Aerosol Cans and Sprays
Limited
Toiletry aerosols allowed up to 500ml per can and 2L total per passenger. Non-toiletry aerosols banned.
Quick answer
Aerosols hold pressurised propellantsâshake them, heat them, or puncture them and they can burst. Thatâs why airlines limit quantity and insist on protective caps so no accidental discharge occurs mid-flight.
Toiletry aerosols belong in the 1L liquids pouch if carried in cabin. Larger cans should be checked, still within the 500ml limit. Industrial sprays, cleaning agents, and bug bombs are prohibited regardless of volume.
If youâre transporting aerosols commercially, ship them as dangerous goods cargo. Passenger flights only tolerate limited personal-use amounts.
Cabin packing
- âLimit to travel-size cans (â¤100ml) to fit the LAG rule.
- âEnsure each nozzle has a tight cap or locking switch.
- âPlace cans upright in the liquids pouch to show officers the label.
Checked baggage
- âKeep total quantity under 2L (e.g., four 500ml cans).
- âWrap cans in clothes to cushion them and absorb minor leaks.
- âSeparate aerosols from electronics and heat-sensitive items.
Aerosol allowance snapshot
| Aerosol type | Cabin | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Deodorant 150ml | â | â |
| Hairspray 400ml | â ď¸ | â Up to 500ml |
| Insecticide | â | â |
Do this
- â Label cans clearly; faded labels confuse inspectors.
- â Travel with pump sprays (non-aerosol) when possibleâtheyâre easier to clear.
- â Release a quick test spray before packing to ensure valves arenât clogged.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât remove caps to save space; nozzles can depress mid-flight.
- â ď¸ Donât carry more than 2L combinedâairlines can confiscate the excess.
- â ď¸ Avoid using aerosols onboard; pressurised cabins recycle air and strong scents disturb passengers.
FAQ
Q. Are aerosol sunscreens allowed?
Yes, if labelled as personal care and within size limits.
Q. Do CO2 cartridges count as aerosols?
Theyâre pressured cartridges and usually banned unless part of safety equipment (life vests) with prior approval.
Q. What about compressed whipped cream?
Treated like non-toiletry aerosolâgenerally not allowed in cabin and risky in checked baggage. Check with airline.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Shift to solid deodorant sticks for short trips to save your aerosol quota.
- âď¸ Place aerosols in mesh pockets so officers can visually inspect labels without unpacking everything.
- âď¸ Carry a small plastic bag solely for aerosol capsâspares vanish easily.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â 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.