Hand Sanitizer Limits
Limited
Cabin limit 350ml per passenger (MoHFW Covid relaxation). Checked baggage allows larger bottles if sealed.
Quick answer
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 (60â80% 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 youâre transporting for charity or work.
Cabin allowance
- âCarry one or two bottles totalling 350mlâe.g., a 250ml pump + 100ml spare.
- âEnsure the label shows brand, percentage, and manufacturer.
- âPlace the bottle in its own zip pouch to contain leaks.
Checked baggage handling
- âSeal caps with tape, then wrap in absorbent cloth.
- âKeep away from food and electrical items.
- âDeclare cartons above 1 litre to airline staff; they may treat it as dangerous goods.
Sanitizer scenarios
| Volume | Cabin | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| â¤100ml | â In liquids pouch | Counts towards LAG limit |
| 101â350ml | â Special MoCA allowance | Keep label visible |
| >350ml | â | Check-in only with leak-proof packing |
Do this
- â Transfer gel sanitizer into leak-resistant bottles with locking flip caps.
- â Carry unscented wipes as backup when crew limit sanitizer use.
- â Use sanitizer after touching tray tables but let it dry fully before handling electronics.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât spray sanitizer near open flames or galley equipmentâitâs flammable.
- â ď¸ Donât carry unlabelled decanted liquids; officers must identify contents.
- â ď¸ Avoid storing sanitizer next to snacks without double-bagging; taste contamination is real.
FAQ
Q. Is foam sanitizer treated differently?
No. The allowance is based on volume, not texture. Keep container size within 350ml.
Q. Can I carry industrial disinfectants?
Not in cabin. They require dangerous goods clearance. Stick to consumer-grade hand rubs.
Q. Do other countries honour Indiaâs 350ml rule?
No. The allowance applies only when departing Indian airports. Follow the destinationâs rule on the return journey.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Attach a mini sanitizer to your sling for quick post-security use.
- âď¸ Carry moisturiser or barrier cream to prevent cracked skin from frequent sanitizing.
- âď¸ Use refillable silicone bottlesâthey compress as liquid empties, reducing leaks.
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.