Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.

When packing powdered formula for a flight, the most important rule is that it is exempt from the standard "3-1-1" liquid restrictions because it is considered a medically necessary item. You can carry as much as you need for your journey in your carry-on luggage. For the smoothest security screening in 2026, it is best to keep the powder in its original, factory-sealed container or in clearly labeled, transparent formula dispensers. At the TSA checkpoint, you should remove the formula from your bag and inform the officer that you are carrying it. TSA may perform additional screening, such as an X-ray or a "vapors" test on the exterior of the container, but they will never place anything into the powder itself. To make feeding easier mid-flight, many parents pre-portion the powder into individual dispensers and carry a sealed bottle of "nursery water" or ask the flight attendant for bottled water (avoiding the aircraft's tap water) to mix the formula fresh as needed.