TSA Liquid Limits: Get the Scoop on What You Can Carry on and What You Should Check

To help safeguard travels, the TSA imposed the 3-1-1 Rule for liquid limits. 3-1-1 offers a simple way to remember these numbers:

• Individual liquid containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller.
• They must fit into one clear, resealable quart-size bag.
• There is only one bag allowed per passenger.

Everyone has been stuck at the security checkpoint during their jet-setting travels. Some may have had to say goodbye to their favorite perfume or hair products. Dealing with airport security can be one of the more daunting aspects of travel, from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) liquid limits to the long lines and wait times. But with a few tips and the right info on what you can and can't bring on the plane, you'll be able to pack like a pro and fly through security.

If you know the rules, planning and packing for the TSA and the United Kingdom's Department of Transport should be seamless. These standards will help you and other passengers keep the lines moving. One rule that frequently confuses travelers is the 3-1-1 rule regarding liquids in carry-on bags. So, we're going to break it down for you and explain what you can carry on the plane, what needs to be stowed in checked luggage, and a few exceptions to the rules.

TSA 3-1-1 rule simplified

In 2006, security officials intercepted a plot to bomb an aircraft with liquid explosives carried on board. Since then, security agencies worldwide have limited the amount of liquids passengers can bring through airport security.

To help safeguard travels, the TSA imposed the 3-1-1 Rule for liquid limits, which requires all LAGs (liquids, gels, and aerosols) to be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. All liquids must fit into a single, resealable, clear, quart-sized bag. Typically, passengers can fit seven or eight 3 oz. bottles in a bag.

3-1-1 offers a simple way to remember these numbers:

• Individual liquid containers must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller.
• They must fit into one clear, resealable quart-size bag.
• There is only one bag allowed per passenger.

Liquids must comply with the 3-1-1 rule to be packed in checked bags, or they will likely be thrown out at airport security. Some liquids, such as gasoline or other flammable liquids, are prohibited in checked and carry-on bags. The TSA's website provides a complete list of permitted and prohibited items.

The TSA and international airport security define LAGS as liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. That means toothpaste, hair spray, hand sanitizer, perfume, peanut butter, shampoo, and mouthwash are all considered liquids by the TSA. If you can squeeze, spray, or spread it, it falls under the 3-1-1 rule.

Pro tip: Lipsticks and lip balms are considered solids, but mascara is a liquid.

What are the exceptions to the TSA fluid limit?

The TSA recognizes circumstances that require some passengers to carry more than 3.4 ounces of liquid in their carry-on bags. Exceptions are made for necessary items you would need during your flight and cannot be purchased after the security checkpoint.

TSA limit exceptions include:

• Prescription medication in original bottles or packaging.
• Medically necessary liquids and IVs.
• Baby formula and breast milk.
• Baby and toddler drinks, water, and food, including puree pouches.
• Ice, gel, or freezer packs used to keep breast milk, infant formula, or medically necessary items cool.
• Anything you purchase in the airport after security clearance is accepted on your flight.

You can bring over 3.4 ounces of these liquids on board, but you may undergo additional security screening. All prescribed medication (liquid or otherwise) should be clearly labeled to help you move through security quickly. Over-the-counter and non-prescription medications are not exempt from the 3-1-1 rule. Liquids are screened by X-ray, but TSA officers may also randomly test them separately for traces of explosives or prohibited items. If you don't want your exempt liquids to go through the X-ray, inform your TSA officer, and they will use alternative security measures to clear the items.

Liquid limits and restrictions for checked bags

The TSA has more lenient rules about liquids in checked luggage. You can carry creams, gels, drinks, and toiletry-based aerosols in your checked baggage. The TSA prohibits certain liquids that pose a public danger from checked and carry-on luggage. These liquids are prohibited in any amount, and their discovery during security checks can result in missed flights, arrest, or legal action.

Don’t travel with any of the following liquids:

• Alcoholic beverages over 70% ABV
• Aerosols that are not toiletries
• Flammable liquids
• Toxic liquids
• Bleach
• Fertilizer
• Insecticide
• Explosives/fireworks

The quart-sized bag

To keep things uniform and consistent, TSA instructs every passenger to put all of their 3-1-1 LAGs (liquids, aerosols, gels) in one resealable quart-sized clear bag (6 inches x 9 inches or 0.946 liters). Different brands may have slight variations of sizes, but TSA gives you some wiggle room regarding quart-size bag dimensions. If you're packing liquids in a travel toiletry bag, look for one that’s about quart-sized, or you run the risk of getting it confiscated. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, hand sanitizer, creams, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, and lotion. Unless you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, you must take out your baggies to display before they go through the X-ray machine.

Expert tips for packing liquids in carry-on bags:

• Prepare your liquids in advance and adhere to the 3-1-1 Rule.
• Source TSA-approved containers and quart-sized bags.
• Decant liquids into small travel-sized bottles.
• Use leak-proof containers and pack carefully to avoid spills.
• Buy some items like dry shampoo, solid soaps, perfumes, etc. instead of liquid.
• Pack large liquids in checked baggage.
• Pack your non-liquid toiletries separately to save space in your quart-sized bag.
• Keep your liquids in the baggie on top of your carry-on or purse for easy access at security. Once at the gate, you can always put them in your luggage.

USA vs international rules: how do they differ?

TSA works closely with international departments to maintain flight security standards abroad. If you fly into the US from another country, you may experience a more extensive screening process. We recommend arriving early at the airport to allow enough time for the screening process. Passengers must adhere to the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquid limits. There have been recent changes in the UK regarding travel sizes (see below), but that applies only if flying within the United Kingdom.

Big things are happening in the UK regarding TSA rules

There finally might be an end to these regulations, or at least an improvement, starting in the United Kingdom. Rules about liquid limits and electronics through airport security are set to change. As of June 2024, most major UK airports will have new cutting-edge X-ray machines installed at their security checkpoints, welcoming a new era of improved security and happy passengers. These new machines will be able to detect larger, more detailed images, eliminating the need for passengers to remove their liquids and laptops, which will reduce long lines and, most importantly, detect potential threats. The 100ml liquid container limit will be extended to 2 liters (68 oz.) Currently, this only applies in the UK, so if traveling to the States, you must adhere to US TSA rules.

TSA liquid limits FAQs

1. Why are there restrictions on taking liquids onto planes? In 2006, the TSA required strict liquid limits for carry-on luggage following a terrorist threat in which liquids were used to create explosives. The 3-1-1 Rules were designed as a safety precaution.
2. What happens if you try to take more than 3.4 oz or 100ml of a liquid through airport security? If you pack oversized liquids (anything over 3.4 ounces or 100 ml), the TSA will most likely confiscate your items. Make sure to place larger items in your checked bags.
3. Can you take empty bottles through security? Yes, empty bottles are a great way to save money and be sustainable. Most airports have refill water stations.
4. Are there any full-size liquids you can take on planes? Yes, there are a few exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule. Passengers can carry prescription medication, baby formula, baby teethers, and juice. If you're unsure if a specific item adheres to the 3-1-1 Rule, you can always contact the TSA.
5. If I have TSA PreCheck, do I still need to follow the 3-1-1 Rule of liquid limits on the plane? Yes, TSA PreCheck still enforces the same standard limits. The only difference (and perk) is that passengers with PreCheck do not have to remove items from their bags.