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TSA Carry-On Liquid Rules & Toiletries Packing Checklist
Navigating TSA carry-on liquid limits is easy when you follow the 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 oz containers inside 1 clear quart bag per passenger.
Updated August 2026
Quick answer
Under TSA 3-1-1 rules, all liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller, placed inside one clear quart-sized zip-top bag per passenger. Exceptions apply to baby formula, breast milk, liquid medication, and hand sanitizer. Modern 3D CT scanners at major airports allow liquids to stay inside your bag, but carrying a clear quart bag prevents security delays.
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Essential TSA Liquid Rules & Carry-On Rules
- •Each liquid, gel, or aerosol container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
- •All 3.4 oz containers must fit inside one clear, quart-sized plastic bag (roughly 7 x 8 inches).
- •Medications, baby formula, breast milk, and toddler juice are exempt from 3.4 oz limits; declare them to TSA officers at checkpoint.
- •Solid bar soaps, solid deodorants, and powder cosmetics do not count as liquids.
- •Toothpaste, mascara, lip gloss, hand sanitizer, and sunscreens ARE counted as liquids.
Common TSA Security Packing Mistakes
- •Bringing full-size 6 oz toothpaste tubes that are half-empty (TSA checks container capacity, not remaining liquid).
- •Packing liquid foundation or liquid sunscreen in a coat pocket outside your quart bag.
- •Forgetting that peanut butter, hummus, and hair gel are classified as liquids by TSA.
FAQ
Is full-size toothpaste allowed in carry-on if half empty?
No. TSA security rules mandate that the container capacity itself must be 3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller, regardless of how much liquid is inside.
Are baby formula and breast milk exempt from 3.4 oz limits?
Yes. Formula, breast milk, toddler juice, and liquid medications in reasonable quantities are exempt. Inform TSA officers at screening.
Do solid deodorants count toward the 3-1-1 liquid rule?
No. Solid stick deodorants are exempt. Gel or spray deodorants must follow the 3.4 oz limit and fit in your quart bag.
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