There still seems to be a lot of confusion about what can, and can't, be taken through security and onboard the aircraft. We want to try and make your trip through the lines a little quicker.
EACH passenger is limited to ONE zip-loc style baggie,
QUART-sized, in which you can place as many "Comfortably-fitting"
(read easy to see) items of MOST* liquid or gel products, as
long as EACH item is in a container that is 3 OUNCES, or
less, in size. (*NO liquid or gel product can be of a flammable
nature.)
You CAN NOT have a 6-ounce bottle that is half full. You CAN
NOT have a 10-ounce tube of toothpaste or hair gel that is
three-quarters empty. You CAN NOT have a 3.5-ounce bottle of
mouthwash (and just try to find one of those at 3-ounces, or smaller).
Don't fill this limited space with everything you normally keep in
your toiletry kit (hairbrush, floss, toothbrush, etc.). Put those items in
your usual toiletry bag. Your zip-loc baggie of liquids/gels must be OUT
of your carry-on baggage and sent through the screening machine
separately.
So, what can you do if you need liquids or gels in larger quantities?
- You can place larger quantities in checked luggage.
- You can purchase larger-size products on the other side of security
(but remember, you won't be able to bring them back through
security on your return flight).
- You can transfer products to smaller, travel size bottles. Just be
certain that they are marked, or are very obviously, 3-ounces or less.
- Check with your hotel to see what they already provide (many have
expanded way beyond just shampoo and conditioner) which might allow you
to bring the specific items you need that aren't already available,
gratis, from your hotel.
- Consider substitute products. Liquid nail polish remover can be
replaced with "acceptable" pads that are saturated with the
product. The same goes for hand sanitizer cloths vs. a bottle of liquid
hand sanitizer. We even hear that tooth polishing "powder" is
making a bit of a comeback.
There are exceptions, of course. Certain medications (prescription or
over-the-counter) may be acceptable in larger quantities. Breast milk,
baby-food, or required hydrating products may be acceptable in larger
quantities. Water, sports-drinks and other non-essential beverages must be
consumed before passing through security (you can, however, purchase these
items on the boarding side of security and take them onboard the
aircraft).
Visit http://www.tsa.gov/travelers/airtravel/prohibited/permitted-prohibited-items.shtm
for additional information and exceptions to these guidelines.
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