How to Pack Liquids in a Carry-On: The 100ml Rule

To pack liquids in a carry-on, use containers that hold no more than 100ml (3.4 oz) each and place them inside one clear, resealable bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. This is the standard airport security rule for many international flights, although some airports now allow larger containers.

Knowing what counts as a liquid and how to organize your toiletries can help you get through security without leaving your favorite products behind.

What is the 100ml liquid rule?

The 100ml rule limits the size of individual liquid containers you can bring through airport security in your carry-on.

Under the standard rule, each bottle must hold 100ml or less, and all your liquids must fit comfortably inside one transparent, resealable bag with a maximum capacity of one litre. In the United States, this is called the TSA 3-1-1 rule, which uses a quart-sized bag.

The limit applies to the container itself, not just the amount left inside. A 200ml shampoo bottle that is half empty still exceeds the standard limit.

Some airports have introduced newer security scanners and different liquid allowances. Before flying, check the rules at your departure airport and any airports where you will change planes.

What counts as a liquid?

More products count as liquids than you might expect.

Shampoo, conditioner, perfume, sunscreen, foundation, mascara, lip gloss, and liquid skincare all fall under the standard restrictions. Creams, gels, sprays, and pastes count too, including toothpaste and many deodorants.

Solid products are often easier to pack. A solid shampoo bar, bar soap, or powder makeup product generally does not count toward your liquid allowance.

Before packing, check the size printed on each bottle. Travel-size products are often available in 30ml, 50ml, or 100ml containers.

If you have a favorite product that only comes in a larger bottle, transfer a small amount into a travel-size container that is suitable for that product.

How do you organize carry-on liquids?

Start by gathering every liquid, cream, gel, and paste you plan to bring. Place them on a table so you can check their sizes before packing.

Choose only the products you will actually use during your trip. For a weekend, smaller 30ml or 50ml bottles may be enough for shampoo, conditioner, and skincare.

Using refillable travel bottles, like those included in Bag-all's Carry On Liquids Case, can help you bring your favorite products without carrying full-size containers.

Under the standard security rule, place these containers in one clear, resealable bag that closes completely. Keep this bag somewhere easy to reach, since some airports still require you to remove liquids for screening.

After security, you can keep your bottles inside a larger toiletry organizer to protect the rest of your belongings from spills.

Can you bring more than 100ml?

Yes, certain liquids are exempt from the standard limit.

Essential liquid medications, baby milk, baby food, and liquids required for special dietary needs may be allowed in larger quantities. These items can require separate screening, and supporting documents may be needed depending on the country.

Duty-free liquids may also be permitted in larger containers when they remain inside an approved, sealed security bag with the receipt.

Some airports now allow larger liquid containers because of updated screening technology. However, these rules are not universal, and connecting or return airports may have different requirements.

When in doubt, follow the standard 100ml rule for ordinary toiletries and check official airport guidance before traveling.

How do you prevent liquid spills?

Even when your toiletries meet airport security rules, a leaking bottle can still make a mess inside your suitcase.

Start by checking that every cap is secure. Refillable bottles should be in good condition, without cracks or loose lids. Avoid using containers that have leaked on previous trips.

Keep your liquids upright when possible and separate them from clothing, electronics, and important documents.

A dedicated toiletry organizer, such as Bag-all's Round Skin Care Case, can help keep bottles together. However, a fabric case is not necessarily waterproof, so use a sealed bag for extra protection.

Once you arrive, unpack any damp items and let the organizer dry completely before storing it again.

Bag-all's answer: how to organize your liquids

For carry-on travel, Bag-all's Carry On Liquids Case, Bottles Included – Pink/Blush is designed to make packing travel-size toiletries easier.

Made from natural cotton with a water-resistant lining, the compact case includes three refillable 100ml bottles and two 50g travel jars, making it useful for carrying smaller amounts of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and skincare.

For travelers who bring additional beauty essentials, the Round Skin Care Case offers more space for organizing products, while the Roomy Travel Essentials Case keeps larger toiletries together.

If you regularly travel with perfume, the Round My Scents Case can help keep bottles organized, although each perfume bottle must still meet the applicable security limits.

Remember that these organizers do not automatically replace the clear, resealable liquids bag required at many airport security checkpoints. Always follow the requirements of the airport you are traveling through.

For more practical packing advice, explore our Bag-all Journal for tips on saving space and organizing your suitcase.

Questions people ask

Q: Can I bring a 200ml bottle if it's half empty?

A: Not under the standard 100ml rule. Airport security checks the container's capacity, so a 200ml bottle is too large even when it contains less than 100ml.

Q: Does toothpaste count as a liquid?

A: Yes. Toothpaste is considered a paste and falls under the standard liquid restrictions. Choose a travel-size tube of 100ml or less.

Q: Can I bring perfume in my carry-on?

A: Yes, perfume is allowed under the standard rule when the bottle holds 100ml or less and fits inside your permitted liquids bag. Larger bottles generally need to go in checked luggage unless a specific exemption applies.

Q: Do all airports follow the 100ml rule?

A: No. Some airports now allow larger containers because of newer screening technology. Always check the rules for your departure, connecting, and return airports.

Q: Can I use a makeup bag instead of a clear liquids bag?

A: At airports that require a clear, resealable liquids bag, an ordinary makeup pouch is not a substitute. You can keep your clear bag inside a larger makeup organizer after security.