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Ever had your shampoo thrown away at airport security? Maybe the bottle wasn’t full, but it was too big. Or your clear makeup pouch got rejected because it wasn’t the “right kind” of bag. Some people even get pulled aside for using oversized zippered bags. All of this comes down to one simple but often misunderstood rule: Is your “quart-size bag” actually TSA compliant?
What is the TSA-approved quart-size bag? What are the requirements?A TSA-approved quart-size bag is usually 7×8 or 6×9 inches, clear, resealable, and must hold all your liquid containers (each no more than 3.4 oz or 100ml) comfortably inside.
If you’re still unsure about the “TSA 3-1-1 rule,” or don’t know which bags will get you through security and which might get flagged—this guide will walk you through it step by step, so you won’t be stopped at the checkpoint again.
| Item | What It Means |
|---|---|
| 3 (3.4 oz) | Each container must be no more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) |
| 1 (1 quart) | All containers must fit inside one quart-size, clear, resealable bag |
| 1 (1 bag) | Each traveler is allowed only one such bag, and it must be removed at security |
Bringing more than one bag
Using opaque pouches, fabric bags, or oversized containers
Carrying a 200ml bottle that’s only half full—it still breaks the rule
Bottom line: As long as your liquids are in containers under 100ml, packed into one clear, resealable quart-size bag, you’re good to go.
TSA doesn’t give a fixed size in inches or centimeters, but they do check whether your bag meets three key requirements:
Is it clear? Security staff must be able to see everything inside.
Is it resealable? Zip-top, slider, or zipper closures are all accepted.
Is it close to 1 quart in volume? That’s about 946ml or 57.75 cubic inches.
| Size Type | Inches | Centimeters | TSA Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Size | 7 × 8 in | 18 × 20 cm | Widely accepted, common retail size |
| Long & Narrow | 6 × 9 in | 15 × 23 cm | Longer shape, usually accepted if not overly bulky |
| Oversized | 8 × 10 in | 20 × 25 cm | May exceed quart capacity; not accepted by some airports |
| With Bottom Gusset | 7 × 5 × 2 in | 17.5 × 12.7 × 5 cm | Some gusseted bags may exceed 1-quart volume. Recommended to choose clear size markings and avoid overly thick bases. |
TSA does not explicitly prohibit gusseted bags, but some with thick bases may appear oversized or exceed the 1-quart capacity. It’s recommended to use transparent bags with clear size markings and avoid overly bulky designs to ensure smooth screening.
Yanxin Bag offers TSA-friendly clear toiletry bags made from durable PVC, sized to pass security checks smoothly. Ideal for personal use, gifts, or corporate travel kits.
TSA doesn’t require a specific material for quart-size bags, but based on common practice and traveler feedback, the following four materials are the most popular—and each comes with its pros and cons:
| Material Type | Look & Feel | Reusable | Closure Type | Pros | Things to Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ziploc Bag (PE) | Thin, soft, foldable | Single-use only | Press seal | Cheap and easy to find | Not durable, prone to leakage, looks unprofessional |
| PVC Bag | Clear, firm, structured | Reusable | Zipper / Slider | Waterproof, leak-proof, easy to clean, customizable | A bit stiff, not ideal for compact packing |
| TPU Bag | Flexible, stretchy | Reusable | Zipper | Eco-friendly, cold-resistant, doesn’t crack | Slightly more expensive, not all factories offer it |
| EVA Bag | Soft, semi-transparent | Reusable | Zipper | Lightweight, mold-resistant, good for bulk orders | Less clear than PVC, may crease over time |
Short trips or low budget? Go with Ziploc.
Need a clean, durable bag for frequent travel or business use? PVC or TPU is your best bet.
Traveling to cold regions or want a more sustainable option? TPU is a solid choice.
Planning a promo giveaway or want to save on costs? EVA is a practical solution.
While PVC is often seen as less eco-friendly, many manufacturers now use improved, non-toxic formulas that meet RoHS standards.
