🎨 Paint (art)

Oil-based paint over 100ml will be confiscated at the checkpoint because it is classified as a flammable liquid. Aerosol spray paint is subject to both the liquid limit and aerosol restrictions and will also be removed if it exceeds 100ml. Water-based acrylic or watercolour paint in small tubes under 100ml is treated as a standard liquid and can pass through in your quart-sized bag.

The flammable classification for oil-based paint applies consistently across the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia, making it unsuitable for carry-on over 100ml universally. Aerosol spray paint faces additional restrictions in checked baggage in some regions due to pressurised container rules, so checking the rules of your specific destination airline is worthwhile if you need to transport spray paint.

Screeners generally cannot distinguish paint types by X-ray image alone, so any paint container over 100ml is likely to be flagged and removed regardless of type. If you're carrying small tubes of water-based paint in your quart bag, the label may help clarify the type during a secondary inspection. Being able to point quickly to the 'water-based' or 'acrylic' designation on the tube can resolve things faster.

Pack oil paints and spray paints in checked baggage to avoid the flammability issue entirely. For carry-on, bring only travel-size tubes of water-based paint (acrylic, watercolour, gouache) in containers of 100ml or less, placed in your quart-sized liquids bag. If you're travelling with a large set, consider shipping your supplies to your destination instead.