TSA, or the Transportation Security Administration, has implemented a new rule to strengthen its security and ensure passenger safety during travel. The rule, called the 3-1-1 rule, states the amount of liquids, gels and aerosols that may be in carry-on bags, as well as how they must be transported. Let’s dive into the rule, what it covers, exemptions, and tips for travel.
What This Guide Will Cover:
- What the TSA 3-1-1 rule is
- Exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule
- If duty-free items can go in carry-on bags
- Tips for packing liquids in carry-ons
- Liquid replacement ideas for travel
What Is the 3-1-1 Rule?
The TSA 3-1-1 rule limits the amount of liquids, creams, pastes, and aerosols that can be packed in carry-on luggage on airplanes. Such items may include things like toothpaste, shampoo, mouthwash, perfume, water, juices, and more.
The 3-1-1 rule states the following requirements for such items:
- Must be 3.4 ounces or less
- Items must comfortably fit in 1 quart-sized, resealable, clear bag
- 1 bag allowed per passenger
With the rules above containing the numbers 3 (3.4 oz), 1 (quart sized bag) and 1 (bag per passenger), it is named 3-1-1 for travelers to remember.
What Are the Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule?
While there are regulations that should be followed under the TSA 3-1-1 rule, there are exceptions to this rule. Such items may go through additional screening during TSA, but will often be accepted even if they exceed 3.4 ounces.
The following items can be packed:
- Baby formula / infant nourishments
- Medical liquids
- Liquid nutrition
Can Duty-Free Items Go in Carry-On Bags?
Duty-free items like alcohol or perfume, may be placed in carry-on bags and brought on your flight even if they exceed 3.4 ounces, as long as they meet the following criteria:
- You have the original receipt
- The items are sealed securely in a bag, without any signs of tampering
- You purchased the items internationally, and you are traveling to the U.S.
It is recommended to pack all liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz / 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are packed securely. Any items that cannot be screened or raise warnings may need to be checked in.
What Are Some Tips for Liquids In Carry-Ons?
When traveling, there may be some essential items you are hoping to bring, whether it be a favorite perfume or a specific shampoo. Whatever the case may be, here are some tips for packing such items in carry on bags:
- Purchase travel toiletry bottles/pouches. These can be found at local grocery stores, online, or other retail stores, and are often inexpensive.
- Keep carry-on liquids bag accessible. Your carry-on liquids bag will need to go in a separate checkpoint bin during TSA screening, so keep it at the top of your luggage to make the process go by smoothly.
- Keep larger, necessary liquids separate. If you are bringing items like liquid medications or necessary infant nourishments, keep them separate from your other liquids. Be sure to inform the security members about which rule-exempt items you have when going through TSA.
- Simplify your routines. Consider simplifying your makeup or skincare routine when packing items in carry-on bags. Avoid overpacking, and bring only what you truly need.
What Are Some Liquid Replacements For Carry-On Luggage?
While you may have some necessary items to pack in your carry-on bag, there are many replacements that can be utilized instead to save you space and limit stress. Flying with liquids creates a possibility for spills and leaks, which can be avoided. Consider the following:
- Shampoo / conditioner bars
- Body soap sheets or bars
- Toothpaste tabs
- Solid lotion sticks
- Cleansing pads
- Dry powdered shampoo
- Mouthwash tabs
How Can Travel Insurance Help?
Let’s say you must check-in liquids that either do not meet the 3-1-1 guidelines, raise warnings, or cannot be properly screened. If your check-in bag is lost, damaged, or delayed with your items inside, travel insurance may offer reimbursement under trip delay/baggage benefits.
If you need assistance with finding the right plan for you, our Customer Service team is more than happy to help.
- Under the TSA 3-1-1 rule, limits gels, liquids, creams, and aerosols must be under 3.4 ounces and fit in 1 quart-sized, resealable, clear bag, with 1 bag allowed per passenger.
- Medication, infant nourishments, liquid nutritional supplements, and other necessary liquids above 3.4 ounces are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule.
- Containers that are larger than 3.4 ounces are not allowed, even if they are not entirely full.
- Duty free items can be packed in carry-ons if they are over 3.4 ounces if you have the receipt, they were purchased internationally and are sealed, and you are traveling to the US.
- Consider travel sized items, toiletry bottles, limited routines, and keeping larger, necessary liquids separate from others.
Frequently Asked Questions About the TSA 3-1-1 Rule
If a bottle has less liquid than what is stated on the label, can it be in my carry-on?
Bottles that may have less liquid, but have larger size written on the label, must be checked in. TSA will measure the container size, rather than the actual amount inside the bottle or pouch. Be sure to use travel-size containers when packing liquids in carry-ons.
Are there limits on how many travel size containers I can pack in my carry-on?
No, there is no strict number limit on how many containers you can pack, as long as they are less than 3 .4oz (100ml) and fit comfortably in your one quart-sized clear bag.
What counts as a liquid for TSA?
While things like water, mouthwash, or shampoo fall under the liquid category for TSA, other items, like toothpaste, peanut butter, mascara, lip gloss, deodorant, sunscreen, and hair gel also count. If an item has the ability to spread, pour, or spray, it will typically fall under liquid rules.
What happens to my items if they do not follow the 3-1-1 guidelines?
If your items do not follow TSA’s 3-1-1 rules, it can lead to delays, additional screening, confiscation of items, or being told to check in your items. Be sure to follow guidelines when packing liquids.
Can travel insurance offer coverage for lost items?
If you must check-in bags and your items (toiletries, liquids, etc.) are lost, travel insurance may offer reimbursement for your luggage. If the airline does not provide full reimbursement for the value of your luggage and your items, your travel insurance can cover the remaining difference. Be sure to check your policy’s limits to see coverage details.
Can I take empty bottles through TSA?
Yes, an empty water bottle can be taken through TSA. You will not be able to bring water or any other liquids more than 3.4 oz. (with exceptions) through security. However, you can fill up your bottles once you have gone through security.
What if I need a medical liquid that is more than 3.4 ounces?
Any necessary liquids or medications are exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule, so long as they are declared to TSA officers.
