Can you take perfume in hand luggage?
Yes, within the liquids rules. GOV.UK lists perfumes with cosmetics and toiletries as liquids: at most UK airports the container must be 100 ml or less, and some airports allow up to 2 litres. Duty-free perfume can go through if it is sealed in a security bag with the receipt.
Perfume in hand luggage and hold luggage (UK)
| Item | Hand luggage | Hold luggage |
|---|---|---|
| Perfume | Yes, as a liquid (100 ml container at most airports; up to 2 litres at some) | If possible pack liquids in hold luggage |
| Perfume bought at the airport or on a plane (duty free) | Yes, if sealed in a security bag with a visible receipt | n/a |
These rules apply at UK airports. GOV.UK says the rules for carrying liquids depend on the airport: at most airports you cannot take liquid containers larger than 100 ml through security, even if the container is only part full, while some airports allow containers of up to 2 litres. See which UK airports have changed on our UK airports liquids list and check the airport you fly from, any airports you travel through, and your return journey. If a transparent bag is required it must be single, resealable, hold no more than a litre and measure about 20 cm x 20 cm, one bag per person.
GOV.UK says liquids bought at an airport or on a plane can go through security if the items are sealed inside a security bag when you buy them and the receipt is sealed in the bag and visible. Do not open the bag until you reach your final destination.
Airport security staff can refuse anything they consider dangerous, even if it is normally allowed, and your airline may add its own limits, so check with your airline if you are unsure. Other countries have their own rules, so check the rules at your destination and any connecting airports too.
Related questions
- Deodorant in hand luggage
- Makeup in hand luggage
- Toiletries in hand luggage
- All items: what you can take in hand luggage
- Electronics, power banks and medication
Source: GOV.UK: Hand luggage restrictions at UK airports, Liquids. Checked 12 October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
- Can you take perfume in hand luggage?
- Perfume counts as a liquid under GOV.UK rules. At most UK airports the container must be 100 ml or less, and some airports allow up to 2 litres.
- Can you take duty-free perfume on a plane?
- GOV.UK says yes, if it is sealed in a security bag when you buy it with the receipt sealed in and visible, and you do not open the bag until your final destination.
Checked 12 October 2026 against GOV.UK. Rules change and airport staff have discretion, so confirm with your airline close to your travel date.