Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows milk in carry-on and checked bags, but rules differ:
- Regular milk: Must follow 3-1-1 rule in carry-on (≤ 3.4 oz / 100 ml). Larger only in checked.
- Baby milk, formula, and breast milk: Exempt from 3-1-1. Reasonable quantities allowed in carry-on if declared.
⚠️ International flights: Customs often restricts or bans fresh dairy products.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Regular milk for personal drinking is limited to 3.4 oz unless bought after security.
- Baby milk, breast milk, and formula are exempt → allowed in larger amounts if declared at security.
- TSA officers may test liquids but cannot require you to taste them.
- Checked luggage:
- Any milk type is allowed.
- Use leak-proof containers and seal tightly.
- Powdered milk / formula:
- Allowed in both carry-on and checked.
- If > 12 oz, powders may require extra screening.
- International flights:
- Most countries prohibit bringing fresh dairy (including milk) across borders.
- Baby formula and powdered milk may be exceptions if sealed and declared.
TSA Milk Rules Summary
| Milk Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Regular milk ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Regular milk > 3.4 oz | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Baby milk / breast milk / formula | ✅ Allowed (exempt, must declare) | ✅ Allowed |
| Powdered milk | ✅ Allowed (extra screening >12 oz) | ✅ Allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Regular vs baby milk: Only baby-related milk is exempt from 3-1-1.
- ✈️ Declare exemptions: Always tell TSA when carrying breast milk, formula, or baby milk over 3.4 oz.
- ✈️ Customs bans: Fresh milk usually not allowed internationally — powdered or shelf-stable milk may be okay.
- ✈️ Spillage: Milk spoils fast; use insulated containers if traveling long distances.