What this guide covers
- Rules for each type of spray
- Quantity limits and how to read the label on the can
- The 100ml rule when carrying sprays on board international flights
1. Rules by type (conditions as dangerous goods, common to domestic and international flights)
These are the conditions for carrying sprays as dangerous goods. When carrying them on board an international flight, the liquid rules in section 4 below also apply (household sprays cannot be carried on board international flights).
| Type | Examples (as listed) | Rule |
|---|---|---|
| Toiletry sprays | Hair spray, antiperspirant, deodorant and refrigerant sprays, air freshener, disinfectant and anti-wrinkle sprays, etc. | Allowed in carry-on and checked baggage (quantity limits apply) |
| Medicinal sprays | Anti-inflammatory painkillers, anti-itch drugs, bug repellent, disinfectants and antiseptics, cold sprays, taping sprays, etc. | Allowed in carry-on and checked baggage (quantity limits apply) |
| Other spray cans | — | Allowed in carry-on and checked baggage only if they use no flammable or toxic gas and have no hazard other than compressed gas (quantity limits apply). For carrying on board international flights, see section 4 below |
| Bear spray, pepper spray, tear-gas spray | — | Not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage |
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
2. Quantity limits and protecting the nozzle
- 0.5L (or 0.5kg) or less per container
- 2L (or 2kg) or less in total per person. This is the total of toiletries, medicines and spray cans (including liquid toiletries and medicines)
- For gas-filled sprays, protect the nozzle with a cap etc. so the contents do not leak
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
3. How to read the label on the can
According to MLIT, the label on the can shows which gas is used.
- Labelled "Keep away from high temperatures" → uses non-flammable gas
- Labelled "Keep away from fire and high temperatures" → uses flammable gas
Spray cans other than toiletries and medicines that use flammable gas do not meet the conditions for "Other spray cans" above.
Source: MLIT: "Examples of Dangerous Goods by Air Transportation" (English version, last updated April 24, 2026) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
4. Carrying sprays on board international flights
- Sprays are also subject to the liquid restrictions. Put them in containers of 100ml or less and place them in the 1-liter clear bag
- According to MLIT's list of liquids (2015), household sprays such as waterproofing, anti-static and anti-slip sprays and spray glue (for clothes) cannot be carried on board; checked baggage only
- According to the same list, paint sprays, model sprays, tyre-repair sprays, tear-gas sprays, oxygen sprays and air dusters are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage
Source: MLIT Civil Aviation Bureau: "Security Control for Screening Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAGs) carried into International Passenger Flights departing from Airports in Japan" (English version) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Source: MLIT: "List and Description of LAGs Restriction" (English version of the list of liquids, 2015) (retrieved 2026-09-27)
Some airlines have stricter rules. On international flights, rules of other countries' authorities may also apply.