When you’re flying—especially internationally—it can be confusing to know what you peut et can’t pack in your checked luggage. Whether you’re bringing home canned goods, full-size shampoo, or a couple of lagers, here’s a breakdown of the rules to help you pack with confidence.
✅ What You Peut Put in Checked Luggage
1. Canned Goods and Beverages
Oui, you can pack canned goods (like soup, beans, or even canned meats) in your checked baggage. Make sure:
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Cans are properly sealed and not damaged.
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You cushion them with clothes to prevent dents or breakage.
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The total weight doesn’t exceed airline baggage limits.
2. Cans of Beer or Soft Drinks (Like Coke)
Oui, you can pack cans of beer or soda in checked luggage, but keep in mind:
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Pressure changes in the cargo hold won’t cause them to explode as long as they’re sealed.
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Place them in plastic bags and wrap in clothing or bubble wrap to avoid messes in case of leaks.
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Customs regulations may limit alcohol quantity if flying internationally.
3. Full-Size Toiletries (Shampoo, Conditioner, etc.)
Full-size liquid containers (over 3.4 oz or 100 mL) like shampoo and conditioner are allowed in checked baggage, y compris:
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Full-size shampoo bottles
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Body wash
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Sunscreen Just make sure they’re tightly closed and ideally stored in a zip-lock bag to prevent leaks.
4. Bombes aérosols
Oui, full-size aerosol cans (like deodorant, hair spray, shaving cream, or even spray paint) are allowed in checked luggage, but:
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They must have a protective cap.
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Contents must be non-flammable (read the label carefully).
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TSA generally limits aerosols in checked bags to 18 once (500 mL) per container, and a total of 70 once (2 liters) per person.
5. Bottled Water
Oui, bottled water is allowed in your checked baggage, but it’s heavy. Secure the cap tightly and wrap it to prevent leakage.
🚫 What You Can’t Pack in Checked Luggage
Even though checked bags allow more freedom than carry-ons, certain items are still strictly prohibited:
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Explosives or fireworks
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Flammable items (certain paints, fuels, or lighters)
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Lithium batteries not installed in a device
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Compressed gas canisters (unless TSA-approved like travel-sized oxygen tanks)
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Perishable or leaking food items that might spill
If you’re not sure about an item, use the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool.
🧳 How to Safely Travel with Cans and Liquids
To avoid messes and surprises at baggage claim, follow these tips:
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Wrap each can/bottle in bubble wrap or clothes.
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Use waterproof bags or double-layer zip-locks.
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Distribute weight evenly across your suitcase.
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Label any specialty items for customs clarity (especially if you’re bringing local delicacies).
👮 What Happens If TSA Finds Something Suspicious?
TSA officers inspect checked bags randomly or if an item looks unusual during screening. If your bag is opened:
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You’ll find a TSA Notice of Inspection inside.
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If something is prohibited, it may be confiscated and not returned.
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Your bag will be re-locked with a TSA master key if it has a TSA-approved lock.
✈️ The 3-1-1 Rule (For Carry-On Only)
This rule applies only to carry-on luggage:
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3.4 onces (100 mL) or less per liquid container
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1 quart-sized bag
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1 bag per passenger
If you have full-size liquids or aerosols, they must go in checked luggage.
❓Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I bring a can of Coke on the plane in my carry-on?
UN: Not unless it’s 3.4 oz or less. Cans over that must go in checked luggage.
Q: Is there a limit to liquids in checked luggage?
UN: No strict liquid volume limit in checked bags, but weight restrictions apply and items must be packed safely.
Q: Will cans explode in checked luggage?
UN: Very unlikely. The cargo hold is pressurized. Still, wrap them well to prevent leaks or dents.
Q: Can I bring canned foods from overseas?
UN: Oui, but check import restrictions for meat, dairy, or agricultural products at your destination.
Q: How much alcohol can I bring in my checked baggage?
UN: For international travel to the U.S., up to 1 liter duty-free. For domestic, check with airline and destination laws.
Q: Can I bring aerosol bug spray or paint?
UN: Only if it’s non-flammable. Check labeling. Flammable aerosols are prohibited.
Q: Can I put full-size perfume or cologne in checked luggage?
UN: Oui, but it’s best to protect it from breaking or leaking.
If you travel often or like to bring special items with you, understanding the CST and airline rules for checked luggage can save you stress and surprise fees. When in doubt, pack it safely, label clearly, and check airline or country-specific regulations ahead of time.
