Before the Check Point - Carry-on 3-1-1 Rule

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Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters and are limited to one quart-size resealable clear bag of liquids. gels and aerosols.  Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.

Liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters must be packed in checked baggage.

What are the exemptions and what do you need to know?

Before the screening begins, inform the TSA officer that you have medically necessary liquids and/or medications, breast milk or child nourishments.  Place them in a bin or bowl separate from other property, along with accessories associated with your item such as freezer packs, IV bags, pumps and syringes.

TSA X-ray machines are not harmful to food or medicines.  However, if you do not want the formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby/toddler food (to include puree pouches) to be X-rayed or opened, please inform the TSA officer.  Additional steps will be taken for screening.

Medications - Medications in pill or other solid forms must undergo security screening.  You can help expedite this by clearly labeling medications.

Infant and child nourishment - Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks and baby/toddler food (including puree pouches) in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters are allowed in carry-on baggage and do not need to fit within a quart sized bag.  They are considered medically necessary liquids.  

Your child or infant does not need to be present or traveling with you to bring breast milk, formula and/or related supplies.

It is helpful when formula and breast milk are in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.  Liquids in plastic bags or pouches may not be able to be screened by Bottle Liquid Scanners, and you may be asked to open them (if feasible) for alternate screening.

Ice packs to keep food and medicine cold.  Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs and other accessories required to cool medications, infant or child nourishments - regardless of the presence of breastmilk - are also allowed in carry-ons, along with liquid filled teethers.  If these items are partially frozen or slushy, they are subject to the same screening as described above.