Heading to America? Airport Security in USA is notoriously tough, so being clear on what you can and can't take onboard can save you from a lot of stress at the airport.
No one wants to have their favourite toiletries and beauty products confiscated at airport security because they packed the wrong size. Quantity limits apply to taking liquids, aerosols and gels on international flights in and out of USA through airport security screening points.
You are allowed to bring one small bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the airport security checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 mL) or less per container. Consolidating these containers in a small bag separate from your carry-on baggage allows the TSA officers to screen them quickly.
The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule for carry on bags: Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less per container; must be in 1 litre clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. The bag limits the total liquid volume each traveller can bring.
Be prepared. Each time a TSA officer stops to physically screen a carry-on bag, it slows down the line. Practicing the 3-1-1 rule will ensure the checkpoint experience is as quick and easy as possible.
Declare larger liquids. Medications, baby formula/food and breast milk are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces (100 mL), and they don’t have to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint. TSA officers may need to open them for additional screening.
If in doubt, put your liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in your checked bags.
The rules have changed recently for inbound international flights into the USA.
You may now carry liquids more than 100 mL in your carry-on bag if:
- You are travelling internationally into the United States with a connecting flight;
- they are in transparent containers;
- you bought them at a duty-free shop, and
- the store packed them in a secure, tamper-proof bag.
If your liquids are not in a secure, tamper-evident bag, you must pack them in your checked luggage.
If the liquids alarm during screening, they will need to screen them further.
If you want further information on what you are allowed to have in your carry on luggage in and out of the USA, go to the TSA website.
These rules apply specifically to America, and may vary from country to country. Its best to check your other destination country regulations also, in case their requirements are different to that of America.
All toiletries and beauty products available to purchase on OFFEN marked with our Travel Size logo fit the requirement of being 100 mL or less.
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