Tired of bottling up your flying frustrations?
Weary travelers have long loathed the pesky TSA rules that limit the size of liquids on aircraft, but those restrictions may eventually be trashed — just like the many bottles of shampoo, perfume and cosmetics that are dumped in the security line.
New technology could soon allow certain full-sized liquids on flights, potentially negating the 3-1-1 blanket rule that requires all carry-on liquids to be stored in 3.4-ounce containers inside of one quart-sized plastic bag lest you run the risk of confiscation.
Thanks to computed tomography (CT) scanners — which use 3-D imaging to find unauthorized liquids at security checkpoints — the days of travel-sized toothpaste and cleansers may soon be obsolete, at least at certain airports.
According to Conde Nast Traveler, the UK initially planned to integrate the new-age security technology and lift the liquid limitations as early as June 1 of this year, but has since postponed the start date.
A representative for TSA in the US told the outlet that the agency “anticipate the limit on liquids will be lifted in the coming years,” but the restrictions are still in place for now.
“While we have [CT scanners] deployed at more checkpoints, we are years away from announcing a change to the current liquids rule,” the agency’s press secretary Robert Carter Langston previously stated.
Even so, there’s still 11 liquids that are exceptions to the longstanding 3-1-1 rule.
Namely, prescription medications — whether liquid, gel or aerosol — are allowed through TSA, as are other-the-counter liquid medications or contact lens solution in “reasonable quantities.”
Additionally, freezer or ice packs necessary to keep medications cold and other medical accessories, such as IV bags or syringes, are allowed.
Fresh eggs, fish being transported in water and wet batteries are also permitted, as is breast milk and formula for infants, liquid-filled items for teething and food or drinks for babies and toddlers.
Larger duty-free items purchased at the airport can also go through the security checkpoint so long as they are sealed in tamper-evident bags, per Conde Nast Traveler.
“TSA officers may test liquids, gels or aerosols for explosives or concealed prohibited items,” according to the official agency site, which also advises passengers to inform security agents about larger liquids.
If they are unable to be screened by machine or travelers prefer to not have their liquid medication to be opened or exposed to X-ray, the items can be examined using other methods.
“Additional steps will be taken to clear the liquid, and you or the traveling guardian will undergo additional screening procedures, which may include AIT screening, a pat-down, and additional screening of your carry-on property,” the agency writes.
Items permitted by TSA
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medication in gel, aerosol or liquid
- Fresh eggs
- Live fish transported in water
- Wet batteries
- Biological specimens
- Breast milk or formula for infants
- Teethers filled with liquid
- Freezer or ice packs for medically necessary items
- Food and drinks for toddlers and babies
- Duty-free items sealed in a tamper-evident bag
