Aerosols are banned from checked luggage on commercial flights in the United States
You cannot pack aerosols in checked baggage on any commercial airline flight in the U.S., with very few exceptions. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibit pressurized aerosol cans in the cargo hold because they can rupture, leak, or explode if the cabin pressure or temperature changes during flight. This rule applies to all U.S. airlines and most international carriers.
The ban covers common items you might not think of as aerosols: spray deodorant, hairspray, spray sunscreen, spray paint, insect repellent, cooking spray, and air freshener. Even empty or nearly empty cans are prohibited because residual pressure remains inside. If you need these items at your destination, you have two options: pack them in carry-on luggage (with limits) or buy them after you arrive.
Key Takeaways
- All aerosol cans are banned from checked luggage on U.S. commercial flights, including empty or partially used cans.
- Some aerosols are allowed in carry-on bags in limited quantities—typically one 18 oz container per person for toiletries like deodorant and hairspray.
- Aerosols containing flammable liquids (spray paint, lighter fluid) are banned from both checked and carry-on luggage.
- The safest approach is to pack aerosol items in your checked bag only after you arrive at your destination, or buy them there.
- Different airlines may have stricter rules than the TSA minimum, so check your airline's website before packing.
Which aerosols are allowed in carry-on bags
A limited number of aerosols can go in your carry-on luggage if they meet TSA rules. You are allowed one 18-ounce container of a non-flammable, non-toxic aerosol per person in your carry-on bag. This covers most personal care aerosols: deodorant, hairspray, and spray sunscreen. The container must have a safety cap to prevent accidental discharge, and the total amount of all aerosols in your carry-on cannot exceed 2 liters (about 68 ounces) per person.
Aerosols containing alcohol—like some body sprays or cologne—may be allowed in carry-on bags depending on the alcohol content and the airline's policy. Call your airline before packing to confirm. Aerosols that are flammable or contain hazardous materials are never allowed in carry-on bags, even in small quantities.
Aerosols that are banned from all luggage
Certain aerosols cannot travel with you in any form of luggage on a commercial flight. These include spray paint, spray adhesive, lighter fluid, propane, butane, and any aerosol labeled as flammable or containing hazardous materials. Insect repellent aerosols are also prohibited on most airlines, though some non-aerosol insect repellents (like lotions or wipes) may be allowed in checked bags.
Oxygen canisters and self-defense sprays like pepper spray or mace are completely banned from both checked and carry-on luggage on all U.S. flights. If you rely on an oxygen canister for medical reasons, contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight to arrange a medical exemption and proper documentation.
How to pack aerosols safely in carry-on luggage
If you are bringing an allowed aerosol in your carry-on bag, place it in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag along with any other liquids or gels you are carrying. This bag goes in a bin during security screening. Keep the aerosol upright and away from heat sources during your flight. Do not pack aerosols near electronics or items that could be damaged if the can leaked.
Arrive at security with extra time to allow TSA officers to inspect your aerosol if they choose. If the can appears damaged, leaking, or the safety cap is missing, TSA will confiscate it. Once you pass through security, keep the aerosol in your carry-on bag during the flight—never in the overhead bin, where temperature and pressure changes are more extreme.
What happens if you pack an aerosol in checked luggage
If TSA discovers an aerosol in your checked bag during screening, the bag will be pulled from the conveyor and you will be notified. The aerosol will be removed and discarded. You will not receive a refund, and depending on what else is in your bag, your luggage may be delayed or held for further inspection. If the aerosol is flammable or hazardous, you may face a fine of up to $75,000 and criminal charges, though this is rare for accidental violations.
To avoid this, inspect your checked bag before you seal it. Check pockets, side compartments, and toiletry bags for any pressurized containers. If you are unsure whether an item is an aerosol, look at the label or ask at the airline counter before checking your bag.
Alternatives to packing aerosols
The simplest option is to buy aerosol items after you arrive at your destination. Most hotels provide basic toiletries, and drugstores, supermarkets, and convenience stores near your hotel sell deodorant, hairspray, and sunscreen. This approach costs a little more but eliminates packing stress and avoids TSA delays.
If you prefer to travel with your own products, switch to non-aerosol versions for flights. Solid deodorant, powder sunscreen, dry shampoo in powder form, and pump-spray bottles are all allowed in checked and carry-on luggage without restrictions. These alternatives often take up less space and are less likely to leak during travel. Many travelers find they prefer these formats anyway because they are easier to use and last longer than aerosols.
International flights and different airline rules
International airlines follow similar aerosol bans, but rules vary by country and carrier. European airlines, for example, may have stricter limits on the size of aerosol containers allowed in carry-on bags. If you are flying internationally, check your airline's website or call their customer service line at least one week before your flight. Some airlines ban aerosols from carry-on luggage entirely, even if the TSA allows them.
If you are connecting through multiple airports, remember that each leg of your journey is subject to the rules of the country you are departing from. An aerosol allowed in your carry-on from New York to London may not be allowed on your London-to-Paris flight. When in doubt, pack aerosols in your checked bag only if it is your final destination, or leave them behind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pack a nearly empty aerosol can in my checked bag?
No. Even if an aerosol can is nearly empty or completely empty, it still contains pressurized gas and is prohibited in checked luggage. The TSA does not make exceptions for partially used cans. If you want to travel with a product, either pack it in your carry-on (if allowed) or buy a new one at your destination.
Is spray sunscreen allowed in carry-on bags?
Yes, spray sunscreen is allowed in carry-on bags in a single container of up to 18 ounces per person. It must go through security in a clear plastic bag with your other liquids and gels. Check your airline's website first, as some carriers have stricter rules than the TSA minimum.
What if I forgot an aerosol was in my checked bag and it made it through security?
If your bag was screened and the aerosol was not found, it traveled in the cargo hold. This is dangerous and against regulations, but if your flight completed safely, no action is needed. For your next flight, inspect your bag carefully before checking it. If you discover an aerosol in your bag after you have checked it, inform a TSA officer or airline staff when ready.
Are dry shampoo aerosols allowed in carry-on luggage?
Yes, dry shampoo in aerosol form is allowed in carry-on bags as a non-flammable aerosol, limited to one 18-ounce container per person. However, dry shampoo also comes in powder form, which has no restrictions and is easier to pack. Consider switching to the powder version to avoid any confusion at security.
Can I bring an aerosol if I have a medical reason?
Medical aerosols like asthma inhalers and oxygen canisters have different rules. Asthma inhalers are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage without quantity limits. Oxygen canisters require advance notice to your airline and medical documentation. Contact your airline at least 48 hours before your flight if you need to travel with a medical aerosol.