Getting your prized liquor home after the distillery tour.
It’s no secret—I love visiting distilleries and wineries when I travel. They offer a unique glimpse into a region’s culture and flavors while also selling the perfect souvenir: a bottle of something special to share with friends (or keep for yourself) when you get home. Over the years, I’ve built up quite the collection of exclusive spirits from around the world, and if you’re anything like me, you’ve probably found yourself in the same situation: standing in your hotel room, staring at those precious bottles and thinking—how am I going to get these home safely?
If you’re road-tripping, it’s easy. Just tuck them into the trunk, and off you go. But what if you’re flying? That’s where things get tricky. We’ve all seen how rough baggage handlers can be with luggage, not to mention the worries about theft or airport regulations that could prevent your bottles from making it home. But don’t worry—I’ve mastered the art of flying with liquor, and I’m here to share my foolproof method for getting your prized spirits home safely, stress-free.
Know the Rules Before You Fly
Before you even think about packing those bottles, take a moment to check the regulations of both your departure and arrival destinations. While traveling with alcohol in the United States is generally not an issue, other countries may have stricter rules about importing spirits. A little research upfront can save you from headaches at customs later on.
Airline and TSA Guidelines for Flying with Alcohol
The key to successfully flying with liquor is knowing (and following) airline and TSA regulations. Here’s what you need to know:
- Carry-on restrictions: Any liquid over 3.4 ounces (100ml) is not allowed in carry-on luggage. That means your bottles must go in your checked baggage.
- Alcohol under 24% ABV (48 proof): Good news! There’s no limit to the amount you can pack in your checked luggage, as long as your bag stays within the airline’s weight limits.
- Alcohol between 24% and 70% ABV (48-140 proof): You’re allowed to bring up to 5 liters per person, which equals about six standard 750ml bottles.
- Alcohol over 70% ABV (140 proof): Sorry, but anything stronger than this (think Everclear or some overproof rums) is completely banned from airline travel.
Preparing Your Bottles for Safe Travel
Now that you know the rules, let’s talk about packing. Flying with liquor doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience if you take the right precautions. Here’s my go-to method:
- Ask the distillery or winery for help. Many places have bubble wrap or padded bottle sleeves available. If they offer to wrap your bottles, take them up on it!
- Choose the right bag. I swear by my Osprey travel backpack. It has padded sides and compression straps that keep my bottles snug and secure. If you’re using a suitcase, make sure it’s sturdy and well-padded.
- Use large ziplock bags. Place each bottle inside its own ziplock bag. This won’t protect against breakage, but it will keep your clothes from getting soaked in the unlikely event of a leak.
- Wrap bottles in clothes. Remember all those dirty clothes from your trip? Put them to good use! Hoodies, sweaters, and jeans work best. Roll each bottle tightly in clothing like a burrito.
- Pack strategically. Place your wrapped bottles in the center of your luggage, surrounded by softer items for extra padding. Make sure they don’t shift when you move the bag.
- Check your bag and relax. No need to declare anything special—just check your luggage as usual and enjoy your flight home!
Celebrate a Successful Journey
f you follow these steps, chances are you’ll arrive home with your bottles intact and your spirits high. I’ve transported countless bottles this way and, like a modern-day bootlegger with a perfect track record, I’ve never broken a bottle yet!
Once you’re home, pop open a bottle, pour yourself a glass, and toast to another incredible trip. After all, what better way to relive your travels than by savoring a taste of your adventure? Cheers!
If you need a recommendation on which distillery tours to take when visiting Nashville, READ THIS