Quick Answer
⚠️ Whiskey is a liquid and counts as alcohol.
✅ In carry-on, bottles must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller inside your quart-sized liquids bag.
✅ Full-size bottles are only allowed in checked luggage or if purchased after security (duty-free).
✈️ FAA limits alcohol in checked bags: up to 5 liters per passenger of spirits between 24–70% ABV. Over 70% ABV is banned.
Details
- Carry-on (pre-security):
- Only containers ≤ 3.4 oz permitted in your liquids bag.
- Standard whiskey bottles (750 ml, 1 L) not allowed.
- After security:
- Duty-free whiskey in sealed bags is allowed onboard.
- If you have a layover with re-screening, bottles may be confiscated.
- Checked luggage:
- Whiskey is usually 40–50% ABV, so it falls in the 24–70% category.
- FAA limit: 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger, bottles must be unopened retail packaging.
- International flights:
- Customs often restricts alcohol imports. In the U.S., travelers can bring 1 liter duty-free; more may incur duty/tax.
TSA Whiskey Rules Summary
| Whiskey Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Whiskey ≤ 3.4 oz | ✅ Allowed (quart bag) | ✅ Allowed |
| Standard bottle (750 ml, 1 L) | ❌ Not allowed | ✅ Allowed (≤ 5 L, 24–70% ABV) |
| Duty-free sealed whiskey | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Whiskey > 70% ABV | ❌ Not allowed | ❌ Not allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Duty-free trap: Whiskey bought duty-free may be seized if you re-clear security during a connection.
- ✈️ Overproof whiskey (>70% ABV): Prohibited on planes, checked or carry-on.
- ✈️ Breakage risk: Glass bottles in checked bags should be packed in protective sleeves.
- ✈️ In-flight drinking: FAA bans consuming your own whiskey bottles — only crew-served alcohol is legal.