The Travel Guide for TSA Approved Quart Size Bag Dimensions

As a frequent business traveler for Avecobaggie, I’ve navigated airport security countless times. I’ve seen firsthand how confusing the liquid rules can be for many passengers. That’s why I’ve put together this ultimate guide to help you master the TSA 3-1-1 liquid rule and pack your quart bag like a pro.

The TSA 3-1-1 rule requires liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in carry-on bags to be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container. All these containers must fit comfortably inside one single, clear, resealable quart-sized bag per passenger.

Understanding these rules clearly is the first step to a smoother airport experience. I’ve spent years navigating sourcing and logistics, and trust me, knowing the rules makes a huge difference. Let’s dive into the specifics so you can pack with confidence and avoid any hassle at the checkpoint.

What Is the TSA 3-1-1 Rule and How Does It Work?

Confused by "3-1-1" at the airport? Scared of getting it wrong and facing delays or losing items? Let’s make it crystal clear right now so you can pack confidently.

The "3" means containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. The first "1" means all containers must fit in one quart-sized bag. The second "1" means one bag per passenger. It limits potentially hazardous liquid volumes on board.

Let’s Look Closer at the 3-1-1 Rule

Understanding the parts of the 3-1-1 rule makes packing much easier. It’s not just random numbers; there’s a reason behind it all, mainly for safety and speed at security.

• The ‘3’: How Big Can My Bottles Be?
  This means each liquid, gel, aerosol, cream, or paste you bring in your carry-on must be in a container that holds 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. It’s the size of the container that counts, not how much liquid is inside. So, a big 6-ounce bottle that’s only half full is still not allowed. I always tell people to buy travel-size containers or put their products into smaller ones before flying.

• The First ‘1’: What Kind of Bag Do I Need?
  All those small containers need to fit nicely into one clear, resealable bag. The bag should be about the size of a standard quart. Don’t stuff it too full! The bag has to close completely and easily.

• The Second ‘1’: How Many Bags Can I Bring?
  Each person traveling is allowed only one of these quart-size bags in their carry-on luggage. If you’re traveling with family, remember that each person gets their own bag allowance.

• Why This Rule Anyway?
  The 3-1-1 rule started in 2006 because of worries about liquid explosives. Limiting the amount of liquids helps keep flights safer. It also makes the security check faster because officers can quickly see what liquids you have.

• What Does TSA Count as a Liquid?
  TSA’s definition is pretty wide. It covers more than just drinks. If you can spray it, spread it, spill it, or pour it, treat it like a liquid. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  Category	Examples	Rule Applies?
  Liquids	Drinks, shampoo, conditioner, oils, lotions	Yes
  Aerosols	Hairspray, spray deodorant, spray sunscreen	Yes
  Gels	Toothpaste, hair gel, hand sanitizer gel	Yes
  Creams	Face cream, ointments, liquid foundation	Yes
  Pastes	Some makeup, spreadable foods (small amounts)	Yes
  Spreadable Foods	Peanut butter, yogurt, jam, hummus	Yes
  Solids	Bar soap, stick deodorant, powder makeup	No

What Is a TSA-Approved Quart-Size Bag and What Are Its Dimensions?

Wondering if just any old clear bag works? Using the wrong size or type could mean trouble at security. Let’s make sure you choose the right bag for your liquids.

A TSA-approved quart bag is clear, resealable, and holds about 1 quart. Common sizes are near 7×8 inches or 6×9 inches. Ziploc bags work, but reusable PVC ones are often better.

Getting the Right Quart Bag Details

The quart bag is key for the 3-1-1 rule, so let’s pinpoint what TSA expects. They don’t push specific brands, but they do have clear needs.

• Official Quart Size: TSA doesn’t list exact inches, but a US quart is a specific volume (around 57.75 cubic inches). Bags sold as "quart-size" usually measure about 7 inches by 8 inches (around 18 cm by 20 cm) or sometimes 6 inches by 9 inches (around 15 cm by 23 cm). The main thing is it holds about a quart and your items fit without forcing the seal closed.

