Liquid Regulations in Carry-On Luggage for All US Airlines (TSA 3-1-1 Rule Guide)

Traveling with liquids in your carry-on can be confusing, but all U.S. airlines follow the same TSA rules. 

The TSA 3-1-1 rule limits liquids in carry-on luggage to 3.4-ounce (100 ml) containers, all fitting in one quart-sized bag.

This guideline applies across American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, and every U.S. carrier. 

Below we break down these liquid regulations, airline-specific policies, exceptions (like medications and baby needs), and tips to help you pack smart and fly through security without hassle.

Quick Overview: Carry-On Liquid Rules

A TSA infographic summarizing the 3-1-1 carry-on liquids rule: each passenger is allowed liquids in 3.4 oz (100 ml) containers, all fitting in 1 quart-size clear bag, with 1 bag per passenger.

• TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule: You can only bring liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in containers up to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) each, and all containers must fit in one clear quart-size zip-top bag (one bag per traveler). Any larger liquids should go in checked luggage.

• Applies to All U.S. Airlines: Every U.S. airline (e.g., American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, etc.) enforces this TSA carry-on liquid limit – none allow more liquids in the cabin than TSA permits. The rule is a federal security regulation, so no airline can waive it.

• Exceptions Exist: Medically necessary liquids (prescription meds, certain over-the-counter remedies) and infant nourishment (baby formula, breast milk) can exceed 3.4 oz in carry-on if you declare them for inspection. Duty-free liquids purchased internationally can also be carried in secure tamper-evident bags when connecting through U.S. airports (more on this below).

• Other Regulations: If you need to bring more liquid than allowed (for example, full-size toiletries or beverages), pack them in checked baggage or buy them after the security checkpoint. Any drinks or liquids bought after clearing TSA can be taken on the plane with no volume limit. Hazardous liquids (flammable, corrosive, etc.) are prohibited in carry-ons entirely.

• When in Doubt – “3-1-1” It Out: Remember: “If you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, it counts as a liquid”. Under the 3-1-1 rule, such items must follow the 3.4 oz/quart-bag limits or they won’t pass security.

Understanding the TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule

Why This Rule Exists

The strict limits on liquids in carry-ons were introduced for security reasons in August 2006, after authorities foiled a plot involving liquid explosives on flights. 

In response, the TSA and aviation authorities worldwide restricted liquids, gels, and aerosols to small quantities in carry-on bags. 

This rule – known as the TSA 3-1-1 rule – is meant to mitigate the risk of hazardous liquids on board by making it easier for security scanners to detect threats. 

Nearly all countries adopted similar limits (100 ml containers) for carry-on liquids. (Notably, the UK and some other nations are beginning to relax these rules with new scanner technology, but more on that later.)

What “3-1-1” Means (The Basics)

The 3-1-1 rule is a handy way to remember the carry-on liquid allowance: “3” = 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container, “1” = 1 quart-sized clear bag, “1” = 1 bag per passenger. In practice, this means:

All liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes you carry through security must be in **containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less. 

This includes items like travel-size shampoo, toothpaste, lotions, drinks, perfume, etc. Even if a container is half-full, if its capacity is over 3.4 oz, it cannot go in your carry-on . 

(For example, a 6 oz bottle with only 1 oz left is still not allowed in the cabin – the bottle itself exceeds the size limit.)

All those small containers must fit into one quart-sized (approximately 7 x 8 inch) clear plastic bag (such as a zip-top 1 quart bag). 

You’re limited to a single transparent quart bag of liquids per traveler. Typically, this bag can hold about 5-10 travel-size bottles depending on their shape. You must be able to completely close the bag.

One bag per passenger: Each traveler is allowed only one liquids bag in their carry-on. 

If you have more liquids than can fit in one quart bag, you’ll need to either leave some behind, place them in checked luggage, or mail them to your destination in advance.

