Duty-Free Liquids & Connecting Flights
The 48-hour STEB rule, optical Raman bottle scanner traps, and US/EU re-screening procedures.
On this page · 3 sections
What is a Secure Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) and how does it work?
A Secure Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) is an internationally certified transparent security bag with high-visibility tamper seals designed by ICAO. When purchasing duty-free alcohol or perfume over 3.4 oz (100 ml), airport retailers seal the items inside with the itemized sales receipt visible through the plastic.
What common mistakes trigger duty-free liquid confiscations?
Opening the STEB bag before reaching your final destination voids the security seal immediately, resulting in confiscation at connecting screening points. Furthermore, opaque, ceramic, or metallic bottles that cannot be scanned by optical laser checkpoint analyzers will be rejected by TSA officers.
Perguntas Frequentes (FAQ)
Frequently asked questions
Can I take duty-free alcohol through a connecting flight security checkpoint?
Yes, provided the liquid was purchased within 48 hours, is sealed in an undamaged Secure Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) with the receipt visible inside, and clears airport checkpoint bottle scanners.