As a law-abiding citizen, you have been duly adhering to the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule, strictly packing toiletries of 3 ounces or less and placing those containers in a clear zip-top bag, right? But wait, if you’ve been doing that you’re actually cheating yourself out of a precious extra four-tenths of an ounce liquid per bottle. That’s right, the “3” in the “3-1-1” liquid ban rule actually stands for 100 milliliters, or 3.4 ounces.
Exceptions
Additionally, reasonable amounts of saline solution, doctor-prescribed medications, baby formula, and breast milk are among the few items that aren’t subjected to the liquid ban. Do, however, make it a point to declare such liquids to a TSA agent as soon as you arrive at the security checkpoint.
Pack It?
When in doubt, refer to the TSA’s prohibited-items list, or simply pack the liquids in your checked luggage. But first, print out SmarterTravel’s Airline Fees: The Ultimate Guide, a handy cheat-sheet to checked-bag fees.
Resources
I’ve compiled a listing of related content on the 3-1-1 liquid rule, getting efficiently through airport security, and packing tips to avoid extra baggage fees:
- Carry-On Bags: The Ultimate Guide
- What is a Liquid, and What Isn’t?
- What is a Liquid, and What Isn’t: Part Two
- Everything You Need to Know About Airport Security: A Primer for 2010
- Tips for the 3-1-1 Liquid Ban
- Ten Smart Ways to Simplify Security
- Packing Tips for Carry-On Bags: What You Need to Know
- Heading to the Airport? Use This Checklist Before You Go
- Avoid Fees and Hassles With a Well-Packed Bag
- Readers’ Best Carry-On Packing Tips
- Putting Non-Liquid Toiletries to the Test
We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Related
Top Fares From
Today's Top Travel Deals
Brought to you by ShermansTravel
9-Night Seoul, Hong Kong & Tokyo...
Exoticca
vacation $3099+16-Night Hawaiian Islands Cruise Over Christmas...
Princess Cruises
cruise $1579+Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati
85OFF.com
Car Rental $19+