TSA liquid limits: 3.4 ounces per container, 1 quart bag total

The TSA allows liquids, gels, and aerosols in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller through security checkpoints. All containers must fit into a single 1-quart clear plastic bag — that is roughly 9 by 6 inches. One bag per passenger. Anything larger than 3.4 ounces goes in checked luggage, not your carry-on.

This rule applies to toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, peanut butter, yogurt, jam, honey, and anything else that pours, spreads, or sprays. The container size matters, not how full it is — a half-empty 4-ounce bottle still violates the rule.

Powders in carry-on bags are limited to 12 ounces (350 milliliters) per container if the powder is a personal care item like makeup, talc, or protein powder. Larger quantities go in checked bags. The TSA may open and test powder containers at security, so pack them where you can access them easily.

Key Takeaways

  • Liquids and gels in carry-on bags must be 3.4 ounces or smaller per container, and all containers must fit in one clear quart-sized bag.
  • Powders in carry-on bags are limited to 12 ounces per container for personal care items like makeup or protein powder.
  • Containers larger than these limits can travel in checked luggage with no size restriction.
  • The TSA may open and inspect any liquid, gel, or powder container at the checkpoint, so pack these items where you can reach them.
  • Frozen liquids are treated as solids if completely solid at the checkpoint, but partially frozen items count as liquids.

What counts as a liquid or gel under TSA rules

The TSA defines liquids and gels broadly. Beyond obvious items like water and shampoo, the category includes creams, pastes, lotions, oils, perfumes, colognes, and anything with a consistency between solid and liquid. Peanut butter, hummus, and other spreads count as liquids. So do mascara, lip gloss, and liquid eyeliner.

Solid deodorant is allowed in any amount. Gel or spray deodorant follows the 3.4-ounce rule. Toothpaste is a gel and must be 3.4 ounces or smaller. Solid soap is fine; liquid soap is not.

Frozen items present a gray area. If something is completely solid when you reach the checkpoint — a frozen water bottle, frozen gel pack, or frozen peanut butter — it may be treated as a solid. If it is partially thawed or slushy, it counts as a liquid. The TSA officer at your checkpoint makes the final call, so expect that frozen items might be confiscated.

How to pack liquids and gels for the checkpoint

Buy a clear quart-sized plastic bag before you travel, or ask the TSA for one at the checkpoint. Place all liquid and gel containers inside, seal it, and keep it separate from your carry-on bag. At security, remove the bag and place it in the bin with your shoes and electronics.

Containers do not have to be brand-new or full. A 2-ounce container of lotion counts toward your limit just as much as a 3.4-ounce one. If you are traveling with a partner or family member, each person gets their own quart bag — you cannot combine everyone's liquids into one bag.

Travel-size bottles are sold at drugstores and online specifically for this purpose. Many brands sell 1-ounce or 2-ounce versions of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion. Alternatively, you can buy full-size bottles and check them, or purchase liquids after you pass security.

Powders and the 12-ounce carry-on limit

Personal care powders — makeup, talc, protein powder, dry shampoo, and similar items — are limited to 12 ounces per container in carry-on bags. This is a higher limit than liquids because powders do not pose the same security concern. However, the TSA may test powder containers with a special machine or swab to check for explosives, so pack powders where you can access them quickly at the checkpoint.

Powders larger than 12 ounces can go in checked luggage without restriction. If you are traveling with multiple powder products, add up the ounces in each container to make sure you stay under 12 ounces per item — not 12 ounces total.

What happens if you exceed the limits

If a liquid, gel, or powder container exceeds the size limit, the TSA officer will ask you to throw it away or check it. You cannot go back through security or mail it from the airport — you must discard it or place it in checked luggage if you have time to do so. Some airports have mail services, but this is not standard.

The TSA does not fine passengers for oversized containers. The item is straightforward removed. To avoid this, measure or weigh containers before you pack, and keep receipts for expensive items in case you need to file a claim with the airline.

Exceptions and special items

Medications in liquid or gel form are exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit, but you should declare them to the TSA officer and keep them in their original labeled containers. Infant formula and breast milk are also exempt if you are traveling with a child. Baby food in pouches or jars counts as a liquid and follows the 3.4-ounce rule unless it is for a child in your party.

Duty-free liquids purchased after security — alcohol, perfume, or other items — can be carried on in a sealed bag, but only if you are connecting through a domestic airport. If you are connecting internationally or leaving the country, those items may be confiscated at your next checkpoint.

Checked luggage has no liquid or powder limits

Anything you pack in checked luggage can be any size, as long as it does not violate hazmat rules. Full-size bottles of shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, and other liquids are fine. Powders of any size are allowed. This is why many travelers pack toiletries in checked bags instead of carry-on.

However, checked bags can be delayed or lost, so pack essential items like medications and daily-use toiletries in your carry-on within the size limits. Reserve checked luggage for items you can live without for a day or two.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a full-size bottle of shampoo if I check my bag?

Yes. Checked luggage has no size limits for liquids or powders. You can pack full-size bottles of shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, and other toiletries in your checked bag. Just make sure the bottles are sealed and will not leak onto your clothes.

What if my deodorant is a gel?

Gel deodorant follows the 3.4-ounce liquid rule and must fit in your quart bag. Solid stick deodorant is not restricted. If you use gel deodorant and want to bring it in carry-on, buy a travel size or pack it in checked luggage.

Do I need to remove my quart bag from my carry-on at security?

Yes. Remove the bag and place it in a bin by itself, just like you would with shoes and electronics. This speeds up the screening process and makes it easier for the TSA officer to inspect if needed.

Can I bring multiple quart bags if I have a lot of liquids?

No. You are limited to one quart-sized bag per person. If you have more liquids than fit in one bag, pack the extras in checked luggage or purchase items after security.

Are there any liquids that are completely banned?

Yes. Flammable liquids like lighter fluid, paint thinner, and some adhesives are banned from both carry-on and checked luggage. Certain pesticides and other hazardous materials are also prohibited. Check the TSA website or call ahead if you are unsure about a specific item.