Travel Bottle Size Limits For Airplanes: What's Allowed?

The 3-1-1 rule, also known as the TSA's liquid limit, states that travellers are allowed to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (approximately 100 milliliters) or less. All containers must fit inside a clear, resealable, plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1 litre. Each passenger is limited to one such bag, which should be removed from carry-on baggage and placed in a bin for screening. Any liquids that don't meet these requirements will be confiscated.

Containers must be 3.4 oz or 100 ml

When packing liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage, it's important to remember that they must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less. This is a key requirement for air travel and ensures that your items comply with the regulations set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).

The 3-1-1 liquids rule, as it is commonly known, dictates that each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-sized containers that adhere to the 3.4-ounce (100 ml) limit. This rule was established to enhance security and has been in place for almost two decades. It is worth noting that this rule applies to various items, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, sunscreen, and lotion.

To facilitate compliance with the 3-1-1 liquids rule, it is recommended to use small, travel-sized bottles that are specifically designed for air travel. These bottles are typically leak-proof and easy to fill, making them convenient for transporting your liquids, gels, and aerosols. By investing in reusable bottles, you can also reduce waste and always have your preferred brands with you while travelling.

It is important to remember that any containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) should be placed in your checked baggage. This ensures that you can still bring your favourite full-size products with you on your trip, but they will need to be stored in your checked luggage rather than your carry-on bag. Additionally, make sure to separate these larger containers from your carry-on baggage to facilitate a smoother screening process at the airport.

By following these guidelines and ensuring your containers are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, you can confidently navigate airport security and have a stress-free travel experience.

One clear quart-sized bag per person

Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. This is known as the 3-1-1 rule, with the first 3 referring to the 3.4-ounce (100ml) limit per container, the first 1 referring to the containers needing to fit into a single clear one-quart bag, and the final 1 referring to only one bag being allowed per passenger.

The bag should be a clear, resealable plastic bag with a capacity of no more than 1L. The bag should be transparent so that screening officers can easily see the contents. The approximate dimensions of a 1L bag are 15.24 cm by 22.86 cm (6 in. by 9 in.) or 20 cm by 17.5 cm (8 in. by 7 in.).

The 3-1-1 rule applies to common travel items such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, lotion, liquid-based cosmetics (e.g. mascara, liquid foundation, liquid eyeliner), and gel-based cosmetics (e.g. gel blush, gel lip products).

Any liquids that don't meet these limitations will be confiscated and will not be allowed through security.

Medication allowed

Medication is allowed on airplanes, and it is recommended that you keep your medication in your carry-on bag in the event of delays or emergencies. You are allowed to bring medication in your checked baggage, but this is not recommended.

Liquid medication is subject to the 3-1-1 rule, which means that it must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and placed in a one-quart-size clear zip-top bag. If your liquid medication is in larger containers, you will need to pack it separately in your carry-on bag and declare it to the TSA officer at the start of the screening process. Medically required liquids will be subject to additional screening.

Prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed, and you may bring solid medications in unlimited quantities as long as they are screened. It is helpful to know exactly what medications you are carrying in case you are asked about them. While the TSA does not require medication to be in its original packaging, it may be helpful to bring doctor's notes, original prescription bottles, or other documentation to simplify the screening process.

You can request a visual inspection of your medication instead of X-ray screening, but this must be done before your medication begins going through the X-ray process.

Ice packs are allowed to keep your medication cool, but you must declare them during screening.

Baby food/drink exempt from rules

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US allows passengers to carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-sized containers that are no larger than 3.4 ounces (100ml). This rule, however, does not apply to baby food and drinks, which are considered exempt.

Baby food and drinks are classified as "medically necessary liquids" by the TSA, and as such, are allowed in reasonable quantities in carry-on bags. This includes formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food, including puree pouches. These items do not need to fit within a quart-sized bag and can be transported in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100ml. The child does not need to be present or travelling with you for you to bring breast milk, formula, and related supplies.

It is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles, as these can be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners. Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by these scanners and may need to be opened for alternate screening methods. Screening will never include placing anything into the medically necessary liquid.

In addition to formula and breast milk, food and drinks for babies and toddlers are also allowed, including items such as yoghurt and purees. Water for babies is also permitted in "reasonable quantities".

It is important to inform a TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process that you are carrying formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food in excess of 3.4 ounces. These items will need to be screened separately from your other belongings and may be tested for explosives or concealed prohibited items.

Frozen liquids not subject to rules

Frozen liquids are not subject to the same restrictions as regular liquids, gels, and aerosols. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), frozen liquid items are allowed through the checkpoint as long as they are completely frozen solid when presented for screening. This means that if you want to bring a liquid that is over 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters, you can freeze it before reaching the airport and take it through security.

However, it is important to note that if the frozen liquid item is partially melted, slushy, or has any liquid at the bottom of the container, it will then be subject to the standard liquids requirements and must be in a container that is 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less. Ultimately, the TSA officer will decide whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Additionally, not all liquids can be frozen. For example, this hack won't work for liquids such as shampoo and toothpaste. It may also not be practical for water, as most airports have water fountains, and your frozen water could melt before you board your flight.

It is also worth noting that there are other exceptions to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Medications and infant and child nourishment are allowed in larger quantities. This includes prescription liquids, gels, and aerosols, as well as breast milk, baby formula, and baby and toddler food and drinks. Duty-free liquids purchased internationally and transported in a secure, tamper-evident bag are also exempt from the rule.

Frequently asked questions