At the airport checkpoint, you should remove your quart bag from your carry-on and place it in a bin for X-ray screening (unless you have TSA PreCheck, where you can usually keep the bag in your luggage). 

TSA agents may pull aside any bag that contains liquids over the limit or unclear items. If an item is over the limit, you’ll have to either throw it away or step out to place it in checked baggage. 

Security officers also might test or inspect liquids that trigger alarms during screening. Following the 3-1-1 rule helps you and everyone in line get through faster by avoiding these snafus.

U.S. Airlines’ Carry-On Liquid Policies: By Airline

All U.S. airlines must adhere to TSA’s regulations for liquids in carry-on bags, meaning the 3-1-1 rule is consistently applied no matter which airline you fly. 

However, airlines often explain the rules on their websites and may highlight certain details or tips for their passengers. Here’s how the major U.S. carriers handle carry-on liquid allowances:

American Airlines

American Airlines explicitly states that it abides by the TSA’s liquid restrictions: you may bring liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols in your carry-on only if they are in travel-size containers (3.4 oz or smaller) and fit into a single clear, quart-size zip-top bag. 

In other words, American follows the standard 3-1-1 rule like everyone else. 

American Airlines also reminds customers that certain duty-free liquids purchased abroad are allowed in carry-on when you connect through U.S. airports, as long as they are in a secure tamper-evident bag with the receipt showing purchase within the last 48 hours. 

(This aligns with TSA policy for inbound international travelers carrying duty-free wine, spirits, perfume, etc. – see the “Duty-Free Liquids” section below.) 

Apart from reinforcing TSA’s rules, American does not impose any stricter size limits for liquids in the cabin.

Delta Air Lines

Delta Air Lines likewise enforces the TSA 3-1-1 rule on all flights. 

Delta’s official guidance notes that liquids, gels, aerosols, and pastes in carry-ons are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container, all containers fitting in one quart-sized clear bag. 

At security, Delta advises passengers to take out this liquids bag and place it in a bin for screening. 

Delta also highlights the standard exceptions: medications, baby formula, breast milk, and other necessary liquids for infants or medical reasons can exceed 3.4 oz, but TSA will usually make “special provisions” to screen these items separately for your convenience. 

In short, Delta’s policy mirrors TSA rules – pack larger liquids in checked baggage and stick to travel-sized toiletries in your carry-on for a smooth screening process.

United Airlines

United Airlines follows the same 3-1-1 carry-on liquid requirements. 

Passengers are limited to 3.4-ounce containers of liquids, gels, or sprays in their carry-on, all fitting in a single quart-size bag. 

United’s policy underscores that any larger quantities must go in checked luggage or be left behind. 

Like other carriers, United allows exceptions for essential items: you can bring medications, baby formula/food, or other necessary liquids in quantities over 3.4 oz in your carry-on if you declare them for inspection at the checkpoint. 

United’s website and travel communications reinforce that these TSA rules are for everyone’s safety, and their gate agents/TSA officers will enforce the liquid limits consistently. 

So, United passengers should prepare their carry-on liquids the same way as any other airline – travel sizes in a quart bag, and declare any exempt items.

Southwest Airlines

Southwest Airlines is known for its traveler-friendly policies, and when it comes to liquids, they align exactly with TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. 

“The standard Southwest liquid limit is 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container,” and all containers must fit into a single quart-sized bag for carry-ons. 

Southwest makes it clear that these are TSA guidelines that they follow on all flights. 

If you bring a larger bottle (shampoo, drink, etc.) in your carry-on, expect to have it tossed out unless it’s empty or falls under an exception. 

Southwest advises that larger quantities of liquids or toiletries should be packed in checked baggage (they famously allow two free checked bags, which helps!) and reminds travelers to adhere to TSA rules for both carry-on and checked luggage. 

They also note the same special cases – e.g. medications and baby formula are permitted in excess of 3.4 oz but should be declared for inspection. 

