TSA carry-on rules · Updated September 18, 2026
TSA liquid rules: what can you pack in a carry-on?
Under TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less, inside one quart-size bag per passenger. The container size—not the amount left inside—controls.
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Shop the carry-on toiletry edit
Four organizers that solve different packing problems
Edit 01 · Best polished vanity case
Lily & Bean Leather Vanity Case — Black
The structured leather case keeps makeup and jewelry together after the TSA liquids bag comes out.
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Cadence The Medium Capsule
Leakproof magnetic capsules keep a small routine organized; label every container clearly.
Edit 03 · Best hanging organizer
BAGSMART Blast Hanging Toiletry Bag
Use its compartments for dry toiletries and place the separate quart-size liquids bag where security can reach it.
Edit 04 · Best solid-toiletry swap
Matador FlatPak Soap Bar Case
A breathable, leak-resistant case lets a solid cleansing or shampoo bar dry between stops.
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Source standard: This guide summarizes current U.S. TSA guidance. Rules at international airports and individual screening decisions can differ. Check the official rule before departure.
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The short answer
The TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule: 3.4 ounces, one quart bag, one traveler
Official source: TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule.
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Pack faster
What belongs inside the quart-size TSA liquids bag
Put in the quart-size bag
- Liquid or cream cleanser and moisturizer
- Liquid sunscreen and foundation
- Toothpaste and gel deodorant
- Shampoo, conditioner and hair gel
- Perfume, face mist and liquid makeup
- Aerosol toiletries within allowed size limits
Pack outside the liquids bag
- Solid deodorant
- Powder makeup
- Bar soap and solid cleansing bars
- Toothbrush and dry accessories
- Makeup brushes and tools
- Dry wipes and sheet masks without excess liquid
The half-empty bottle trap
A 6-ounce bottle with only 2 ounces left is still a 6-ounce container. Decant it into a container labeled 3.4 ounces / 100 mL or less.
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Important exceptions
TSA exceptions for liquid medication, breast milk and infant needs
Medically necessary liquids
Tell the TSA officer at the start of screening. Larger medically necessary quantities may be permitted but can require separate screening. Review the official TSA liquid-medication guidance before departure.
Baby and child nourishment
Formula, breast milk and certain nourishment for infants and children can fall under special procedures. Keep them accessible, declare them and check the official TSA breast-milk rules.
International departures
The U.S. 3-1-1 rule is not a promise about every foreign checkpoint. Check the departure airport and every connection.
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Quick answers
TSA liquids FAQ
Does toothpaste count as a liquid for TSA?
Yes. Toothpaste is a paste and belongs in the quart-size liquids bag when the container is 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or smaller.
Can you bring full-size liquids in a carry-on?
Ordinary full-size toiletries generally do not pass the U.S. checkpoint. Medically necessary liquids and certain infant or child nourishment can qualify for separate screening and exceptions.
Does solid deodorant go in the liquids bag?
Solid deodorant does not need to go in the liquids bag. Gel, spray and cream deodorants are subject to the liquids rule.
Can you take two quart-size liquids bags?
The standard 3-1-1 rule allows one quart-size bag per passenger.
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