TSA carry-on rules (and exceptions)
INTERNATIONAL TRAVELER? Remember that TSA is USA-only. See International travel for tips.
TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for carry-on bags
NUTSHELL: Nothing larger than 3.5 ounces. All liquids must fit in a single quart-size bag
What is the 3-1-1 liquids rule?
Each passenger may carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size 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.
Carry-On Bag
3.4 ounces (100 mL) or smaller sized containers that fit in 1 quart-sized resealable bag may go in cary-on and through checkpoint security.
Checked Bag
Containers that are larger than 3.4 ounces (100mL) regardless of amount inside must be in checked baggage.
3-1-1 Liquids Rule Exemption
NUTSHELL: Medically necessary liquids are allowed in larger amounts “in reasonable quantities” but must be declared and screened separately.
TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your flight, but you must declare them to TSA officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
Remove medically necessary items from your carry-on bag. These items will be screened separately from your other belongings. You are not required to place your medically necessary liquid, gel, or aerosol in a plastic zip-top bag. If a medically necessary liquid, gel, or aerosol sets off the alarms during the screening process, it may require additional screening and may not be allowed.
Template for exemption request
Download letter template now or View Google Doc
This is our suggested template for your eye doctor to write a letter to TSA explaining your medical necessity. You can carry the letter with you when traveling, in order to show to TSA agents, but please also see our caution below.
Caution: A doctor’s letter is not a guarantee that your product(s) will be allowed in your carry-on.
EXCEEDING THE 3-1-1 RULE FOR CARRY-ON LIQUID can result in confiscation of items even if you have a letter from your doctor or other documentation indicating that these solutions are medically necessary.
TRAVELING WITH HYDROGEN PEROXIDE 3% (Clear Care, other brand, standard 3% hydrogen peroxide not sold for use with contacts) can result in confiscation of the product even if you have a letter from your doctor or other documentation indicating that this solution is medically necessary. Some people who normally use H2O2 switch to a multi-purpose solution when they travel in order to not run this risk.
Why?
3-1-1 exceptions are always at the discretion of the security agent and are not treated in a uniform way.
“If a medically necessary liquid, gel, or aerosol sets off the alarms during the screening process, it may require additional screening and may not be allowed.”