Woman's luggage inspected by TSA. Say goodbye to mini bottles! TSA's new tech could end those pesky liquid restrictions. Full-size shampoo and more may soon fly free.

Full-Size Liquids On Planes? TSA Might Ditch Annoying Liquid Rules – Find Out When!

Say goodbye to mini bottles! TSA’s new tech could end those pesky liquid restrictions. Full-size shampoo and more may soon fly free. ✈️ #News #Travel #TSA

Is the 3-1-1 Rule Going Bye-Bye?

ST. PAUL, MN – Weary travelers, rejoice! The notorious TSA rule that limits liquids to tiny 3.4-ounce bottles could be on its way out. Imagine not having to decant your shampoo or toss your favorite perfume at security. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, thanks to some fancy new technology, this could become a reality.

New Tech to the Rescue

Enter computed tomography (CT) scanners. These high-tech gadgets use 3D imaging to detect unauthorized liquids at security checkpoints. The UK was all set to roll out this technology and lift liquid restrictions as early as June 1st. However, they’ve hit the pause button for now.

But don’t lose hope just yet! TSA in the US has hinted that these changes might come stateside in the coming years!

Busy scene of people at an airport.

The Long Wait

While the TSA has started deploying CT scanners at more checkpoints, we’re still a few years away from saying goodbye to the 3-1-1 rule.

For now, you’ll still need to pack those travel-size bottles, but there’s a silver lining. There are exceptions to the rule, and some full-size liquids are already allowed through security.

Liquids in container for suitcase.

The Exceptions List

Let’s break down the 11 lucky liquids that get a free pass:

  1. Baby Necessities: Formula, breast milk, and food or drinks for infants and toddlers.
  2. Duty-Free Items: As long as they’re in sealed, tamper-evident bags.
  3. Medications: Prescription meds (liquid, gel, or aerosol) and over-the-counter liquid medications are allowed in reasonable quantities.
  4. Medical Items: Freezer or ice packs for medications, IV bags, and syringes.
  5. Fresh Eggs: Yes, you read that right!
  6. Live Fish in Water: Perfect for pet lovers.
  7. Wet Batteries: For those must-have electronics.
  8. Biological Specimens: For scientific purposes.
  9. Liquid-filled Teethers: For keeping babies happy.
  10. Liquid Foods and Drinks for Toddlers: Because kids need snacks!
  11. Other Medically Necessary Items: Such as specific dietary liquids or treatments.

Security Screening

TSA officers might test your liquids, gels, or aerosols for explosives or other prohibited items. If they can’t be screened by machine, or if you’d rather not expose your liquid meds to X-rays, they can use other methods. This might mean extra steps like AIT screening, a pat-down, or additional checks on your carry-on items.

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Still Waiting on Full-Sized Freedom

For now, travelers will have to wait a bit longer before they can pack their full-size shampoos and perfumes without worry. The technology is promising, but widespread changes are still on the horizon. Until then, knowing the exceptions can save you some hassle at the airport.

So, next time you’re packing for a trip, keep this list handy. While we’re not quite at the point of ditching the travel-size bottles altogether, there’s hope on the horizon. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting development in travel convenience!

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