• Materials That Work: The easiest and most common choice is a clear plastic bag like a Ziploc. But, more durable, reusable bags made from clear PVC or similar plastics are also fine. I personally prefer these reusable ones; they last so much longer than basic sandwich bags, especially if you travel often. At Avecobaggie, we focus on designs that are both compliant and built to last.

• What "Clear" Really Means: The bag needs to be see-through so screeners can easily view the contents. A slightly frosted or lightly colored clear bag is usually okay, but you can’t use a bag you can’t see through for your 3-1-1 liquids. Clarity helps speed up the whole process.

• Bag Examples: TSA often shows pictures of standard Ziploc bags or generic clear toiletry bags on their website. Any bag that meets the size, clear, and resealable rules will work. I find bags with slider tops are often easier to open and close than the press-seal type, especially when you’re juggling things at security. It’s always smart to pack a spare bag too, just in case one breaks.

From my experience qualifying these quart bags, durability is worth considering, especially for frequent travel. Here’s a comparison:

While a basic Ziploc works, investing in a sturdy, reusable bag made of thicker vinyl or TPU can be a smart move for convenience and sustainability. Always ensure it’s truly clear, especially for international travel where rules can be stricter.

What’s the Smartest Way to Pack Liquids in Your Carry-On Bag?

Just tossing travel bottles in the quart bag isn’t ideal. Packing carelessly can lead to leaks or slow you down at security. Let’s sort out a better packing plan.

Pack liquids smart: use travel-size containers (3.4oz/100ml or less), fit them neatly in one clear, sealed quart bag. Put this bag where you can easily grab it in your carry-on.

My Step-by-Step Packing Method

Packing your liquids the right way saves time and avoids problems. Here’s what I always do when I travel:

1. Gather Your Liquids: First, find all the liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes you want in your carry-on. Look them over – do you need all of them? Can you use solid versions instead for some?
2. Use Small Containers: Pour products from big bottles into travel-size ones (3.4oz/100ml or smaller). Remember, it’s the container size that matters. Buy travel sizes if it’s easier.
3. Arrange in the Quart Bag: Put the small containers into your single, clear, quart-size bag. Make sure they fit without forcing. The bag must seal completely shut.
4. Don’t Overpack: Avoid cramming too much in. If the bag is bulging or won’t seal easily, take something out. Maybe put it in your checked bag or find a solid alternative.
5. Keep it Handy: Place the sealed quart bag somewhere easy to reach in your carry-on, like a top pocket. You’ll need to take it out for screening, so make it simple to grab.

Remember the key exemptions: medically necessary liquids and infant/toddler nourishment don’t need to fit the size limit or bag rule but must be declared. Duty-free and frozen items also have special conditions.

Common Packing Mistakes I See

I’ve watched these simple errors cause delays time and again. Avoiding them makes your security check much smoother.

TSA suggests having the bag out and ready when you get to the scanners. It really does make things faster for everyone involved.

What Are the Best TSA-Approved Toiletry Bags in 2025?

Sick of flimsy Ziploc bags tearing mid-trip? Getting a durable, rule-following bag makes travel easier. But how do you pick the best one for your trips?

The best TSA-approved bags are quart-sized, clear, strong, easy to seal (good zipper!), and maybe waterproof. Look for quality materials that fit TSA rules for size and transparency.

