Travel Essentials That Are Exempt From TSA's Strict Liquid Limitations
By BEN F. SILVERIO
According to the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA), passengers in an airport must follow the 3-1-1 rule concerning liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes.
These items must be 3.4 ounces or less in volume in your carry-on luggage, and they must be able to fit in a single quart-sized bag. In other words, 3 ounces in 1 bag, per person.
Two categories of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes, are exempt from the restrictions placed on carry-on baggage by the 3-1-1 rule: medications and child nourishment.
Medications, including eye drops, insulin, or syringes, are allowed in "reasonable quantities" but must be removed from your bag and declared at the security checkpoint.
It's not required, but keeping prescriptions in their original containers with your name on the labels is best if the TSA has further questions.
Baby formula, breast milk, and baby/toddler food, like puree pouches, are considered "medically necessary liquids," and more than 3.4 ounces are permitted.
Ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs, and other accessories to keep medicines and baby food cool are also acceptable in carry-ons but should be visible and declared.
While tomography scanners that create 3D images of the contents of a person's bag are being developed, the U.S. is still "years away" from being ready to implement them.