TSA Luggage Rules - ROAM Luggage

TSA Liquids Rules in Carry-On Luggage

There's so much to worry about when you're traveling. From keeping your belongings safe to finding the right gate to packing everything you need in the proper size bag, flying can seem downright daunting.



One of the most frustrating aspects of air travel is complying with Transportation Security Administration rules for liquids in your carry-on bag. If you're confused about how to make sure your toothpaste, shampoo and other personal liquids make it on the plane with you, the experts at ROAM Luggage have got you covered.

Here's a breakdown of everything you need to know about packing liquids in your carry-on bag.

3-1-1- Rule

You may have heard about the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for liquids in your carry-on. But what, exactly does it mean? Quite simply, all your liquids, gels, creams and aerosols must be sized at 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, contained in a 1-quart zipper-top bag, and limited to one bag per traveler.

This includes almost all personal care items, like toothpaste, shampoo, mouthwash, gel deodorant, liquid make-up, moisturizers and hairspray. If you're traveling with someone, consider pooling all your travel-size liquids then dividing them equally into two 1-quart size bags so that each of you will have everything you need while still complying with the rules.

Pack your bag of liquids last so that it is easily accessible during security screening. You'll have to remove it from your carry-on to go through the X-ray separately.

Medication Exemptions

Make sure all your medications - including pills or other solid forms - are clearly marked with your prescription and declare them to the TSA during security screening. The TSA allows for larger than 3.4-ounce quantities of medically necessary liquids, which do not need to be inside a 1-quart zippered bag, but they must be removed from your bag, declared and inspected.

Children's Needs

The TSA understands that traveling with children is a bit different than traveling alone, so they have modified screening procedures for flyers under the age of 13. Liquids like formula, breast milk and juice for babies and children are allowed in larger than 3.4-ounce quantities, but they must be declared and removed from carry-ons during screening. Talk to the TSA agent if you have concerns or are unsure about how to declare your child's liquids.

Duty-Free Liquids

If you are flying into the U.S. from another country, you are allowed to bring duty-free liquids that are larger than 3.4 ounces in your carry-on bag, so long as you observe a few regulations. Have your receipt for the duty-free purchase ready to show the TSA agent, and make sure the retailer packaged your liquids in a clear, tamper-evident bag. If your purchase was made more than 48 hours before your inbound flight, you're better off stowing those duty-free liquids in a checked bag.

Final Thoughts

Though air travel can be stressful, remember that TSA screenings are meant to keep us all safe. If you take a moment to familiarize yourself with the regulations for flying with liquids in your carry-on bag, you can alleviate some of that stress by being ready to sail through screening with ease.

At ROAM Luggage, our goal is to help you travel in style and comfort. Once you've got your 3-1-1 liquids sorted out, toss them into your customized Jaunt carry-on and get roaming!