In practice, flying Southwest offers no extra leeway on liquids; you get the friendly service, but not bigger shampoo bottles in your carry-on.

JetBlue Airways

JetBlue follows identical rules: 3.4 oz or smaller containers, in one quart-size clear bag, per passenger. 

JetBlue’s policy emphasizes that the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule isn’t unique to JetBlue – it “applies across all U.S. airlines” as a security mandate. 

So if you’re packing for a JetBlue flight, treat your liquids the same as you would for any airline. 

JetBlue does not allow any carry-on liquids beyond the TSA limits, apart from the usual exemptions (medical or infant needs). 

They advise passengers to pack smartly to avoid last-minute surprises at security, noting that no liquids above 3.4 oz will be allowed through unless exempt, and anything non-compliant should go in checked bags. 

JetBlue also reminds travelers that sticking to the 3-1-1 rule helps keep security lines moving and prevents delays or confiscations.

Alaska Airlines

Alaska Airlines also enforces the TSA liquid rule for carry-ons. 

In travel tips to its customers, Alaska echoes that you’re allowed one quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes, with each item 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less. 

If you have additional or larger liquids, Alaska advises that you’ll need to check them in your luggage. 

Like other carriers, Alaska treats breast milk, baby formula, and medications as exceptions – these can be carried in reasonable quantities but should be separated from your other items and declared to TSA officers for separate screening. 

Alaska Airlines doesn’t impose extra restrictions on liquids beyond the TSA rules, but they do remind travelers to be especially aware of overall prohibited items (like lithium batteries or corrosives) and to pack liquids in ways that won’t leak. 

Pro tip from Alaska: they encourage flyers to bring an empty water bottle and “Fill Before You Fly” once past security, both to stay hydrated and to reduce waste – a practice any airline passenger can benefit from.

Other U.S. Airlines (Spirit, Frontier, etc.)

All other domestic airlines – including Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Allegiant Air, Hawaiian Airlines, Sun Country, and more – are bound by the same TSA carry-on liquid regulations. 

No matter the airline, if you’re departing from a U.S. airport (or flying on a U.S. carrier), you must adhere to the 3-1-1 rule. 

Budget airlines don’t have special leniencies for liquids; in fact, with many ultra-low-cost carriers, you’ll likely be limited on carry-on space overall, so packing your liquids efficiently is key. 

Spirit and Frontier, for example, follow TSA rules strictly – 3.4 oz containers in a quart bag – and their contracts of carriage explicitly forbid any hazardous or oversized liquids in the cabin. 

There’s no “cheating” the liquid rule by switching airlines; even international carriers operating from the U.S. must enforce the same limits at TSA checkpoints. 

So regardless of which airline’s logo is on your ticket, prepare your carry-on liquids according to the 3-1-1 guidelines to avoid any issues.

Exceptions and Special Allowances for Liquids

While the 3-1-1 rule is strict, TSA makes allowances for certain essential liquids. These exceptions apply across all airlines since they are TSA rules. 

If you have any of the following, you can bring them in your carry-on even if they exceed 3.4 oz, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for separate screening:

Medications and Medical Liquids

Prescription and vital over-the-counter medications are exempt from the 3-1-1 volume limit. 

The TSA allows “medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities” beyond 3.4 ounces. 

This includes items like liquid prescription drugs, insulin, cough syrup, saline solution, nebulizer fluids, or gel packs to keep meds cool. 

It’s wise to keep medication in original labeled bottles if possible, though it’s not strictly required. When you reach security, declare these medical liquids to an officer and separate them from your regular liquids bag for inspection. 

They may be X-rayed, tested, or visually inspected, but TSA will not make you toss needed medicines even if they exceed 100 ml. 

For example, if you have a doctor’s prescription for a 8 oz liquid medication, you can bring it on board – just inform the TSA screeners. 