With so many quart-size travel bags available, you might wonder: Is a disposable Ziploc good enough, or should I invest in a more durable and reusable option? The table below compares some of the most common bag types and materials, so you can easily decide what works best for your travel needs:
| Brand/Type | Material | Closure Type | Durability | Reusable? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ziploc | PE plastic | Press seal | Low | One-time use |
| Yanxin Bag | Eco PVC / TPU | Zipper / Slider | High | Yes |
| Travelon | PVC | Zipper | Medium | Yes |
| Hynes Eagle | PVC | Zipper | High | Yes |
| AmazonBasics | PE + slider track | Slider | Medium | Limited use |
Want to know whether PVC bags are right for your brand? Check out our full guide: Pros & Cons of PVC Bags.
Ziploc bags work for short trips, but they’re fragile, prone to leaks, and often look messy.
Yanxin Bag offers reusable quart-size toiletry bags made of eco PVC or TPU. They’re TSA-compliant, durable, and customizable—great for frequent flyers or corporate giveaways.
Brands like Travelon, Hynes Eagle, and AmazonBasics offer affordable ready-to-use PVC options with sturdy zippers, suitable for commuting and leisure travel.
Not sure which bags will actually pass TSA security? Don’t worry—the next sections will walk you through all the packing rules and common mistakes to avoid, so your next airport check-in goes smoothly.
When it comes to TSA screening, how you pack your quart-size bag matters just as much as what’s inside. With limited space, packing smartly can help you fit more, avoid leaks, and breeze through airport security. Here are some tried-and-true tips:
Choose travel bottles that are clearly labeled and 100ml or less.
Look for screw-cap bottles or leakproof pump bottles—they’re more secure than basic push caps.
Avoid bulky or glass containers, which are heavier and take up too much room.
Organizing your toiletries by function makes unpacking and using them more convenient:
Cleansing: shampoo, body wash, toothpaste
Skincare: cleanser, lotion, sunscreen
Personal care: contact lens solution, perfume, sanitizer
You can also use stickers or colored caps to quickly tell bottles apart.
Wrap bottle openings with plastic wrap before screwing the cap on.
Add waterproof tape over the lids for extra protection.
Place all liquids in a well-sealed toiletry bag—we recommend zipper or slider bags.
Consider using a second clear pouch (like a PVC makeup bag) outside the TSA quart bag as an extra barrier in case of leaks.
You’re allowed to carry liquids, gels, creams, and sprays—as long as each container is 100ml (3.4 oz) or less, and they all fit inside one quart-size clear bag. Common approved items include:
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
Toothpaste, lotion, sunscreen
Perfume, facial mist, contact lens solution
Medical liquids, like prescription medications or eye drops, are also allowed in reasonable quantities—just declare them at security.
Any bottle labeled over 3.4 oz / 100ml, even if it’s only half full
Gels or creams like hair wax, face masks, aloe gel—often flagged under “gels/pastes”
Spray cans like hairspray or deodorant must meet size rules and be safely capped
Food items like peanut butter, jam, or yogurt may also count as liquids and be restricted
Want to travel lighter and avoid problems? Try these:
Shampoo bars instead of liquid shampoo
Toothpaste tablets instead of regular paste
Solid perfume balm or a tiny (≤10ml) travel spray
Makeup remover wipes instead of micellar water or cleansing oil
TSA’s “3-1-1 rule” is well known for U.S. flights, but what about international travel? While many countries follow similar guidelines, rules may vary slightly by region—especially when it comes to bag size, availability, and how strictly they’re enforced.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you prepare if you’re flying internationally or through multiple countries:
| Region/Country | Limit per Bottle | Total Volume / Bag Requirement | Are Bags Provided? | Notes on Screening |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USA (TSA) | ≤100ml (3.4oz) | 1 quart-size bag (~1L), clear and sealable | Bring your own | Bag must be taken out for screening |
| EU / UK | ≤100ml | Max 1L in a clear resealable bag, one per person | Bring your own | Must be removed from carry-on at security |
| Canada | ≤100ml | 1 clear bag, total ≤1L | In some airports | Declare excess; subject to extra screening |
| Japan / Korea / Singapore | ≤100ml | 1L clear bag (some airports offer free bags) | Varies by airport | Generally strict, but can be flexible |
| China / Taiwan / Hong Kong | ≤100ml | Generally follow 1L standard, rules vary slightly | Not provided | Follows international standards |
| Middle East / India | ≤100ml | Use of 1L bags encouraged, per international norms | Usually bring your own | Cooperative security checks; some exceptions |
Even though most regions use the “100ml per bottle / 1L total in a clear bag” guideline, exceptions exist. If you’re flying from the U.S. and transiting in Singapore en route to Europe, it’s safest to follow TSA rules throughout your journey.
