If you are not a frequent traveler in the US then you absolutely need to ensure you familiarize yourself with the TSA 3-1-1 rule before you travel through airport TSA. Otherwise you could end up in a world of disappointment, embarrassment and delay.
So what is the 3-1-1 TSA rule?
In simple terms it describes what you can take through TSA screening and carry-on board an airplane.
The TSA states that you are allowed to bring 1 quart-sized bag of liquids per passenger, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Placing these items in the small bag and separating from your carry-on baggage facilitates the screening process. Passengers are also advised to pack items that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) in checked baggage.
Any liquid, aerosol, gel, cream or paste that alarms during screening will require additional screening.
So I can't take more liquids more than 3.4oz as carry-on?
Well hang on there. The TSA does make a few exceptions to the 3.4oz carry-on rule.
If you are taking liquid form of medications and/or Infant/child nourishment with you. Keep in mind the TSA may ask the passenger to drink the milk being transported as proof that it is truly safe.
Secondly, International inbound flights have more relaxed rules if they meet the following criteria and allow carriage of more than 3.4 oz liquids as carry-on if:
The duty free liquids were purchased internationally and you are traveling to the United States with a connecting flight.
The liquids are packed in a transparent, secure, tamper-evident bag by the retailer and do not show signs of tampering when presented to TSA for screening.
The original receipt for the liquids is present and the purchase was made within 48 hours
The TSA is also very clear that "liquids more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml not in a secure, tamper-evident bag must be packed in checked baggage" - sourced from TSA web site.
If you are wondering if peanut butter classifies as a liquid, the TSA on their web site also clarify that peanut butter, as any other spreadable is considered a liquid and must be checked in. Also keep in mind that if the container is larger the 3.4 ounces and if partially full, it must be checked in regardless. Solid food items other than liquid and gels can be transported in your carry on or taken onboard.
sourced from TSA website.
Carry-on Bags
Checked Bag
Why do we still have the 3-1-1 rule?
This rule was introduced back in 2006 when the British security services allegedly thwarted a scheme to blow up planes bound for the USA with liquid explosives. At the time many countries adopted some form of draconian ban on carriage of liquids. Over the years the policy on carriage of liquids has been relaxed in some countries as a result of better intelligence plus improved detection technologies at the airport which can identify explosives and drugs. However not all airports and locations have made the technology investments in the modern detection capabilities, hence the 3-1-1 remains in place.
Travel Tip:
If you are not sure about carriage of liquid rule, check it in and avoid the screening delays. However remember some airlines will charge for checked bags.
Direct from the source:
Check-out the TSA web site for the latest in 3-1-1 rules.
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