What is the 3-1-1 liquids rule? (2024)

FAQs

What is the 3-1-1 liquids rule? ›

The 3-1-1 rule is a regulation created by TSA to limit the amount of liquid you can carry in your hand luggage. Overall, you are allowed to bring no more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) of liquid in one container; and all containers must be put in one clear quarter-sized bag. That's why it is called 3-1-1.

How many 3-ounce bottles can I carry on? You must be able to fit all your 3-ounce bottles into a 1-quart bag, which is 6 x 9 inches. This usually equates to nine bottles. FYI, you can use a Ziploc or anything that's about that size, but the TSA doesn't officially approve or disapprove of any bags.

The 3-1-1 Rule refers to three core components that govern how many liquids you can bring in your carry-on bags: Each liquid must be in a 3.4-ounce or less container ("3"), all containers must be placed inside one clear quart-sized plastic bag ("1"), and each passenger is only allowed one plastic bag ("1").

Since toothpaste is considered a liquid, paste, or gel by the TSA, most of us toss those tiny one-ounce tubes in our carry-on bags. However, if you want to ditch the hard-to-recycle packaging, consider toothpaste tablets, an ecofriendly alternative that's not subject to the 3-1-1 rule.

Are there any exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule? TSA does exempt some items from the 3-1-1 rule: medically necessary liquids, breast milk, infant formula, toddler drinks, and pureed baby food typically packaged in pouches.

Safety Razors: Because the razor blades are so easy to remove, safety razors are not permitted in your carry-on luggage with the blade. They're fine to pack in your carry-on without the blade. The blades must be stored in your checked luggage.

Toothpaste is permitted on aircraft but only in quantities of 3.4 oz (100ml) or less. The same goes for lotion, shampoo, shaving cream, etc. If you are only travelling with carry-on baggage, keep in mind all these rules when bringing your liquids through security checkpoints.

Again, no limitations are placed on stick deodorants. Other than that, travel-sized containers of liquid, gel and aerosol deodorants should be 100ml at most. These containers must be put in a clear plastic bag for easy inspection.

Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Placing these items in the small bag and separating from your carry-on baggage facilitates the screening process. Pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in checked baggage.

How strict is the quart size bag? ›

You are only allowed one quart size bag, filled with as many 100ml (3.4 ounce) containers as you can stuff into it. Yes, they are pretty strict about it.

Chapstick, lipstick, and solid lip balms are not considered liquids by the TSA. They can be in your handbag, carry-on or hand luggage without being separated into your clear plastic liquids bag.

Think the usuals, like shampoo, toothpaste, and aerosol or roll-on liquid deodorant (solid deodorant isn't regulated by the 3-1-1 rule). But here are some surprising items that the TSA prohibits in carry-on luggage.

The TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags dictates that liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; and 1 bag is permitted per passenger.

With airplane shooter sizes ranging from 50ml to 200ml, you could fit 8-24 mini bottles in that quart bag if you max it out. While the TSA may allow liquor in carry-ons, specific airlines can impose stricter rules. Always check with your airline before bringing alcohol to your carry-on to avoid issues at the gate.

You are limited to containers of 3.4oz or less that fit in your quart-sized bag. For checked bags you are limited to five liters per passenger. However, it must be in unopened retail packaging!

Mascara is considered a liquid; makeup wipes are not a liquid in TSA's rulebook. Cream Blush – Cream blush is a liquid to TSA. Liquid Concealer – Liquid concealer is a liquid and must follow the 311 liquid rule. Lip Balm/Gloss/Lipstick – Lip balm/gloss/lipstick is not considered liquid.