Know the Rules: 10 Liquids You Can Legally Carry on Planes

Air travel comes with many restrictions, especially when it comes to carrying liquids. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has established the well-known 3-1-1 rule, which limits liquids to containers of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, stored in a single quart-sized bag. However, there are several exceptions to this rule that allow passengers to carry certain liquids in larger amounts. Understanding these guidelines in advance can prevent unnecessary stress at security checkpoints and help you travel with ease. Here are ten liquids you can legally bring on a plane and the specific regulations you need to follow.

1. Baby Formula and Breast Milk

Traveling with an infant requires bringing essential items, including baby formula and breast milk. The TSA allows these liquids in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces, and they do not need to be stored inside a quart-sized bag. Parents must declare these liquids at security checkpoints, where officers may conduct additional screening. If requested, TSA agents can avoid X-ray screening, opting for alternative methods instead. To make the process easier, store baby formula and breast milk in clear bottles and pack them in an accessible area of your carry-on.

2. Prescription Medications and Liquid Medical Supplies

Passengers with medical needs can carry prescription medications in liquid form, even if they exceed the 3.4-ounce limit. This rule applies to both prescribed and over-the-counter medications such as saline solutions and liquid pain relievers. Although a prescription label or doctor’s note is not always required, having one can help speed up the screening process. TSA officers may need to test the liquid for security purposes, so keeping medications in their original containers is recommended. Ice packs and gel packs used to keep medication cool are also allowed, as long as they are for medical purposes.

3. Hand Sanitizer

To promote hygiene and safety during travel, the TSA allows each passenger to carry one bottle of liquid hand sanitizer up to 12 ounces. This is an exception to the 3-1-1 rule, implemented to help travelers maintain cleanliness while flying. Since larger bottles require additional screening, passengers should place their hand sanitizer in an easily accessible area of their carry-on. If you are carrying multiple bottles, ensure the additional ones follow the 3.4-ounce restriction and fit inside the quart-sized bag.

4. Duty-Free Alcohol and Perfumes

Many travelers purchase alcohol and perfumes at duty-free shops inside the airport, which allows them to bring liquid containers larger than 3.4 ounces. However, these items must be sealed in a tamper-evident bag, accompanied by a receipt showing they were purchased within the last 48 hours. If you have a connecting flight, be aware that re-screening at another airport may require you to transfer duty-free liquids into your checked baggage if they exceed the allowed limit. Checking with your airline ahead of time can help you avoid complications.

5. Saline Solution and Contact Lens Solution

Passengers who wear contact lenses need to carry saline solution or disinfecting liquids to maintain proper eye hygiene. The TSA allows travelers to bring larger quantities of saline solution as an exception to the liquid limit. However, it is advisable to declare these items at security checkpoints for easy screening. To minimize hassle, consider carrying a travel-sized bottle in your quart-sized bag and placing any larger bottles in checked luggage.

6. Frozen Liquids and Ice Packs

Frozen liquids such as ice packs are permitted in carry-on bags, particularly if they are needed for medical reasons. However, TSA requires that these items be completely frozen at the time of screening. If they have started to thaw or contain any liquid, they must comply with the 3.4-ounce rule. This exemption is especially useful for travelers carrying perishable medications or breast milk that must remain cool during long flights. To prevent issues, pack frozen items securely and ensure they remain solid until you reach security.

7. Liquid Cosmetics and Toiletries

Many travelers bring liquid cosmetics such as foundation, lotion, perfume, and makeup removers when flying. These products are allowed in carry-ons as long as they follow the 3.4-ounce limit and fit inside a quart-sized bag. If you have larger containers, they must be packed in checked luggage. To avoid leaks, use leak-proof travel containers and double-seal them in a resealable plastic bag. For convenience, consider purchasing travel-sized versions of your favorite beauty products.

8. Liquid Foods and Beverages for Special Dietary Needs

Passengers with dietary restrictions can bring liquid food items such as meal replacement shakes, protein drinks, and baby food in larger quantities. These must be declared at security checkpoints and may undergo additional screening. If the liquids are not for special dietary needs, they must comply with the standard 3.4-ounce rule. If possible, choose solid or powdered alternatives to reduce complications during security checks. For a smoother process, keep your dietary liquids in their original packaging and carry documentation explaining their necessity if required.

9. Breast Pumps and Associated Liquids

Breastfeeding mothers who need to bring breast pumps and expressed milk on a flight are allowed to do so without restriction on quantity. TSA officers must screen these items, and any cooling gel packs or ice packs used to preserve milk must be completely frozen at the time of inspection. Breast pumps are considered medical devices, so they are not counted as part of the standard carry-on allowance. While a doctor’s note is not necessary, it may help expedite security screening if questions arise.

10. Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Liquids

Many travelers use essential oils and aromatherapy products for relaxation during flights. These liquids are permitted in carry-on bags as long as they comply with the 3.4-ounce limit and fit within a quart-sized bag. Larger bottles must be packed in checked luggage. To prevent spills, store essential oils in tightly sealed containers and pack them inside a leak-proof pouch. Since some scents can be strong, be considerate of fellow passengers before using essential oils during your flight.

Final Thoughts

Understanding TSA’s liquid regulations before traveling can help you avoid unnecessary stress and delays at airport security checkpoints. While the 3-1-1 rule applies to most liquids, several exceptions allow passengers to bring essential items in larger quantities. By declaring medical and dietary liquids when necessary, keeping duty-free purchases sealed, and packing properly, you can ensure a smooth screening process. Before heading to the airport, always check for the latest updates from TSA and your airline to avoid any last-minute surprises. Proper planning will help you travel with confidence and avoid unnecessary complications. Safe travels!