TSA Liquid Limit Guide: Rules, Packing Tips & Exceptions

Before you take your next journey, learn about TSA liquid limits. Discover how to pack liquids, the 3-1-1 rule, and how to pass through airport security without any hassles.

What Is the Liquid Limit at TSA?

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Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations, commonly referred to as the 3-1-1 rule or the TSA liquid restriction, limit the amount of liquid that travelers are permitted to bring in their carry-on bags:

• Each jar contains 100 ml (3.4 ounces).
• Every container needs to fit within a clear zip-top bag.
• One bag per traveler
• This holds for aerosols, pastes, creams, gels, and liquids. Checked luggage is required for anything larger.

What Counts as a Liquid Under the TSA Liquid Limit?

The TSA applies the 3-1-1 rule to more than just water or juice. Many everyday travel products fall under this category, even if they don’t seem like liquids at first glance.

TSA Liquid - Pastes, Gels, and Creams Also Matter

Despite their apparent solidity, toothpaste, lotion, sunscreen, foundation, and lip gloss are all classified as "liquids" under TSA regulations.

Example from Real Life:

You want to take your favorite 150ml sunscreen in your backpack for your flight to Bali. TSA will require you to discard anything in your carry-on that weighs more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters). Alternatively, choose a travel-sized version that fits in your quart-sized plastic bag or stow it in your checked suitcase.

TSA Liquid - Foods and Semi-Liquids Are Included

Foods that are classified as liquids include peanut butter, soup, yogurt, and jam. The 3.4 ounce guideline applies to everything that can be spread or poured.

Example from Real Life:

You wish to bring home some homemade chili sauce that you purchased at a nearby market. Even if it is sealed, TSA will flag it if it is in your carry-on. You must store it in your checked luggage, making sure to pack it tightly to prevent leakage.

TSA Liquids - Approved Liquid Bag Requirements

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TSA Liquids - Use a Clear, Quart-Sized Zip-Top Bag

• The bag needs to have full transparency.
• Each passenger is permitted to bring one bag.
• At security check, it needs to be taken out of your carry-on and put in a bin.

Fit TSA Liquids Within the Bag

• Avoid stacking or stuffing.
• Travel-sized amenities such as shampoo, toothbrush, lotion, and hand sanitizer are typical goods.
• Even if they are partially filled, oversized containers are prohibited.

To pass through TSA checkpoints smoothly, use a transparent quart-sized zip-top bag. Here's what you need to know:

How Much TSA Liquid Limit Applies to Checked Baggage?

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It's okay to bring full-sized toiletries, drinks, or large liquid containers on your trip; just make sure to put them in your checked luggage rather than your carry-on. Only carry-on luggage are subject to the TSA's liquid restrictions, so you are free to bring more as long as you follow the packing and safety regulations.

TSA Liquid Rules for Checked Luggage

TSA-Approved Liquids for Checked Luggage

How to Pack Liquids for TSA Security Screening

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Trip.com makes it simple to book flights, eSIMs, and airport transfers. Remember to plan the remainder of your trip while you study the liquids you can bring in your carry-on. Trip.com helps you book inexpensive flights, airport transfers, reasonably priced hotels, and travel eSIMs all in one location, making foreign travel simple and stress-free.

Know TSA Liquid Rule (TSA 3-1-1)

Observe TSA 3-1-1 while packing liquids for travel:

• Every liquid must not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
• One quart-sized, transparent plastic bag must hold all of the containers.
• At the checkpoint, each passenger is only permitted to bring one bag.

Use Checked Luggage for TSA Liquids

• Put any liquids that weigh more than 3.4 ounces in your checked luggage.
• Tightly close bottle tops to stop leakage.
• For further protection, use a sealed pouch or plastic wrap.
• Before leaving for the airport, separate checked and carry-on liquids to prevent delays.
  

Travel Smart with TSA Liquid Rules & Trip.com Services

Do TSA Liquid Rules Apply to International Destinations?

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Sure, and nope. TSA regulations are applicable to all flights leaving from U.S. airports, including those to other countries. Upon reaching a foreign nation, however, local airport security regulations take effect, and they may differ from those in other countries.

Comprehending the liquid regulations of both the departing and destination airports is crucial for a stress-free trip while organizing a multi-country route. Here are the differences in liquid limitations across the globe and how Trip.com can help you be ready.

TSA Liquid Limits by Destination Region