Carry on Baggage - Country Specific

Some countries have made changes to security measures at airports. If you are travelling in any of these countries, these measures will affect what you can carry on board an aircraft on international flights.

View more information on the general carry on baggage allowances.

For the most update to date information, visit the Australian Government's travel security website TravelSECURE.

Travel to and from Australia
Travel from New Zealand
Travel from or connections through London (Heathrow) or Frankfurt
Travel From Singapore
Travel to and from Canada
Travel to and from the USA
Travel from Singapore to the UK or Frankfurt
Travel from Mumbai

Travel from Manila
Travel from Noumea on a Qantas international service
Travel from Japan
Travel from Seoul
Travel from Taipei
Travel from Vietnam
Travel from Hong Kong
Travel from South Africa

Travel to and from Australia

From 31 March 2007, the Australian Government introduced enhanced security screening measures. This involves limiting the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels that can be taken through the security screening point for passengers who are flying;

to and from Australia; or
on an Australian domestic sector operated by an international flight.

We recommend passengers pack liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml/3.3oz in your checked baggage wherever possible.

Carry on Baggage Restrictions

How to pack your liquids, aerosols & gels

All liquids, aerosols and gels must be carried in containers of no greater than 100ml/3.3oz capacity (approximately 100gm in weight).
All containers must fit comfortably in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.
The plastic bag must be no greater than 1 litre (1 quart) in capacity with a total outer edge measurement of the sealed section of the bag no larger than 80cm.
There is a limit of one plastic bag per passenger.
The plastic bag must be removed from carry on baggage and presented to security personnel at the checkpoint for inspection and separate x-ray screening.
Containers larger than 100ml/3.3oz will not be accepted, even if only partially filled.

Liquids, aerosols and gels include, but are not limited to

water and other drinks, soups, syrups, jams, stews, sauces and pastes;
foods in sauces or containing a high liquid content;
creams, lotions, cosmetics and oils;
perfumes;
sprays;
gels including hair and shower gels;
contents of pressurised containers, including shaving foam, other foam and deodorants;
pastes including toothpaste;
liquid-solid mixtures;
mascara;
lipsticks;
lighters
lip gloss or lip balm;
and any item of similar consistency at room temperature.

Medication and Baby Products

Prescription medicine and non-prescription medicine is permitted provided the passenger can demonstrate a bona fide need for these items
Reasonable amounts of non-prescription medication required for the length of the flight are permitted.
Baby products to be consumed in-flight including baby milk, sterilised water, baby juice, baby food in liquid, gel or paste form and wet wipes may be carried on board.
All medication and baby products may be subject to additional security checks.

Flights Departing From An Australian International Airport Terminal

Passengers travelling on flights departing from an Australian international airport terminal (including Australian domestic sectors operated by an international flight) may take on board liquids, aerosols and gels purchased after the screening point, including duty free goods (please note duty free goods are not available for purchase by domestic passengers).

However if your journey includes a transit or transfer to a connecting flight at another airport within Australia or overseas, your carry on baggage may be subject to re-screening and this will affect the purchase and carriage of liquids, aerosols and gels in your carry on baggage.

The following information outlines the impact of the government regulations on passengers travelling from Australia where their journey includes a transit or transfer to a connecting flight. Passengers are reminded government information can change with short notice and to ensure you are familiar with the latest information for each point in your journey.

Passengers Travelling On An International Flight With a Transit Stop Within Australia

Passengers travelling on a flight departing from an Australian international airport terminal, which makes a transit stop at an international airport within Australia will be screened at both the departure and transit airports.

If the flight is operated by the same aircraft on both sectors, passengers may leave their carry on baggage on board during the transit stop, including liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml eg passengers travelling on QF123 Sydney - Darwin - Mumbai are on the same aircraft for both sectors and may leave carry on baggage on board in Darwin.

If the flight is operated by different aircraft on each sector resulting in an aircraft change at the transit airport, all passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage at the transit airport and be re-screened before joining their onward flight eg passengers travelling on QF73 Melbourne - Sydney - San Francisco change aircraft in Sydney. Liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml taken through the transit screening point will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

We advise passengers to purchase liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml (including duty free goods) after the transit screening point at your last departure airport from Australia or on your last international flight sector. However, if you are transferring to a connecting flight in a country which has implemented liquids, aerosols and gels screening, you will be re-screened again at the transfer airport, and you should not purchase these items before proceeding through screening at the final transfer airport eg passengers travelling QF73 Melbourne -Sydney - San Francisco transferring to BA284 San Francisco - London should purchase their liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in San Francisco or inflight from San Francisco to London.

Passengers Travelling On An International Flight With A Transit Stop Outside Australia

Passengers travelling on a flight departing from an Australian international airport terminal, which makes a transit stop at an airport outside Australia, will be screened at both the departure and transit airports for example, QF25 Melbourne - Auckland - Los Angeles.

