What size containers can go in checked luggage?

We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.



Unlike carry-on bags, which are strictly limited by the "3-1-1" rule (100ml containers), there is no size limit for liquid, gel, or aerosol containers in checked luggage for most domestic and international flights. You can pack full-sized shampoo bottles, large wine bottles, or jumbo cans of shaving cream. However, there are two major caveats: quantity limits for toiletries and alcohol restrictions. For medicinal and toiletry aerosols (like hairspray), the FAA and most international agencies limit the total volume to 2 kg (70 oz) or 2 L (68 fl oz) per person, with no single container exceeding 0.5 kg (18 oz) or 500 ml (17 fl oz). For alcohol, beverages between 24% and 70% ABV are limited to 5 liters per person, while alcohol under 24% (like wine or beer) has no specific limit other than your airline's weight allowance. In 2026, always ensure your containers are well-sealed and cushioned against the pressure changes and rough handling typical of the cargo hold to prevent messy leaks across your belongings.

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We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag. Liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage.

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Can I pack liquids in my checked bag? Yes, liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces must be packed in checked luggage. There is no limit to the amount of non-alcoholic liquid that can be brought, but too many full-size bottles can exceed the maximum weight limit for your luggage.

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Place the wrapped bottle or container in the middle of your largest suitcase, surrounded by clothing and other soft items. A variation on this method involves using a hard-sided plastic or cardboard container to protect your liquid item. Use a small cardboard box or a sealed plastic container.

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If you want to travel with your full-size aerosol containers of antiperspirant, hairspray, suntan lotion, shaving cream, and hair mousse, you can do so by packing them in your checked baggage. That way, you'll be sure to have your favorite toiletries with you when you arrive at your destination.

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Your bag will have to fit into the sizer for it to be approved as a carry-on. Having a flexible fabric bag is advantageous in this situation because you'll be able to squeeze it in even if it's slightly oversized. Usually, many airlines won't check every carry-on but will instead go for ones that look oversized.

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Major US domestic airlines carry-on policies
  • Personal item: 18 x 14 x 8 inches, free, no weight limit.
  • Carry-on: 22 x 14 x 9 inches, free, must fit in the sizer at the airport (including handles and wheels), no weight limit.


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Typically, a 23kg suitcase size will have the following measurements: Length: 71-81 cm (28-32 inches ) Width: 43-51 cm (17-20 inches) Depth: 26-30 cm (10-12 inches)

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Toothpaste is considered a liquid by the TSA (Transport Security Agency), even though it's technically a paste. In fact, all pastes, gels, waxes, and lotions are also classified as liquids. And even today, these substances are still restricted by the 3-1-1 rule in hand luggage due to safety threats.

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In aviation, the rule of three or 3:1 rule of descent is a rule of thumb that 3 nautical miles (5.6 km) of travel should be allowed for every 1,000 feet (300 m) of descent.

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TSA counts mascara as a liquid, so the 3-1-1 rule for packing it in hand luggage applies. It states that all liquids have to be in 3.4 oz (100 ml) bottles or smaller and packed in a 1-quart bag. Mascara usually isn't above 3.4 oz, so you're free to pack it in your hand luggage.

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The ban was put in place after British authorities thwarted a plan to blow up a U.S.-bound plane with liquid explosives. There is now technology to send that ban down the drain. Airports across the U.S. are now using X-ray scanners that use CT technology to give guards a 3-D image of your carry-on.

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Pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in checked baggage. Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream or paste that alarms during screening will require additional screening.

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If you want to take perfume on a plane, you need to keep in mind that perfume is considered a liquid and is subject to TSA regulations. The perfume must be in a container that holds no more than 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres), and it should be placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag for screening.

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If you want to pack perfume in your checked luggage, the amount is limited to 500ml per container, and the overall quantity must not exceed 2kg. It's vital to pack your perfume securely to prevent any spills or breakage during the flight.

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If you want to bring perfume in your hand luggage, you must comply with the “3-1-1 Rule”. This means that it must be in a container with 3.4 ounces (100 millilitres) or less and placed in a single, clear, plastic, sealable bag for inspection.

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Solid food items (not liquids or gels) can be transported in either your carry-on or checked baggage. TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine.

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Hand luggage and hold luggage
Liquids carried in the aircraft cabin such as aerosols, drinks, toothpaste, cosmetic creams or gels must be carried in a transparent plastic bag - maximum capacity 1 litre - and no container may hold more than 100 ml. Liquid containers larger than 100 ml must be placed in checked baggage.

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