This Type Of Liquid Is An Exception To The TSA's Strict Limits

The TSA's strict liquids rules can make packing for a trip extra difficult. If you arrive at the airport unprepared, you may be forced to throw out your drinks, cosmetics, and other liquid items before being allowed through the security checkpoint. There are some bizarre items considered to be liquids by the TSA, including peanut butter and gel candles.

The liquid rules can be especially stressful for parents or caretakers traveling with milk and other beverages for their little ones. However, there's some good news: According to the TSA website, breast milk, baby formula, and juice for small children are exempt from the usual restrictions. In most cases, carry-on liquids must follow the 3-1-1 rule, which states that travelers are limited to 3.4-ounce containers of liquids, which must fit in a single quart-size sealable bag per person. Anything larger should be placed in a checked bag or disposed of before going through security.

For tots requiring specific drinks, these guidelines can be difficult to follow, particularly when surviving a long-haul flight. Adults traveling with small children can rest assured knowing these items will be allowed in the plane cabin. Additionally, breast milk is permitted through security even without a child present, which can be a relief for lactating mothers and others who may need to transport breast milk.

If you're flying with a baby or small child, you may also wish to bring food and other items that would typically be scrutinized or restricted by TSA officers. However, the security agency offers leniency to those traveling with children, and some items you may have thought were off-limits could be given the green light at the security checkpoint. For instance, soft baby food, including the puréed kind that comes in a jar or can, is allowed on planes even if it exceeds 3.4 ounces. Packaged drinks for toddlers are also permitted through security in larger quantities.

Certain non-edible liquid accessories needed for traveling with small children are similarly allowed on planes, whether they comply with TSA's standard liquids rules or not. This includes gel teethers for babies, among other belongings required to keep your child comfortable on the flight. Ice packs needed to keep breast milk, formula, and food cold are also allowed in carry-on luggage, though they may require additional screening if they begin to melt before you reach airport security.

Note that liquid items intended for older children will likely be subject to the 3-1-1 rule, just like adult passengers' carry-on belongings. One exception is if a child has a medical condition or disability that requires special liquids. Medically necessary liquids, such as medications or food for certain diets, are among the important travel items that are exempt from TSA's liquid rules.

Just because extra liquids for small children are allowed on planes doesn't mean you can navigate security as you usually would. To avoid getting flagged by TSA, you should declare any milk, juices, and other items that exceed the 3-1-1 limits to the security officer. Then, remove them from your carry-on bag and be prepared to hand the liquids over for additional screening.

To speed up this process, TSA recommends packaging the liquids in clear bottles rather than plastic bags, as milk and drinks in bags can't be easily scanned with TSA's bottle scanners. Baby and toddler drinks kept in bags may need to be opened to complete the screening requirements. This type of screening can be more time-consuming, though note that it won't contaminate or reduce the quality of the liquids.

Once you're through security, be sure to pack all liquids back in your bag safely and securely. To avoid leaks, consider placing bottles in sealable plastic bags to catch any potential spills. You may also want to rely on a waterproof cooler bag instead of your usual carry-on gear.