Choosing a Reusable Quart Bag

Picking a good reusable quart bag isn’t just about following TSA rules. You want something practical that will last. Here’s what I think is important:

• Size Must Be Right: It absolutely has to be quart-sized (around 7×8 or 6×9 inches). Double-check the product details before buying.
• Needs to Be Tough: Look for strong materials like thicker PVC or vinyl, seams that are reinforced, and solid construction. Thin bags just rip too easily. As someone who deals with bag quality daily, I know durability matters.
• Meets TSA Rules (Clear & Sealable): It must be transparent so officers can see inside, and it needs a reliable way to close (like a good zipper or slider). A solid seal also stops leaks – a big bonus!
• Water-Resistant is Nice: TSA doesn’t require this, but a bag that resists water protects your carry-on if something leaks inside. I always look for this feature.
• Good Zipper: A smooth, strong zipper that doesn’t snag or break is key if you travel a lot. Slider tops are also handy.

Comparing Some Popular TSA Quart Bags

Here’s a quick look at some common choices you might find, keeping those points in mind. This helps compare options side-by-side.

Prices can change depending on where you buy.

Your choice depends on what you need. Ziploc is easy but won’t last. Brands like Avecobaggie, Hynes Eagle, and Travelon offer better quality and features for frequent flyers. AmazonBasics is a decent budget reusable option. Investing a bit more in a quality bag means fewer leaks and it lasts for many trips, which I think is always worth it.

What Liquids Are Banned from Your Carry-On Quart Bag, and What Can You Do?

Worried you might pack something banned in your carry-on liquids bag? Knowing the no-nos and the alternatives stops frustration and keeps your items from being taken away. Let’s clarify what must stay out.

Any liquid bottle bigger than 3.4 ounces (100ml) can’t go in your carry-on quart bag. Full-size toiletries, big drinks, and hazardous materials like flammable liquids, explosives, and harsh chemicals are completely banned. Solid toiletries are excellent alternatives.

Keeping Forbidden Items Out of Your Carry-On

The number one reason things get flagged at security is size. Anything in a container bigger than 3.4 ounces / 100 milliliters can’t go in your carry-on liquids bag. It doesn’t matter if the bottle is mostly empty.

Besides size, dangerous things like flammable liquids (lighter fluid, aerosols marked flammable) are also banned from carry-ons. Always check labels!

Here’s a quick guide:

Smart Ways Around Liquid Restrictions

Don’t worry if your favorite product only comes in a big bottle! You have choices:

1. Checked Luggage: This is the simplest fix. Pack your full-size liquids securely in your checked bags. Usually, there are no size limits for toiletries in checked luggage (but rules for dangerous goods still apply).
2. Solid Swaps: This is my personal favorite – it’s great for the planet and saves space! Switch liquid items for solid ones. These don’t fall under the 3-1-1 rule and free up space in your quart bag!
3. Buy There: Just buy full-size items when you arrive at your destination. This works well for common stuff.
4. Ship Ahead: For long trips or special items, think about shipping things to your hotel before you arrive.
5. Exceptions: Remember, liquids needed for medical reasons, baby formula, and breast milk are exceptions. You need to tell the TSA officers about them separately. They don’t have to fit in the quart bag, but they will likely get extra screening.

How Can You Maximize Packing Space When Traveling with Liquids?

Does your quart bag always feel like it’s about to explode? Fitting everything you need while following the rules takes skill. Let’s look at ways to pack more efficiently.

Fit more by using right-sized travel bottles, choosing solid toiletries when you can, arranging items neatly in the bag, and making sure lids are tight to stop leaks.

Packing Your Quart Bag Smarter

Getting the most from your limited liquid space needs a plan. Here’s how I do it:

• Stop Leaks First: Leaks waste space and make a mess. Nothing worse!

  • Make sure caps are screwed on tight.
  • For extra safety, put a small piece of plastic wrap over the bottle opening before screwing the cap back on. I do this especially for oils or runnier liquids.
  • You could even put risky items in smaller Ziploc bags inside your main quart bag if you have room.

• Can You Vacuum Seal Liquids? TSA mostly cares about the container size (3.4oz or less) and being able to see the contents. Vacuum sealing tiny, allowed containers might save a tiny bit of room, but it could also make it harder for TSA to check if they can’t see what’s inside clearly. It’s usually just easier to use good travel bottles that fit well. Focus on arranging things smartly, not squishing them.

