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Aena’s published general rule is containers holding no more than 100 ml, carried in one transparent, resealable bag of up to one litre per passenger. Products such as gel, cream and toothpaste count too. Check the airport’s current information before travelling; this guide was checked on 29 September 2026.
The bathroom is a better place to organise a washbag than the security queue. Set out the products you will actually use and decide which need to travel with you. A short trip rarely calls for every bottle in your usual bathroom routine.
Read the container’s capacity
Aena’s official guidance concerns the capacity of the container. A half-empty 200 ml bottle is not a 100 ml container. Before buying travel bottles, check each one’s capacity and make sure you can identify its contents.
If decanting a cosmetic, check that the container is suitable and that the manufacturer permits transferring the product. Where storage instructions or ingredients matter, an original travel-size version may be more practical than losing that information.
Try closing the bag before packing
Put your selection into the bag and close it fully. Do not plan solely by adding up millilitres: bottle shapes and packaging take up space too. If closing it is a struggle, reduce the selection while you are still at home.
For a two-night break, try listing needs by occasion—showering, washing and personal care—and choosing a product for each genuine need. If you will rely on toiletries provided by your accommodation, confirm what is included. A room photograph does not guarantee that an item will be available.
Keep relevant exceptions identifiable
Aena provides specific arrangements for liquid medicines needed during the journey, special diets and children’s food, and recommends carrying supporting documentation where possible. Read the relevant section and pack these items so you can present them for inspection.
Liquids bought at an airport or on board have separate conditions: follow Aena’s instructions to keep the approved security bag sealed with the receipt inside. Check arrangements for any connecting security check and for the return journey as well.
Plan how to reach the bag
Keep it accessible without emptying the entire backpack. With the luggage closed, practise finding your documents, liquids bag and anything else you may need to present without scattering small belongings. Follow staff instructions at each checkpoint, where equipment and procedures can differ.
Two common questions
Does the liquids bag add to my baggage allowance?
Do not treat it as an extra bag granted by your fare. Check the airline’s size, weight and piece limits separately.
Can I rely on news about another airport?
Check your actual departure airport and connections. Reports about new scanners elsewhere do not replace their current instructions. If the journey also includes a train, see our guide to packing for a rail journey to plan that leg too.
Sources checked on 29 September 2026.
