How to Pack Liquids and Aerosols in Carry-On Luggage

The 3-1-1 rule: containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller, all in one clear quart-sized bag, one bag per person. Pack them in an easy-to-access spot so you can remove the bag at security.

1. Understand what counts as a liquid or aerosol. Liquids include water, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sunscreen, perfume, and honey. Aerosols include deodorant, hairspray, and shaving cream. Gels and pastes like toothpaste, peanut butter, and yogurt also count. Solids like deodorant sticks and bar soap do not. If you're uncertain, assume it's restricted.
2. Check the size of each container. Measure your bottles. The limit is 3.4 fluid ounces (100 milliliters) per container. Most travel-sized bottles meet this. If your full-size bottle is bigger, either leave it at home, pack it in checked luggage, or buy a small container after you pass security.
3. Get a clear quart-sized plastic bag. Use a resealable gallon-sized bag or a TSA-approved clear pouch. The bag itself must be transparent so security can see inside without opening it. Most airports sell these bags at shops, but it's cheaper to bring your own from home.
4. Place all liquid and aerosol containers in the bag. Put every liquid, gel, paste, or aerosol container into your single clear bag. Nail polish, mascara, and cream eyeshadow also go in. Multiple small bottles take up the same bag space as one, so bring what you need.
5. Pack the bag where you can reach it quickly. Put the liquids bag at the top of your carry-on or in the front pocket. At security, you'll need to remove it and place it in the screening bin. Having it accessible saves time and frustration in the line.
6. Remove the bag at security. Take out your liquids bag before you approach the conveyor belt. Place it in a screening bin by itself or with your laptop, depending on your airport. Remove your belt, shoes, and jacket at the same time.

Can I pack liquids in checked luggage instead?

Yes. Checked baggage has no liquid restrictions. Pack full-size bottles there if you want. Just make sure aerosols aren't flammable and follow your airline's hazmat rules for things like nail polish and perfume.

What if I forget and bring a liquid over 3.4 oz?

Security will confiscate it. You can't bring it back through security. Either leave it at home, buy travel-sized versions, or pack it in checked luggage on your return trip.

Are solid deodorants and bar soaps allowed?

Yes. Solid and semi-solid items like deodorant sticks, bar soap, and solid perfume are not restricted. They don't need to go in your liquids bag.

Can I bring more than one liquids bag?

No. TSA and most security agencies allow one clear quart-sized bag per person. If you need more room, either leave items behind or pack them in checked luggage.

Do I need to remove my liquids bag if I'm TSA PreCheck?

No. TSA PreCheck members can leave laptops, shoes, and liquids bags in their carry-on at US airports. International flights and non-PreCheck lanes still require removal.

Can I buy liquids after security and bring them on the plane?

Yes. Anything you buy after passing through security is allowed in any quantity. A $8 bottle of water or $12 bottle of lotion from the airport shop can come on board with you.