When you go through airport security in the United States, you have to follow the TSA's strict 3.4-ounce rule for any liquids, gels, or aerosols in your carry-on. If your little bottle of shampoo or toothpaste is just 0.5 ounces over, you must toss it before getting on the plane. But there's one exception: duty-free buys. If you grab some alcohol from a duty-free shop in the airport, you can keep it in your carry-on, no matter how big the bottle is. Here's what you should know…
Duty-free shopping: deal or dud?
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Duty-free: what you need to know
The first thing to remember is that duty-free shops are for international travelers only, not for those traveling within the country. The purpose of these stores is to let travelers buy items like alcohol, perfume, tobacco, or leather bags without having to pay local sales tax.
Since there are no local taxes, items from duty-free stores can often be cheaper. However, you might still need to pay taxes on declared goods when you arrive at your destination. For more on duty-free shopping and if it's really worth it, check out our detailed guide.
Guidelines for duty-free liquids
Since duty-free stores are only for international travelers, the exemption doesn't apply to domestic flights. Plus, if you fly directly from a foreign country back to the United States, you won't go through security when you land.
The 3.4-ounce size rule mainly applies to flights going back to the USA with a domestic connection. For instance, if you buy a bottle of alcohol in London and fly to Los Angeles with a layover in New York City, you can keep the big bottle in your carry-on, as long as you meet certain conditions.
First, the alcohol must be from a duty-free store abroad. Second, it has to stay sealed in the transparent, tamper-evident bag the shop gave you. Finally, keep the receipt showing you bought it within the last 48 hours.
If you meet all 3, you can carry the liquor through your connection in NYC. Otherwise, you'll have to move it to checked luggage before heading to Los Angeles. Also, if the TSA can't screen or approve an item for any reason, you might have to check or give it up, even if you meet the rules.
To avoid any issues, the TSA suggests packing all liquids in checked baggage, no matter what. This makes security easier and lets you catch your connecting flight without stress.
Tips for safe packing
When you're traveling with duty-free liquids in your carry-on or checked bag, you should try to avoid having a bottle break and leak all over your stuff. If you're taking along a fragile duty-free item, pack a little bubble wrap and tape that won't take up much room in your luggage. This can help keep the bottle safe and your clothes clean.
You might also want to wrap any duty-free liquids in a soft towel or fabric for extra cushion. Another choice is to get a WineSkin carrying case: this soft, clear bag that seals shut looks like a wine bottle and keeps your duty-free items safe.
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