Yes. You are allowed to bring alcoholic beverages on a flight. The TSA and FAA have set certain rules for carrying alcohol with you. Let’s go through these rules to avoid any inconvenience during screening.
The rules discussed here are for domestic US flights. They may change from one country to another. So, it is better to check with relevant authorities before packing. Moreover, the final decision to allow a certain item through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer.
Rules for Bringing Alcohol on a Plane
Don’t forget to check with your airline before bringing alcoholic beverages on board. FAA prohibits travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless a flight attendant serves. Moreover, flight attendants are not allowed to serve a passenger who looks intoxicated.
Alcoholic Beverages (Below 70% alcohol) & Wine Bottles
You can take up to 3.4 oz or 100 milliliters in carry-on luggage. They are subject to TSA’s liquids rule, also known as the 3-1-1 rule.
Alcoholic drinks with more than 24% alcohol but equal to or less than 70% alcohol are limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger in checked bags. The beverages must be in unopened retail packaging. It means you cannot take half or consumed bottles on a flight.
Alcoholic Beverages (Below 24% alcohol)
There is no limitation on alcoholic beverages with 24% or less alcohol in checked bags. Most beers and wines will be with you when you land at your destination.
Make sure that mini bottles of alcohol in carry-on luggage must comfortably fit into a single quart-sized bag.
However, the 3-1-1 rule is also applicable on alcoholic drinks with 24% or less alcohol for carry-on luggage.
Alcoholic Beverages (Above 70% alcohol)
Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof, or 70% alcohol are prohibited in carry-on or checked bags. You cannot fly with them. It includes grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. There is no room for the strong stuff on an airplane.
How to pack alcohol in your checked bags?
You must take due care while packing alcohol bottles in checked bags. A hard-side suitcase is a good idea to protect bottles from crushing. You can wrap the bottles in old clothes or bubble wrap bags for wine bottles. These things add padding and protect bottles from breaking.
You can also buy a suitcase for transporting wine bottles if you love your drinks and fly often. If you don’t have bubble wrap, you can also place bottles inside pant legs or sweeter/jacket sleeves. Make sure that the bottles are unopened and in their original packing.
Do you pay for the alcohol you drink on the plane?
It depends on the airline and the class you are traveling in. Smaller airlines usually charge for alcohol you drink, or they don’t offer alcohol at all.
Passengers traveling in business and first class are usually served complimentary alcohol.
Can you drink your own alcoholic beverages on a plane?
No. You aren’t allowed to drink your carry-on booze on board. Only the flight attendant will serve alcoholic drinks during the flight. Don’t forget to check with your airline if you can drink during a flight. You can read more about drinking alcoholic beverages in an aircraft here.
Can you get drunk on a plane?
Flight attendants can refuse alcohol if the passenger looks intoxicated and drunk. Technically, there is no limit on how many drinks you can have; it is in your best interest to avoid excessive alcohol, as bad behavior can get you arrested.
Can I buy alcohol at the duty-free store after the security clearance?
Yes. You can buy up to 5 liters of alcohol between 24%-70% ABV or 48 – 140 proof.
What are the rules for alcohol purchased overseas and you are on a connecting flight to the US?
Alcohol is allowed in your carry-on bag as per the following rules.
- The retailer must pack the bottles in a transparent, secure, and tamper-evident bag. The bottles will not be allowed in your carry-on bag if it looks opened or tampered with.
- You must have the receipt showing that the alcohol was purchased 48 hours ago.
Missing Something
TSA has explained what things you can take and can’t on its website. You can also download TSA’s mobile app or contact it via Facebook and Twitter.