If you have ever packed for a flight, you know the rule about liquids can be confusing. TSA says you can only bring them in a “quart size bag,” but what does that really mean? Is it 7 by 8 inches? Can you use a Ziploc? What about a reusable pouch?
The truth is simple: a quart size bag is about 7 x 8 inches, holding roughly one liter. But because TSA does not give exact dimensions, travelers often get stuck guessing. In this guide, we will clear up the confusion. You will see the real sizes, brand examples, packing tips, and even international differences—so you know exactly what works before your next flight.
What Does Quart Actually Mean?
A quart is a U.S. unit of volume. One quart equals 32 ounces or about 0.95 liters. That is where the rule comes from: TSA wants you to carry only about one liter of liquids in your hand luggage.
But here is the catch. TSA does not say “your bag must be exactly 7 by 8 inches.” They just say: a clear, resealable bag, about quart size.
That leaves room for interpretation. Some people use Ziploc freezer bags, some buy reusable clear pouches with zippers, others have gusseted bags with more depth. So which one is really right?
The safe answer: a bag close to 7 x 8 inches, holding about a quart in volume.
The TSA 3-1-1 Rule Explained
The quart bag is tied to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule:
- 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container
- 1 quart size bag per traveler
- 1 bag total
Why does TSA care? Because liquids can be a risk on planes. Limiting the size makes security faster and safer. Think of it like a school rule: everyone can bring snacks, but only enough to fit in the same lunchbox.
Real Dimensions: What Brands Use
So what does “quart size” look like in real life? Let’s look at popular options:
| Brand / Bag Type | Dimensions | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ziploc Quart Freezer Bag | 7 x 7.75 in | Disposable, TSA safe, very common |
| Amazon Basics Clear Pouch | 7.5 x 6 x 2 in | Reusable, with zipper, gusseted |
| Packism Toiletry Bag | 7.5 x 5.5 x 2.2 in | TSA approved, eco friendly option |
| Travelon Clear Bag | 7.25 x 5.5 x 2 in | Durable and long lasting |
Notice something? The sizes are not identical, but all pass through TSA. The key is that they are clear, resealable, and close to a quart.
A Real-Life Test: How Much Fits in One Quart Bag?
I did a little experiment before my last trip. I lined up different bottles and tried to see how many would fit inside.
Here is what I managed:
- Six 3.4 oz bottles of shampoo, lotion, or body wash
- One mini toothpaste tube
- Two small lotion tubes
- Lip balm, mascara, and a sunscreen stick tucked in the corners
The bag zipped, but it was stretched like a balloon. If I added one more bottle, it would not close.
Here is a breakdown:
| Item | How Many Fit in a Quart Bag? |
|---|---|
| 3.4 oz travel bottles | 6–8 |
| Mini toothpaste | 2–3 |
| Small lotion tubes | 4–5 |
| Lip balm, mascara | 10+ small pieces |
Moral of the story: yes, quart bags hold a lot, but if you try to cram in too much, TSA might pull you aside.
Quart Bag vs Pint and Gallon
Sometimes people ask: can I just use a gallon bag? Or is a pint enough? Let’s compare:
| Size | Dimensions | Volume | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pint | 6 x 5 in | ~0.5 qt (16 oz) | Too small for toiletries |
| Quart | 7 x 8 in | ~1 qt (32 oz) | TSA approved travel liquids |
| Gallon | 10 x 12 in | ~4 qt (128 oz) | Too large, rejected by TSA |
So stick to the quart. A pint is frustratingly small, a gallon is instantly suspicious.
Types of Quart Size Bags You Can Use
Not all quart bags are created equal. Let’s break them down:
- Disposable Ziploc bags – cheap, easy, and TSA loves them. But they tear easily if reused.
- Reusable clear PVC/TPU pouches – sturdier, zippered, good for frequent flyers.
- Silicone bags – eco friendly, flexible, but heavier and bulkier.
If you travel once a year, Ziploc is fine. If you fly monthly, invest in a proper TSA-approved pouch.
International Rules: Not Always the Same
Here is something many travelers forget: TSA is only for U.S. airports.
- Europe and UK – The bag must be 20 x 20 cm and hold no more than 1 liter.
- Canada and Australia – Rules are nearly identical to TSA.
- Asia – It varies. Some airports are relaxed, others stricter.
Story time: A friend once flew out of New York with a gusseted quart pouch. No problem. But when she landed in London, Heathrow officers made her move everything into a smaller 20 x 20 cm bag. Lesson learned: always check both ends of your trip.
Packing Hacks: How to Win the Quart Bag Game
Here are tricks I have learned over dozens of flights:
- Switch to solids – Shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and deodorant sticks do not count as liquids
- Use refillable bottles – Pack only what you need. Why bring 12 oz of lotion if you only use 2 oz?
- Choose leakproof bottles – Double caps or pump locks save you from disasters
- Roll, don’t lay flat – Standing bottles take less space
- Keep bag accessible – Place it at the top of your carry-on. Saves time at security
Common FAQs
Will TSA measure my bag with a ruler?
Almost never. They check with eyes, not tape measures.
Can I bring two quart bags?
No, the rule is one per traveler.
Does it have to be Ziploc brand?
Not at all. Any clear resealable bag works.
What if my bag has depth?
If it is clearly not oversized, it is usually fine. Gusseted bags are common.
What if I put non-liquids inside?
Not a problem. The rule only applies to liquids, gels, creams, and pastes.
Conclusion
So, back to the big question: how big is a quart size bag?
It is about 7 x 8 inches, holding roughly one liter. That is enough for around six or seven small bottles plus extras. The exact size varies, but as long as it is clear, resealable, and close to quart size, you are safe.
The key takeaway? Do not overthink it. TSA officers are not looking for perfect math, just a bag that looks reasonable. If you pack smart, you will breeze through security with no stress.
If you are tired of flimsy bags that rip on the first trip, remember there are better options out there. As a direct manufacturer of custom travel bags and toiletry pouches, we can provide durable, reusable, and TSA-compliant quart size bags—with your logo, private label, or bulk orders at factory prices.
Whether you need them for your own brand, giveaways, or wholesale distribution, we are here to help. Contact us today to design your perfect quart size bag solution.
