What is the 3-1-1 rule?
Asked by: Prof. Letitia Ullrich DDS | Last update: July 31, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (19 votes)
How many 3oz bottles can I carry-on?
You can take as many 3-ounce bottles as you can fit into a single quart-sized, clear, resealable bag. Typically, this allows for about 6 to 9 small bottles, depending on their shape and how you pack them. Keep in mind that no matter how many containers you fit in the bag, you must still be able to fully close the top.
Why is it called the 3-1-1 rule?
The “3” in the 3-1-1 rule refers to the 3.4 ounce limit. All 3.4-ounce containers must fit into a clear one-quart bag: that's the first “1.” Only one bag is allowed per passenger (that's the last “1” in 3-1-1).
Does deodorant have to go in a 3-1-1 bag?
Spray, Gel, Liquid, Cream, Pastes, and Roll-On deodorants need to be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and placed in a clear quart-sized baggie.
Is toothpaste considered a liquid when flying?
Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.
TSA's 3-1-1 Liquids Rule
Does deodorant count as liquid?
Stick and solid deodorants are allowed in your carry-on luggage without restrictions. Spray, gel and liquid deodorants over 3.4 ounces need to be packed in your checked baggage.
Does chapstick count as a liquid TSA?
Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream, or paste may be flagged during screening and will require additional security checks. Chapstick, lipstick, and solid lip balms are not considered liquids by the TSA. They can be in your handbag, carry-on or hand luggage without being separated into your clear plastic liquids bag.
Does mascara count as a liquid?
Do creams, like concealer and lipstick still count as liquid? And what about lotions and gels? Unfortunately, it's not great news for the over-packers. The Department for Transport defines liquids as “including creams, lotions, oils, perfume, mascara and lip gloss”.
Do wet wipes count as liquid TSA?
Sanitizing Wipes: Wet wipes, in any quantity, can be carried on. This includes baby wipes! Disinfectant sprays: You are allowed to have sprays in your carry-on bag as long as they do not exceed 3.4 oz.
What toiletries are not allowed on a plane?
Other liquid or gel personal care and cosmetic products are also generally restricted by the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: hair gel, hairspray, aerosol hair texturizer, nail polish and nail polish remover. Aerosol products should have a lid to prevent them from accidentally being released.
Can I bring a 4 oz bottle on a plane if it's not full?
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item.
Is a sandwich bag a quart size?
A sandwich bag is relatively smaller than a quart-size bag, at least in the US. To be more specific, its dimensions are 6.5” x 5.5”. The most popular brand people use is Ziploc; a household name in most families. They're usually used to hold a sandwich or any small snacks for kids to take to school.
What is not allowed in a carry-on bag?
With the exception of balls, many pieces of sporting equipment, such as baseball bats, golf clubs, ski poles, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, martial arts weapons, hiking poles, and tent spikes/poles, are prohibited from carry-on luggage and must be transported in checked baggage.
How strict is TSA about bottles over 3oz?
Created by explosive experts, the international guideline known as the 3-1-1 rule requires airline passengers pack their liquids inside 3.4-ounce containers that can fit into one quart-size bag. Any larger liquids—including toothpaste, shampoo, face wash, and sunscreen—must be packed in checked luggage.
Do you still have to put liquids in plastic bags in 2024?
Do you still have to put liquids in plastic bags in 2024? Yes, this rule is still in effect, but the TSA has relaxed its requirements a bit: The bag doesn't need to be clear plastic.
Can I put full size shampoo in checked luggage?
Typically, travelers put their toiletries in the bag such as shampoo, hair products, make-up and toothpaste. Individuals who want to pack their large bottle of shampoo or full-size toothpaste should pack those items in their checked bags.
Can I fly with deodorant?
The TSA prohibits containers with more than 3.4 ounces of liquid in carry-on luggage, so if you have a liquid or semi-liquid antiperspirant, be sure to check the quantity on the container. For example, many stick deodorants and antiperspirants come in sizes under 3.4 ounces, so it's fine to bring in your carry-on bag.
Do I need to take out chargers for airport security?
Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags.
Can you put baby wipes in a Ziploc bag?
Use any size Ziploc Endurables® to store your baby wipes (store bought or homemade!). We know transporting everything for baby can be a hassle! Use any size Ziploc Endurables® to pack/portion/transport dry baby formula to help keep you organized on the go!
What makeup items are not allowed on planes?
Makeup in a solid or powder form is allowed in carry-on and checked bags with no quantity or size limitations. However, when packed in carry-on bags, makeup in a liquid, lotion, gel, paste or creamy form, must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less.
What makeup needs to go in a clear bag?
To break it down, your travel makeup bag should be divided into three parts: A clear plastic liquid bag containing your minis, creams and liquids under 100ml. A brush belt to keep your tools clean and separate. A makeup bag with all of your powders including setting powders, blush, bronzers, and eyeshadows.
Can I take a razor in hand luggage?
Taking a razor on a plane FAQs
Can you take razor blades in your hand luggage? No, you can't take loose razor blades in your hand luggage. You can pack them in your hold luggage. Disposable and electric razors are fine to take in your hand luggage.
What makeup needs to go in a Ziploc bag?
Because creams and gels fall under TSA's liquids category, that means you do need to add your cream blushes, lipsticks, lip balms, and brow gels in the bag.
Can I bring snacks on a plane?
Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.
Does Vaseline count as a liquid?
Unlike to Vaseline, a lipstick (providing it's solid) won't count as liquid and you don't have to place it in the bag. A tin of Vaseline (paste/cream texture) is considered a liquid and must be included in your liquid allowance.