Airports' Liquid Restrictions: Still A Thing?

Do airports still have liquid restrictions? The short answer is yes. The long answer is that it's complicated and ever-changing. The infamous 3-1-1 rule, created by explosive experts, restricts the amount of liquid that can be carried onto a plane. All liquids must be in containers of no more than 3.4 ounces, and they must fit into a single, clear, quart-size bag. This rule has been in place for almost two decades, but with the advent of new 3-D imaging technology at airport checkpoints, some airports have become more lenient with their enforcement. While some European airports have eliminated liquid restrictions, the roll-out of new imaging machines has been slow, and the restrictions remain in place in many countries.

The 3-1-1 rule

The rule is simple: 3-1-1 stands for 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per item, 1 quart-sized bag, and 1 bag per passenger. This means each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100ml. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols.

The first '3' stands for 3.4 ounces, or 100ml. This is the maximum size each liquid container can be. The '1' refers to the one quart-sized, transparent, resealable bag that these containers must fit into. The final '1' indicates that each passenger can carry only one such bag.

It's important to note that you must present the bag separately during the airport security screening. This allows security officers to easily see the contents of the bag and ensure they comply with the rule.

While the 3-1-1 rule applies to most liquids, there are some exceptions. Medications, for instance, are exempt from the rule. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter medicines. However, you should declare these items to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection. Similarly, baby formula, breast milk, and juice for infants or toddlers are also exempt. These items do not need to fit within your quart-sized bag and can exceed the 3.4-ounce limit. Gel ice packs for cooling infant and child beverages are also exempt, but must remain frozen solid at the time of screening.

Exemptions

While the 3-1-1 rule (or 3-3-1 rule) for liquids in carry-on luggage is still in place at most airports, there are some exemptions. These include:

Medical Exemptions

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recognises that some passengers may need to carry more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) of liquid in their carry-on bags for essential medical purposes. Exemptions are made for items that may be needed during a flight or at the destination if they are unavailable after the security checkpoint. This includes medical prescriptions in liquid, gel, or cream form, as well as ice, gel, or freezer packs used to keep medically necessary items cool.

Dietary Exemptions

Some airports allow exemptions for liquids over 100ml that are required for special dietary requirements. For example, in the UK, containers of liquid over 100ml are permitted if they are for baby food or milk, or for special dietary requirements.

Baby Food and Drinks

Baby and toddler drinks and food, including puree pouches, breast milk, and infant formula are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule.

Hand Sanitizer

Since 2020, passengers have been allowed to carry up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer, although this exemption may change in the future.

Frozen Liquids

The TSA does not consider completely frozen liquids to be subject to the 3-1-1 rule. However, if the frozen substance is slushy or partially melted, it must meet the 3-1-1 requirements.

Liquids Purchased at the Airport or Onboard

Liquids purchased at an airport or on a plane, such as duty-free items, are allowed through security if they are sealed inside a security bag with the receipt visible. The security bag must not be opened until the final destination, and airport staff may need to open the items to screen the liquid.

International flights

If you're travelling internationally, the rules for bringing liquids on board depend on the country and airport you're flying from.

Europe

In Europe, the liquid limit is 100ml per container, with a maximum capacity of 1 litre per person. This applies to liquids, creams, gels, aerosols, and pastes, which must be in a resealable, clear, plastic bag.

However, some European countries and airports have chosen to operate under local laws. For example, in Milan, there are no longer restrictions on the volume of liquids, as long as your cabin baggage complies with weight and size restrictions. In the UK, the government has announced that the liquid limit in hand luggage will be increased to 2 litres at all major UK airports by 2024.

United States

In the US, the TSA's 3-1-1 rule states that liquids must be in containers of no more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) and all containers must fit into a clear, one-quart bag. Only one bag is allowed per passenger.

Other Countries

In some countries, the rules are more relaxed. For example, in Japan, there are reportedly no restrictions on liquids for domestic flights.

Screening processes

The screening process typically involves placing the bag of liquids separately from one's carry-on baggage, as this facilitates the screening process. Any liquid that does not comply with the 3-1-1 rule must be packed in checked baggage. Liquids that are allowed in larger quantities, such as medications, breast milk, and infant formula, are subject to additional screening. Passengers are advised to inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process if they are carrying such items. These liquids are typically screened by X-ray or tested for traces of explosives.

In recent years, some airports have begun to relax the liquid restrictions due to the advent of computed tomography (CT) scanners, which can detect hazardous liquids using 3-D imaging. However, the roll-out of these new machines has been slow, and the TSA has stated that the limit on liquids will likely be lifted in the coming years.

Liquids in checked luggage

While carry-on luggage has strict liquid restrictions, checked luggage allows you to pack larger quantities of liquids. There is no limit to how much liquid you can pack in your checked luggage, provided it does not exceed the overall weight limit for your suitcase.

However, it is important to carefully pack liquids to avoid any leaks or spills that could damage your belongings. Liquids should be sealed tightly and placed in a separate bag or container within your suitcase. This will ensure that if there is a leak, the rest of your luggage is not affected.

Additionally, certain items are prohibited from being transported in checked luggage. For example, medications should be kept in your carry-on luggage. It is also important to check with your airline for any specific restrictions or guidelines they may have regarding liquids in checked luggage.

Furthermore, while some liquids are allowed in carry-on luggage in quantities exceeding the standard limit, these are typically restricted to medically necessary items, such as prescription medications, breast milk, and baby formula. Duty-free liquids purchased at the airport or on board an aircraft are also exempt from the liquid volume rules if properly sealed in a security tamper-evident bag.

Frequently asked questions