Can I take duty free alcohol on a plane, and how much?
The short answer
GOV.UK says liquids bought at duty free or in the airport are allowed up to 2 litres if sealed in a security bag with a visible sealed receipt, and the bag must stay unopened until your final destination. Countries outside the UK may have different transit rules.
The sealed bag rule
The GOV.UK liquids page says duty free and airport purchases are allowed up to 2 litres if sealed in a security bag with a visible sealed receipt. Do not open the bag until you reach your final destination. It adds that some airports allow containers up to 2 litres and recommends checking each airport on your journey.
Connecting flights
GOV.UK says countries outside the UK might have different rules on carrying liquids as a transit or transfer passenger, and advises checking with airlines and airports before you travel. we did not read other countries' rules, so I cannot give a limit for a connection.
Customs allowances on arrival in Great Britain
- Beer and cider: 42 litres.
- Wine: 18 litres.
- Spirits over 22% ABV: 4 litres.
- Alcohol up to 22% ABV, excluding beer, cider and wine: 9 litres.
Northern Ireland and under 17s
From outside the EU into Northern Ireland, the limits are lower: beer and cider 16 litres, wine 4 litres, spirits over 22% ABV 1 litre, and up to 22% ABV 2 litres. Exceeding a limit means paying tax and duty on everything in that category. From the EU, GOV.UK says there are no limits if tax has been paid. For travellers under 17 in Great Britain there are no alcohol allowances, and goods must be declared. This page is UK only; US customs allowances were not read.
Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Sources: GOV.UK: Liquids in hand luggage, GOV.UK: Bringing goods into the UK for personal use, GOV.UK: Hand luggage restrictions. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
How much duty free alcohol can I take on a plane?
GOV.UK says up to 2 litres of liquids bought at duty free, sealed in a security bag with a visible sealed receipt.
When can I open the bag?
GOV.UK says not until you reach your final destination.
What if I have a connecting flight?
GOV.UK says other countries may have different rules for transit passengers, so check with your airline and airports.
How much spirits can I bring into Great Britain?
4 litres of spirits over 22% ABV within your personal allowances, per GOV.UK.
Are the limits different for Northern Ireland?
Yes. From outside the EU, spirits over 22% ABV are limited to 1 litre, and wine to 4 litres.