• Organize Your Items: Grouping things helps you see what you have and maybe combine items. Think like this:

  • Skin: Mini cleanser, moisturizer, serum.
  • Hair: Mini shampoo, conditioner, style product.
  • Mouth/Eyes: Mini toothpaste, mouthwash, contact solution.
  • Health: Small liquid meds (tell TSA if over 3.4oz), antiseptic wipes (often okay outside bag, but check TSA rules).
    This helps you avoid packing duplicates and only bring what you really need. Using products that do two jobs (like a shampoo/body wash combo) saves space too. But honestly, the best space saver? Switching to solid alternatives whenever possible!

Got Quick Questions About Specific Liquids and TSA Rules?

Still have questions about certain items or specific situations? It’s normal to wonder about the details. Let’s answer some common questions quickly.

Fast answers clear up confusion about things like perfume, toothpaste, multiple bags, and medical exceptions. This helps you pack right and avoid surprises at the security check.

What are the FAQs About TSA Liquid Rules?

Dealing with travel questions is part of my routine, so here are fast answers to ten common queries I hear all the time:

1. Can I carry perfume in my purse? Yes, but only if the bottle is 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller AND it fits inside your single, sealed quart-size bag with your other liquids.
2. Is toothpaste considered a liquid? Yes. TSA treats toothpaste as a gel. So, it must follow the 3-1-1 rule: container 3.4oz or less, and inside the quart bag.
3. Can I bring two quart bags if I put one in my backpack and one in my suitcase? No. The rule is strictly one quart-size bag per traveler, not per bag.
4. Do baby formula, breast milk, or liquid medicines count towards the 3-1-1 limit? No. These are seen as medically necessary. They are exempt from the 3.4oz/100ml limit and don’t need to fit in the quart bag. But, you must tell the TSA officers about them for separate screening.
5. Are solid deodorant or bar soap restricted? No. Solid items like these don’t fall under the liquid rules. You can pack them anywhere in your carry-on or checked bags.
6. What about makeup like foundation or mascara? Liquid foundation, liquid mascara, lip gloss, and cream makeup must follow the 3-1-1 rule. Powder makeup (like blush or eyeshadow) does not.
7. Can I bring duty-free liquids I bought overseas? Yes, usually. If they are in a special sealed, tamper-evident bag (STEB) from the store, and you have the receipt showing you bought it in the last 48 hours. Don’t open that bag until you pass security at your final stop.
8. Are frozen liquids okay? Yes. If items are frozen solid when you go through security (like ice packs for injuries), they are generally allowed. But if they are slushy or melted, they have to meet the 3-1-1 rules.
9. Does the quart bag absolutely have to be a Ziploc brand? No. Any brand works fine as long as the bag is clear, resealable, and about quart-sized. Those reusable zippered ones are often tougher, which I prefer.
10. Can I bring aerosol deodorant or hairspray in my carry-on? Yes, if the can is 3.4oz/100ml or smaller and fits in your quart bag. Also, check that it’s not labeled flammable for flight safety.

Do Other Countries Follow the Same Liquid Rules as TSA?

Planning a trip abroad? Don’t assume the liquid rules are exactly the same everywhere. Knowing if your quart bag strategy works overseas is important to avoid hassles.

Most countries have similar carry-on liquid rules (usually 100ml bottles in one clear bag), based on global standards. But small differences exist, so always check rules for your specific destination and connecting airports.

Liquid Rules Around the World

The US TSA’s 3-1-1 rule is famous, but it’s part of a bigger international picture.

• Mostly the Same: Security rules for flying worldwide often follow guidelines from the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This means the main idea – limiting liquids, aerosols, and gels (LAGs) to 100ml (3.4oz) containers or less, all inside one clear, resealable plastic bag (often listed as 1-liter size, very close to a US quart) – is common in places like Europe, Canada, Australia, and many Asian countries.

