Packing Your Clear Bag for the TSA 311 Rule

The days leading up to a getaway are some of the most stressful. Prepping for a vacation and packing for a getaway can be incredibly hectic. Especially when it comes to packing your 311 travel kit, filled with toiletries and liquids for your carry-on bag. Keep these tips in mind when packing your TSA approved clear liquid bag for the TSA 311 bag rule. Post updated for accuracy 1/30/23.

No one wants to be caught away from home without their favorite cosmetics and beauty must-haves. Worse yet, no one wants to have to toss expensive body care items at the security checkpoint when they don’t conform to the TSA 311 liquids rule.

What is the TSA 311 Bag Rule?

The TSA 311 bag rule is when the TSA limits the liquids (and amounts of liquids) that can be carried onto airplanes. Current TSA regulations allow liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes that are under 3.4 oz. and 100 ml to be carried through TSA security checkpoints. These items must be packed in 1 quart-sized, resealable bag and each passenger is limited to 1 bag. Containers/bottles that are larger than 3.4 oz., regardless of the amount inside, must be placed in checked bagged.

Quart Size TSA Toiletries Bag for your 311 Travel Kit

TSA defines the TSA 311 bag size as 1 quart but does not give explicit dimensions. TSA 311 bag dimensions are typically around 6 by 9 inches. All Truffle bags and pouches in our TSA Approved collection are TSA approved for your liquids.

Do Toiletry Bags Need to Be Clear?

TSA does not specify that toiletry bags need to be clear. However, when traveling with liquids, using a TSA approved clear liquid bag will help expedite the TSA process so agents can see everything easily without further inspection.

TSA 311 Bag Packing Tips

1. Be set like a Jetsetter

The first rule of stress-free packing is to not have to pack at all! Day-to-day, keep your beauty must-haves in a Clarity Jetset Case that is always ready to go and you’ll be able to jet away with a mini version of your medicine cabinet at a moment’s notice. You won’t have to sacrifice style, because this clear travel makeup case is artfully constructed of fine Saffiano leather with clear eco-friendly plastic panels made of TPU material. It’s also available in multiple colorways to suit your individual flair. This TSA approved clear liquid quart size bag transitions seamlessly from your vanity to your carry-on and is sure to become your most trusted travel companion.

2. Find liquid alternatives

Free up space in your TSA approved clear liquid bag by replacing liquids with solid versions. Lotion, shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste are all available in solid form and don’t have to take up space in your bag. Traveling gives you the opportunity to try new products, like these solid toothpaste tabs from Bite.

3. Minimize & Maximize Your Cosmetics and Toiletries

Now’s the time to break out all those goodies from your subscription box(es). Deluxe samples, GWP (gift with purchase) goodies, holiday sampler lip kits and travel-sized products are all great ways to maximize traveling with liquids in your TSA 311 bag. Also, consider multi-tasking formulas like body-bath-shave gels and shampoo-bath-shower gels to cut down on individual body care products.

5. Invest in Reusable Travel Bottles

Cadence is the new kid on the block when it comes to travel containers. These are great for bringing along shampoo, conditioner, body wash, medicine, and anything else that you don’t want to bring a full-size version of. Not only are they super cute and look great in any Truffle TSA toiletries bag, but they are all magnetic and leak-proof, so you don’t have to worry about losing one or any shampoo explosions mid-flight.

6. Don’t forget gifts! 

Traveling during the holidays is stressful enough, don’t be faced with the heartache of having to throw away a liquid gift that you forgot you had in your carry-on bag. The final step of packing your TSA 311 bag is to crosscheck you have accounted for everything liquid in your carry-on.

Truffle TSA-Approved Quart Size Bags

Clarity Jetset Case

Our most popular carry-on companion for stowing cosmetics, travel size liquids, or cables and chargers is sure to become your most coveted travel accessory. This chic Saffiano leather clear travel makeup case has a zip-around opening and is an approved TSA clear bag for carry-on. It's sure to delight even the most discerning jet setter. 7 1/2” W X 2" H X 5 1/4” D.

Clarity Clutch Small

This small clutch purse is the perfect size to stow your everyday essentials. With luxe leather trim and gold plated hardware, it’s a chic option to carry alone or toss in your coveted handbag. Its TSA approved size also makes it the perfect companion for any carry-on. 9 3/4” L X 7 1/2” H.

Clarity Pouch Small

The Clarity Pouch Small is an approved TSA toiletry bag and features an expandable bottom with more room for your bulkier carry-on liquids. This small clear makeup bag has a gusseted pouch that sits upright on a vanity or counter and is perfect for holding your coveted beauty essentials, travel-sized creams, and lotions. 9” L X 7” H X 2" W.