Can You Bring Cologne on a Plane? Your 2024 Guide

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Can you bring Cologne on a plane? If this question is on your mind, you’ve come to the right place. We’ll answer all the questions you may have. Let’s get started!

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Can You Bring Cologne on a Plane?

A very common question before flying is, “Can you bring cologne on a plane?”.

The short answer is yes, but there are specific rules to consider, especially if you’re carrying it in your hand luggage.

With various TSA regulations, understanding the dos and don’ts of packing cologne and perfume bottles can be confusing.

Here’s everything you need to know:


Cologne in Carry on Luggage

If you’re thinking, “Can I bring cologne in my carry-on?” or “How big is cologne allowed in my carry-on?” then the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules are clear.

You can carry cologne bottles of up to 3.4 oz actual size or less per item in your hand luggage. These must be placed in a quart-sized bag when passing through security checkpoints.

Remember, if you travel with the right amount of liquid in a container that’s mostly empty, you still won’t be able to take it due to the size of the container.

Keep in mind the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rule:

  • 3.4 Ounces (100 ml) or Less per Container: Any gels, aerosols, creams, pastes, and liquids you wish to carry in your hand luggage should be in a container that holds 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. This applies to items like toothpaste, lotions, shampoos, and colognes or perfumes.
  • 1 Quart-sized Bag: All your small bottles and containers should fit into a clear, quart-sized resealable plastic bag. This bag helps in easy inspection at security checkpoints.
  • 1 Bag per Passenger: Each traveler is allowed only one quart-sized bag. If you’re travelling with family or friends, remember that each person should have a separate bag.

When you go through security, any liquids need to be removed from your luggage and put in the tray separately along with any electronics.


Can You Bring Cologne in Checked Luggage?

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For those with questions like, “Can I bring a bigger cologne bottle on a plane?” packing them in your checked luggage is the way to go.

If you have cologne bottles or multiple perfume items that exceed the hand luggage restrictions, ensure they are safely packed to avoid breakages during your journey.

However, the amount of perfume or aerosols can’t exceed 2kg, 2L or 70 ounces. Each container must not be bigger than 500ml.


TSA Guidelines for Bringing Perfume on a Plane

Here’s a snapshot of the TSA advice for bringing cologne or perfume on a plane:

can you bring perfume on a plane


Airport Security and Duty-Free Perfume

Airport security is stringent when it comes to liquids in carry-on baggage.

However, if you purchase cologne or perfume from duty-free shops at the airport, they are generally placed in a tamper-evident bag.

This means you can bring larger bottles, even on international flights, without issues at security checkpoints. However, if you have a connecting flight, this may mean you need to go through security again, and you WILL NOT be able to bring the perfume onto your next flight.

Duty-free cologne and duty-free perfume are also sometimes more affordable due to the lack of customs duty and other taxes.

So, not only can you get good deals, but you can also bring them on board without hassle.


Travelling with Cologne Tips

If you travel frequently, I highly recommend investing in a travel-size cologne. This needs ti be under 100ml or 3.4 oz to take it in your hand luggage.

You can also decant perfume from your existing bottles into travel-sized bottles.

Another alternative is to bring solid cologne on holiday with you instead of liquid cologne. This doesn’t fall under the liquid rule and can be a good idea on long flights.

Remember, if you purchase cologne after security, you can bring it on the plane, whatever the size.

Cologne bottles are fragile if you’re packing cologne in your checked luggage. It’s best to bubble wrap them or wrap them in socks. The TSA states that the button or nozzle must be protected by suitable means to protect against accidental release during the flight.


FAQs: Bringing Cologne on a Plane

Can I bring a 1.7oz bottle of cologne on the plane?

Yes, you can. The TSA permits liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per item in carry-on luggage. A 1.7oz bottle falls within this limit and can be taken onboard.

Can I take 100ml of aftershave on the plane?

Absolutely. The TSA allows liquids in containers up to 3.4 ounces, which is equivalent to 100ml. So, you can bring your 100ml bottle of aftershave in your carry-on.

Does cologne need to be in a bag for TSA?

Yes, it does. For carry-on luggage, the TSA requires all liquids, gels, and aerosols, including cologne, to be placed in a single quart-sized resealable clear plastic bag. Each passenger is allowed one such bag.

Does cologne have to be in a Ziploc bag?

While the TSA stipulates that liquids must be in a quart-sized resealable clear plastic bag, it doesn’t have to be specifically a “Ziploc” brand bag. However, using a Ziploc or a similar resealable bag ensures that you meet the requirements and makes the screening process smoother.

Can you take aftershave at 125ml in a carry-on bag?

No, you cannot. The TSA limits liquids in carry-on bags to containers that hold 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. A 125ml bottle exceeds this limit. If you wish to transport aftershave in a 125ml container, it must be placed in your checked luggage.


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Sylvie Simpson is the founder of European Cities with Kids. For the past 6 years, she has been travelling all over Europe whenever she has the chance, both solo, for work and with her daughter. Sylvie is on a mission to help people make the most of city breaks in Europe with kids and helps over 50,000 readers per month plan and make the most of their trips in Europe with kids.