Passengers Travelling from Australia to London via Bangkok or Hong Kong

On the same flight number and aircraft may leave their carry on baggage on board (including liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml) during the transit in Bangkok or Hong Kong. This is applicable to the following flights:
QF1 Sydney - Bangkok - London
QF29 Melbourne - Hong Kong - London

Passengers Travelling from Australia to Frankfurt or London via Singapore

Passengers travelling on a flight which transits Singapore will be required to disembark and remove all items of carry-on baggage (including liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml) during the transit. All carry on baggage will be screened before passengers re-join their onward flight, and any liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml taken through the transit screening point will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

This is applicable to the following flights:
QF5 Sydney - Singapore - Frankfurt
QF9 Melbourne - Singapore - London
QF31 Sydney - Singapore - London

Passengers transferring to an onward connecting flight in London or Frankfurt must place liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in London or Frankfurt. If your baggage has been through-checked to an onward destination you will not have access to your checked baggage and you should not purchase these items before arrival in London or Frankfurt. Any purchases made before arrival in London or Frankfurt which are carried in carry on baggage will have to be surrendered at the transfer screening point and will not be returned.

Passengers with connecting flights will be permitted to purchase duty free within London or European airports, provided the duty free:

is purchased on the day of the flight,
is packed within a clear sealed plastic bag, and
the sales slip with date and location of purchase is readable inside the sealed plastic bag.

Passengers Travelling on QF107 Sydney - Los Angeles - New York

Passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage during the transit in Los Angeles for re-screening before re-joining their onward flight to New York.

Passengers travelling through to New York must place all liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in Los Angeles.

Passengers Travelling on QF25 Melbourne - Auckland - Los Angeles

Passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage during the transit in Auckland for re-screening before re-joining their onward flight to Los Angeles.

All liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml purchased prior to the transit screening point in Auckland will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Passengers transiting through Auckland to Los Angeles should not purchase duty free in Australia or inflight from Melbourne to Auckland. Duty free purchases must be made at Auckland Airport transit area or inflight from Auckland to Los Angeles.

Passengers transferring to a connecting flight in Los Angeles must place liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in Los Angeles.

Passengers Transferring To An International Flight Departing Australia

Passengers transferring to a flight departing from an Australian international airport terminal will be screened for liquids, aerosols and gels during their transfer at the international terminal

For example, QF1811 Port Headland - Perth transferring to QF71 Perth - Singapore, or
QF408 Melbourne - Sydney transferring to QF63 Sydney - Johannesburg
QF73 Melbourne - Sydney transferring to QF1 Sydney - Bangkok, or
QF118 Wellington - Sydney transferring to QF107 Sydney - Los Angeles

Passengers are advised to pack all liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage at their first check-in point, as your baggage will be through-checked to your final destination and you will not have access to it at the transfer airport.

All carry on baggage will be screened at the transfer airport and liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Passengers wishing to purchase additional liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml (including duty free goods) at the transfer airport should make their purchases after proceeding through the transfer screening point at your last departure airport from Australia or on your last international flight sector. However, if you are transferring to a connecting flight in a country which has implemented liquids, aerosols and gels screening, you will be re-screened again at the transfer airport, and you should not purchase these items before proceeding through screening at the final transfer airport.

If your flight includes a transit stop we recommend you also read the information relating to transit stops above.

Passengers Transferring Between International Flights Outside Australia

Passengers travelling on a flight departing from an Australian international airport terminal and transferring to another international flight outside Australia will be screened at both the departure and transfer airports
For example, QF51 Brisbane - Singapore transferring to QF9 Singapore - London.

Passengers will be required to meet the screening regulations for the country where the transfer occurs. Further information about the screening requirements at Qantas destinations can be found on this page.

All carry on baggage will be screened at the transfer airport and if the transfer occurs in a country which has implemented liquids, aerosols and gels screening, any items exceeding 100ml will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Passengers are advised to pack all liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage at their first check-in point wherever possible, as your baggage will be through-checked to your final destination and you will not have access to it at the transfer airport.

Passengers wishing to purchase additional liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml at the transfer airport should make their purchases after proceeding through the transfer screening point or on your last international flight sector. However, if you are transferring to a further connecting flight in a country which has implemented liquids, aerosols and gels screening, you will be re-screened again at the transfer airport, and you should not purchase these items before proceeding through screening at the final transfer airport.

If your flight includes a transit stop we recommend you also read the information relating to transit stops above.

Passengers Travelling from Australia and Transferring to QF25 Auckland - Los Angeles

Passengers will be required to re-screen all carry on baggage during the transfer in Auckland before joining their onward flight to Los Angeles.

All liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml purchased prior to the transfer screening point in Auckland will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Passengers transferring through Auckland to Los Angeles should not purchase duty free in Australia or inflight from Australia to Auckland. Duty free purchases must be made at Auckland Airport transit area or inflight from Auckland to Los Angeles.

