Delta Airlines' Liquid Limit: Know What Liquids You Can Carry on the Flight

Last Updated: October 16, 2025

Packing liquids for your next Delta flight can be stressful and tricky if you’re unsure of what’s allowed. Whether it’s your favorite shampoo, perfume, or a water bottle, understanding Delta Airlines’ liquid limit is mandatory to help you breeze through airport security stress-free. 

This guide walks you through everything that you need to know: from TSA’s 3-1-1 rule to Delta’s domestic flight liquid size limits- so that you can pack smart and travel confidently and comfortably. 

Understanding the Delta Airlines Liquid Limit Policy

Before understanding the Delta Airlines’ liquid limit policy, it is important to understand the TSA regulations. When it comes to carrying liquids on Delta Airlines, there are no strict rules and guidelines that the flights specifically follow. They follow the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) guidelines. According to the guideline, all liquids carried in carry-on bags must be in a travel-sized container of 3.4 ounces or less. And all the containers must fit in a single, quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. 

Delta Airlines aligns closely with these federal travel security guidelines to make sure that all its passengers are safe and there is a smooth screening process at all U.S airports. According to the TSA’s 3-1-1 rule, passengers flying with Delta Airlines are allowed to carry:

  • 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less of liquid per container. 
  • 1 quart-sized bag is allowed, where each of the clear, quart-sized containers should fit in perfectly. 
  • 1 bag per passenger is permitted in their carry-on.  

This rule applies to all Delta Airlines’ domestic flights and some of the international routes departing from U.S airports.

Also Read: Delta Airlines Group Travel

Delta Airlines Liquids Allowed in Carry-On vs. Checked Baggage

Flying with Delta Airlines can be fun, and knowing the above TSA’s 3-1-1 rule and following it makes it even better. Carry-on bags must follow the rules, while the checked baggage allows larger containers and greater volume, provided the liquid is non-hazardous. Let’s understand how:

  • TSA 3-1-1 rule: This rule applies to all Delta flights and is mandatory for carry-on baggage to follow. 
  • Container size: Items considered “liquids” under this rule are gels, creams, shampoos, pastes, lotions, and anything with a fluid or semi-fluid consistency must be 3.4 ounces or less. 
  • Bag size: All the containers must fit into one single, clear, quart-sized, resealable bag. 

Some exemptions from the 3-1-1 rule are baby formula, breast milk, and baby food, which don’t need to fit in the plastic bag; however, at the security checkpoint, you may need to declare these items for additional inspection. 

In checked bags, you get more freedom to pack liquids, but by staying within the given restrictions. In checked bags, you can carry larger-sized liquid containers, like full-size toiletries or bottles of wine, as long as they are packed with absolute safety. Now, let’s understand the rules for checked baggage:

  • Container size: There is no fixed size limit on the individual liquid containers that you can pack in checked baggage. 
  • Quantity: There is no limit on the total quantity of liquids that you can pack in a checked baggage, as long as the bag does not exceed 50 pounds in total. 
  • Safety: Always pack all the liquids in leak-proof bags to prevent them from leaking due to changes in the cabin pressure. 
  • Prohibited items: Acetone-based nail polish remover or lighter fluid are strictly prohibited items, both in carry-on and checked baggage. 

Delta strictly follows these TSA restrictions to help its passengers move quickly and safely through security checkpoints. Any traveler who exceeds the Delta’s carry-on size limits will be asked to discard excess liquids, or the items will be confiscated at the checkpoint. Embarrassing right? So, what’s the solution then? Well, if you’ve liquids exceeding this, place them in your checked baggage before going through security. 

Also Read: Delta Airlines Unaccompanied Minor

Tips to Pack Liquids Safely and Smartly for Delta Flights

Packing liquids for your Delta Airlines flight should not give you last-minute stress. Guess what? By following some very simple strategies, you can avoid messy leaks, wasted products, and airport delays. Whether it’s your favorite skincare essentials, toiletries, or travel-size perfumes, these tips help you comply with Delta Airlines' liquid limit guidelines while keeping your luggage organised. 

  • Use TSA-approved travel bottles- Invest in 3.4 oz (100 ml) travel containers clearly displaying their volume. These bottles meet the Delta flight liquid size limit and help you pass seamlessly through security checkpoints. 
  • Double-seal and pack smartly: Always make sure your containers are double-sealed and tightened, sealed with plastic wrap or tape, before placing them in your quart-size bag. 
  • Keep your liquid bag accessible: Store your TSA-approved liquid bag at the top of your carry-on for easy removal during screening. This saves time and helps TSA officers inspect your items carefully and efficiently. 
  • Pack full-size liquids in checked bags: If you need to bring larger bottles like full-size perfume, sunscreen, or beverages, pack them separately and securely in your checked luggage using zip bags and soft clothing for cushioning. 
  • Choose solid alternatives: To reduce liquid volume, consider solid toiletries like shampoo bars, lotion sticks, and deodorant bars. These will not only bypass Delta’s security but also save valuable space in your carry-on. 

Smart liquid packing helps you comply with the Delta Airlines’ liquid limit policy and ensures that you’re flying stress-free and have a smooth and transparent travel experience. 

Also Read: Delta Economy Class

Mistakes to Avoid When Packing Liquids

No matter whether you’re traveling for the first time with Delta Airlines or you’re a seasoned traveler, making packing mistakes is unavoidable. And these mistakes can lead to confiscated items or unnecessary spills. Understanding what counts as liquid and how Delta enforces TSA rules can save you lots of time and frustration at the airport security. 

  1. Carrying oversized containers 
  2. Mixing liquids and non-liquids (makeups, chargers, or other items) in the same pouch. 
  3. Keep your TSA liquid bag separate for quick screening. 
  4. Ignoring aerosol restrictions 
  5. Not checking destination regulations

Also Read: Delta Airlines Check-in

Final thoughts 

Knowing the liquid limit and capacity of Delta Airlines will save you money, time, and extra hassle at the airport. It will ensure that you fly without worrying about your belongings in terms of perfume or other toiletries. 

So, before you pack for your next Delta flight, pause for a moment and review the airline’s liquid limit policy and plan accordingly.  Book your next flight with Affluence Travels and explore more expert travel guides, packing tips, and airline updates to make travel stress-free, seamless, and enjoyable.  

FAQs About Delta Airlines' Liquid Limit

What is the Delta Airlines liquid size limit for carry-on bags?

The carry-on liquid size limit is 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less; all should fit inside one quart-sized bag per person. 

Can I bring a water bottle on my Delta flight?

Yes, but only if it’s empty when you go through security. 

Are aerosols allowed in carry-on baggage on Delta flights?

Yes, non-flammable aerosols are allowed in carry-on bags on Delta flights, following the TSA rule. 

Is carrying baby formula in my carry-on bag over 3.4 oz counted as liquid?

No. You can carry them as they are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquid limit; however, you must declare them for separate screening at the security checkpoint. 

Are Delta’s liquid rules different for its domestic and international flights? 

Yes, Delta’s liquid rules are different for domestic and international flights, because international flights are subjected to follow other countries’ regulations. 

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