Can you take empty alcohol bottles on a plane?

Empty Bottles Aloft: Navigating the Skies with Souvenirs and Recyclables

Ever find yourself captivated by a beautifully designed alcohol bottle on your travels? Maybe it’s the hand-blown glass of a local distillery’s limited edition, or the unique label from a foreign wine. Bringing these beauties home as souvenirs, for upcycling projects, or simply for your personal collection is a common desire. But a question often arises: can you actually take empty alcohol bottles on a plane?

The good news is, generally, yes, you can bring empty alcohol bottles on a plane. The key word here is empty. Regulations primarily focus on the transportation of liquids and potentially flammable substances. Once a bottle is completely devoid of its original contents, it’s essentially viewed like any other piece of glass or plastic.

Think of it this way: the TSA and other aviation security agencies are concerned with what’s in the bottle, not the bottle itself. They are looking for potentially dangerous liquids or substances that could pose a threat during flight. An empty bottle presents no such threat.

However, there are a few crucial caveats to keep in mind:

• Completely Empty is Essential: This isn’t just “mostly empty” or “a few drops left.” The bottle needs to be completely and demonstrably free of any liquid. A security officer may ask you to show them the inside of the bottle, so make sure it’s truly empty before you arrive at the airport.
• No Partially Filled Containers: This is a strict no-go. Any partially filled containers, regardless of how much liquid remains, are generally forbidden in both carry-on and checked baggage.
• Consider Leak-Proofing: While the bottle itself may be empty, residual aromas can sometimes linger. To prevent any unwanted attention or suspicion, consider rinsing the bottle thoroughly with water and letting it air dry. You might even want to seal the opening with a cork, stopper, or tape to prevent any lingering scent from escaping.
• Packing Matters: Treat these empty bottles as you would any other fragile item. Wrap them securely in bubble wrap, clothing, or other protective materials to prevent them from breaking during transit.
• When in Doubt, Ask: Rules and regulations can sometimes vary slightly depending on the airline and the origin/destination of your flight. If you’re unsure about anything, it’s always best to check with your airline or local airport authority before you travel.

What about transporting unopened bottles of alcohol?

If you are travelling with alcohol you intend to consume later, ensure the bottles are both sealed and unopened. Airlines often have restrictions on the amount of alcohol you can transport, and the proof level that you can bring, so be sure to check before departure.

The Alternative: Decanting

If you have a nearly empty bottle of your favourite spirit or wine and want to bring it home without discarding it completely, consider decanting the remaining liquid into an appropriately sized, leak-proof travel container that adheres to the TSA’s liquid restrictions (typically containers of 3.4 ounces or less). This allows you to enjoy the last drops of your beverage without violating any aviation regulations.

In conclusion, bringing empty alcohol bottles on a plane is generally permissible. By ensuring the bottles are completely empty, packing them carefully, and adhering to any specific airline guidelines, you can safely transport your prized souvenirs and upcycling materials without any unnecessary hiccups. So, go ahead and collect those unique bottles – just remember to empty them first!