Chicago O'Hare International Airport liquids and security rules
Flying from Chicago? Here is what Chicago O'Hare International Airport states about liquids and electronics in hand luggage.
100 ml limit
O'Hare states the 3-1-1 rule plainly: liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 oz or less and must all fit in one quart-sized plastic bag. The airport tells travellers to take both that bag and large electronics such as laptops out of their carry-on and put them in a bin.
| Liquid container limit | 100 ml limit |
| Clear plastic bag needed | Yes |
| Liquids can stay in your bag | No |
| Laptops can stay in your bag | No |
What this means at Chicago O'Hare International Airport
- O'Hare's own wording: 'Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces or less and all bottles must fit in a one quart-size plastic bag and placed in a bin for screening.'
- O'Hare also instructs: 'Remove liquids and large electronics, including laptops, from carry-on baggage.' This is the clearest airport-level statement among the US airports checked that liquids do NOT stay in the bag.
- TSA PreCheck is referenced on the same page as an expedited screening programme; PreCheck travellers may keep shoes, belts, light jackets, laptops and 3-1-1 liquids in the bag.
- The page does not mention CT or 3-D scanners, CLEAR, medications, baby formula or duty free.
- Medically necessary liquids, breast milk, formula and baby food are exempt from the 3.4 oz limit under national TSA rules; declare them.
- Since July 2025 TSA no longer requires most passengers to take off their shoes in standard lanes.
Source: TSA Information | Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Checked 20 September 2026.
Security rules are set by the airport, but your bag size is set by your airline. Check your bag against every airline here.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take liquids over 100 ml through Chicago O'Hare International Airport?
No. Containers must be 100 ml or smaller.
Do I need a clear plastic bag at Chicago O'Hare International Airport?
Yes, liquids must go in a clear resealable bag.