Aerosols Are Banned From Both Checked and Carry-On Luggage

You cannot pack aerosols in checked luggage. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibit all aerosols in checked bags, with no exceptions for consumer products. This includes deodorant, hairspray, spray sunscreen, insect repellent, cooking spray, and air freshener — even if the can is nearly empty.

The ban exists because aerosols are pressurized containers. If cabin pressure drops or the cargo hold temperature shifts during flight, the can may rupture or leak, creating a fire hazard in an enclosed space where the crew cannot reach it quickly. A single leaking aerosol can damage other luggage and cargo, and in rare cases, ignite.

Aerosols are also banned from carry-on bags under the same rules. If you need these products at your destination, you must buy them after you land or pack non-aerosol alternatives instead.

Key Takeaways

  • All aerosols — including deodorant, hairspray, and sunscreen — are prohibited in checked luggage by federal law.
  • Aerosols are also banned from carry-on bags, so you cannot bring them through security at all.
  • The ban applies to full cans and nearly-empty cans equally; the amount inside does not matter.
  • Non-aerosol versions of common products (solid deodorant, lotion sunscreen, pump hairspray) are allowed in checked bags and carry-on bags.
  • If TSA finds an aerosol in your luggage, the item will be confiscated and you may face a fine.

What Counts as an Aerosol Under TSA Rules

An aerosol is any product dispensed by pressing a button or valve that releases a pressurized spray. The TSA defines aerosols by how they work, not what they contain. A can labeled "spray" or "pressurized" is an aerosol. A pump bottle or roll-on is not.

Common aerosols that travelers often try to pack include body spray, antiperspirant spray, dry shampoo, cooking spray, spray paint, spray adhesive, and compressed air dusters. Insect repellent in aerosol form is also banned, though non-aerosol insect repellent in a solid or liquid form may be allowed in checked bags only (not carry-on).

The rule applies regardless of the product's purpose or how much is left in the can. A nearly-empty aerosol is still an aerosol and will be confiscated.

Non-Aerosol Alternatives You Can Pack Instead

For most aerosol products, a non-aerosol version exists and is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage. Solid stick deodorant and antiperspirant work as well as spray versions and take up less space. Lotion-based sunscreen and moisturizer replace spray sunscreen. Pump hairspray or liquid hair gel replace aerosol hairspray.

If you use dry shampoo, look for powder versions in a shaker bottle instead of an aerosol can. For cooking, pack a small bottle of cooking oil instead of cooking spray. These alternatives often cost less and last longer than aerosols anyway.

Check the product label before packing. If it says "spray" or "pressurized," it is an aerosol. If it says "pump," "roll-on," "stick," "gel," "lotion," or "powder," it is allowed.

What Happens If TSA Finds an Aerosol in Your Luggage

If TSA discovers an aerosol during baggage screening, the item will be removed and thrown away. You will not be charged for the item itself, but you may face a civil penalty. The TSA can fine passengers up to $75 for a first violation and up to $250 for repeat violations, though fines are not always issued for a single aerosol.

If you are checking a bag at the airport and TSA finds an aerosol inside, you will be notified after your flight lands or during your trip. If you are carrying the aerosol through security, it will be confiscated at the checkpoint and you will not be allowed to bring it on the plane.

The best approach is to check your luggage before you leave home. Open every bag and pocket, and remove anything in a pressurized spray can.

Other Common Items Banned From Checked Luggage

Aerosols are one of many items prohibited in checked bags. Flammable liquids and gels — including nail polish, nail polish remover, lighter fluid, and paint thinner — are banned. Batteries, including lithium-ion batteries in electronics, have strict rules: some are allowed in carry-on only, and some are banned entirely.

Firearms, ammunition, and explosives are prohibited. Certain tools and sharp objects are also banned, including box cutters, ice picks, and tools longer than 7 inches. Sporting equipment like baseball bats and ski poles may be allowed in checked bags but not carry-on.

The TSA website has a full list of prohibited items searchable by name. If you are unsure whether something is allowed, search for it there before you pack.

Rules for International Flights and Other Airlines

The TSA rules explore to all flights departing from the United States, including international flights. However, the country you are flying to may have additional restrictions. Some countries ban more items than the TSA does, or have stricter rules about what can be in checked luggage.

If you are flying internationally, check the regulations of your destination country and any countries you will connect through. Your airline's website usually lists these rules, or you can call the airline directly.

Private airlines and charter flights may have different rules than commercial carriers. If you are flying on a private plane or charter service, contact the operator before packing to confirm what is allowed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack an aerosol if the cap is on tight?

No. The cap does not prevent the can from rupturing if pressure changes during flight. All aerosols are banned from checked and carry-on luggage, regardless of how securely the cap is fastened.

Is an empty aerosol can allowed?

No. Even a completely empty aerosol can is prohibited because residual gas remains inside and can still rupture under pressure changes. If you want to pack a can, it must be a non-aerosol product.

What if I buy an aerosol at the airport after security?

You can bring an aerosol purchased in the airport's find area onto the plane in your carry-on bag. However, you cannot pack it in checked luggage once you board. If you need the product at your destination, buy it after you land instead.

Are spray deodorant and antiperspirant spray the same thing?

They are different products, but both are aerosols and both are banned. Deodorant masks odor; antiperspirant reduces sweating. Both are usually sold in spray form, and both are prohibited. Use a solid stick version instead.

Can I pack a small travel-size aerosol?

No. Size does not matter. A travel-size aerosol is still a pressurized container and is prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage. The TSA does not make exceptions for small quantities.