Passengers transferring to a connecting flight in Los Angeles must place all liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in Los Angeles.

Flights To Australia

Passengers travelling on flights to Australia may take on board duty free liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml if they are delivered to the gate in a sealed bag with proof of purchase, and only collected by the passenger after proceeding through the liquids, aerosols and gels screening point. Please note this facility may not be available at all international airports in the Qantas network.

If your journey includes a transit or transfer at another international airport within Australia or overseas, your carry on baggage will be subject to re-screening and this will affect the purchase and carriage of liquids, aerosols and gels (including duty free goods) in your carry on baggage.

The following information outlines the implications of the government regulations on customers travelling to Australia where their journey includes a transit or transfer to a connecting flight. Passengers are reminded government information can change with short notice and to ensure you are familiar with the latest information for each point in your journey.

Passengers Travelling On An International Flight With A Transit Stop Within Australia

Passengers travelling to Australia on a flight which makes a transit stop at an airport within Australia will be screened at both the departure and transit airports
For example, QF82 Singapore - Darwin - Adelaide or QF74 San Francisco - Sydney - Melbourne

All transit passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage at the first point of arrival into Australia (even if continuing on the same aircraft and flight number) and be re-screened before re-joining the flight. Liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml taken through the transit screening point will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

We advise passengers to not purchase liquids, aerosols and gels which exceed 100ml at their last departure airport or on their last international flight before arrival in Australia if they will be transiting an Australian international airport before reaching their final destination.

Passengers Travelling On An International Flight With a Transit Stop Outside Australia

Passengers travelling to Australia on a flight which makes a transit stop at another airport outside Australia, will be screened at both the departure and transit airports
For example, QF26 Los Angeles - Auckland - Melbourne or QF10 London - Singapore - Melbourne

Passengers Travelling from London to Australia via Bangkok or Hong Kong

Passengers travelling on a flight which transits Bangkok or Hong Kong will be required to disembark and remove all liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml during the transit. All liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml taken through the transit screening point will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

This is applicable to the following flights:
QF2 London - Bangkok - Sydney
QF30 London - Hong Kong - Melbourne

Please note: This does not include passengers making a transfer in Bangkok or Hong Kong (for example, passengers travelling on QF30 London - Hong Kong transferring to QF188 Hong Kong - Sydney who will be required to remove all of their carry on baggage at the transfer/final port before arrival into Australia, and be screened before joining their onward flight.

Passengers transferring to a connecting flight departing from an international terminal in Australia must place liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in Australia. If your baggage has been through-checked to an onward destination you will not have access to your checked baggage and you should not purchase these items before arrival in Australia. Any purchases made before arrival in Australia which are carried in carry on baggage will have to be surrendered at the transfer screening point and will not be returned.

Passengers Travelling from Frankfurt or London to Australia via Singapore

Passengers travelling on a flight which transits Singapore will be required to disembark and remove all items of carry-on baggage (including liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml) during the transit. All carry on baggage will be screened before passengers re-join their onward flight and any liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml taken through the transit screening point will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

This is applicable to the following flights:
QF6 Frankfurt - Singapore - Sydney
QF10 London - Singapore - Melbourne
QF32 London - Singapore - Sydney

Passengers Travelling on QF108 from New York

Passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage during the transit in Los Angeles and may be subject to re-screening before joining their onward flight.

All liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml purchased prior to the transit screening point in Los Angeles will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Duty free alcohol cannot be purchased at New York airport as the first sector of this flight is a domestic service.

Passengers Travelling on QF26 Los Angeles - Auckland - Melbourne

Passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage during the transit in Auckland for re-screening before re-joining their onward flight to Melbourne.

All liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml purchased prior to the transit screening point in Auckland will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

Passengers transiting through Auckland to Melbourne should not purchase duty free liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in the USA or inflight from Los Angeles to Auckland. These purchases must be made at Auckland Airport transit area or inflight from Auckland to Melbourne.

Passengers transferring to a connecting flight departing from an international terminal in Australia must place liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml in their checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in Australia. If your baggage has been through-checked to an onward destination you will not have access to your checked baggage and you should not purchase these items before arrival in Melbourne. Any purchases made before arrival in Melbourne which are carried in carry on baggage will have to be surrendered at the transfer screening point and will not be returned.

Passengers Transferring to a Flight Departing From An International Terminal Within Australia

Passengers travelling to Australia and transferring to another flight at an international airport terminal within Australia will be screened at both the departure and transit airports for example, QF10 Singapore -Melbourne transferring to QF25 Melbourne - Auckland.

All carry on baggage will be screened at the transfer point in Australia and liquids, aerosols and gels exceeding 100ml will have to be surrendered and will not be returned.

If your flight includes a transit stop we recommend you also read the information relating to transit stops above.

