How Many Ounces Can You Take On A Plane?  Answers, Tips, & TSA Rules in 2025

Traveling with liquids on an airplane can sometimes seem like a complex math equation. How many ounces can you bring on a plane? It is particularly challenging and even confusing when bringing liquids in your carry-on bag.

The current TSA rules are important to know, as they are the most comprehensive and common policies you are likely to encounter during air travel. But these rules and regulations change from time to time, which might have you wondering exactly how many ounces of liquid you can take on an airplane.

How Many Ounces Of Liquid Can You Take On A Plane?

When it comes to individual containers holding liquid, the maximum capacity for each container can not exceed 3.4 oz (100 ml). This means that any vessel containing a liquid that is larger than 3.4 oz, regardless of how much liquid is inside, is prohibited from traveling in a carry-on.

If you have a 5-ounce container of lotion that is more than half used (containing only 2 ounces of liquid), it is still prohibited from being brought in your carry-on bag, as the container itself is 5 ounces.

TSA employees are not able to measure out your liquids and often go by the label, so be mindful of this when packing your expensive lotions and creams. Larger liquid containers must instead go in checked baggage, where you can have liquids of various sizes.

What Exactly Is The 3-1-1 Rule For Bringing Liquids In Your Carry-On?

In addition to never bringing liquid containers larger than 3.4 ounces, you also need to understand the TSA 3-1-1 rule when it comes to packing and traveling with liquids in your carry-on bag.

The TSA 3-1-1 rule means:

• You can carry liquids up to 3.4 ounces
• They all must fit in 1 quart-sized Ziploc bag or sealed transparent packing cube
• Only 1 bag is allowed per person.

Therefore, it is important to make sure all your liquids are less than 3.4 ounces, and they should all be gathered in one ziplock bag that is not larger than one quart. As long as you follow this 3-1-1 policy, you should have no issues getting through security with liquids.

How TSA Determines If Something Is A Liquid Or Solid

Another big question people have when it comes to bringing liquids on an airplane is what exactly qualifies as a liquid. Sure, mouthwash and water are liquids. But is toothpaste a liquid? What about hair spray?

TSA sees liquids as anything that is either viscous or free-flowing. This can apply to pure liquids or pastes like toothpaste. It also means aerosols, creams, lotions, and gels all qualify as liquids. If you are in doubt – assume it is a liquid. This will save you the heartache of having to toss these products at the security checkpoint.

Notable Exceptions to the TSA 3.4 Ounce Liquid Limit

For the most part, security is strict and firm with the 3.4-ounce liquid limit for items in your carry-on rolling luggage or travel backpack. So anything larger and necessary for travel should be placed in your checked bag. There are, however, a few exceptions to this 3.4-ounce rule listed below.

Infant And Child Nourishments

One exception to the 3.4-ounce rule is baby and child food. Items like essential nutrition, baby formula, and other nourishments necessary when traveling are permissible when flying. After all, your baby needs to eat.

Duty-Free Purchases With Proper Packaging And Documentation

You can also buy liquids at the airport once you pass through security. These include colognes, lotions, and alcohol. Depending on the product and the location, you may need to have the item in proper packaging and sealed before boarding the plane.

Certain Qualified Liquid Medications

You may also have necessary medications that come in liquid form. These medications should have a prescription with your name on them and a note from the issuing doctor describing the necessity of this medication. You can not, however, bring large bottles of cough medicine on board if you have a cold.

Final Notes On How Much Liquid You Can Take On A Plane

When packing your suitcase, it is important to be mindful of where you place your liquids.

Remember that any liquid that goes in your carry-on bag must be 3.4 ounces or less. All the liquids in your carry-on bag should fit in one quart-sized clear plastic bag, and you should only have one of these bags.

The exceptions to this rule include baby nourishments, duty-free purchases, and liquid medications with proper documentation.

More information on Airplane Travel

• Carry-on Luggage Sizes by Airlines
• Can You Bring A Razor On A Plane?
• Can You Bring Makeup On A Plane?