Hand Sanitizer Limits
Cabin limit 350ml per passenger (MoHFW Covid relaxation). Checked baggage allows larger bottles if sealed.
India still allows up to 350ml of hand sanitizer per passenger in cabin, provided bottles stay upright and labelled. Larger refills go in checked baggage, sealed and cushioned.
Key highlights
- Carry one or two bottles totalling 350ml—e.g., a 250ml pump + 100ml spare.
- Ensure the label shows brand, percentage, and manufacturer.
- Place the bottle in its own zip pouch to contain leaks.
During the pandemic MoCA relaxed the liquid rule for sanitizers from 100ml to 350ml. The exemption remains, but officers expect to see the printed alcohol percentage (60–80% ideal). Unlabelled liquids are treated as suspicious and may be discarded.
Cabin crew want the bottle accessible yet secure. A pump bottle that leaks onto aircraft seat cushions earns you a stern warning. Use flip-cap travel bottles or lockable pumps.
For checked baggage, treat sanitizer like any flammable liquid. Double-bag, keep away from electronics, and declare large volumes if you’re transporting for charity or work.
When allowed vs. when not
✅ When it's allowed
- •Transfer gel sanitizer into leak-resistant bottles with locking flip caps.
- •Carry unscented wipes as backup when crew limit sanitizer use.
- •Use sanitizer after touching tray tables but let it dry fully before handling electronics.
🚫 When it's NOT allowed
- •Don’t spray sanitizer near open flames or galley equipment—it’s flammable.
- •Don’t carry unlabelled decanted liquids; officers must identify contents.
- •Avoid storing sanitizer next to snacks without double-bagging; taste contamination is real.
Checked baggage handling
- ✔Seal caps with tape, then wrap in absorbent cloth.
- ✔Keep away from food and electrical items.
- ✔Declare cartons above 1 litre to airline staff; they may treat it as dangerous goods.
Sanitizer scenarios
| Volume | Cabin | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ≤100ml | ✅ In liquids pouch | Counts towards LAG limit |
| 101–350ml | ✅ Special MoCA allowance | Keep label visible |
| >350ml | ❌ | Check-in only with leak-proof packing |
Frequently asked questions
Is foam sanitizer treated differently?+
Can I carry industrial disinfectants?+
Do other countries honour India’s 350ml rule?+
Travel tips
- ✈️Attach a mini sanitizer to your sling for quick post-security use.
- ✈️Carry moisturiser or barrier cream to prevent cracked skin from frequent sanitizing.
- ✈️Use refillable silicone bottles—they compress as liquid empties, reducing leaks.
Related guides
Official references
DGCA guidelines — simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.