Tip: It can help to carry a copy of your prescription or doctor’s note for any unusual liquids, and ensure the medication is easily accessible. 

The same exemption applies to things like liquid nutrition for medical needs, medical creams, or even large quantities of hand sanitizer if medically required (though the special COVID-era 12 oz sanitizer allowance has ended, you can still bring small sanitizers under 3.4 oz normally). 

Always pack medical liquids in a way that’s easy to separate and inform the agents to avoid confusion.

Infant and Child Nourishment (Baby Formula, Breast Milk, etc.)

Traveling with a baby or toddler? Good news: TSA does not enforce the 3.4 oz limit on breast milk, formula, baby food, juice for infants, or toddler drinks. 

These are considered “medically necessary” liquids as well, and parents are allowed to bring larger quantities through security. 

You can carry bottles or pouches of breast milk and formula, even a cooler of milk or several jars of baby food, in reasonable amounts needed for your trip. 

The child does not have to be present for breast milk to be allowed (for instance, a parent can carry breast milk when traveling without the baby). 

Be sure to separate these items from your other belongings at the checkpoint and let the TSA officer know you have them. 

They may ask to inspect or screen the liquids (officers might test a small sample or simply X-ray the items – nothing will be added to or mixed into your baby’s milk/food during screening). 

It’s recommended (but not required) to carry baby liquids in transparent containers so officers can easily inspect them. 

Tip: Pack only what you need for the flight plus a little extra, to stay in the “reasonable quantity” range. 

You’re also allowed to bring things like gel ice packs to keep milk or formula cold, even if the ice pack is slightly melted by the time you go through security – TSA considers necessary gel ice for breast milk or formula as allowable, even if slushy. 

Overall, parents have flexibility with liquids for kids – milk, formula, puree pouches, applesauce, baby yogurt, and even water for mixing formula are all permitted above 3.4 oz as long as you declare them for separate screening. 

This exemption helps you care for your child without worrying about the strict volume limit.

Duty-Free Liquids (Purchases from Airport Shops)

If you’ve bought liquids like alcohol, wine, perfume, or other liquid goods at a duty-free shop and are connecting through a U.S. airport, you can carry them on the plane even if they exceed 3.4 oz, provided you follow the rules. 

The item must be sealed in a special Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) at the store, with the receipt showing the purchase within the last 48 hours, and you’re in transit to the U.S.. 

TSA allows these duty-free liquids in excess of 100 ml to pass through security during your connection as long as they remain sealed and show no signs of tampering. 

For example, if you buy a 1-liter bottle of whiskey or a 200 ml bottle of perfume in an international airport duty-free and then connect through a U.S. airport, you can bring it through the TSA checkpoint in the U.S. in your carry-on only if it’s in the sealed STEB bag with the receipt visible. 

Do not open the bag until you reach your final destination, or TSA will confiscate the item. 

Keep in mind that TSA will still put the duty-free package through the X-ray and if something about it alarms (or if the seal looks broken), they might not allow it. 

Also, if you leave the secure area and re-enter security (or if you have a long layover beyond 48 hours), the duty-free exemption might not apply. 

When possible, pack duty-free liquids in checked bags if you’re unsure. But generally, the STEB system is designed so international travelers can carry their duty-free liquor or other liquids when connecting flights.

Note: If you buy duty-free liquor on your outbound flight and try to carry it on for the return without a proper STEB seal (or after a stopover), it will be subject to the 3.4 oz limit. 

U.S. airports themselves also have duty-free shops; liquids bought there are usually given to you after security or in a sealed bag if you have a connection.

Frozen Liquids and Ice Packs

Frozen liquids present a special case. TSA’s rule says that if an item is completely frozen solid, it’s not treated as a liquid. 

For instance, a frozen ice pack or a frozen bottle of water can go through security without falling under the 3.4 oz rule – but it must be truly frozen when it’s screened*. 

If it’s even partially melted or has any liquid at the bottom, the melted portion counts toward your liquids allowance. 

