Check 100ml Containers and Ziplock Bags Before Packing for an International Flight
Key Takeaway
For international flights from Incheon, use containers of 100ml or less and one closed, clear 1L ziplock bag per person. Check the bottle capacity before looking at how much shampoo is left.

Is a large bottle allowed if very little remains?
Incheon Airport's FAQ uses the capacity of each container, regardless of the amount left inside. For example, a 200ml bottle with 50ml remaining does not meet the ordinary carry-on liquids limit. If you transfer the contents, check that the smaller container itself is 100ml or less.
Take your toiletries out and read the capacity markings on the bottles and tubes first. Separate larger containers from your cabin bag, then check whether each item can go in checked baggage.
What should you check besides shampoo?
Incheon Airport lists toothpaste, sunscreen, lip gloss, gochujang and doenjang as gels. These examples follow the official FAQ's categories.
| Form | Examples in the official guide | What to check when packing |
|---|---|---|
| Liquid | Bottled water, perfume, skin toner, lotion | Read each container's capacity marking |
| Spray | Hair spray | Check capacity and the product's dangerous goods restrictions |
| Gel | Shampoo, toothpaste, sunscreen, gochujang | Include tubes and food containers when checking your liquids |
Checked on October 19, 2026. A small spray is not automatically permitted. Incheon Airport restricts dangerous goods, including flammable materials, separately.
How should you fill the ziplock bag?
Put ordinary liquids together in one clear 1L plastic ziplock bag per person. Incheon Airport's FAQ says the bag must be closed. Check at home that the zip seals all the way after you put the containers inside.
- Gather the liquids, sprays and gels you plan to carry in the cabin.
- Check that each container is 100ml or less.
- Put them in one ziplock bag and check that it closes.
- For items needing a separate check, give the airline the product name and container capacity.
Do not use these packing rules to assess power banks. Check power bank carry-on and use conditions separately.
Do duty-free purchases and connecting flights need the same preparation?
Duty-free liquids have separate sealed-packaging requirements. Incheon Airport says duty-free purchases must be in a dedicated duty-free liquids bag, which should stay unopened until you board the aircraft bound for your final destination. Keep it separate from your ordinary toiletries bag.
If you have a connection, tell the airline your transit airport, destination and product capacity before buying duty-free liquids. Ask whether the sealed purchase can pass transit security. Do not assume other airports use identical screening rules based only on Incheon departure guidance.
Which items should you ask about before departure?
Children's milk and baby food, and liquid medicines, have exceptions that differ from ordinary toiletries. Find the relevant item in Incheon Airport's FAQ, then ask the airline about the quantity and documents you need.
For an item you are unsure about, give Incheon Airport's customer service at 1577-2600 the product name, container capacity and whether you are flying internationally. Specify the airports you will use for your outbound and return flights when asking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I carry a 200ml bottle with only 50ml left?
Not under the ordinary liquids allowance. Incheon Airport uses container capacity regardless of what remains, so prepare a container of 100ml or less.
Do toothpaste and sunscreen go in the ziplock bag too?
Yes. Incheon Airport lists both as gels. Check that each container is 100ml or less and put them with your other liquids in one clear 1L ziplock bag.
Does the same liquids limit apply to domestic flights?
Incheon Airport distinguishes domestic flights as exempt from this liquids volume limit. Dangerous goods and airline baggage rules still apply, so check each item separately.
Sources & Verification Date
- Incheon International Airport restricted items · Verified
- Incheon International Airport restricted items FAQ: food and liquids · Verified
- Incheon International Airport restricted items FAQ · Verified
All materials have been verified from official announcements and may have changed since verification.