LIQUIDS & MORE

As you are packing your carry-on, it is essential that you review the rules about what you can carry on board. Knowing, how many products, what size and what you can bring is imperative. Being informed saves you time and allows for a smooth transition through security. And of course, understanding the expectations helps you avoid the heartbreak of watching helplessly as your favorite moisturizer goes straight into the trash.

TSA RULES 3-1-1

According to Trip Savvy, The 3-1-1 Rule refers to three core components that govern how many liquids you can bring in your carry-on bags: Each liquid must be in a 3.4-ounce or less container (“3”), all containers must be placed inside one clear quart-sized plastic bag (“1”), and each passenger is only allowed one plastic bag (“1”).

Considering those restrictions, packing your toiletries and cosmetics requires some ingenuity. Pare down or skim the amount of liquids you carry.

SIZE MATTERS

How big is 3.4 oz (ounces) or 100 ML container? I’ve listed a few examples below.

ZIPLOC BAGS WORKS FINE

Our trusty and reliable ziploc bag works just fine. But I am a firm advocate on finding a suitable, reliable and durable bag. There are so many fashionable options.

DO BRING

1. Toiletries
2. Makeup
3. Non-Liquids

DONTS

1. Full size containers
2. Sharp objects
3. Flammables ( include some aerosols)
4. Batteries ( Check with the flight attendant)
5. Weapons of any kind
6. Read more on what not to bring here

WHEN IN DOUBT

1. Check with TSA
2. Check with your airline, for example Air France recommends a net total 0.5 Kg or 0.5 Liter of liquids per traveler in your carry-on. The volume of the bag must not exceed 1 liter / 34.8 fl. oz.
3. Reassess and reduce what you are bringing with you.
4. Do you really need to bring your shampoo and conditioner? Consider purchasing those items locally, same goes for body lotions. Emphasize on items that are harder to find once you’ve reached your final destination, such as foundation and concealer.
5. Powered formulas and solids are a godsend when packing. For example, consider buying your favorite perfume into solid form.

EXTRAS

1. Exemptions: Medications and Infant formulas
2. Inbound International Flights: Duty free liquids in secure, tamper–evident bags, more than 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your carry-on bag. I learned this the hard way. I bought full sized products at duty free in Germany. German Authorities opened my duty free bag and tested all products and I was able to go through security painlessly. Once I landed in the US, the airport did not have the machine to test the items. They threatened to throw them away. My Godsend of a husband got out of line and checked my carry-on. The lesson, if you have a connecting flight and you need to go through security again. Take the time to check your bag.
3. Lip Balm, Lip gloss, mascara and roll-on deodorants are also considered part of your liquid counts

HOW TOs

Matilda shows us her in flight packing method. She also has great content surrounding packing for long-haul flights and extended stays.

I’ve also enjoyed Becca Irene’s video on packing as well.

Share with us, how do you apply the 3-1-1 Rules?