Can I bring dry baby formula on a plane?

Yes, you can bring powdered formula on the plane. I never have brought a whole can, but usually slightly more than I think I'll need. I don't bring bottled water because you have to get it screened further at TSA (see here: https://www.tsa.gov/travel/special-procedures/traveling-children). But that is allowed.



Yes, you are absolutely allowed to bring dry (powdered) baby formula on a plane in 2026. Unlike liquids, powdered formula is not subject to the strict 100 ml (3.4 oz) rule. However, TSA and international security agencies (like CATSA) have a "Powder Rule": if the container holds more than 350 ml (12 oz) of powder, you must remove it from your carry-on and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening. This is because dense powders can obstruct the view of other items in your bag. Security officers may need to open the container for a visual inspection or a swab test for explosives. To make the process smoother, it is recommended to keep the formula in its original labeled packaging. You are also allowed to bring bottled water specifically for mixing the formula, even if it exceeds liquid limits, provided you declare it to the officers as "medically necessary" for an infant. You do not need to have your child present to carry these items if you are traveling to meet them.

People Also Ask

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

MORE DETAILS

Baby food and baby milk When travelling with a baby you're allowed to take enough baby food, baby milk and sterilised water for the journey. There is no legal limit to how much you can take however check with your airport before you travel.

MORE DETAILS

Food and powders Food items and powders in your hand luggage can obstruct images on x-ray machines. Your bags may need to be checked again manually by security. You can put these items in your hold luggage to minimise delays.

MORE DETAILS

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

MORE DETAILS

Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag.

MORE DETAILS

There is no legal limit to how much you can take however check with your airport before you travel.

MORE DETAILS

if travelling with your baby you can take enough expressed breast milk, formula milk, sterilised water and/or baby food required for the journey. There is no legal limit to how much you can take however check with the airport before you travel.

MORE DETAILS

Diaper bags, soft-sided cooler bags with breast milk, child safety seats, strollers and medical or mobility devices don't count toward your personal item or carry-on.

MORE DETAILS

You may not pack gunpowder in your carry-on or checked baggage under any circumstances. Gunpowder includes black powder and percussion caps.

MORE DETAILS

Food and powders Food items and powders in your hand luggage can obstruct images on x-ray machines. Your bags may need to be checked again manually by security. You can put these items in your hold luggage to minimise delays.

MORE DETAILS

Standard strollers, folding wagons, and car seats can be used to get to your gate and then checked for free. They'll be returned to you on arrival. Collapsible strollers can be stored in-cabin. Car seats can be used onboard your flight too.

MORE DETAILS

The TSA will allow you to go through the metal detector while wearing your baby, although you may be asked to undergo an additional screening even if there is not an alarm. The additional screening will consist of having your hands swabbed for chemical residue, and potentially a pat-down.

MORE DETAILS