BER liquids in 2026: Which checkpoint allows what?
4 min read
The BER liquids rules depend on your security checkpoint. Knowing your departure terminal alone won't settle what you can pack: different screening equipment operates within the same building.
Quick answer: According to BER's security guidance, checked on 7 October 2026, CT checkpoints in T1 areas 1 and 5, plus T2 security, permit liquid containers with capacities up to 2 litres. Conventional screening in T1 areas 2 and 4 requires containers of no more than 100 ml in one transparent, resealable 1-litre bag per person. BER recommends that stricter packing approach as a precaution.
Which checkpoint permits which liquids?
These numbered areas are security checkpoints, not boarding gates. The table reflects the airport's published instructions, not an independent inspection of its lanes.
As of 7 October 2026. Source for every location and capacity in the table: BER, security control.
| Checkpoint | Equipment | Rule for ordinary liquids |
|---|---|---|
| Terminal 1, areas 1 and 5 | CT | Containers with capacities up to 2 litres |
| Terminal 1, areas 2 and 4 | Conventional | Containers up to 100 ml; one transparent, resealable 1-litre bag per person |
| Terminal 2, security control | CT | Containers with capacities up to 2 litres |
There's an unresolved detail about total volume. BER's announcement of 21 May 2026 says two litres per person. Its current security page, checked on 7 October 2026, instead describes containers with capacities up to two litres. That doesn't establish an unlimited total allowance. If you're planning to carry a large quantity, asking the airport directly about the total is the safer option.
BER's announcement of 21 May 2026 planned conversion of the central conventional checkpoints from autumn. It doesn't confirm completion. For a comparison with other airports, see our article on CT scanners at German airports.
Packing before you know your checkpoint
BER recommends the stricter packing baseline because travellers can't predict which checkpoint they'll use. Small containers in a liquids bag are the simpler option when your checkpoint is unknown. The larger-container rule still applies at CT checkpoints.
BER's instructions, checked on 7 October 2026, limit conventional screening to containers of up to 100 ml capacity. A larger bottle doesn't qualify just because it's partly empty. Liquids and electronics can stay packed at CT screening; conventional checkpoints require them to be taken out. Staff instructions still apply, including any extra inspection. The same airport page says double-walled thermal containers should be empty. I wouldn't build a packing plan around taking a filled flask through security.
Toothpaste and gels count as liquids too. The European Commission's traveller guidance, retrieved on 7 October 2026, describes exceptions for necessary medicines and baby food, whose authenticity may be checked. Those exceptions don't give ordinary toiletries a separate allowance. Our carry-on liquids guide covers packing ordinary toiletries.
Then there's the journey home. The return airport has its own screening instructions, and another security check during a connection can change what you're allowed to take onward. Permission at your departure checkpoint isn't a promise for the rest of the trip. Our piece on liquids at connecting flights after CT screening focuses on that awkward gap. Airline bag dimensions and weight limits remain a separate issue altogether.
Before departure
Check the airport's current guidance before larger bottles go into your carry-on. Pack for your next security check too, not just the flight out.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much liquid can you take through BER security?
BER's guidance, checked on 7 October 2026, allows containers with capacities up to two litres at CT checkpoints. Conventional screening requires containers up to 100 ml in one transparent, resealable 1-litre bag per person. BER's announcement of 21 May 2026 says two litres per person for CT. An unlimited total allowance isn't established.
Does every Terminal 1 checkpoint have the same rule?
No. BER's published security guidance, checked on 7 October 2026, lists CT equipment in areas 1 and 5, with conventional screening in areas 2 and 4. The terminal name alone won't tell you which liquids rule applies.
Do liquids need to come out of your bag at BER?
According to BER, checked on 7 October 2026, liquids and electronics can stay packed at CT checkpoints. Conventional screening requires them to be removed. Follow the screening staff's instructions at your checkpoint.