Passengers Transferring between International Flights Outside Australia

Passengers travelling to Australia who transfer between flights at airports outside Australia, will be screened at both the departure and transfer airports
For example, QF30 London - Hong Kong transferring to QF188 Hong Kong - Sydney.

Passengers will be required to meet the screening regulations for the country where the transfer occurs, as well as any applicable requirements for departures to the destination. Further information about the screening requirements at Qantas destinations can be found on this page.

All flights departing from an overseas airport to Australia are required to screen for liquids, aerosols and gels at the last point of departure before arrival in Australia.

If your flight includes a transit stop we recommend you also read the information relating to transit stops above.

Passengers Travelling on QF26 from Los Angeles to Auckland and transferring to another flight from Auckland to Australia

Passengers will be required to remove all carry on baggage in Auckland and be re-screened before joining their onward flight to Australia.

All flights departing from an overseas airport to Australia are required to screen for liquids, aerosols and gels at the last point of departure before arrival in Australia.

Passengers transferring through Auckland to Australia should not purchase duty free in the USA or inflight from Los Angeles to Auckland. Duty free purchases must be made at Auckland Airport transit area or inflight from Auckland to Australia.

If your flight includes a transit stop we advise you to also read the information relating to transit stops above.

For further information on the Australian regulations visit the Australian Government website. To assist you in clearing security checks quickly and easily at Australian international and domestic airports visit the Australian Government travel security website.

Travel from New Zealand

The New Zealand government has increased security restrictions on international flights departing from New Zealand Airports. These restrictions limit the amount of liquids permitted in cabin baggage. The regulations will affect customers flying from New Zealand, including those who are transiting through the country. You are advised to pack your cabin baggage accordingly so as to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Specific regulations:

Liquids, aerosols and gels will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they are kept in containers of 100ml volume or less.
Containers larger than 100ml will not be permitted in carry-on baggage, even if there is only 100ml of liquid/gel in the larger container
These containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre.
Each person is allowed to carry only one such plastic bag.
The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to security personnel for x-ray screening.

Medications and special dietary requirements, including baby formula:

Are permitted in cabin baggage
May be subjected to additional security checks
Customers with prescription medicine are advised to bring along supporting documentation (e.g. ID cards, letters from doctors)
Prescription or non-prescription medicine in the form of a liquid, aerosol or gel, can be carried in quantities over 100ml. However these should be reasonable for the length of your flight as well as possible delays and flight diversions.

Duty-free purchases:

Liquids, aerosols and gels purchased from duty-free shops within New Zealand airports, located after security screening points, will be allowed onboard.
Customers going to Australia or the US are advised to check the regulations for Australia and United States for specific information regarding duty free purchases.

Travel from or connections through London (Heathrow) or Frankfurt

As changes to baggage restrictions are ongoing across the United Kingdom, for the most up to date information refer to the BAA website.

The UK Department of Transport has recently changed their cabin baggage security arrangements at a number of UK airports, including London Heathrow. The restriction previously limiting cabin baggage to one item per person for passengers departing and transferring through London Heathrow will no longer apply from 7 January 2008. Please note that Qantas carry-on baggage allowances still apply, for more information see Carry on Baggage allowances.

Customers can carry on board one (1) clear transparent resealable 1 litre size plastic bag containing liquids, gels and/or aerosols in containers of 100ml (3.3oz) capacity or less per container. The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed and subjected to visual inspection or x-ray inspection (if available) separate from the remainder of the passenger's carry on bags.

If any of the following items do not fit in the closed/sealed 1 litre size plastic bag and/or are over 100ml, they must be declared at primary screening checkpoint:

Personal dietary requirements including baby formula/milk (to include breast milk) and baby food in containers if a baby or small child is travelling.
Medications (liquid, gels and/or aerosol).
Liquids (including juice) or gels for diabetic or other medical needs.

Passengers will be permitted to purchase duty free within London or European airports, provided the duty free:

is purchased on the day of the flight,
is packed within a clear sealed plastic bag, and
the sales slip with date and location of purchase is readable inside the sealed plastic bag.

Passengers travelling to and transferring through London or Frankfurt are advised the above limitations apply to any duty free purchased before their arrival in London. Duty free purchased inflight, at point of origin or during a transit stop, which is over this limit, must be placed in checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in London. If this is not possible duty free goods must not be bought on board or before arrival in London. Any purchases made before arrival in London which are carried in hand baggage will be confiscated at transfer points.

The carry on bag can include:

Electronic equipment including mobile phones, digital cameras and MP3 players (such as i-Pods).
Keys and books.
Prescription medicines (up to 50ml) in liquid form are limited to sufficient and essential for the flight (for example, diabetic kit), as long as they are verified as being authentic by copy of prescription.
Baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger in the presence of a security agent).
Laptops may be carried on board but must be removed from the bag for x-ray.
Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened.
Wheelchairs are permitted but will be thoroughly searched.

