Before transporting alcohol on a plane be sure you understand the regulations that govern alcohol on an aircraft in the country you are traveling.

FAA rules for the United States:

• Be of legal drinking age – 21 years or older.
• Alcohol is to be transported in its original unopened container.
• Beverages with over 70% alcohol content or 140 proof are FORBIDDEN.
• Beverages such as beer and wine with an alcohol content under 24% are ALLOWED.
• Each eligible passenger is limited to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) in their checked luggage.
• Mini bottles can be carried in your carry on as long they meet the liquid restrictions. Containers can be no more than 100 milliliters (3.4 oz) and all liquids must be in a quart sized clear resealable bag. You CANNOT, however, drink your own alcohol on the plane.
• Duty free alcohol purchased out of the US can be carried onboard (not checked) if packaged properly by the retailer and the receipt shows purchase within 48 hours. Be WARNED though that if you have a connecting flight once inside the United States you will have to reenter the security checkpoint and those purchases will have to meet the carry-on liquid restrictions stated above.

Proceed with caution when deciding to pack those treasured alcohol purchases in your luggage. That suitcase is going to get slung around.

• First, wrap those bottles in newspaper, bubble wrap, a t-shirt or even a pair of socks. If you know that chances are you will be returning from your trip with alcohol it is a clever idea to throw some bubble wrap in your luggage when packing for your trip.
• Second, place wrapped bottle in plastic wrap or a resealable bag. Double bagging is even better! Again, plan ahead and throw these in when packing.
• Third, place a barrier around the bottle(s). Wrap each bagged bottle inside a pair of jeans or sweater, anything thick. If it will fit, you can even place the bottle inside a shoe.
• Lastly, when packing your bag, you’ll want to pack the bottle(s) in the center of the luggage. Making sure there is padding all the way around; top, bottom, sides, and underneath.

Now that you’ve taken the precautions and know the regulations hopefully you’ve landed at home with your beloved purchases intact, and you can sit back and take a sip or two of that lovely liquid.