What to check before packing liquids in carry-on

Check liquid container sizes (3.4 oz/100ml max), ensure they fit in a quart-sized clear bag, and verify your airline's specific rules. Remove the bag at security for separate screening.

1. Check container sizes first. Each liquid container must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller. This is the container size, not how much liquid is inside. A half-empty 6oz bottle still violates the rule.
2. Get the right bag. Use a clear, quart-sized (1 liter) plastic bag with a zip closure. One bag per passenger. Airport bags work but bring your own to avoid delays.
3. Count your liquids. All gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols count as liquids. This includes toothpaste, deodorant, makeup, hand sanitizer, and contact solution.
4. Check airline exceptions. Baby formula, breast milk, and prescription medications don't count toward the 3-1-1 rule but must be declared at security. Some airlines allow larger containers for these.
5. Plan for security screening. Remove your liquids bag from your carry-on at security. Place it in a separate bin. Keep medications and baby items accessible if you need to declare them.
6. Know the consequences. Oversized liquids will be confiscated at security. No exceptions. Security cannot hold items for later pickup.

Can I bring a full-size shampoo bottle if it's only half full?

No. The 3.4 oz rule applies to container size, not contents. A 12 oz bottle that's half empty is still a 12 oz container.

Do prescription medications count toward the liquid limit?

No, but you must declare them at security. Bring them in original pharmacy containers with your name on the label.

What happens if I forget to remove my liquids bag at security?

Your bag will likely be flagged for additional screening, causing delays. Some items may need to be removed and rescanned.

Can I bring multiple quart bags?

No. One quart-sized bag per passenger. Multiple bags will not be allowed through security.