You can bring liquids in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less each in your carry-on bag. All these containers must fit comfortably within one clear, quart-sized (about 32 ounces) zip-top bag. This is known as the TSA's "3-1-1 rule": 3.4 oz containers, 1 quart bag, 1 bag per passenger
. In terms of quantity, you can typically fit about seven to nine containers of 3.4 ounces each in the quart-sized bag, which totals roughly 25 to 30 ounces of liquids
. Exceptions exist for medically necessary liquids (such as prescription medications, baby formula, breast milk), which can exceed the 3.4-ounce limit but must be declared and screened separately. Also, liquids purchased after security or duty-free items can be carried in larger quantities if they remain sealed and accompanied by a receipt
. To summarize:
- Maximum container size: 3.4 ounces (100 ml)
- All containers must fit in one quart-sized clear bag
- Typically about 7-9 containers per passenger
- Medically necessary liquids and baby-related liquids are exceptions
- Liquids bought after security or duty-free can exceed limits if sealed and with receipt
The TSA officer has final discretion on what is allowed through security
