What is the 3 1 1 rule for carry ons?

The TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on liquids means containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, fit into 1 quart-sized, clear, zip-top bag, and each passenger is limited to 1 bag, all of which must be placed in a separate bin for screening. This applies to liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes like shampoo, lotion, and toothpaste, with exceptions for medications and baby formula that must be declared.

How many 3oz bottles can you take on a plane?

You can bring as many 3oz (or smaller, up to 3.4oz/100ml) bottles as will fit into one clear, quart-sized, zip-top bag, with typically 7-9 bottles fitting, but the bag must seal completely; each passenger gets one bag, and you must declare larger containers or medically necessary liquids, says the TSA. 

Does toothpaste count as a liquid?

Yes, for air travel, toothpaste counts as a liquid, gel, or paste and must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, fit in one clear, quart-sized bag, with only one bag per passenger. This rule applies because toothpaste is a cream or gel, similar to lotion, shampoo, or mascara, which can be squeezed or spread.
 

Does deodorant count for 311 rule?

Yes, liquid, gel, and spray deodorants must go in your 3-1-1 bag (quart-sized bag for liquids < 3.4 oz/100ml), but solid stick deodorants are exempt and can be packed freely in your carry-on. The 3-1-1 rule applies to liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes, so if it's not a solid stick, check the container size and pack it with your other toiletries. 

What toiletries are not allowed in carry-on?

We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

TSA's 3-1-1 Liquids Rule

Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying?

For domestic U.S. flights, the TSA doesn't require pills to be in original bottles, so pill organizers are fine, but for international travel, original containers with labels are strongly recommended by the CDC and State Department to avoid issues with customs and varying local laws. While the TSA allows unlimited solid medication in carry-ons, having a doctor's note and keeping meds in original bottles (especially for international trips) provides clear proof of legitimacy and helps with potential questions from officers, particularly for controlled substances. 

Can I put my makeup in a Ziploc bag for a plane?

Yes, you can put makeup in a Ziploc bag for a plane, and for liquid/gel makeup in your carry-on, it's required to be in travel-sized containers (3.4oz/100ml or less) within one clear, quart-sized Ziploc bag for security screening (TSA's 3-1-1 rule). Solid makeup (like powders, lipsticks) goes in your carry-on or checked bags without the liquid bag restriction, but using a Ziploc for all makeup prevents leaks. 

Can I bring unopened water through TSA?

No, you generally cannot bring unopened bottles of water over 3.4 ounces (100ml) through TSA checkpoints in your carry-on; they must be emptied, but you can refill them after security, or freeze large bottles solid to get them through, as frozen liquids are allowed, notes Travel + Leisure, Remitly, and BLENDi. Water for babies/toddlers is an exception, with special rules for screening, according to the Familee Travel blog. 

Does stick deodorant need to be in a quart-size bag?

No, solid stick deodorant does not need to be in a quart-sized bag for carry-on luggage because the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) considers it a solid, not a liquid, allowing it in any size in both carry-on and checked bags without restriction. Only spray, gel, cream, or roll-on deodorants are subject to the 3-1-1 rule (3.4 ounces or less in a single quart bag).
 

How strict is TSA with quart-size bags?

The TSA is quite strict about the 3-1-1 rule for liquids: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, fit into one clear, quart-sized bag, and you only get one such bag per traveler in your carry-on, says the Transportation Security Administration, Quora users, Reddit users and Facebook users, Daily Passport, Cameo College of Essential Beauty, Szoneier, YouTube users, and Rick Steves Travel Forum users. While some travelers report lax enforcement at certain airports, especially with PreCheck, the rule is official, and non-compliant liquids may be confiscated.
 

Can I bring hand sanitizer in my purse on a plane?

Yes, you can bring hand sanitizer in your purse on a plane, but it must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, fit in one clear, quart-sized bag with your other liquids, aerosols, and gels. The temporary exemption allowing larger bottles is no longer in effect. 

Do you still need to put toiletries in a plastic bag in 2025?

Yes, in 2025, you still need to put travel-sized toiletries (liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, pastes) in a single, clear, quart-sized plastic bag for carry-on luggage due to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, though some airports are testing advanced scanners that might ease this, it's not universal, so always be prepared to use the bag. Solid items (like lipstick, powders) and medically necessary liquids have different rules, but the quart-sized bag for liquids remains the standard.
 

What cannot go in a checked bag?

