Baby Milk, Formula, and Food
Allowed
Exempt from 100ml rule when traveling with an infant. Must be presented for screening separately.
Quick answer
Officers understand that hungry babies can’t wait. They simply need to verify that the infant is flying with you and that the liquids are genuinely for feeding. Expect swab tests or tasting requests for suspicious-looking containers.
Pack just enough for the travel day: flights, layovers, potential delays. Excess quantities raise eyebrows, especially if you can’t explain the need.
Breast pumps and warmers are allowed in cabin. Keep them accessible for inspection, and carry extension cords only if the airline approves their use.
What to carry
- ✔Insulated bottles with measured feeds (labelled in ml).
- ✔Ready-to-feed formula cartons or dry powder with sterile water.
- ✔Baby spoon, bib, wet wipes, and resealable bags for used items.
At security
- ✔Declare liquids early; place them in a separate tray.
- ✔Be prepared to taste a small sample if requested (parents usually do it themselves).
- ✔Carry infant’s boarding pass or ticket printout to show the exemption applies.
Baby food approvals
| Item | Cabin | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Expressed breast milk | ✅ | Store in ice packs |
| Powdered formula | ✅ | Keep sealed until mixing |
| Fruit puree | ✅ | Use transparent containers |
Do this
- ✅ Use clear bottles with measurement markings so officers can see contents.
- ✅ Bring a small thermos with hot water if your child prefers warm milk (declare it).
- ✅ Pack extra bibs and clothes in case of spills mid-flight.
Avoid this
- ⚠️ Don’t bring excessive quantities ‘just in case’; airlines worry about resale or undeclared goods.
- ⚠️ Don’t keep filled bottles at room temperature for too long—discard after 2 hours to avoid spoilage.
- ⚠️ Avoid glass jars without padding; turbulence can shatter them.
FAQ
Q. Do I need the baby physically present at security?
Yes. The exemption applies only when the infant is boarding with you.
Q. Can I carry cow’s milk?
Yes in reasonable quantities for the infant. Keep it refrigerated in insulated flasks.
Q. What about toddler snacks like yogurt or pudding?
They count as gels but usually pass if clearly for the child. Keep packaging intact.
Tips before you fly
- ✈️ Attach a feeding schedule to your diaper bag; crew often help warm bottles when they understand timing.
- ✈️ Use collapsible funnels to transfer powder without mess.
- ✈️ Carry a travel-size dish soap and sponge to clean bottles during layovers.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India 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.