In 2026, whether you need to put your liquids in a clear plastic bag depends entirely on the specific technology at your departure airport. Many major hubs (such as London Heathrow, Gatwick, and several airports in the US and Europe) have now fully implemented advanced 3D CT scanners. At these "next-generation" checkpoints, the old "100ml rule" has been scrapped, and passengers can leave up to 2 liters of liquids inside their bags without needing to separate them into a quart-sized clear plastic bag. However, the rollout is not yet worldwide. Many smaller or regional airports still utilize older X-ray technology, meaning the traditional 100ml limit and the requirement for a clear, resealable bag still apply. To avoid delays, the "gold standard" for 2026 is to check your specific airport's website before you travel. If you are connecting through multiple airports, it is safest to keep your liquids in a bag as a precaution, as a "liquid-friendly" airport in one city might be followed by a "strict" one in another.