Paris CDG Airport Liquid Rules: What You Can Bring

Packing for a flight from Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)? Getting the liquid rules right is the easiest way to avoid losing items at security or being pulled aside for a bag search. This guide explains the 100 ml hand-luggage limit, what actually counts as a liquid, and the special rules for medicines, baby food and duty-free.

The 100 ml hand-luggage rule

For liquids in your carry-on bag, the standard EU rule applies at CDG:

• Each container must hold no more than 100 ml (even if it is only part-full);
• All containers must fit inside one transparent, re-sealable plastic bag of up to 1 litre;
• Each passenger may carry one such bag, which must be presented separately at the security check.

Containers larger than 100 ml are not allowed in the cabin even if they are almost empty — it is the size of the container that matters, not how much liquid is inside. Larger quantities should go in your checked baggage.

What counts as a "liquid"?

The definition is broader than many travellers expect. At CDG security, the following all count as liquids and must follow the 100 ml rule:

• Water and other drinks;
• Creams, lotions, cosmetics and sun cream;
• Perfumes and aftershave;
• Sprays, gels, shaving foam and deodorants;
• Toothpaste;
• Mascara, lip gloss and other liquid make-up;
• Jams, honey, yoghurt, soups and syrups;
• Any other item of a similar consistency.

New scanners and the liquid limit

Some lanes at CDG use newer CT (computed-tomography) scanners that can, in principle, allow larger liquids and let you keep electronics in your bag. However, the rules can change from lane to lane and from month to month. Because you cannot know in advance which scanner your lane will use, the safest approach is to pack as if the 100 ml limit applies and follow the instructions of the security staff on the day.

Medicines, baby food and special items

There are exceptions for essential items:

• Medicines needed during the trip are allowed in larger quantities. Carry a prescription or doctor's note, and declare them at security.
• Baby food, baby milk and sterilised water for an infant travelling with you are permitted in the amount needed for the journey. You may be asked to taste them.
• Special dietary liquids required for medical reasons are also allowed with supporting documentation.

Duty-free liquids and connecting flights

Liquids over 100 ml bought in the airport shops after security — or duty-free on your inbound flight — are allowed on board if they are sealed inside a security tamper-evident bag (STEB) with the receipt visible inside. Keep the bag sealed until you reach your final destination. If you have a connecting flight, be aware that a second security screening may question duty-free liquids, so keep the receipt and sealed bag intact.

Tips for a faster security check at CDG

• Prepare your 1-litre liquids bag before you reach the checkpoint;
• Take laptops and large electronics out of your bag unless told otherwise;
• Empty your water bottle before security and refill it after;
• Arrive early — CDG security queues can be long at peak departure times.

Frequently asked questions

How many millilitres of liquid can I take through Paris CDG security?

Each container in your hand luggage may hold up to 100 ml, and all containers must fit inside a single transparent, re-sealable bag of up to 1 litre. Larger quantities must be checked in.

Does toothpaste count as a liquid at CDG?

Yes. Toothpaste, along with creams, gels, sprays and similar items, is treated as a liquid and must follow the 100 ml hand-luggage rule.

Can I bring medicine over 100 ml through security?

Yes. Essential medicines needed for your trip are allowed in larger quantities. Carry a prescription or doctor's note and declare them to the security staff.

Are duty-free liquids allowed on the plane at CDG?

Yes, if they are sealed in a security tamper-evident bag with the receipt visible and kept sealed until your final destination. Watch out for extra screening on connecting flights.

Can I take a full water bottle through CDG security?

No. Empty your water bottle before the checkpoint and refill it airside. Containers over 100 ml with liquid are not permitted in the cabin.