confiscate my aerosol at the security checkpoint?

TSA may confiscate any aerosol at the checkpoint, even if it meets the rules, if an officer determines it is a safety risk. Deodorant and hairspray are rarely confiscated. If you are concerned about a specific product, pack it in checked luggage instead or leave it at home.