Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring full-size liquids through EU airports?

It depends on the airport. The EU is currently in a transition period (2024-2030) where some airports have upgraded to C-EDS scanners that allow 2-liter containers, while others still enforce the old 100ml limit.

Use our airport search to check your specific departure and connection airports. Always verify with your airline before traveling.

Why do some airports allow 2L and others only 100ml?

The EU mandated that all airports upgrade to C-EDS (C3 Enhanced Detection Systems)scanners by 2024. These advanced scanners can detect liquids more accurately, allowing passengers to carry up to 2 liters of liquids in containers of any size.

However, the rollout is gradual due to:

• High cost of new scanners (€100K-300K per unit)
• Installation complexity in older terminals
• Staff training requirements
• Budget constraints at smaller airports

Full EU-wide implementation is expected by 2030.

What if I'm connecting through multiple airports?

The most restrictive rule applies. If your departure airport allows 2L but your connection airport only allows 100ml, you'll need to transfer liquids to smaller bottles or check them.

Example: Flying Dublin (2L allowed) → London Heathrow (2L allowed) → New York is fine. But Dublin → Paris Orly (100ml only) means you need 100ml bottles.

Pro tip: Check each airport in your itinerary using our search tool.

How do you keep this data up to date?

We verify airport liquid rules through multiple sources:

• Weekly checks of official airport websites
• EU aviation authority announcements (EASA)
• Airport press releases about scanner upgrades
• Community reports from travelers (verified within 24 hours)

Every airport page shows the last updated date and links to the official source.

What if the information on your site is wrong?

We strive for 100% accuracy, but airport rules can change suddenly. If you find incorrect information:

1. Email us at corrections@liquidrules.eu
2. Include the airport name and what's incorrect
3. If possible, link to the official source

We'll verify and update within 24 hours. However, we're not liable for travel disruptions— always verify with your airline before traveling. See our Terms of Service.

When will all EU airports allow 2L liquids?

The EU's target is 2030 for full C-EDS scanner deployment across all member state airports.

Major hubs (London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, etc.) are upgrading first, with smaller regional airports following by decade's end. Some airports may complete earlier, others later depending on funding.

Do I need to put liquids in a clear plastic bag anymore?

It depends on the airport:

• Airports with C-EDS scanners (2L allowed): No bag required. Liquids can stay in your carry-on.
• Airports with old scanners (100ml limit): Yes, liquids must be in a 1-liter clear plastic bag.

Check your specific airport's rules using our search tool.

What about duty-free liquids purchased at the airport?

Tricky area! Even if your departure airport allows 2L, duty-free liquids can be confiscated at your connection airport if:

• Your connection airport only allows 100ml
• You're connecting through a non-EU country (different rules)
• The sealed bag is opened

Safe approach: Only buy duty-free liquids at your final connection before leaving the EU.

Can I trust this website?

We're independent travelers, not affiliated with any airport, airline, or government agency. We built this site because we got frustrated with contradictory information when planning our own trips.

Transparency:

• Every airport page links to the official source
• We show last-updated dates
• We admit when we're unsure
• We respond to corrections within 24 hours

Read more about us.

Is this site free?

Yes! Core airport data will always be free. We may add optional premium features later (like trip planners), but basic liquid rules will never be behind a paywall.

We cover costs through small display ads and affiliate links (when you buy travel products we recommend). See our sustainability model.