How Big Is A Quart Size Bag?

Whatever type of packer you are, whether you like to pack light or are the last minute sort of packer, you will want to arrange your toiletries or make-up products in one easy-to-access place so that you can pass through airport security more quickly.

We like how there is some flexibility in how you pack these items, but some may not be aware that there are restrictions on liquids, aerosols, and products, which could catch you out.

The main issue is what type of bag is best to keep your products safe and secure while being acceptable when passing through airport security.

In this article, we look at the types of bags that are TSA approved and the benefits and drawbacks of each to help you make those vital packing decisions.

If you want a fuss-free and straightforward traveling experience, read on to find out more.

Quart Size Bag

These quart bags or cubes are what the TSA recommends as an ideal way to store all of your cosmetics, toiletries, medications, or personal items and usually have clear plastic sides so all the contents of the bag can be seen easier.

You can get these in 7″ x 8″ versions or the smaller 6.25″ x 6.25″ cubes, which are a compact way to store your essential items and have a handy zipper and handle on the top to improve durability.

They are also designed, so you don’t exceed your allotted liquid limit, usually 100ml, making it more convenient to pull out of your hold luggage and present it when asked.

Sandwich Bag

This is another accepted container that you can use to store your items and have the same regulations you would find with a quart bag, and you might find these are more accessible if you have some lying around your home.

A standard sandwich bag will measure around 7.87″ x 3.9 “, although you can find many smaller and larger configurations, most often with a zip-lock feature to keep everything inside more secure.

These might be the more convenient option, but you might find the material to be more flimsy than you require, as these bags aren’t equipped to hold heavier items for extended periods.

What Are The Airport’s Rules Around Bags?

You first need to ensure that any containers you have are up to 3.4 ounces and have to fit into one quart-sized or resealable bag so they can fit in your carry-on luggage and can go through checkpoint security.

If you have containers larger than 3.4 ounces, you should place them in your checked baggage, and it applies to being placed in secure and tamper-evident containers.

Whatever luggage you put your products into, they need to be screened and cleared at the checkpoint, and if they aren’t able to be screened or raise suspicion, the items won’t be permitted to be placed in your luggage and may be confiscated.

If you have any items that are deemed medically necessary, there are allowances for larger amounts than the standard 100ml rule, so make sure you declare these items, and they are clearly marked to make the screening process easier.

You also want to separate these items from your luggage before the screening starts and make a TSA officer aware if you need these items during your flight, which can range from prescription items to infant formula.

You can also present any ice, freezer, or gel packs during the screening process for the purpose of keeping medically necessary items cool, as long as these are clearly marked.

If they cannot use the x-ray to screen your items, you may be asked to open the container and remove the contents to a separate container so it can be inspected easier.

What Should I Consider When Choosing A Bag?

Whatever you desire in your carry-on bag, you should know there are aspects that make accessing your items easier and are more durable to the unpredictable knocks that your luggage may undergo.

Below are a few factors you might like to consider before picking out your bag.

Durability

This one is important because you may have medication in liquid form or have cosmetics that come in small amounts that you don’t want to see damaged during your flight or trip, so getting a bag that has a thicker material like a quart bag is going to be a lifesaver.

A sandwich bag might seal your items better, but there’s a good chance the material might split, and you might be in an area where these types of bags aren’t available.

You might also have heavier items that could weaken a sandwich bag over time, so you should consider the contents you wish to bring before packing anything.

Leak Prevention

It’s not certain that your liquids and gels might come loose from their packaging, and quart bags win again here because they are often made to be waterproof, so the contents of the rest of your luggage will be safe and dry.

As good as sandwich bags are in sealing your items, the more space you have in them means a leak is likely to leave a mess inside the bag if a leak were to happen, and there’s no guarantee that the contents won’t spill out to the other luggage.

You could use either and not experience any issues as long as all the lids and caps on your items are tightly sealed before you pack them.

Conclusion

You also want to consider the capacity in your bag, as you don’t want too much space for your items to knock around and potentially damage your items.

Our best advice is to only pack essentials and keep bigger items in your holding luggage to make your screening process much more manageable.