In addition, one musical instrument is permitted provided it cannot fit in the one carry on bag and it has no other items in the instrument case, except the instrument itself.

Cigarette lighters and matches must not be carried on the person and are not permitted in checked or carry on baggage.

We advise passengers not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers).

Travel From Singapore

The Singapore government has increased security restrictions on international flights departing from Singapore Airports. These restrictions limit the amount of liquids permitted in cabin baggage. The regulations will affect customers flying from Singapore, including those who are transiting through the country. You are advised to pack your cabin baggage accordingly so as to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Specific regulations:

Liquids, aerosols and gels will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they are kept in containers of 100ml volume or less.
Containers larger than 100ml will not be permitted in carry-on baggage, even if there is only 100ml of liquid/gel in the larger container
These containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre.
Each person is allowed to carry only one such plastic bag.
The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to security personnel for x-ray screening.

Medications and special dietary requirements, including baby formula:

Are permitted in cabin baggage
May be subjected to additional security checks
Customers with prescription medicine are advised to bring along supporting documentation (e.g. ID cards, letters from doctors)

Duty-free purchases:

Liquids, aerosols and gels purchased from duty-free shops within Singapore (Changi)airport, located after security screening points, will be allowed onboard.

The duty-free items must be packed in a transparent, sealed plastic bag. Receipts of the purchased duty-free products must be attached or enclosed in the bag.

For flights from Singapore to Australia, duty free liquid, aerosol and gel items are allowed provided these items are purchased on board or are delivered by duty free staff to the departure gate in a sealed bag.

Customers who are entering Australia via transit in Singapore will not be allowed to carry duty free items purchased from previous sectors.

Items, which are not permitted through security checkpoints due to the liquid, aerosol and gel restrictions, will be disposed off at the gate.

Travel to and from Canada

Transport Canada has instructed all airlines to apply new security measures for flights into and out of Canada.

Transport Canada has advised they are enforcing a limit of up to two carry on bag per passenger (refer Canadian Air Transport Security Authority). Please be advised, that a restriction of one carry on bag applies to any passenger transiting within the US.

Additionally, customers are limited on the amount of liquids/gels/pastes they are permitted to take as carry on baggage. Customers are permitted to carry 1 clear transparent resealable 1 quart (1 litre) size plastic bag containing liquids, gels and/or aerosols in containers of 3.3oz (100ml) capacity or less per container. The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed. This bag must be presented separately for screening.

Qantas recommends liquids in excess of this allowance be placed in checked baggage before progressing to check-in. This includes (but is not limited to) the following items:

duty free purchases obtained before the security check point inspections,
beverages (including duty free purchases),
shampoos,
suntan lotions,
creams,
toothpastes,
hair gel, hair spray or other items of a similar consistency.

Excluded from the measures are baby formula or juice if a baby or small child is travelling. Prescription medicine and non-prescription medicine is allowed provided the passenger can demonstrate a bona fide need for these items.

Customers travelling to and from Canada may purchase duty free after Immigration and the primary screening point. It must be presented upon boarding in the duty free bag with the receipt clearly visible. Passengers clearing US Customs at Vancouver may purchase duty free items, but must transfer any goods that do not meet the carry on baggage restrictions to their checked baggage before proceeding through passenger screening.

Customers travelling to Canada with connecting flights are advised that any duty free, including those purchased inflight, must be placed in your checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration. If this is not possible, do not buy duty free goods on board. Any purchases made on board and carried in hand baggage will be confiscated at transfer points.

Passengers may be subjected to a pat down inspection and their accessible property may be inspected at the boarding gate before departure.

Travel to and from the USA

The United States Department of Homeland Security has instructed all airlines to apply new security measures for flights from the United States and into the United States from Australia and New Zealand.

Passengers may only carry on one bag plus a personal item, such as a purse, briefcase, backpack or similar, per passenger. Medical assistance items (crutches, wheelchairs etc) are exempt from this requirement. These limits are strictly enforced at all airport security checkpoints and on board departing Qantas flights. Note: this new limitation only impacts on the allowance for First and Business Class customers. Economy Class limits are unaffected.

Customers are limited on the amount of liquids/gels/pastes they are permitted to take as carry on baggage. Customers are permitted to carry 1 clear transparent resealable 1 quart (1 litre) size plastic bag containing liquids, gels and/or aerosols in containers of 3.3oz (100ml) capacity or less per container. The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed. This bag must be presented separately for screening.

Qantas recommends liquids in excess of this allowance be placed in checked baggage before progressing to check-in. This includes (but is not limited to) the following items:

duty free purchases obtained before the security check point inspections,
beverages (including duty free purchases),
shampoos,
suntan lotions,
creams,
toothpastes,
hair gel, hair spray or other items of a similar consistency.

