Your Complete Guide to the TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule

Navigating airport security can be stressful, but understanding the rules for packing liquids doesn’t have to be. You clicked because you want to master the TSA’s guidelines for a smoother, worry-free travel day. This comprehensive guide will break down the 3-1-1 rule, cover important exceptions, and provide practical tips for packing your carry-on like a pro.

Breaking Down the TSA 3-1-1 Rule

The 3-1-1 rule is a simple and effective memory aid for travelers packing liquids in their carry-on luggage. It was implemented to enhance aviation security. To comply, you must follow each part of the rule precisely. Let’s look at what each number represents.

  • 3: This stands for 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each individual container of liquid, gel, aerosol, cream, or paste in your carry-on must be this size or smaller. It is important to note that the size of the container itself matters, not the amount of liquid inside it. For example, a half-empty 6-ounce bottle of shampoo is not allowed. You must transfer the product into a travel-sized container that is 3.4 ounces or less.

  • 1: This refers to one quart-sized bag. All of your small liquid containers must fit comfortably inside a single, clear, zip-top bag that is approximately one quart in volume. A standard Ziploc-style sandwich or freezer bag (quart size) works perfectly for this. The bag must be able to seal completely. If your items are crammed in and the bag cannot be zipped shut, you will be asked to remove some items.

  • 1: This final number signifies one bag per passenger. Each traveler is limited to just one of these quart-sized bags for their liquids. This rule applies to every person in your traveling party, including children.

During the security screening process, you must remove this clear bag from your carry-on luggage and place it in a separate bin for X-ray scanning. This allows TSA officers to get a clear view of your liquids, which speeds up the entire process.

What Exactly Counts as a Liquid?

One of the most common sources of confusion is determining what the TSA actually classifies as a liquid, gel, or aerosol. The list is more extensive than many people realize. If you can spread it, spray it, spill it, or pump it, it likely falls under the 3-1-1 rule.

Here are some common items that must go in your quart-sized bag:

  • Toiletries: Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, mouthwash, toothpaste, and hair gel or spray.
  • Cosmetics: Liquid foundation, mascara, lip gloss, and nail polish.
  • Food Items: Peanut butter, yogurt, jelly, salsa, creamy cheeses, salad dressing, and honey. Even if these are intended for a snack on the plane, they must adhere to the 3.4-ounce limit.
  • Aerosols: Deodorant, hairspray, and spray-on sunscreen must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less.
  • Miscellaneous Items: Hand sanitizer, contact lens solution, and even snow globes fall under this rule.

A good rule of thumb is: when in doubt, either put it in your checked bag or make sure it’s in a travel-sized container inside your clear bag.

Important Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule

While the 3-1-1 rule is strict, the TSA has made important exceptions for medically necessary items and for those traveling with infants and small children. These items are allowed in your carry-on in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces.

Medically Necessary Liquids and Medications

You are permitted to bring medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip. This includes:

  • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter medications like cough syrup or pain relievers
  • Liquid nutrition or supplements
  • Saline solution or eye care products
  • Medical supplies like freezer packs for cooling medication

Crucially, you must declare these items to a TSA officer at the security checkpoint. You should remove them from your carry-on bag and inform the officer that you have medically necessary liquids. They do not need to be placed in the quart-sized bag, but they may require additional screening.

Baby Formula, Breast Milk, and Juice

Parents traveling with infants or toddlers are also exempt from the 3-1-1 rule for certain items. Formula, breast milk, and juice for the child are allowed in reasonable quantities. This also includes baby food in jars or pouches. Just like medical liquids, you must remove these from your bag and declare them to the TSA officers for separate screening.

Tips for a Stress-Free Security Experience

Mastering the rules is the first step. The next is making the process as smooth as possible on travel day.

  • Invest in Solid Toiletries: The easiest way to reduce the liquids in your bag is to replace them with solids. Many brands, such as Lush, Ethique, and by Humankind, offer high-quality shampoo bars, conditioner bars, solid perfumes, and toothpaste tablets that don’t need to go in your liquids bag at all.
  • Use the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” Tool: The TSA has a helpful search tool on its official website. You can type in any item, from “avocado” to “zinc oxide,” and it will tell you the specific packing instructions.
  • Pack Your Liquids Bag for Easy Access: When packing your carry-on, place your quart-sized liquids bag in an outer pocket or right on top. This way, you can quickly remove it at the security checkpoint without having to dig through your entire bag and hold up the line.
  • Buy Items at Your Destination: For longer trips, consider packing only enough liquids for the first day or two. You can easily purchase full-sized items like shampoo, sunscreen, or toothpaste at a local store once you arrive.

By understanding these rules and planning ahead, you can eliminate one of the biggest sources of travel anxiety and start your trip on a positive note.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if my container is larger than 3.4 ounces, even if it’s mostly empty? The TSA rule applies to the size of the container, not the amount of liquid inside. A container larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) is not permitted in your carry-on, regardless of how little product is left inside. It must be placed in a checked bag.

Can I bring an empty water bottle through security? Yes, you can bring an empty reusable water bottle through the security checkpoint. Once you are in the secure gate area, you can fill it up at a water fountain or bottle-filling station.

Are makeup wipes or baby wipes considered liquids? No, wet wipes are not considered liquids by the TSA. They can be packed in your carry-on or checked baggage without restriction.

Do solid deodorants or bar soaps need to go in the liquids bag? No. Solid items like stick deodorant, bar soap, and solid makeup (like powder foundation or lipstick) do not fall under the 3-1-1 rule and can be packed anywhere in your carry-on bag.