This means you could technically freeze a bottle of water and bring it, but if it thaws out en route to the airport and TSA sees liquid water in the bottle, they won’t let it through (unless it’s under 100 ml of melted liquid). 

Gel ice packs follow the same logic: frozen solid is okay, slushy or melted is not – except if the ice pack is needed to keep medicine or baby milk cold, in which case it is considered medically necessary and can be permitted even if not fully frozen. 

So, a solidly frozen ice pack for your lunch or general use would be fine at the checkpoint, but if it’s melty it might be seized unless it’s cooling breast milk or medicine. 

Tip: If you rely on an ice pack, consider freezing it as solid as possible, and use well-insulated containers to keep it that way until you’re through security. 

Once past security, you can always ask a restaurant or lounge to refreeze it or give you ice. Additionally, frozen food (like a pack of frozen meat or veggies) is allowed in carry-on and isn’t restricted as long as it’s frozen; if it starts thawing and there’s liquid, that liquid would be subject to 3-1-1 rules.

Other Uncommon Exceptions

There are a few oddball allowances worth mentioning for completeness. 

Live fish in water – Yes, TSA actually permits live fish in a clear container with water as a carry-on item, even though that water is liquid exceeding 3.4 oz. 

The fish (or other small aquatic animals like coral) must be in a transparent, spill-proof container; you should definitely alert TSA officers if you’re traveling with Nemo in a bag. 

They have experience screening live fish and will visually inspect the container. 

Also, fresh whole eggs are allowed in carry-on luggage even though they contain liquid yolk inside – TSA doesn’t require eggs to be in the quart bag (they recommend packing them carefully and expect they’ll go through the X-ray separately). 

These exceptions are niche cases, but it shows TSA’s rule is really targeting liquid explosives and not everyday unique items. 

Finally, certain scientific samples (non-infectious biological specimens in small quantities of preservative fluid) have specific packaging guidelines that allow them in carry-on, but if you need to transport something like that, you’ll want to read TSA’s rules in detail and probably carry documentation. 

For most travelers, such items won’t come up, but it’s good to know TSA has thought through many scenarios.

Important: No matter what special liquid you carry, always notify the TSA officer if it’s something out of the ordinary. 

They deal with these exceptions regularly and will guide you through the screening (sometimes doing additional tests or inspections). 

Also remember that individual TSA officers have discretion – the rules say they make the final call on if an item is allowed. 

Being polite, prepared, and proactive in explaining your unusual item will go a long way to smooth the process.

How many 3.4 oz bottles can I bring on a plane in my carry-on?

As many as you can fit into one quart-sized bag. 

The rule isn’t a set number of bottles, but rather that all your liquid containers must fit in the single 1-quart zip-top bag and the bag must close completely. 

In practice, a quart bag is usually about 6–9 travel-size bottles, depending on their shape. 

For example, you might fit six 3 oz bottles comfortably, or up to eight or nine if some are smaller. 

If the bag can’t zip, you’ve overpacked it. There’s no extra allowance beyond that one bag per person – even if your suitcase is large, the limit is about the volume of a quart. 

So choose your most important liquids to carry with you, and remember you can always put any extras in a checked bag or purchase replacements later.

Can I bring a 4 oz or 6 oz container if it’s not full? What if the bottle is half-empty?

No – the TSA looks at the maximum capacity of the container, not the amount of liquid currently in it. 

A bottle labeled as 4 ounces (118 ml) is above the allowed size, even if it’s only half full. It won’t be permitted in your carry-on. 

For instance, if you have a 6 oz tube of toothpaste that’s almost used up, TSA will still make you throw it away because the packaging can hold more than 3.4 oz. 

To avoid this issue, transfer liquids into smaller containers or buy products that come in 3.4 oz (100 ml) sizes. 

The only exception is if the item is medically necessary (then container size doesn’t matter, but you’d have to declare it). 

