Traveling these days is no walk in the park – especially if you intend on traveling with alcohol in your suitcase or carry-on. With so many regulations on what travelers can or can’t bring, a lot of research needs to be done before departure. Alcohol is one of the most regulated products in the world, so it comes as no surprise that traveling with alcohol has its complications. 

Where you go and how you store your alcohol for air travel will determine how much you can bring or if you can bring it at all. Looking for the answers to alcohol questions can be so confusing that people make mistakes. 

Daniel Ufland, a whisky expert and founder of The Whisky Masters, reminds us to always take the time to be sure when traveling with alcohol: “The time spent looking up specific rules and regulations of your airline and destination pale in comparison to the time spent at customs should you be in violation of any local laws.”

Ufland provides the most common mistakes people make when traveling with alcohol and how you can avoid them to make the most of your trip and your alcohol. 

1. Not Researching Country-Specific Laws and Regulations
A lot of people assume that they can pack and transport alcohol to any destination. But as Ufland explains, each country has its own restrictions and regulations on the import and consumption of alcohol. 

“Without proper research, individuals risk facing heavy fines or even legal consequences for violating these laws,” Ufland said. “What may be perfectly legal and acceptable in one country may be completely prohibited in another.” 

To avoid issues, verify your plans with official alcohol regulation websites of the country you’re traveling to. 

2. Overpacking Alcohol
There are strict regulations on the amount of alcohol that can be brought onto a flight, and exceeding these limits can lead to potential problems with airport security. Travelers tend to overestimate how much alcohol they will consume on their trip and end up packing too much. 

This adds extra weight and can cause problems with customs if the amount exceeds the limits the host country allows. 

Ufland advises, “If you’re unsure about the amount of alcohol you can bring, it’s best to leave it at home and purchase it at your destination instead.

3. Not Properly Securing the Bottles
Unsecure bottles can be a major safety hazard, resulting in damage to the bottles and potential spillage. 

Ufland warns, “The pressure and temperature changes on the plane can cause the bottles to leak or even break, which can create a mess and ruin other items in your luggage.” 

Broken glass from a shattered bottle can potentially harm airport staff who handle the bags. 

“Always wrap your bottles in bubble wrap and stow them in the middle of your suitcase,” Ufland said. “This provides added cushioning against the rigors of air travel.” 

4. Packing Alcohol in Carry-on Luggage
Packing alcohol in carry-on luggage may seem convenient and easy for travelers, but it’s actually a common mistake. 

“According to the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and Department for Transport (DfT), all liquids over 100ml, including alcohol, must be packed in checked luggage,” Ufland explains. “This is to comply with safety regulations and avoid confiscation at security checkpoints.”

Alcohol is flammable and can pose a safety hazard on a flight, which is why it’s vital to follow the guidelines and properly pack alcohol in checked baggage.

5. Not Declaring Alcohol Purchases
This mistake occurs because people may not be aware of the regulations surrounding how much alcohol can be brought on a flight or simply forget to declare their purchases.

Ufland warns, “Failing to declare alcohol purchases can result in fines or potential confiscation of the items. This can ruin the start or end of a trip and cause delays or other complications for the traveler.”

The proper way to pack for a flight when traveling with alcohol is to first research the country’s laws and regulations on how much alcohol can be carried in checked and carry-on luggage. This information can usually be found on the airline’s website or by contacting the airport. 

“Traveling through the air with alcohol is not prohibited, but it comes with strict regulations that change depending on where you’re coming from and where you’re going,” Ufland said. “Even when educated, the logistics of traveling with glass alcohol bottles presents its own set of challenges, which results in travelers often just avoiding the situation altogether. 

“If you have a special beverage that you simply cannot live without, be sure to do research and prepare well in advance. If your drink has sentimental value, then leaving it at home is probably best. Wherever you travel, they will most likely have their own local beverages for you to sample.” 

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About The Whisky Masters

The Whisky Masters is an online whisky retailer offering a curated selection of fine and rare whiskies. Catering to both seasoned connoisseurs and newcomers, the company provides an extensive range of products from renowned distilleries worldwide. Their collection includes limited editions, rare collectibles, and exclusive releases, all aimed at enhancing the whisky-tasting experience. The Whisky Masters prides itself on exceptional customer service and reliable nationwide delivery across the UK.

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