Airport security check: Items allowed for handcarried baggage (liquids, aerosols and gels)

During our recent trip to Cebu, my uncle asked me if he can bring his perfume on his handcarry bag. I told him if it’s less than 100 ml, it’s fine. I gave him one of my Ziploc bags so he can seal it in as well. My reply to him was just based from my experience at the Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport, where I was given a small resealable plastic pouch by the airport security personnel where I can put my small-sized cosmetics & toiletries. The yogurt drinks I brought with me had to be consumed though before I went through the airport security check with my handcarried baggage.

Most airlines provide a guideline for passengers regarding the weight, size and substance of items allowed for handcarry. We know sharp objects such as scissors and nailcutters are not allowed and should be checked in. Liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) are used to be prohibited as handcarried items but nowadays air travelers can carry them in limited amounts according to airport security guidelines.

Here are the rules set by the Department of Transportation & Communications (DOTC) – Office for Transportation Security OTS OMC No. 2007-001 – effective August 1, 2007. I am sharing this for those traveling within/from the Philippines who are still confused about bringing their favorite fragrance or personal essentials such as contact lens solution and other LAGs with them in their handcarry bag.

The new rules apply to drinks, creams, perfumes, sprays, gels, toothpastes, lipstick, lip balm and similar substances

Items Allowed
Empty containers: Empty containers such as flasks or mugs
Cosmetics & Toiletries: Sanitary towels & Tampons; Talcum powder; Contact lenses & contact lens solution
Food: Sandwiches; Fruit; Vegetables; Other solid foods
Baby Products: Empty containers such as empty bottles, beakers or flasks; Baby milk; Sterilized baby water; Baby juice; Baby products in liquid, gel or paste form; Baby food powder
Medicines: Essential prescribed medication; Essential non-prescribed medication e.g. cough syrup; Insulin; Medical devices

Items Over 100ml not allowed
Drinks: Any drinks in cans, bottles, plastic containers, etc.
Liquid Cosmetics and Toiletries: All cosmetics and toiletries in liquid, gel form, for example: Fragrance and perfume, Creams, Liquid Foundations and lip gloss, Mascara, Toothpaste, All products in pressurized containers e.g. hairspray and shaving foam/gel, Deodorants
Food: Any liquid-based food products in packets, tubes, plastic or tin containers, for example: Jams and syrups, Sauces, Pastries, Yogurts, Soups (carton or otherwise), Stews or curry

Regarding LAGs, the US Transportation Security Administration (TSA) encourages the 3-1-1 for Carry-Ons, i.e. “3.4 ounce bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin.”

3-1-1 Totally Compliant Carry-on Kit

Likewise, the Singapore Changi Airport guide offers detailed instructions for liquids, aerosols and gels in hand-carried luggage. Being knowledgeable and compliant about which items to bring for handcarry and which needed to be checked in ensures a smooth and hassle-free process at the airport security checkpoint.