YES — Allowed in Carry-on Bags on United Airlines
Baby formula (powder or liquid) is allowed in carry-on and is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Declare it to officers at security.
Can you bring formula on United Airlines?
Quick Answer
Yes — Formula is allowed in carry-on bags on United Airlines flights. Baby formula (powder or liquid) is allowed in carry-on and is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Declare it to officers at security.
Also known as: baby formula, infant formula
What is formula?
Yes — Formula is allowed in carry-on bags by TSA. Baby formula (powder or liquid) is allowed in carry-on and is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Declare it to officers at security.
Allowed In Cabin
Baby formula (powder or liquid) is allowed in carry-on and is exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Declare it to officers at security.
Allowed In Hold
Baby formula is allowed in checked baggage.
Airline & country baggage checker
Pick your airline or destination to see the limits that apply to Formula.
United Airlines Carriage & Security Policy
49 CFR § 1540.111 — IATA & Aviation Standards
Carriage of formula is governed by TSA security directives under 49 CFR § 1540.111 regarding passenger screening and baggage security. Security rules distinguish sharply between accessible passenger cabin space (where items that could serve as weapons or hazards are prohibited) and cargo hold baggage (where items are safely stowed during flight).
Security Checkpoint Screening Procedure
At the airport screening lane, formula will pass through standard X-ray or CT scanning equipment. Keep formula neatly arranged in your luggage so officers can get a clear image. If an item appears opaque or clustered with wires or dense materials on the monitor, a secondary manual bag search will be conducted. Cooperate with TSA personnel and allow them to inspect the item without opening sealed packaging yourself.
Step-by-Step Packing Guide for United Airlines Passengers
Baby food, formula, breast milk, and juice are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule — you may carry reasonable quantities regardless of container size.
Inform the TSA officer at the checkpoint that you are carrying baby items; they may test liquids separately but cannot require you to open sealed formula.
Pack nappies, wipes, and a change of clothes near the top of your carry-on for quick in-flight access.
Carry a small portable changing mat in your bag for use on the aircraft or in airport facilities.
If travelling with sterilised equipment, keep items in sealed, sterile pouches until needed to maintain hygiene during transit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Verified travel information
This document has been reviewed and verified by our travel reference editors. All statuses, notes and guidelines are checked against live security feeds from the TSA (Transportation Security Administration), FAA (Federal Aviation Administration) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection).