Airline Travel Tips - TSA 3-1-1 Rule Explained
- Unique Finds MN
- May 27, 2015
- 2 min read
Attention travelers, this is your captain speaking. I have some important information that will save you headaches at the airport.
With summer vacation season about to go into full swing and people from all over the United States set to head out for airports, we want to remind you of the TSA requirements for carrying on liquids on airplanes in carryon baggage.
The Transportation Security Administration has what is called the 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage. You are allowed to bring one small bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the security checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces or less per container. Consolidating these containers in the small bag separate from your carry-on baggage allows TSA officers to screen them quickly.

3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring.
Be prepared. Each time a TSA officer stops to physically screen a carry-on bag, it slows down the line. Practicing the 3-1-1 rule will speed the checkpoint experience.
Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula/food and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces, and they don’t have to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. TSA officers may need to open them for additional screening. If in doubt, put your liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in checked baggage.
In addition, there are certain items, TSA, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and/or airlines have prohibited from being brought onto airplanes in carry-on and/or checked bags. To help you plan ahead and avoid the potential of additional screening, be sure to check out the prohibited items list and pack accordingly. Prohibited items include sharp objects, certain sporting goods such as baseball bats and hockey sticks, guns and firearms, certain tools such as hammers and axes, martial arts and self-defense items, explosive and flammable materials, disabling chemicals and other dangerous items.
It’s important to know that even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. The final decision rests with TSA on whether to allow any items on the plane. Also, please note that some dangerous items below are illegal in certain states and passengers will be subject to state law. It is a passenger’s responsibility to be aware that origination and destination cities may have local laws prohibiting the possession of these items.
Too many airline passengers head off to the airport not fully aware of what they are allowed to carryon to an airplane. They end up having to throw away their toiletries and personal items. Hopefully this information will be a useful guide and prevent that from happening. Because regulations can change, if you want to be 100% sure you can check the TSA website.
Thanks for flying with Just Right Travel Kits. Enjoy your trip!
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