Do you need a clear bag for international flights?

Navigating the sometimes confusing world of airport security can be a challenge, especially when it comes to liquids and international travel. One common question revolves around clear bags and duty-free purchases: Do you need a clear bag for international flights? The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While you don’t generally need a clear bag for all your belongings on an international flight, it becomes crucial when dealing with duty-free liquids exceeding the standard carry-on restrictions.

For most items, a standard carry-on suitcase or bag will suffice. Your toiletries within the 100ml limit should be placed in a single, quart-sized, clear zip-top bag, as per usual regulations. However, the clear bag requirement comes into play specifically when you purchase liquids, gels, or aerosols at duty-free shops after going through security for an international arrival.

These duty-free purchases, which may exceed the standard 100ml limit for liquids, must be sealed in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB). This is the clear, tamper-proof bag provided by the duty-free shop at the time of purchase. Crucially, the bag must also contain the dated receipt for your purchase, clearly displaying that the items were bought within the last 48 hours at an airport duty-free shop. This proves their legitimate origin and allows them to pass through security at your destination.

Without this specific clear bag and the accompanying receipt, you risk having your duty-free liquids confiscated, even if they were purchased at the airport. This is particularly important for connecting flights, as security regulations may differ between countries. The STEB provides a standardized, internationally recognized system for verifying the legitimacy of duty-free purchases.

So, while you don’t necessarily need a clear bag for everything on your international flight, having one provided by the duty-free shop is essential for carrying larger volumes of liquids purchased there. Keep the receipt inside the sealed bag and readily available for inspection to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.