Customers travelling to the US may purchase duty free after Immigration and the primary screening point, provided it is delivered by the Duty Free concessionaire/Qantas Group representative to the aerobridge (post gate security). Customers transiting through Auckland en route to the US, however, should not purchase duty free in Australia. Duty free purchases must be made at Auckland Airport transit area or inflight from Auckland to Los Angeles.

Customers travelling to the US with connecting flights are advised that any duty free purchased inflight must be placed in your checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration. If this is not possible, do not buy duty free goods on board. Any purchases made on board and carried in hand baggage will be confiscated at transfer points.

Customers travelling from the US may purchase duty free after Immigration and the primary screening point. It must be presented upon boarding in the duty free bag with the receipt clearly visible.

Customers travelling from the US with connecting flights are advised any duty free purchased inflight must be placed in your checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration. If this is not possible, do not buy duty free goods on board. Any purchases made on board and carried in hand baggage will be confiscated at transfer points.

Passengers may be subjected to a pat down inspection and their accessible property may be inspected at the boarding gate before departure.

Travel from Singapore to the UK or Frankfurt

The following arrangements apply to all flights departing Singapore for the UK or Germany.

Passengers (except passengers transferring in London or Frankfurt) are permitted to possess liquids as carry on baggage provided it is screened and cleared.

Passengers are also permitted electronic devices provided they can demonstrate their intended purpose to screeners. They will need to be powered up and perform their intended function, for example laptop and/or mobile phone.

The following procedures will be applied at screening:

All carry on baggage will be subjected to continuous explosive testing.
All containers with liquid/gel/paste detected in carry on baggage during x-ray will be opened and contents verified against packaging/label. If it is considered to contain a suspicious compound, it will be subjected to another level of testing. If the passenger objects to opening the bottle the screening authority will confiscate the item.
Some passengers will be subjected to a secondary search using hand held metal detector and/or a physical search.

Customers transferring through London or Frankfurt are restricted to one carry on bag. The maximum overall dimensions of the bag is 56cm x 45cm x 25cm.

If any of the following items do not fit in the closed/sealed 1 litre size plastic bag and/or are over 100ml, they must be declared at primary screening checkpoint:

Personal dietary requirements including baby formula/milk (to include breast milk) and baby food in containers if a baby or small child is travelling.
Medications (liquid, gels and/or aerosol).
Liquids (including juice) or gels for diabetic or other medical needs.

The above limitations also apply to any duty free purchased from an airport outside of Europe. Any duty free purchased inflight or in Singapore which is over this limit, must be placed in your checked baggage after clearing Customs and Immigration in London or Frankfurt. If this is not possible duty free goods must not be purchased on board or before arrival in London or Frankfurt. Any purchases made before arrival which are carried in hand baggage will be confiscated at transfer points.

Passengers will be permitted to purchase duty free within London or European airports provided the duty free:

is purchased on the day of the flight,
is packed within a clear sealed plastic bag, and
the sales slip with date and location of purchase is readable inside the sealed plastic bag.

Travel from Mumbai

The Indian government has relaxed the total prohibition of liquids being carried by passengers. The following limitations and conditions are placed on liquids permitted by passenger in carry on baggage:

One clear transparent resealable 1 litre (1 quart) size plastic bag containing liquids, gels and/or aerosols in containers of 100ml (3.3oz) capacity or less per container. The contents of the plastic bag must fit comfortably and the plastic bag must be completely closed/sealed and subjected to visual inspection or x-ray inspection (if available) separate from the remainder of passenger's carry-on bags.
Medicines/inhalers are exempt from this restriction provided they are accompanied by a prescription.
Baby/infant food is also exempt from this restriction. Although not stated it would be expected under this circumstance that an infant would be travelling as part of the group.

Note: the restrictions being applied to liquids are adhered to in the strictest sense. Within India it has been reported that security screening staff were also preventing solid medication (tablets) not accompanied by authorising documentation, and make-up including lipstick and eyebrow pencils. Passengers should be advised to only carry items essential to their flight.

For the purposes of screening requirements within India, liquids include gels, pastes, lotions, liquid/solid mixtures and the contents of pressurised containers. These liquids include, but are not limited to, toothpaste, hair gel/spray, shampoo, beverages, soups, syrups, perfume, alcohol, deodorant, shaving foam, suntan lotion, creams and aerosols.

Duty free purchases of alcohol or perfume, made within the sterile area by the passenger and taken to the boarding gate, will not be permitted on board the aircraft.

Duty free including alcohol and perfumes will still be sold on board Qantas aircraft.

All hand baggage will be hand searched by security and any security restricted items outside the above limits will be confiscated and disposed of. These items will not be returned to passengers.

Note: Indian Security will only permit one carry on bag per passenger. Any carry on baggage in excess of one piece will be confiscated at the security point and may be unable to be loaded on the aircraft.

