Can You Bring Toothpaste on a Plane?

Quick Answer

  • Carry-on Bag: Conditions Apply — 3.4 oz (100ml) or less, in quart-sized bag
  • Checked Bag: Allowed

Yes — toothpaste is allowed in carry-on bags, but TSA treats it as a liquid. The tube must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less and fit in your single quart-sized liquids bag. Full-size tubes go in checked baggage, and toothpaste tablets are exempt entirely.

Toothpaste — TSA Rules Explained

You can bring Toothpaste in your carry-on bag, but certain conditions apply. It is also allowed in checked baggage without restrictions. Toothpaste is allowed with conditions in carry-on bags — 3.4 oz (100ml) or less, in quart-sized bag. Must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100ml) or less. Consider solid toothpaste tablets as an alternative. TSA officers have the final say on what is allowed through the checkpoint. If you are unsure, check the TSA website or ask an officer at the airport.

Packing toothpaste in carry-on

  • The limit is based on the size printed on the tube, not how much is left inside — a half-empty 6 oz tube is still rejected.
  • Travel tubes are usually 0.85–3 oz, so several fit in the quart bag alongside other toiletries.
  • Roll or crimp the tube and cap it tightly; cabin pressure squeezes paste out of a loose cap.
  • Toothpaste tablets and tooth powder are solids, exempt from 3-1-1, and are the simplest way to skip the quart bag.

Toothpaste and dental items

ItemCarry-onChecked
Toothpaste tube, 3.4 oz or lessAllowed in quart bagAllowed
Toothpaste tube over 3.4 ozNot allowedAllowed
Toothpaste tablets / tooth powderAllowed, no limitAllowed
Mouthwash, 3.4 oz or lessAllowed in quart bagAllowed
Toothbrush (manual or electric)AllowedAllowed

About Liquids, Gels & Aerosols at Airport Security

Items in the liquids, gels, and aerosols category are subject to the TSA 3-1-1 rule. Each container must hold 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, all containers must fit inside one quart-sized clear plastic bag, and each passenger is limited to one bag. Exceptions exist for medically necessary liquids, baby formula, and breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is toothpaste considered a liquid by TSA?

Yes. Toothpaste is a paste and falls under the 3-1-1 rule, so a carry-on tube must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller and fit in your quart-sized bag.

Can I bring a full-size tube of toothpaste on a plane?

Not in carry-on. A tube larger than 3.4 oz must be packed in checked baggage, where there is no size limit on toothpaste.

Do toothpaste tablets follow the liquids rule?

No. Tablets and tooth powder are solids, so you can carry any quantity in your carry-on without using quart-bag space.

Can you bring Toothpaste in your carry-on bag?

Toothpaste is allowed in carry-on bags with conditions. 3.4 oz (100ml) or less, in quart-sized bag. Make sure to comply with all requirements before arriving at the checkpoint.

Can you pack Toothpaste in checked luggage?

Yes, Toothpaste is allowed in checked baggage. Pack it securely to prevent damage.

What happens if TSA finds Toothpaste in your bag?

Toothpaste is generally permitted, but a TSA officer may inspect it further. You might be asked to remove it from your bag for separate screening.

Do the same rules apply for Toothpaste on international flights?

TSA rules apply at U.S. airports regardless of destination. However, your arrival country may have different import regulations for Toothpaste. Check the customs rules of your destination before packing.

More Liquids, Gels & Aerosols Items

  • Can you bring Water Bottle (Empty) on a plane?
  • Can you bring Water Bottle (Full) on a plane?
  • Can you bring Shampoo on a plane?
  • Can you bring Conditioner on a plane?
  • Can you bring Mouthwash on a plane?
  • Can you bring Perfume / Cologne on a plane?
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