Lois Larson
The amount of fluid ounces a person can take through airport security is dependent on several factors. The TSA's 3-1-1 rule, introduced in 2006, states that liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags must be in containers of 3.4 fluid ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller. These containers must fit into a single, clear quart-size bag, with only one bag allowed per passenger. Exemptions include medically necessary liquids, such as breast milk, baby formula, and liquid medications, which are allowed in reasonable quantities. Frozen liquids, such as ice and frozen water bottles, are also generally permitted. It is important to note that volatile liquids like gasoline are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Container size limit | 3.4 fluid ounces (100 milliliters) |
| Container type | Travel-sized |
| Container material | Plastic |
| Container quantity | Multiple containers up to a total of 3.4 fluid ounces |
| Container storage | Quart-sized clear bag |
| Container quantity per bag | One bag per passenger |
| Exemptions | Medically necessary liquids, breast milk, baby formula, prescription eye drops, liquid medications, hydration supplements, frozen liquids |
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What You'll Learn
Exemptions for baby food and medication
The TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule was introduced in 2006 after British officials stopped a plot to detonate liquid explosives on board international flights headed to the US. The rule requires liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags to be in containers of 3.4 fluid ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller. These containers must fit into a single, clear quart-size bag, and only one bag is allowed per passenger.
However, the TSA does allow exemptions for baby food and medication. Baby formula, breast milk, and baby food are classified as "medically necessary liquids" and are allowed in reasonable quantities. Water for babies is also permitted in "reasonable quantities," and parents can bring water for mixing formula or hydration. These items must be removed from carry-on baggage and screened separately.
Liquid medications are also exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit. This includes prescription eye drops, liquid medications, and hydration or nutritional supplements for chronic conditions or disabilities. Passengers are not required to provide a doctor's note, but documentation can expedite the screening process, especially for less common items. Medically necessary gel ice packs are also allowed in reasonable quantities, regardless of whether they are frozen, partially frozen, or melted.
It's important to note that exemptions for baby food and medication may be subject to additional screening procedures, and the final decision rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint. Passengers should declare these items to security officers and ensure they are easily accessible for inspection.
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Liquids purchased after security
If you purchase liquids after passing the TSA checkpoint, you are allowed to bring them with you on the plane. Anything purchased at the airport is considered "safe". This includes bottled water and other beverages.
For duty-free liquids purchased internationally, the duty-free store will package the liquids for travel in a transparent, secure, tamper-evident bag. This bag must not show any signs of tampering and must have been purchased within the past 48 hours. Keep the receipt with you.
Medically necessary liquids, including breast milk, baby formula, and liquid medications, are allowed in reasonable quantities. These items should be declared to a security officer at the checkpoint and may require additional screening.
Live fish, live coral in water, and liquid-filled teethers for babies are also exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit and can be brought through security in reasonable quantities.
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Solid alternatives to liquids
Liquids, gels, creams, and pastes are allowed through airport security only in small quantities. The rules vary depending on the country and airport, but in general, liquids are limited to travel-sized containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less. These items must be placed in a separate, clear, resealable plastic bag for screening.
To avoid the hassle of decanting liquids into smaller containers and the risk of leaks, travellers can opt for solid alternatives to liquids. Solid alternatives are also helpful for maximising space in the plastic bag.
For hair care, solid shampoo and conditioner bars are available from companies like LUSH, SylvieL, Arcadia Aromatics, Carmel Soaps, and Tval Skincare. These products often come in fun shapes and are easy to store and carry.
For skincare, solid lotion bars are a convenient option, especially when made with ingredients like beeswax, which melts easily into the skin with the heat of your hands.
For sun protection, solid sunscreen sticks with SPF 50 provide easy application without the mess of traditional sunscreen lotions. Sunscreen sticks are also ideal for reaching tricky spots like the face.
For oral care, toothpaste tablets offer a compact and waste-free alternative to traditional toothpaste tubes.
For fragrance, solid perfumes are available and can be a unique and long-lasting option for travellers.