To avoid issues:
Use a clearly labeled quart-size bag that’s sealable and transparent
Opt for durable materials like PVC or TPU that are easy to inspect
Keep the bag accessible—store it near the top of your carry-on for faster screening
When in doubt, over-prepare. Airport policies can vary even within the same country, and enforcement depends on the airport and staff. A TSA-compliant toiletry bag is your safest bet.
If you often travel with toiletries, you might have wondered:
“Why did TSA stop me even though I used a clear cosmetic pouch?”
The answer is simple: TSA has specific rules to ensure safe and efficient security screening.
TSA requires that all carry-on liquids must be packed in a clear, sealable bag with a capacity close to 1 quart (about 946ml). This bag must:
Be made of materials like PVC, TPU, or PE
Not exceed around 7×8 inches in size
Use a zipper, slider, or press-seal closure
Fit small travel-size bottles comfortably
Only when your bag meets these standards can TSA officers easily check the contents and allow it through.
Once you’ve passed the checkpoint, many travelers transfer their liquids into a regular toiletry bag, makeup pouch, or travel organizer. These bags are great for:
Better internal compartments
Softer or more stylish materials
No size or transparency restrictions
In short:
Use a TSA quart-size bag during security checks, and switch to your regular toiletry bag afterward. They serve different purposes but work perfectly together.
Knowing these rules isn’t just about avoiding delays at security. It also helps you pack more efficiently and travel with peace of mind. Whether you’re flying short-haul for business or heading overseas, having a durable, compliant toiletry bag can make your journey a lot smoother.
Looking for custom TSA-compliant toiletry bags? Contact Yanxin Bag, a trusted PVC bag factory, to get a quote and sampling service. We help brands create travel storage solutions that are practical, stylish, and easy to get through airport security.
1Understanding the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule is essential for hassle-free travel. Explore this link to ensure you’re compliant and avoid delays at security.
2Understanding what can go in a TSA quart bag is crucial for smooth travel. Explore this link for a comprehensive guide.
3Discover expert packing tips that can save you time and stress at airport security, making your journey more enjoyable.
Answer: The TSA does not specify exact dimensions, but bags around 7×8 inches (approximately 18×20 cm) and with a total capacity close to 1 quart (946ml) are commonly accepted. Make sure the bag is clear, resealable, and not overly bulky.
Answer: Yes. As long as the bag is transparent, resealable, and close to 1 quart in volume, materials like PVC or TPU are accepted by TSA and are often more durable and reusable than disposable alternatives.
Answer: No. TSA checks the labeled capacity, not how much liquid is inside. Any bottle that exceeds 100ml (3.4oz), even if partially filled, may be confiscated at security.
Answer: Yes. These items are exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule. Passengers must declare them at the checkpoint, and they may be subject to additional screening, but they can exceed the 100ml limit.
Answer: Yes, but only if each container is 100ml or less. Make sure the spray nozzle is secure to prevent accidental discharge, and place it inside a compliant quart-size clear bag.
Answer: No. You can use any bag that meets the TSA requirements: clear, resealable, and close to 1 quart in volume. Ziploc bags, PVC zipper pouches, and TPU slider bags are all acceptable.
Answer: Most U.S. airports do not provide quart bags. Some international airports like in Japan or Singapore may offer them, but travelers are advised to bring their own TSA-compliant bag to avoid delays.
Answer: Yes. TSA requires that all liquid items in the quart bag be removed from carry-on luggage and placed separately in a bin for screening, similar to laptops and electronics.
Answer: Yes. TSA classifies items like foundation, eye cream, lip gloss, and ointments as liquids, gels, or pastes. These must follow the same 3.4oz/100ml per item rule and fit into your quart-size bag.
Answer: Mostly yes. Many regions including the EU, UK, Canada, and Japan follow similar rules—each item must be ≤100ml, with a total of 1 liter in a clear resealable bag. Minor differences exist, so check local guidelines when traveling internationally.
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We will contact you within 1 working day, please pay attention to the email with the suffix “@yanxinbag.com”.
Order or no-order we are Always here to help you!
We will contact you within 1 working day, please pay attention to the email with the suffix “@yanxinbag.com”.
