🍯 Honey

Honey is classified as a liquid, so a jar over 100ml (3.4oz) will be flagged at the X-ray and confiscated at security. You will not have the option to check it from the security lane. If you want to bring a larger jar, it must go into your checked baggage before you reach the checkpoint.

Australia and New Zealand are island ecosystems with strict biosecurity regimes designed to keep out pests and diseases that could devastate local bee populations and agriculture. Unlike most other regions where honey passes through customs without issue, Australia and New Zealand require you to declare all honey on arrival. Commercially sealed honey usually clears inspection, but open containers and honeycomb are typically confiscated because they are harder to verify as pest-free.

Honey shows up clearly as a liquid on X-ray, and its density makes it easy to identify. Screeners apply the same 100ml rule as they would for any other liquid or gel — there is very little discretion. If your honey jar is borderline, a screener may test it, but standard jars from a shop are almost always well over 100ml.

Pack honey in checked baggage in a sealed zip-lock bag to contain any leakage. If you want to bring a small amount in carry-on, look for jars of 100ml or less — these are common in airport gift shops and are specifically sized to meet security rules. If flying into Australia or New Zealand, declare the honey on your arrival card regardless of jar size.