The 3.4-ounce rule still applies — liquids must come out of your bag

Yes, you still have to remove liquids from your carry-on bag at TSA checkpoints. The 3-1-1 rule has not changed: containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller, all fitting into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag, one bag per person. Liquids, gels, creams, and pastes all count — toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, peanut butter, yogurt, honey, and jam are all subject to the same rule.

When you reach the security line, remove that bag from your carry-on and place it in a bin on the conveyor belt, separate from your shoes, belt, and jacket. The officer will X-ray it along with everything else. You can put it back in your bag after you clear the checkpoint.

Checked baggage has no liquid restrictions. You can pack full-size bottles of shampoo, sunscreen, or cologne in your checked bag without limits.

Key Takeaways

  • Liquids in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit in one quart-sized clear plastic bag.
  • Remove the bag from your carry-on at the security checkpoint and place it in a bin for X-ray screening.
  • Full-size bottles and containers are allowed in checked baggage with no restrictions.
  • Common items like toothpaste, lotion, and peanut butter count as liquids under TSA rules.
  • You can repack the bag after you pass through security.

What counts as a liquid under TSA rules

TSA defines liquids broadly. Beyond obvious ones like water, juice, and shampoo, the category includes anything that flows, spreads, or sprays: gel deodorant, hair gel, mascara, lip gloss, sunscreen, moisturizer, peanut butter, jam, honey, hummus, yogurt, and aerosol cans. Solid deodorant, powder, and lipstick do not count.

If you are unsure whether something is a liquid, the rule of thumb is whether it would spill if the container tipped over. If yes, pack it in checked baggage or buy it after you clear security.

Medications in liquid form (like cough syrup or liquid insulin) are exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit, but you must declare them to the officer at the checkpoint. Bring the original labeled container.

How to pack your liquids bag correctly

Buy a quart-sized clear plastic bag — most drugstores and travel sections sell them, or TSA provides them free at the checkpoint if you do not have one. The bag must be clear so officers can see inside without opening it.

Each container inside must be 3.4 ounces or smaller. A 3.5-ounce bottle will be confiscated, even if it is half empty. Measure by the container size printed on the label, not by how much liquid is actually inside.

Seal the bag so nothing leaks during X-ray screening. Place it where you can reach it easily when you approach the checkpoint — do not bury it at the bottom of your carry-on.

What happens if you forget to remove your liquids bag

If you reach the X-ray machine and realize you forgot to remove your liquids bag, tell the officer when ready. They will stop the screening, you will step aside, remove the bag, and go back through the line. This delays you but does not result in a fine or other penalty.

If the X-ray detects a liquid container larger than 3.4 ounces, the officer will ask you to remove it. You can throw it away, check it (if you have time and your airline allows it), or leave it with TSA. You will not be allowed to bring it through security.

Liquids in checked baggage have no size limit

Pack full-size bottles, jars, and containers in your checked bag without restriction. There is no limit on the total amount of liquids you can check. However, some airlines have their own rules about hazardous materials — flammable items like lighter fluid or certain cleaning products may be prohibited even in checked bags. Check your airline's website before packing.

Wrap bottles in plastic bags or place them in a separate compartment of your suitcase to contain any leaks. Pressure changes during flight can cause containers to open or crack.

Buying liquids after security

You can purchase liquids after you clear the checkpoint — water, coffee, shampoo, lotion, or any other liquid — and bring them on the plane in your carry-on. These purchases are not subject to the 3.4-ounce rule because they were bought inside the find area.

If you have a connecting flight, liquids you buy at your first airport must stay in your carry-on for the second flight. You cannot repack them into your checked bag once you have cleared security at the first airport.

TSA PreCheck and liquids

TSA PreCheck members do not have to remove liquids from their carry-on bags at security checkpoints. This is one of the main conveniences of the program. You still must follow the 3-1-1 rule — containers must be 3.4 ounces or smaller and fit in a quart-sized bag — but you leave the bag packed and send it through the X-ray machine with your other belongings.

TSA PreCheck costs $78 to $85 for five years and requires an in-person appointment at a TSA enrollment center. The program also lets you keep shoes, belts, and light jackets on during screening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a full water bottle through security?

No. An empty water bottle can go through, but you must fill it after you clear security. Most airports have water fountains and refill stations past the checkpoint.

Do I need to buy a special TSA-approved bag for liquids?

No. Any clear quart-sized plastic bag works. TSA does not sell or endorse specific brands. A gallon-sized freezer bag cut down to quart size is fine, or buy a cheap one at any drugstore.

What if my medication is a liquid and larger than 3.4 ounces?

Liquid medications are exempt from the size limit. Bring the original labeled container and declare it to the officer at the checkpoint. They may open and inspect it, but you will not have to throw it away.

Can I pack liquids in my personal item or backpack?

No. All liquids in carry-on bags — whether in your rolling suitcase, backpack, or purse — must be in the quart-sized bag. Personal items are X-rayed the same way as larger carry-ons.

Do international flights have different liquid rules?

The 3-1-1 rule applies to all flights departing from U.S. airports, domestic and international. Some countries have their own rules for flights departing from their airports, so check your destination's airport website if you are flying out of another country.