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what size toothpaste can you take on a plane

For most flights today, you can take a toothpaste tube of up to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) in your carry‑on bag, as long as it follows the standard “liquids” rules for airport security.

Quick Scoop: Basic Rule

  • Toothpaste is treated like a liquid/gel at security.
  • Maximum size in carry‑on: 3.4 oz / 100 ml per container.
  • All your liquids (including toothpaste) must fit inside one quart‑size, clear, resealable bag in your hand luggage.
  • Tubes bigger than 3.4 oz (like 5–6 oz family size) must go in checked baggage , not in your cabin bag.

Think of it this way: if the tube is labeled 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less and fits in your liquids bag, you’re good to go.

Carry‑on vs. Checked: What’s Allowed

  • Carry‑on bag
    • Tube size: up to 3.4 oz / 100 ml, container capacity must not exceed this even if it’s half‑empty.
* Must go in the same quart‑size liquids bag with things like shampoo, lotion, and other gels.
  • Checked baggage
    • You can pack larger, full‑size toothpaste tubes because checked bags usually don’t have the same liquid size limit.
* It’s smart to seal them in a plastic bag in case they get squeezed and leak.

Small Exceptions and Tips

  • Medical / prescription toothpaste
    • Some guidance notes that prescription or medically necessary toothpaste can be allowed in larger quantities, but you should carry proof (label or note) and declare it if asked.
  • Toothpaste tablets
    • Solid toothpaste tablets (you chew and brush) are a popular travel option because they usually don’t count as liquids , so they’re not limited by the 3.4 oz rule.

Real‑World Example

If you’re standing in a store wondering what to buy before your flight:

  • A tube labeled “Travel size 0.85 oz” or “1 oz/28 ml” is perfect for carry‑on.
  • A tube labeled “4.8 oz” or “6 oz” must be packed in checked luggage , not in your backpack or purse at security.

Bottom line: For carry‑on, stick to toothpaste tubes 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller , all in a single quart‑size clear bag; anything bigger belongs in your checked bag.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.