For all other items, 3.4 ounces (100 ml) is the hard limit per container. Be mindful: some toiletries sold as “travel size” in other countries might be 4 oz (120 ml), which exceeds U.S. limits. 

Always check the volume on the bottle. It’s frustrating to lose a good product at security simply due to the container size.

Do solid deodorant, lipsticks, or bar soaps count as liquids? What about peanut butter or makeup?

Only liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes are restricted by the 3-1-1 rule. Solid items are not restricted. 

This means a solid stick deodorant can go in your carry-on outside the quart bag (no limit), and items like solid bar soap, lip balm sticks, solid makeup (pressed powder, powder eyeshadow, etc.) are fine in any quantity. 

However, anything with a liquid-like or spreadable consistency does count as a liquid. For example: toothpaste is a paste, so it falls under the liquids rule. 

Liquid foundation makeup, mascara, lip gloss – yes, those count as liquids too. 

Peanut butter, jams, honey, yogurt, and similar spreads are considered gels and thus restricted: you can only bring them in carry-on if they’re in containers 3.4 oz or less. 

A good rule of thumb from TSA: “If you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it or pour it, and it’s over 3.4 ounces, then it should go in a checked bag.” In other words, if it’s not fully solid, assume it’s treated as a liquid at the checkpoint. 

Some examples that catch people off guard: snow globes (if the globe is larger than tennis ball, too much liquid inside), jarred fruits in syrup (the liquid part counts), wet pet food, and certain cheeses (soft cheeses like brie are spreadable = liquid rule, hard cheeses are solid). 

When in doubt, put it in the quart bag or check TSA’s online item checker. But generally, solid deodorant = okay outside bag; spray or gel deodorant = liquid rule; bar of soap = okay; liquid soap = liquid rule.

Can I bring water or drinks through airport security?

You cannot bring drinks or filled water bottles from outside through security if they are over 3.4 oz. 

A regular bottle of water, soda, coffee, etc., will be stopped at the checkpoint – you’d have to chug it or dump it before the screening. 

The only way to bring larger beverages through is if they are completely frozen solid (as mentioned earlier) or if they’re under the 100 ml limit (which basically restricts you to tiny juice boxes or airline mini-liquor bottles, which are 1.7 oz – those are technically allowed in the quart bag!). 

However, you can absolutely bring an empty water bottle in your carry-on and then fill it from a fountain or refill station once you’re past security. This is a great travel hack to stay hydrated without paying airport prices. 

Many airports now have hydration stations just beyond security. Additionally, you can purchase drinks after the security checkpoint – anything you buy inside the secure terminal (coffee, bottled beverages, etc.) can be taken on the plane with you and is not subject to the 3-1-1 rule. 

So, while you can’t take your home-filled hydro flask through the initial screening if it’s full, you could fill it up on the other side. 

Tip: To avoid waste, carry a reusable bottle and just fill it when you can. And if you’re dying for a coffee or smoothie for the flight, just buy it near your gate after you’ve cleared security.

What about alcohol in my carry-on? Can I bring mini liquor bottles or wine?

Alcoholic beverages are subject to the same 3.4 oz limit for carry-on if they’re liquids. 

So, you can bring those little miniature liquor bottles (they’re usually about 1.7 oz or 50 ml each) in your quart bag – they are legal to carry on. 

In fact, FAA regulations say you cannot drink your own alcohol on the plane unless served by the airline, but carrying them is allowed. 

Regular size wine, beer, or liquor bottles cannot go in your carry-on (unless purchased duty-free as discussed). They would need to be in checked luggage. 

In checked baggage, you’re allowed up to 5 liters of alcohol (per person) if it’s between 24% and 70% alcohol by volume (which covers most liquors). 

Alcohol under 24% (beer and wine) isn’t limited by quantity in checked bags, and over 70% (like 151-proof rum or Everclear) is not allowed at all in airline baggage – too flammable. 