You cannot pack explosives, flammable items (like gasoline, lighter fluid, some aerosols), firearms (unless declared and packed correctly), toxic chemicals, and spare lithium batteries in checked bags; other items like valuables, medications, electronics (like vapes/e-cigarettes), and certain liquids/powders are either restricted or better in your carry-on for safety and security.
 

Do toiletries have to be in clear bag in 2025?

Yes, for carry-on bags in 2025, toiletries (liquids, gels, aerosols) must still fit in a clear, quart-sized, sealable bag, following the TSA's 3-1-1 rule (3.4oz/100ml max per container, one bag per passenger). While some airports are upgrading to CT scanners in 2025 that might eventually allow you to keep them in your bag, for now, you'll likely need to remove the clear bag for screening. Solid toiletries (like shampoo bars) and makeup (lipstick, powder) are exempt.
 

How many Ziploc bags can I take on a plane?

You can take one quart-sized Ziploc bag for liquids in your carry-on, with each liquid container being 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less, and all fitting easily in that single bag; for non-liquid items (solids, electronics, etc.), you can use multiple Ziploc bags in your carry-on or checked luggage, but liquids must follow the strict 3-1-1 rule. 

Do I have to put all my toiletries in a plastic bag?

Yes, for carry-on luggage in the US, all liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes must be in containers 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller and fit into one clear, quart-sized, sealable bag (the TSA 3-1-1 Rule) for easy screening; checked bags don't have these restrictions. Using a clear bag makes it faster for security to see your items, though some airports with advanced scanners are easing rules.
 

Why is deodorant not allowed on planes?

(As of 2025, some EU/UK airports that use certified CT scanners now allow liquids up to 2L per container). Spray deodorants are often subject to additional rules. They can be dangerous on planes because they are pressurised containers that might leak or burst under changing cabin pressure.

What cannot go in hand luggage?

Not allowed in carry-on bags are firearms, ammunition, explosives, sharp objects (knives, large scissors), most tools, large liquids/gels/aerosols (over 3.4oz/100ml), and flammable items, as well as some sports equipment like baseball bats or ski poles, but always check the TSA website for specific rules. Items like power tools, drones, bear spray, and even some toy guns are also prohibited.
 

Can I bring snacks on a plane?

Yes, you can bring most snacks on a plane in your carry-on or checked bags, but solid foods are best, as liquids, gels, and spreads (like yogurt, hummus, or dips) must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule (3.4 ounces/100ml containers in a quart-sized bag). Items like chips, cookies, nuts, sandwiches, and candy are generally fine, but always be prepared for extra screening for anything unusual, and be aware that international flights have strict customs rules for bringing food in, notes AFAR magazine.
 

How to pack a carry-on?

To pack a carry-on effectively, plan versatile outfits, use packing cubes and rolling to save space, wear your bulkiest items (like shoes and jackets) on travel days, and keep essentials like liquids (in 3-1-1 compliant bags) and documents in your personal item for easy access. Focus on mix-and-match pieces and solid toiletries to maximize space, and only pack what you truly need to avoid overpacking.
 

Can I bring my Yeti water bottle on a plane?

Yes, you can bring a Yeti water bottle on a plane as a carry-on, but it must be completely empty when going through the TSA security checkpoint; you can then fill it up at a water fountain or station after security to stay hydrated, as the TSA liquid rule limits liquids to 3.4 ounces (100ml). The brand or insulation of the bottle doesn't matter, only that it's empty of liquids before screening, though you can pack items inside it to save space.
 

Can I bring medications on a plane?

Yes, you can bring medications on a plane in both carry-on and checked bags, but it's highly recommended to keep them in your carry-on for immediate access and to avoid loss; liquids over 3.4oz are allowed in carry-ons but need separate screening, while pills in original, labeled containers are generally fine, though doctor's notes and original packaging help, especially for controlled substances or international travel. 

What makeup is not allowed in carry-on?

The 311 liquid rule applies to all liquid and semi-liquid items you pack in your carry-on luggage – including gels and thicker makeup liquids. Put small items in 3.4 ounce containers in a clear quart-sized bag. You can bring one of these bags in your carry-on. The 3 1 1 rule for makeup is the same.

What is allowed in your purse on a plane?

You can take essential documents, electronics, medications, and entertainment, plus toiletries in travel sizes (under 100ml in a clear bag), but sharp objects, large liquids, weapons, and explosives are forbidden in hand luggage. Always check airline size/weight limits and TSA/security rules for your specific items, as rules vary, but typically you get one carry-on plus a personal item that fits under the seat.