Whether you want to bring ultra high temperature (UHT) processed milk, cow milk, or bottled milk for your infant or toddler on a plane, you might be wondering if you can bring milk on a plane?
You can bring milk in carry-on and checked bags, but in carry-on it must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less. Except when traveling with an infant or toddler, milk is permitted in carry-on bags, and the containers can be more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml each. You may pack as much milk as your child needs.
In this post I will cover everything you need to know about taking milk on planes in both carry-on and checked bags.
Let’s dive right in.
TL,DR
You can bring milk on a plane, but if you’re not traveling with a baby or toddler, any milk in your carry-on must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less and fit within TSA’s liquid rules.
You can place larger quantities in checked baggage or you can purchase it after the security checkpoint.
If you’re traveling with an infant or young child, the TSA allows reasonable amounts of milk, formula, and juice in larger containers just tell the TSA officer during screening.
Before flying internationally, make sure that you check your destination’s customs rules, as some countries restrict dairy products.
You can bring more than 3.4 oz / 100 ml of milk on board the airplane if you purchase it after you clear security. This tip works for almost any type of drinks and beverages.
When traveling with toddlers and infants, you can also exceed these limits because you can’t just let your little baby starve on a flight.
So you are permitted to bring milk, formula, and juice for infants and toddlers in containers larger than 3.4 oz / 100 ml in your carry-on luggage.
You will need to inform the TSA officer at the security checkpoint that you are carrying these items, and they may need to perform an additional inspection.
This passenger wanted to bring this 8 oz / 230 ml of UHT milk on his flight.
The TSA customer service replied that milk is allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, but in carry-on it must be in containers that are 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less.
The TSA customer service replied that milk is allowed in carry on and checked baggage but in carry must be in container that are 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less.
Milk types
Carry-on baggage
Checked baggage
Rice Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Hemp Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Soy Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Coconut Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Oat Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Cashew Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Almond Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Plant-Based Milks
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Goat’s Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Cow’s Milk
3.4 oz / 100 ML for each container
No limits
Powdered milk
No limits ( remove the powder more than 12 oz. / 350 ML from your bag in a separate bin for X-ray screening)
No limits
Any type of milk for infants or toddler
More than 3.4 oz / 100 ML Allowed
No limits
Can You Take Milk In Checked Baggage?
Milk and liquids in general are allowed in checked bags without any limits, but it is better to take some precautions.
If liquids are not properly protected, they can spill and damage your belongings and suitcase.
Ensure that you use a solid container. It’s also important to note that fresh milk is more likely to spoil on long flights, so it’s recommended to bring UHT (Ultra-High-Temperature) milk instead.
Can You Bring Milk on International Flights?
The TSA regulates only what you can take on flights within and from the United States.
And because raw milk can carry harmful germs, some countries will not let milk or dairy products enter their territories, so taking milk on international flights will depend mostly on where you are heading.
Before you fly, ensure that you have a bit of an idea about the customs of your destination country, and whether they permit dairy products or not.
For example, you can bring liquid milk and milk products intended for use by infants to the United States, but in reasonable quantities.
But you can’t take milk or milk-based products to the UK from countries outside the European Union.
Can You Bring Milk on International Flights?
Final Thoughts
Liquids are one of the most common causes of delays and confusion at airport security checkpoints worldwide.
And attempting to take a gallon of milk through airport security without following the proper procedures is not a good idea.
Only smaller containers of milk are permitted in carry-on baggage if you are not traveling with an infant.
Traveling with milk for infants and toddlers is easy and can be done smoothly, as you can take as much as you will need for your trip.
If you are traveling internationally, it is better to contact your airline, use an insulated container, and store milk in a separate bag.
FAQ About Bringing Milk on a Plane
Can I Bring Milk on a Plane for My 3-Year-Old or 4-Year-Old?
Yes, the TSA allows milk for toddlers and young children in reasonable quantities. Just let the TSA folks know that you have milk for your child before going through the security.
Can You Bring Milk Through TSA if You Are Not Traveling With a Child?
Yes, but any milk you bring need to follow the standard liquid rules. That means containers or bottles must be 3.4 oz / 100 ml or smaller unless you qualify for a special exemption.
Can You Bring Ice Packs to Keep Milk Cold?
Yes. Ice packs and freezer packs are generally allowed to keep milk cold during your trip. TSA may take a quick look at them during screening.
Do You Need to Remove Milk From Your Carry-On at Security?
It’s a good idea. Having the milk ready to show TSA can make the screening process quicker and easier.
Can TSA Test or Inspect Milk?
Yes. TSA may do some additional screening on milk, especially if it’s for a child. This is normal and usually only takes a few minutes.
Can You Buy Milk After Airport Security?
Absolutely. Once you’re through security, you can buy milk at airport shops and bring it onto the plane.
How Long Will Milk Stay Fresh During a Flight?
That depends on the type of milk. UHT milk lasts much longer without refrigeration, while fresh milk should be kept cold and used as soon as possible.
Can You Bring Homemade Baby Milk or Prepared Formula on a Plane?
Yes. bottles and baby formula are allowed when traveling with an infant or toddler. Just let the TSA officer know before screening.
Gargie, is writer, traveler & a digital marketing specialist
passionate about traveling and exploring new cultures. She is a savvy traveler who likes to pack light, testing various luggage brands and seeking out budget-friendly airline options. Gargie enjoys creating unique recipes when she’s not on the go.
