7 Common Mistakes Indians Make When Carrying Liquids On Flights

Packing for a flight seems simple until you reach airport security and watch your favourite products disappear into the bin. Liquids are one of the most confusing parts of air travel, and many passengers still get the rules wrong. From homemade chutneys and oils to luxury skincare and duty-free bottles, the mistakes are surprisingly common and often costly. Understanding what counts as a liquid and how to pack it correctly can save you time, money and stress. Whether you are flying domestic or international, these tips will help you avoid unnecessary hassles. Here are seven mistakes Indians often make when carrying liquids on flights.

Also Read: 8 Hidden Germ Hotspots In Airports And Hotels You Should Watch Out For

Here Are 7 Mistakes Indians Make While Packing Liquids For Flights:

1. Assuming 'Desi' Liquids Do Not Count

People often think homemade items like achar oil, chutney, ghee, rasam, or ayurvedic liquids will get a free pass because they are food or "ghar ka bana". Airports prioritise security over emotional value. If it is a liquid, gel, or semi-liquid over the limit, it is not flying in your cabin. 

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2. Forgetting That Duty-Free Rules Change Once You Transit

Many travellers buy liquids from duty-free at an international airport and assume they are safe till the final destination. The problem begins during transit. If you change terminals or clear security again, those sealed bottles can still be confiscated, especially at European and Middle Eastern hubs. One more scan, one less bottle.

3. Carrying Expensive Skincare In Cabin Bags Without Backup

High-end serums, sunscreens, hair oils, and perfumes often get packed in cabin bags out of fear of spillage in check-in luggage. When security pulls them out, there is rarely time to repack or transfer. The bottle gets binned. The mistake is not decanting in advance or using leak-proof travel sizes.

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4. Underestimating How 'Liquid' Is Defined At Indian Airports

At Indian security checks, the definition of liquid can be broader than people expect. Creams, gels, balms, paste-like cosmetics, and even thick food items can be flagged. Peanut butter, face masks, kajal removers, and hair styling creams often get stopped because travellers assume only water-like liquids count.

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5. Ignoring Pressure And Temperature Changes In Check-In Bags

Travellers focus so much on cabin rules that they forget basic physics. Changes in air pressure can cause shampoo, oil, or perfume bottles in check-in luggage to leak. The result is ruined clothes and a bag that smells permanently of conditioner or hair oil. Not sealing bottles properly is an avoidable but common mistake.

6. Packing Liquid Medicines Without Proper Documentation

Many travellers carry syrups, tonics, or liquid medicines in cabin bags without prescriptions or original packaging. Security often flags these items, and without proof, they can be confiscated. Always carry a doctor's note or prescription and keep medicines in clearly labelled containers to avoid hassles.

Also Read: Can Shaving Razors And Tweezers Go In Cabin Baggage? Airport Rules Explained

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7. Assuming Baby Food And Formula Are Exempt Without Limits

Parents often believe baby food, formula, or expressed milk can be carried in unlimited quantities. While allowances exist, they are subject to security checks and reasonable limits. Overpacking or failing to declare these items can lead to delays or disposal at checkpoints.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can save time, prevent unnecessary losses, and enjoy a stress-free journey.