Can You Take Aerosols on a Plane? | Hand Luggage Rules

vape community discussions

Can You Take Aerosols on a Plane? What the Rules Say

you can take aerosols on a plane, but there are strict rules depending on whether you're packing them in your hand luggage or your checked baggage. The type of aerosol — whether it’s deodorant, hairspray, or insect repellent — also matters.

If you’re travelling from a UK airport, these rules apply whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.

Can You Take Aerosols in Hand Luggage?


Yes — but only if they’re 100ml or less per container, and they must fit within your 1-litre clear plastic liquids bag. This applies to:

  • Deodorant sprays

  • Hairspray

  • Body spray

  • Insect repellent

  • Shaving foam or gel

  • Sunscreen sprays

Each container must be 100ml or smaller, even if it’s half full. And you’re limited to one resealable clear bag per passenger — it must zip shut and be no larger than 20cm x 20cm.

If your aerosol is larger than 100ml, it will be confiscated at security.

Can You Take Aerosols in Checked Luggage?

Yes, you can pack larger aerosols in your checked luggage, but there are still restrictions.

  • Each aerosol must be under 500ml or 500g

  • Total aerosols must not exceed 2 litres or 2kg per passenger

  • Aerosols must have a protective cap to prevent accidental spraying

  • Only non-flammable, non-toxic aerosols are allowed (e.g. toiletries, not paint or cleaning sprays)

It’s best to check your airline’s policy, but in general, items like hairspray, deodorant, dry shampoo and shaving foam are fine in the hold.

Aerosols You Can’t Take

Some aerosols are banned altogether due to flammability or hazardous content, such as:

  • Spray paint

  • WD-40 or lubricants

  • Butane gas

  • Oven cleaners or industrial sprays

  • Pepper spray or self-defence sprays

These are classed as dangerous goods and are prohibited in both hand and checked luggage.

Airport Security Tips

  • Don’t try to sneak in a 150ml can “because it’s nearly empty” — it will be taken

  • Put aerosols in an easy-to-reach part of your hand luggage for screening

  • Keep lids on at all times to avoid leaks

  • If in doubt, buy travel-size versions or pick them up after security


Final Thought

Yes, you can take aerosols on a plane — but with conditions. For hand luggage, they must be 100ml or less and go in your liquids bag. For hold luggage, larger cans are allowed up to 500ml, as long as they’re non-flammable and properly sealed.

Pack smart, follow the rules, and your spray essentials will make it to your destination with you.