TSA Liquids Rule 3‑1‑1 Explained 2025: What You Need to Know
TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule, Deconstructed
- ^3.4 oz (100 ml) or less _per container_ (the limit is by container size, not by remaining contents) oai_citation:0‡NerdWallet oai_citation:1‡Travel Sentry oai_citation:2‡TSA - ^1 quart‑sized, clear, resealable bag to hold all compliant items oai_citation:3‡Travel Sentry - ^1 bag per passenger allowed through security oai_citation:4‡Travel Sentry
^This policy governs liquids, gels, creams, pastes, aerosols, and consumable items like peanut butter or honey oai_citation:5‡NerdWallet.
Why It Exists (And Why It’s Still in Place)
^Implemented in 2006 after liquid-explosive threats, the 3‑1‑1 rule remains despite evolving tech oai_citation:6‡Travel + Leisure. ^Even with advanced 3D CT scanners improving threat detection, full deployment across U.S. airports isn’t expected until the 2040s, so the liquid restrictions persist oai_citation:7‡Wall Street Journal.
What’s Exempt—Naturally and By Design
Always Exempt (But Declare Them)
- ^Medically necessary liquids (prescription meds, nutritional supplements, CPAP solutions, etc.), including larger volumes oai_citation:8‡Travel + Leisure - ^Infant/baby formula, breast milk, juice—regardless of size—and ice packs or gel packs used to cool baby items or medications oai_citation:9‡Travel Sentry
^Declare these items at the checkpoint; screening may include visual or additional inspection.
Duty-Free Purchases
^If purchased internationally and packed in a secure, tamper-evident bag with receipt within 48 hours, you may bring duty-free liquids, even over 3.4 oz, through carry-on oai_citation:10‡TSA.
Rare Special Cases
- ^Live fish, coral, certain preserved specimens in liquid containers may be allowed with proper packaging and inspection—like 30 ml inside an inner heat-sealed bag and up to 1 L in outer packaging for scientific samples oai_citation:11‡Condé Nast Traveler.
What’s Changing—or Might Soon
- ^No immediate end to 3‑1‑1: despite DHS hints at relaxing the rule, no concrete changes are in effect as of mid‑2025 oai_citation:12‡The Points Guy. - ^Scanning upgrades slow: Only ~40% of required CT machines are installed; full reach expected by 2042 oai_citation:13‡Wall Street Journal. - ^Traveler reminders ramped up: TSA continues to warn summer travelers—failure to comply delays screening; check toothpaste, sunscreen, peanut butter, etc. oai_citation:14‡The Sun.
Practical Packing Strategies
- ^Start with an empty quart bag to avoid accidentally including prohibited items oai_citation:15‡TSA. - ^Prioritize solids: Use solid shampoo bars, powdered toothpaste, or solid deodorant—they don’t count as liquids oai_citation:16‡Squaremouth Travel Insurance. - ^Pack smart and accessibly: Place your 3‑1‑1 bag in an easy-to-extract pocket for quicker screening oai_citation:17‡TSA. - ^Enlist travel companions: If you’re maxed out, coordinate with a companion’s bag (but never exceed personal allowance) oai_citation:18‡The Points Guy. - ^Be aware of enforcement variability: Some checkpoints are strict about the bag; others focus only on container size and may not require removal if CT scanners are in use oai_citation:19‡Reddit.
> Reddit insight: > ^“When the lane has newer CT scanners, officers often let liquids ride inside the carry‑on; with older X‑ray they’ll ask for the bag out…” oai_citation:20‡Reddit
Summary Snapshot
| Element | Rule & Tips | | ------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- | | Container limit | ≤ 3.4 oz (100 ml) per container, regardless of contents | | Bag requirement | 1 clear quart bag per passenger, unless exempted | | Declare if | Medications, baby items, medical supplies—even if over size limit | | Duty-free | Allowed with tamper-evident bag + receipt (within 48 hrs) | | Packing hacks | Use solid alternatives, accessible quart bag, share space smartly | | Future outlook | Rule likely to remain through 2025+, as CT rollout continues into 2040s |
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Internal Links (for GearBuddha cross-reference)
- For gear suggestions on solid toiletries, see our guide to eco-friendly shampoo bars. - Traveling with medical gear? Check our article on managing CPAP and medications in carry-ons.
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Final Takeaway
The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule remains firmly in place through mid-2025, driven by security needs and incomplete CT scanner deployment. Travelers benefit most by packing with clarity—respect the 3.4 oz limit, use smart exemptions, declare medical items, and stay ready for variable enforcement. This rule isn’t going away soon—but with pro-level prep, you’ll stay ahead at security with confidence.
Let me know if you want a printable checklist or mobile-friendly infographic for this topic.
