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TSA vs European Union (EASA) Airport Security Rules (2026)

TSA and EU airports enforce 100 ml liquid limits, but the EU has strict Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) rules for transit. Review 2026 rules.

The Decision Verdict (40–60 Words)

Direct Answer

TSA (United States) and EU airport security both enforce the 100 ml (3.4 oz) liquid limit and checked battery bans. However, the European Union strictly regulates duty-free transit liquids via certified Security Tamper-Evident Bags (STEBs), which TSA honors only on qualifying non-stop inbound flights.

Verified against single-source-of-truth rules As of 2026-09-03

Detailed Comparison Table

TSA vs EU Airport Security: Liquids & STBE Rules (2026) side-by-side comparison table
Comparison Dimension
TSA (United States) 🇺🇸 US
EASA / EU Airport Security 🇪🇺 EU
Liquid Limit in Cabin Bags Identical Standard
100 ml (3.4 oz) Unit: ml Source (TSA)
100 ml (3.4 oz) Unit: ml Source (European Commission)
Duty-Free Liquids on Connecting Flights Differs by Rule
Allowed in STEB from approved international points Source (TSA)
Allowed in ICAO-standard STEB with receipt inside Source (EU Transport)

Where Rules Are 100% Identical

To prevent false assumptions, the following standards are shared without difference between all compared parties:

  • 100 ml liquid container capacity
  • 100 Wh power bank limit
  • Checked bag prohibition for loose lithium batteries

Key Rule Distinctions Explained

What is the rule for liquid limit in cabin bags?

Following the European Commission decision re-harmonizing liquid caps at 100 ml in September 2024, EU security checkpoints enforce the identical 100 ml cap as the TSA.

What is the rule for duty-free liquids on connecting flights?

EU airports permit duty-free liquids over 100 ml on connecting flights only if sealed inside an intact ICAO-standard STEB with the receipt visible inside. TSA inspects STEBs with bottle liquid scanners.

Traveler Recommendation & Decision Summary

Pack full-size liquids in checked bags unless purchased past security and sealed in a certified tamper-evident bag with an unbroken seal and receipt.

Check Your Exact Items

Use our free calculators to verify watt-hours or liquids volume for your flight.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take duty-free alcohol through European airport transit?

Yes, provided the alcohol was purchased at an airport or airline duty-free shop and sealed in a transparent Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with the receipt visibly displayed inside. The seal must remain completely unbroken until you reach your final destination.

Official Primary Sources & Citations