It is worth noting that some liquid items, like contact lens solution, acne cream, and certain medications, may not have solid alternatives. Additionally, travellers should be aware that food items that are normally liquids or gels, even if frozen solid, may not be allowed through security and must adhere to the same restrictions.
Before travelling, it is always recommended to check the latest regulations and restrictions of the specific airports and countries you will be visiting.
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Medication inspection procedures
Medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols are allowed in reasonable quantities, but they must be declared to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection. This includes liquid medications, which are typically limited to containers of 3.4 ounces or 100 millilitres, unless they are medically necessary. Medication in pill or solid form can be brought in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. It is highly recommended to place medication in carry-on baggage for immediate access, and to comply with individual state laws regarding the labelling of prescription medication.
Medically required liquids may be subject to additional screening, which could include opening the container. TSA officers may also use X-ray screening on medication, but passengers can request a visual inspection instead. This request must be made before any items are sent through the X-ray tunnel. If a passenger does not want their medication X-rayed, they may be subject to additional screening procedures, including AIT screening, a pat-down, and screening of carry-on property.
To facilitate the screening process, TSA recommends using recognised locks that can be opened by security officers using universal "master" keys. These locks are available at most airports and travel stores, and help prevent damage to baggage during inspection. If an officer needs to open a bag, a "Notice of Baggage Inspection" will be placed inside.
It is important to note that some items, such as gel ice packs, IV bags, pumps, syringes, and accessories to medical supplies, are also allowed and may have separate inspection procedures. Additionally, breast milk and baby formula are considered "medically necessary liquids" and may be transported without the child being present.
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Non-prescription medication rules
For carry-on luggage, the TSA liquid limit rule states that liquids must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. This rule applies to liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes. However, when it comes to non-prescription medication, there are some exceptions and additional considerations:
- Non-prescription liquid medications are typically limited to containers of 3.4 ounces or less, just like other liquids. This includes items such as contact lens solution.
- Medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols are allowed in reasonable quantities, even if they exceed 3.4 ounces. This includes non-prescription medications that are essential for your health during the flight.
- It is important to declare any medically necessary liquids to security officers at the start of the screening process. Informing the officers beforehand helps facilitate additional screening procedures that may be required for larger quantities of liquids.
- Medically necessary liquids do not need to be placed in a zip-top bag. However, keeping them separate from your carry-on baggage can simplify the screening process.
- If you prefer that your medication is not X-rayed, you can request alternative testing methods. Additional screening procedures may include AIT screening, pat-downs, or screening of your carry-on property.
- Medication in pill or solid form is allowed in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. It is recommended to keep these items in your carry-on baggage for easy access during the flight.
- TSA does not require medication to be in prescription bottles, but different states may have specific laws regarding the labeling of prescription medication. It is essential to comply with the regulations of your departure state.
- If you are traveling with medical devices, such as an insulin pump or glucose monitor, inform the TSA officers before the screening process, and let them know where the device is located on your body.
- Medically necessary gel ice packs are allowed in reasonable quantities, regardless of whether they are melted or slushy.
- IV bags, pumps, syringes, and other medical accessories are also permitted.
- Breast milk and baby formula are considered "medically necessary liquids" and are allowed in reasonable quantities. TSA recommends using clear and translucent bottles for expedited screening, but they can also be transported in pouches.
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Frequently asked questions
You can take up to 3.4 fluid ounces (100ml) of liquid per container through airport security.
You can take multiple containers of liquid through security, as long as they are each 3.4 fluid ounces or less and fit into a clear, quart-sized bag. Only one bag per passenger is allowed.
Yes, there are some exceptions. Medically necessary liquids, including breast milk, baby formula, prescription eye drops, liquid medications, and hydration or nutritional supplements for chronic conditions or disabilities, are allowed in larger quantities. Live fish, live coral, and liquid-filled teethers for babies are also exempt from the 3.4 fluid ounce limit.
Any liquids that do not meet the 3.4 fluid ounce limit will be thrown away or confiscated and will not be allowed through security.
