Can you take aerosols on a plane?
The short answer
Flammable aerosols such as WD-40 and spray paint are forbidden in both carry-on and checked bags. Non-flammable aerosols are allowed in both, up to 0.5 kg (about 17.6 oz) or 500 ml per container and 2 kg or 2 litres in total.
Flammable aerosols
The FAA says flammable aerosols that are not toiletries, such as WD-40 and spray paint, are forbidden in carry-on and checked baggage.
Non-flammable aerosols
The FAA allows non-flammable aerosols in both carry-on and checked bags. Each container is limited to 0.5 kg (the FAA rounds this to 18 oz) or 500 ml, and the total is 2 kg (70 oz) or 2 litres. The FAA says these amounts are included in, not added to, the toiletry limits.
Our own arithmetic: 0.5 kg is 17.6 oz, 2 kg is 70.5 oz and 2 litres is 67.6 fl oz, so the FAA figures are rounded.
In the cabin, the liquids rule still applies
Security screening limits liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags to 100 ml containers in most countries. See our TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule and liquids rules explained. The UK Civil Aviation Authority says cabin liquids are limited to 100 ml by security rules.
UK guidance
The UK CAA gives the same 0.5 kg or 0.5 litre limit per article and 2 kg or 2 litres in total, and asks that valve caps are fitted.
Sources: FAA PackSafe: aerosols, UK CAA: safety advice on what to pack. Read 7 November 2026. Rules change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take hairspray on a plane?
Toiletry aerosols follow the toiletry limits, and in the cabin the 100 ml liquids rule applies. See our hairspray page for the UK answer.
Can I take WD-40 or spray paint?
No. The FAA says flammable aerosols that are not toiletries are forbidden in carry-on and checked baggage.
Is there a total limit for aerosols?
Yes. The FAA gives 2 kg (70 oz) or 2 litres in total, with each container no more than 0.5 kg or 500 ml.