John F. Kennedy International Airport liquids and security rules
Flying from New York? Here is what John F. Kennedy International Airport states about liquids and electronics in hand luggage.
JFK applies the national TSA 3-1-1 rule: liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be in containers of 3.4 oz / 100 ml or less, all fitting inside one quart-sized clear resealable bag per passenger. Take that bag and your laptop out of your hand luggage at the checkpoint unless you are in a TSA PreCheck lane.
| Liquid container limit | 100 ml limit |
| Clear plastic bag needed | Yes |
| Liquids can stay in your bag | Not stated |
| Laptops can stay in your bag | No |
What this means at John F. Kennedy International Airport
- JFK's own website states no numeric liquid limit; its FAQ says 'Security screening at JFK follows TSA guidelines' and refers travellers to tsa.gov for what may be carried (https://www.jfkairport.com/frequently-asked-questions).
- TSA's laptops guidance is national and current: 'Please remove the laptops from your bag and place it in a separate bin for X-ray screening.'
- TSA PreCheck travellers 'do not need to remove shoes, laptops, 3-1-1 liquids, belts or light jackets'. JFK's FAQ confirms PreCheck is available but says availability 'may vary by terminal'.
- CLEAR is available at JFK Terminal 4 only, per the airport's FAQ. The Global Entry / TSA PreCheck / CLEAR enrolment office is in Terminal 4.
- Whether liquids may stay inside the bag in standard lanes is NOT stated by either JFK or TSA. TSA has not published a general computed-tomography (CT) exemption, so assume the quart bag comes out unless checkpoint signage or an officer says otherwise.
- Duty-free liquids bought abroad and arriving on an international flight may exceed 3.4 oz if sealed by the retailer in a tamper-evident bag with the receipt from within 48 hours (TSA).
- Medically necessary liquids, breast milk, formula and baby food are screened separately and are not limited to 3.4 oz; declare them to the officer.
- Since 8 July 2025 TSA no longer requires most passengers to remove their shoes at standard checkpoints.
Source: Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels Rule | Transportation Security Administration. 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 John F. Kennedy International Airport?
No. Containers must be 100 ml or smaller.
Do I need a clear plastic bag at John F. Kennedy International Airport?
Yes, liquids must go in a clear resealable bag.