Can I fly with powdered baby formula?

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 fly with powdered baby formula, and it is generally exempt from the standard "3-1-1" liquids rule. In 2026, the TSA and international security agencies classify baby formula as a "medically necessary liquid" (or solid). You do not need to limit the amount to 3.4oz; you can bring as much as is reasonable for your journey. However, you must inform the security officer that you are carrying it, and it must be removed from your carry-on bag for separate screening. Powdered formula may undergo additional testing, such as an explosives trace detection or being opened for a visual inspection. To speed up the process, it is recommended to keep the powder in its original, factory-sealed container if possible. If you are carrying "ready-to-feed" liquid formula or sterilized water for mixing, these are also permitted in larger quantities. Always allow an extra 15 minutes for security when traveling with these items, as the manual "X-ray plus swab" protocol is standard procedure to ensure the safety of the aircraft and its passengers.

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The TSA classifies baby formula as medically necessary, so you can pack as much baby formula as you need for the trip without being limited to the 3.4-ounce rule that applies to other liquids. When you go through security screening, inform airport security of the amount of baby formula you're carrying.

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

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Products containing powdered or dry milk (baby/infant formula, baking mixes, soup mixes, drink mixes) are allowed in small quantities, if they are properly labelled.

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If the original container is less than 12 ounces (350ml) of powder, you can pack your protein in your carry-on without worry. However, TSA will require any powder or supplement containers greater than 12 ounces to be placed in a separate bin for screening at airport security.

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How do you warm up formula on a plane? If you are wondering “How do you warm baby milk on a plane?” You can either bring a thermos flask with you filled with boiling water and make up your formula from that, or ask crew for some boiling water.

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Powder-like substances greater than 12 oz. / 350 mL must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening and containers may need to be opened. For your convenience, we encourage you to place non-essential powders greater than 12 oz. in checked bags.

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

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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.

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Can I bring water for baby formula on a plane? Yes! Again, water for baby formula and babies is permitted by TSA in “reasonable quantities” in carry-on bags.

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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Do powders count as liquids on planes? In other words: yes, you can bring toothpaste, deodorant, and sunscreen through TSA checkpoints but only if they are in travel-sized containers. Powders and powder-like substances, including baby powder and some makeup items, aren't restricted in your carry-on bag.

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Checked Bags: Yes Powder-like substances greater than 12 oz. / 350 mL must be placed in a separate bin for X-ray screening. They may require additional screening and containers may need to be opened. For your convenience, we encourage you to place non-essential powders greater than 12 oz. in checked bags.

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It's important to sterilise all your baby's feeding equipment, including bottles and teats, until they're at least 12 months old. This will protect your baby against infections, in particular diarrhoea and vomiting.

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