For carry-on though, basically only minis or a wine sampler (100 ml bottles) would fit the 3-1-1 rule. 

Remember, even if you bring them, you are not allowed to self-serve alcohol on the plane – flight attendants must do it. 

Airlines typically prohibit consuming personal alcohol onboard for safety. 

If you do bring mini bottles, keep them sealed during flight or ask a flight attendant if they can serve it to you (policies differ by airline). 

Some airlines strictly forbid it, so it’s usually better to just enjoy alcoholic drinks provided by the airline if available.

The 3-1-1 rule has been around a long time – is it ever going to be lifted or changed?

Changes are on the horizon, but slowly. 

As of 2025, the 3-1-1 rule is still in full effect in the U.S., and you should pack assuming it’s here to stay for now. 

However, there is movement internationally: some airports in Europe and other regions have started using new advanced 3D X-ray scanners (CT scanners) that can detect explosives in liquids more precisely. 

The UK, for example, has announced plans to remove the 100 ml liquid limit at major airports by 2024 by deploying these scanners. 

The TSA in the U.S. is also testing and gradually installing CT scanners at various airports. These machines can allow passengers to leave liquids (and laptops) in bags and potentially could allow larger liquid quantities through security in the future. 

TSA officials have indicated that once the technology is widespread, the liquid rules might be relaxed. But realistically, this will take a few years to implement across all airports. 

We might see a day when the 3-1-1 rule is phased out or significantly modified, making air travel more convenient. Until an official change is announced and implemented, though, travelers must continue to follow the current restrictions. 

Always keep an eye on TSA updates – if you’re a frequent flyer, you’ll definitely hear news when the liquid policy changes. For now, pack those travel-sizes and quart bags as usual. 

The good news is that with each passing year, security tech is improving, so perhaps in the near future, the hassle of the liquids bag will be a thing of the past. 

Bottom line: as of today, plan for 3-1-1 to apply on all your U.S. flights – any deviation from it will be clearly communicated by TSA if and when it happens.

Tips for Packing Carry-On Liquids Efficiently

Packing liquids in carry-on luggage requires a bit of strategy. Here are some expert tips to help you stay within the rules and make the most of that quart-sized bag:

Use Travel-Size Containers

Embrace miniature toiletries. Rather than trying to haul your full-size shampoo or lotion, transfer liquids into 3.4 oz (100 ml) travel bottles or buy travel-sized versions of your favorite products. 

Common items like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, hairspray, sunscreen, etc., all come in small TSA-approved sizes. 

Not only do these fit the rules, but they also save space and weight in your bag. If you only need a little of something, don’t pack a big bottle – downsizing your liquids is key to carry-on packing.

Consider Solid Alternatives

An excellent way to bypass the 3-1-1 limits is to pack toiletries that aren’t liquid. 

These days you can find solid shampoo bars, bar soap or sheets, solid lotion sticks, deodorant sticks or powder, toothpaste tablets or powder, solid perfumes, and more. 

These do not count against your liquids allowance. For example, a bar of soap or solid shampoo can go in your bag freely, and you’ll save room in the quart bag for other necessities. 

Likewise, makeup lovers can opt for solid or powder makeup (powder foundation, solid lip balm, etc.) so you have fewer liquids. 

Not only do solid products dodge the liquid rule, they also eliminate worries about spills.

Use a Good Quart-Size Bag

Make sure your 1 quart bag is sturdy, seals well, and is clear. 

A freezer-grade zip-top bag is a popular choice, but you can also invest in a TSA-approved clear toiletry bag or pouch – just ensure it’s approximately quart-size. 

Don’t exceed the size; a giant bag or non-clear pouch might not be accepted. Place all your liquid containers inside and confirm it closes completely. 

For convenience, pack this liquids bag in an outer pocket or at the top of your carry-on, so you can quickly pull it out for security screening. 