Travel from Manila

The government of the Republic of the Philippines has increased security restrictions on flights departing from Ninoy Aquino Airport, Manila. These restrictions prohibit any liquids from being carried through the security x-ray screening point.

The following arrangements now apply:

Carry on baggage must not contain:

All liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGS) must be in containers 100ml in volume or smaller, placed in a fully transparent, re-sealable plastic bag with capacity not exceeding 1 litre, specifically measuring 20x20cm. Anything larger will not be accepted and confiscated at security check-point. Only 1 transparent plastic bag per passenger will be permitted.

Note: the Australian government has also introduced enhanced security measures to limit the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels for people flying to and from Australia.

You may purchase liquids, aerosols and gels (including duty free items) after passing through the security x-ray screening point. These items cannot be purchased in containers in excess of 100ml and must be placed in a transparent resealable plastic bag, measuring 20cm x 20cm and with a maximum capacity not exceeding 1 litre. Anything larger will not be accepted.
The plastic bag should be presented for examination at the gate screening point. Only one transparent plastic bag per passenger will be permitted and must be presented separately from other cabin baggage.

Certain items have been exempted and carry on baggage can include:

Prescription medicines (including insulin) as long as they are verified as being authentic with a doctor's prescription, matching the customer name;
Non-prescription medicine in limited quantities; and
Baby milk and liquid baby food where a baby or small child is travelling.

Note: the above items will still need to be cleared through the normal security screening process.

Customers are advised not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers).

Travel from Noumea on a Qantas international service

The following security restrictions apply to customers departing Noumea on a Qantas international flight.

Customers are permitted one small bag (maximum overall dimensions 56cm x 45cm x 25cm) to be taken through the security screening x-ray point and carried on board the aircraft.

If any of the following items do not fit in the closed/sealed 1 litre size plastic bag and/or are over 100ml, they must be declared at primary screening checkpoint:

personal dietary requirements including baby formula/milk (to include breast milk) and baby food in containers if a baby or small child is travelling;
medications (liquid, gels and/or aerosol); and
liquids (including juice) or gels for diabetic or other medical needs.

Passengers will be permitted to purchase duty free provided the duty free:

is purchased on the day of the flight,
is packed within a clear sealed plastic bag, and
the sales slip with date and location of purchase is readable inside the sealed plastic bag.

The carry on bag can include:

Electronic equipment including mobile phones, digital cameras and MP3 players (such as iPods).
Keys and books.
Prescription medicines (up to 50ml) in liquid form are limited to sufficient and essential for the flight (for example, diabetic kit), as long as they are verified as being authentic by copy of prescription.
Baby milk and liquid baby food (the contents of each bottle or jar must be tasted by the accompanying passenger in the presence of a security agent).
Laptops may be carried on board but must be removed from the bag for x-ray.
Pushchairs and walking aids are permitted but must be x-ray screened.
Wheelchairs are permitted but will be thoroughly searched.

In addition, one musical instrument is permitted provided it cannot fit in the one carry on bag and it has no other items in the instrument case, except the instrument itself.

Cigarette lighters are not permitted in checked baggage or through the security search.

We advise passengers not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers). We also recommend allowing additional time to proceed through security screening.

Travel from Japan

The Civil Aviation Bureau of Japan will implement liquids and gels restrictions on carry on baggage for all international passengers departing or transiting Japan from 1 March 2007. International transit passengers will also be affected by these restrictions on their arrival in Japan. For all passengers transferring in other countries make sure you are aware of the liquids and gels regulations for all other airports.

The following arrangements now apply for Japan:

All liquids and gels should be carried in containers with a capacity no greater than 100ml. Liquids and gels carried in containers larger than 100ml will not to be accepted, even if the container is only part-filled.
Containers should be placed in a transparent resealable plastic bag of a maximum capacity not exceeding 1 litre. The 100ml containers must fit comfortably within the transparent plastic bag, which should be completely closed.
The plastic bag should be presented for examination at the screening point. Only one transparent plastic bag per passenger will be permitted.
To facilitate screening and avoid a cluttered x-ray image, the above plastic bags should be presented separate from other carry on baggage. Coats and jackets or large electronic instruments (for example laptops) should also be presented for separate x-ray screening.

Once customers have passed through the security screening x-ray point in Japan, goods, including liquids and gels, can be purchased and taken on board the aircraft.

Certain items have been exempted and carry on can include:

Prescription medicines (including insulin) as long as they are verified as being authentic by a copy of the prescription matching the customer name,
Non-prescription medicine in limited quantities.
Baby formula, liquid baby food or juice where a baby or small child is travelling.

The above items will still need to be cleared through the normal security screening process.

We advise customers not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers).

Travel from Seoul

For the most up-to-date information regarding the new security measures for flights into and out of Seoul, refer to the Seoul Airport website.

Travel from Taipei

For the most up-to-date information regarding the new security measures for flights into and out of Taipei, refer to the Taipei Airport website.

