You can bring liquids, aerosols, and gels in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less each in your carry-on luggage. All these containers must fit into a single clear, resealable quart-sized (about 32 ounces) bag, and you are allowed only one such bag per passenger. This is commonly known as the TSA 3-1-1 rule: 3.4 ounces per container, 1 quart-sized bag, and 1 bag per passenger
. In terms of total volume, this typically means you can carry about 7 to 8 containers of 3.4 ounces each, roughly totaling around 25 liquid ounces, depending on how well they fit in the quart-sized bag
. There are exceptions to this rule:
- Medically necessary liquids (e.g., prescription medications, baby formula, breast milk) can be carried in larger quantities but must be declared at security and are subject to additional screening
- Liquids purchased after passing through airport security, such as duty-free alcohol or perfume, are not subject to the 3.4-ounce limit if they remain sealed in the original packaging with a receipt
- Some airports and countries are starting to relax these rules with new technology, but in the U.S., the TSA 3-1-1 rule remains in effect for now
Any liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces that are not medically necessary or purchased after security must be packed in checked baggage
. In summary:
- Maximum container size: 3.4 ounces (100 ml)
- All containers must fit in one quart-sized clear bag
- One bag per passenger
- Exceptions for medically necessary liquids and duty-free purchases
This ensures smooth passage through airport security checkpoints.