An easily accessible bag means you won’t hold up the line digging for your liquids when it’s time to put them in a bin.

Seal and Protect Against Leaks

Changes in cabin pressure can make bottles leak. Ensure each bottle’s cap is on tight. 

You might even use plastic wrap under caps or put bottles in small zip-locks individually for double protection. 

Squeeze a bit of air out of bottles (especially shampoo or lotion) before capping to allow for expansion. 

Keeping your quart bag sealed will contain any minor leaks. TSA requires the bag to be resealable, so take advantage of that – seal the bag properly after packing your items. 

If you have a particularly messy item (say a liquid medicine that could spill), consider putting it in a smaller bag within the quart bag. 

A well-sealed liquids bag not only meets the rules but also saves your clothes from getting shampoo-soaked.

Don’t Skimp on Essentials (But Share If You Can)

You might feel restricted by one quart bag, but prioritize what you truly need during the flight or until you can access checked luggage. 

Pack those must-have items (like prescription creams, or that specific face lotion you can’t find at your destination) and leave out what you could buy later. 

If you’re traveling with family or friends, use their allowance too – each person gets their own quart bag. 

Distribute items among your group if one bag is overflowing and another has space. For example, one quart bag could hold communal items like toothpaste that everyone can share on the trip, freeing up your personal bag for other things. 

Just remember whoever carries it will need to pull it out at security.

Plan to Purchase or Pack in Checked Luggage

For any liquid item that doesn’t absolutely need to be in your carry-on, it’s often easier to pack it in checked baggage or plan to buy it at your destination. 

Items like full-size shampoo, large sunscreen bottles, or a big bottle of wine from home – put those in checked bags if you’re checking luggage, or simply purchase upon arrival. 

This will simplify your carry-on packing immensely. 

As a bonus, liquids in checked bags are not limited to 3.4 oz (though the FAA does restrict very large quantities of certain liquids like aerosols or alcohol – e.g., no more than 5 liters of alcohol 24-70% ABV per person in checked bags, and no aerosols over 18 oz each – but those are pretty generous limits). 

If you are going carry-on only and really need a big liquid item, think about mailing it to yourself or using a travel-friendly solid alternative.

Use TSA PreCheck or Trusted Traveler Programs

If you fly often, it’s worth considering programs like TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR. 

With TSA PreCheck, you can go through a dedicated security lane where you don’t need to remove your quart-size liquids bag or your laptop, and you can keep your shoes and jacket on. 

This streamlines the process significantly – your carefully packed liquids can stay neatly in your carry-on. 

Do note, you still must follow the 3-1-1 limits, but PreCheck means fewer hoops to jump through during screening. 

The membership requires an application and background check (and a fee), but many travelers find the convenience well worth it.

Stay Informed

Finally, if you’re ever unsure about an item, use the TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool or the MyTSA app on your phone. 

You can search any item (from peanut butter to nail polish to snow globes) and it will tell you if it’s allowed, restricted, or banned in carry-on or checked bags. 

You can also reach out to @AskTSA on Twitter for quick answers about specific items. 

Knowing ahead of time saves you from losing a pricey bottle of cologne or a sentimental item at the checkpoint.

By following these tips, you’ll become a pro at packing your carry-on liquids. 

You’ll breeze through security with your compliant quart bag and avoid arriving at your destination missing half your toiletries. 

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth airport experience.

Conclusion

All airlines adhere to the same TSA-mandated rules, so once you understand the 3-1-1 rule – 3.4 oz containers, one quart bag, one per person – you’re set for American, Delta, United, Southwest, JetBlue, Alaska, and beyond. 

Remember the key points: pack smart with travel sizes, know that exceptions exist for baby needs and medications, and when in doubt, put liquids in checked baggage or buy them after security. 

Happy travels, and may your shampoo, coffee, or favorite sauce make it through to your destination – within 3.4 ounces, of course!