Travel from Vietnam

The Civil Aviation Administration of Vietnam has increased security restrictions on flights departing from Vietnam. These restrictions cover all liquids, gels and aerosols for customers departing, transferring or transiting through any Vietnamese Airport.

The following arrangements now apply.

Carry on baggage must be restricted to

Liquids, gels and aerosols will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they are kept in containers with volumes not more than 100ml/3.3oz each.
These containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre (1 quart).
Each person is allowed to carry one such bag only.

The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to security personnel for visual and x-ray examination.

Medications, special dietary requirements and baby formula

The government has exempted certain items and carry on can include:

Prescription medicines (including insulin), as long as they are verified as being authentic by supporting documentation. The prescription must clearly state the name and address of the doctor who prescribed the medicine and the full name of the passenger which matches the name on the ticket,
Special dietary requirements in limited quantities; and
Baby formula, liquid baby food or juice where a baby or small child is travelling.

These items must be taken out of carry on baggage and presented separately to security personnel at the check point.

Duty Free Purchases

Duty free purchases are allowed, however there are some restrictions.

Liquids, gels and aerosols purchased from duty free stores in Vietnam airports, located after security screening points, will be allowed onboard.

However the goods must be in a transparent, sealed plastic bag. Receipts of the purchased duty free items must be attached or enclosed in the bag and must be clearly seen.

Note: the above items will still need to be cleared through the normal security screening process.

Customers are advised not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers).

Travel from Hong Kong

The Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department has increased security restrictions on flights from, transiting and transferring through Hong Kong Airport. These restrictions limit the amount of liquids, gels and aerosols which can be carried through the security screening x-ray point.

The following arrangements now apply.

Carry on baggage must be restricted to

Liquids, gels and aerosols will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they are kept in containers with volumes not more than 100ml/3.3oz each.
These containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre (1 quart).
Each person is allowed to carry one such bag only.

The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to security personnel for visual and x-ray examination.

Medications, special dietary requirements and baby formula

The government has exempted certain items and carry on can include:

Prescription medicines (including insulin) as long as they are verified as being authentic by supporting documentation. The prescription must clearly state the name and address of the doctor who prescribed the medicine and the full name of the passenger which matches the name on the ticket.
Special dietary requirements in limited quantities; and
Baby formula, liquid baby food or juice where a baby or small child is travelling.

These items must be taken out of carry on baggage and presented separately to security personnel at the check point.

Duty Free Purchases

Duty free purchases are allowed, however from 4 March 2008 new secondary screening restrictions apply.

Liquids, gels and aerosols purchased from duty free stores in Hong Kong airports, located after security screening points, will be allowed onboard, however, once purchased, they must be delivered to the gate by Duty Free store staff. The Duty Free goods can then be returned to the passenger once they have passed through the secondary screening point.

The goods must be in a transparent, sealed plastic bag. Receipts of the purchased duty free items must be attached or enclosed in the bag and must be clearly seen.

Note: the above items will still need to be cleared through the normal security screening process.

Customers are advised not to include containers that may leak in their carry on or checked baggage (for example, bottles, flasks, tubes, cans and plastic containers).

Travel from South Africa

In anticipation of the South African Government introducing additional security restrictions of its own, Qantas has introduced limits on the amount of liquids, aerosols and gels (LAGs) that may be carried by passengers on QF64 from Johannesburg to Australia. To implement these restrictions, Qantas will inspect the cabin baggage of all passengers as they board QF64. The restrictions will affect all customers flying from Johannesburg on QF64, including those who are transiting from other ports. Qantas understands that other carriers flying from Johannesburg to Australia have introduced similar arrangements. You are advised to pack your cabin baggage accordingly so as to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.

Specific regulations:

Liquids, aerosols and gels will only be allowed in cabin baggage if they are kept in containers of 100ml/3.3oz volume or less.
Containers larger than 100ml/3.3oz will not be permitted in carry-on baggage, even if there is only 100ml/3.3oz of liquid/gel in the larger container.
These containers must be carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag. The total volume of the bag must not exceed 1 litre/1 quart.
Each person is allowed to carry only one such plastic bag.
The bag must be removed from cabin baggage and presented to Qantas' security personnel at the gate before boarding the aircraft.

Medications and special dietary requirements, including baby formula:

Are permitted in cabin baggage.
May be subjected to additional security checks.
Customers with prescription medicine are advised to bring along supporting documentation (for example, ID cards, letters from doctors).
Prescription or non-prescription medicine in the form of a liquid, aerosol or gel, can be carried in quantities over 100ml. However these should be reasonable for the length of your flight as well as possible delays and flight diversions.

Duty-free purchases:

Liquids, aerosols and gels purchased from duty-free shops that exceed the limits set out above cannot be carried through Qantas' gate security control point and will not be permitted onto the aircraft.

Last updated 23 July 2009