• Where Things Might Differ: Even if the main rule is similar, how they check or specific details can change:

  • Bag Size/Type: Some countries might be stricter that the bag must be exactly 1 liter or have certain dimensions. Some might not allow slightly frosted bags like the US sometimes does.
  • Checking Intensity: I’ve personally found some international airports look much closer at the clear bag and its contents than typical US checks. Having a very clear, neat bag helps everywhere.
  • New Technology: Some airports (like Amsterdam Schiphol or London Heathrow) now have advanced scanners in some security lanes. These can lift the liquid restrictions for people using those lanes. But this isn’t everywhere yet, not even in all parts of those airports. Don’t assume rules are gone unless you see signs specifically for your flight path and checkpoint.

• Always Check Before You Go: Before flying internationally, go to the official website for the airport security authority in your departure, transit (connection), and destination countries. Look for their specific rules on carry-on liquids. Saying you didn’t know doesn’t usually work, and having things taken away far from home is no fun.

What’s the Ultimate Checklist Before Heading to the Airport with Liquids?

Feeling ready to pack but want one last review for a smooth trip? A final check helps avoid last-minute panic. Let’s make sure you are totally prepared.

A quick final check confirms all liquid bottles meet size limits, everything fits in one clear quart bag placed accessibly, and any exemptions are ready to declare. This guarantees you’re following the rules.

Your Quick Liquid Packing Checklist

Before you close that carry-on bag, quickly run through these steps using this checklist table. I do this every single time I fly:

Following this simple list only takes a minute but can save you a lot of time and possible stress at the airport security line.

Where Can You Get the Most Reliable Info on TSA Liquid Rules?

Seeing different advice online and feeling unsure about the rules? It’s best to stick to the official sources. Let me point you to where you can find accurate information.

The best places for TSA rules are the official TSA website (tsa.gov) and their social media help (@AskTSA). These give the latest, correct packing info, including liquid rules.

Finding Info You Can Trust

Travel rules can change, so you need current information. Here’s where I always suggest looking:

• The Official TSA Website: Your main source should always be the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) website: https://www.tsa.gov. They have a whole section explaining the 3-1-1 liquid rule, lists of what’s banned, and a very useful "What Can I Bring?" search tool. This is the final word on the rules.
• TSA on Social Media & App: TSA is really helpful on social media. You can ask specific questions to @AskTSA on Twitter/X or Facebook Messenger and usually get quick answers. Their MyTSA app also has good info.
• Printable Checklists: TSA offers tons of info online, but finding one official printable checklist just for liquids might mean searching their site or making your own list from their rules. Many travel blogs (like this one!) offer checklists, but always check them against the official TSA site just in case.
• Where to Buy TSA-Friendly Kits: Lots of stores (drugstores, Target, Walmart, Amazon) sell travel kits or empty travel-size bottles. Look for labels like "TSA Compliant" or "Travel Size" (make sure bottles are 3.4oz/100ml or less). Good bag suppliers, like us at Avecobaggie, also sell durable quart-size bags designed to meet the rules.
• Using a Flowchart: If you like visuals, making a simple chart can help plan: "Is it liquid/gel?" -> "Is bottle <= 3.4oz?" -> "Fit in quart bag?" -> "Pack" or "Check/Leave". TSA doesn’t provide one, but it can be a handy personal tool.

Always trust the official sources, especially since security checks and rules can change. Staying informed directly from TSA is the safest bet for smooth travels.

Future Trends

The TSA is exploring CT scanners, which could relax liquid restrictions by providing 3D imaging. Some European airports have already adopted this, but U.S. implementation may take until the late 2020s. Until then, the 3-1-1 rule remains in effect, so stay updated via the TSA website.

Conclusion

Knowing the TSA 3-1-1 rule and using your quart-sized bag dimensions correctly takes the stress out of airport security. Pack smart, follow the rules, and enjoy an easier trip next time you fly.