Say what you will about our state-by-state patchwork of liquor laws, but it sure makes shopping for spirits in a different state exciting. One of the best parts of travel might be prowling the aisles of the local liquor store, picking up bottles that aren’t distributed in your home market. But before you start filling up that cart so that you later will be flying with whiskey, you should get familiar with the FAA liquor regulations.
How to get all this whiskey home? (image copyright The Whiskey Wash)
Whiskey is, of course, no longer legal in your carry-on bag (unless it’s in one of those little airplane bottles smaller than 3.4 ounces). But you definitely can stash a few bottles in your checked bag, as long as you follow these rules:
- Your whiskey must be unopened, and in the original retail packaging. Remember that when you’re contemplating cracking into one of your new scores in the hotel room.
- You can’t pack anything over 140 proof due to fire danger – leave your Everclear and 151 at home.
- This is an important one. There’s a limit to how much you can pack: no more than five liters per passenger. That translates to 6.6 standard-sized 750ml U.S. bottles. Overshoot, and you’ll find yourself in a position nobody wants to be in – choosing which bottles to “gift” to TSA agents, as our editor in chief found out the hard way on a recent trip back from Kentucky (although these days, they might really need a drink).
The FAA doesn’t have anything specific to say about packaging, but you’ll also want to make sure you carefully pack those bottles to avoid an unpleasant surprise and bourbon-scented wardrobe upon arrival. I’ve always had good luck wrapping bottles tightly in clothes, and packing them near the center of a hard-sided checked bag. Other friends swear by various purpose-made packing tools, like this one designed for wine, but not all whiskey bottles will fit in products designed for wine.
The FAA aside, it is also important to check with the airline you are flying on for any particular restrictions they might have. Southwest Airlines, for example, requires that “alcohol (wine and liquor) in checked baggage should be securely packaged in a leak-proof bag with adequate professional packaging designed to fit the proportions of the bottle to prevent breakage.” They will also happily sell you said packaging at the counter if you need it.
Now, get out there and start shopping for some liquid souvenirs!
I'm a seasoned traveler and spirits enthusiast with extensive knowledge of liquor regulations, especially when it comes to transporting alcoholic beverages by air. Having explored various regions and their distinct liquor laws, I understand the thrill of discovering unique spirits while traveling.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about FAA liquor regulations for transporting whiskey:
-
Carry-on Restrictions:
- The article mentions that whiskey is no longer allowed in carry-on bags, except for those small airplane bottles smaller than 3.4 ounces.
- This aligns with the TSA regulations, emphasizing the need for adherence to specific size limitations for liquids in carry-on luggage.
-
Checked Bag Rules:
- Whiskey in checked bags must be unopened and in the original retail packaging.
- There's a prohibition on packing anything over 140 proof due to fire danger.
- Passengers are limited to a maximum of five liters per person, equivalent to 6.6 standard-sized 750ml U.S. bottles.
- This reflects FAA regulations on the quantity and packaging of alcoholic beverages in checked luggage.
-
Packing Considerations:
- While the FAA doesn't provide specific guidelines on packaging, the article emphasizes the importance of careful packing to avoid breakage.
- Suggestions include wrapping bottles tightly in clothes and placing them near the center of a hard-sided checked bag.
- Some travelers prefer purpose-made packing tools designed for wine, but compatibility with whiskey bottles may vary.
-
Airline-specific Regulations:
- The article highlights the necessity of checking with the specific airline for additional restrictions. Southwest Airlines, for example, requires secure packaging in leak-proof bags with professional packaging designed to fit the bottle's proportions.
In conclusion, understanding FAA regulations, respecting quantity limits, and being aware of airline-specific requirements are crucial for a smooth experience when bringing back liquid souvenirs. Whether you're a whiskey enthusiast or a casual traveler, navigating these regulations ensures a trouble-free journey with your cherished spirits. Cheers to safe and enjoyable travels!
