Flying post 9/11 is a hassle that none of us asked for, but that we all go along with because we have no choice. We take off our shoes, we put our electronics in their own bin, and yes, we buy tiny little bottles and transfer our shampoos, conditioners, etc into them to avoid checked bag fees.
If you’re curious, there are some things that will make it through security in bigger quantities though, so listen up!
12. Live fish.
Image Credit: iStock
If you’ve bought fish and need to get them home, they’ll obviously need water. They’ll be allowed on the flight in a clear plastic container.
Some airlines require crustaceans to be checked, and other exotic animals are typically not allowed.
11. Breastmilk, formula, and baby food.
Image Credit: iStock
If you’re a breastfeeding mom, you probably have nightmares about dumping your milk – but if you’re flying with a baby, you definitely don’t have to.
There is a caveat of “reasonable quantities,” though there is no further specifics on that, so pack what you need for traveling and check or ship the rest.
10. Saline solution.
Image Credit: iStock
If you wear contacts, your solution is classified as an over-the-counter medication and allowed in larger quantities.
9. Prescription meds.
Image Credit: iStock
Pills and other solid medications are allowed in “unlimited amounts” as long as they’re screened, regardless of what sort of container they’re in.
The “reasonable quantities” rule applies to liquid medication, though, so just bring what you need – and expect them to go through additional screenings on your way through security.
8. Hand sanitizer.
Image Credit: iStock
You can probably guess why this rule changed, but up to 12 ounces of hand sanitizer is allowed in your carry-on.
It will be swabbed, though.
7. Ice packs.
Image Credit: iStock
If you need to keep some of the above items cool, you can bring a “reasonable quantity” of ice packs to make it happen, but they will need to be frozen solid when you pass through security.
If they’re liquid, they are subject to the 3.4 ounce rule.
6. Teethers.
Image Credit: iStock
No one wants to hear your baby scream on the plane, so you can bring liquid or gel-filled teethers, no problem.
That said, I can’t imagine most of them are over the size limit to begin with.
5. Disinfecting wipes.
Image Credit: iStock
Covid changed this rule as well – in April of 2020 the TSA changed their stance on wipes.
You don’t have to buy those small travel packs anymore, because a regular sized one is fine.
4. Anything frozen.
Image Credit: iStock
If it’s frozen, it’s not a liquid.
That said, if it’s melted at all, you’ll be made to check them, so I hope you don’t live too far from the airport.
3. Cough syrup.
Image Credit: iStock
If you’re healthy enough to travel but still have a nagging cough, good news – you can bring the whole bottle along for the ride.
It will be subject to additional screening as well.
2. Gel-filled bras.
Image Credit: iStock
If your bra is good sized and contains silicone inserts, you can bring them in your carry-on.
You’ll have to let TSA know about them, though, so if you’re easily embarrassed you might want to check them or leave them at home.
1. Bottled water.
Image Credit: iStock
Ok, not for you – but you can bring bottled water or water bottles through security for your young kids.
If they ask, explain it’s for your child and they should let it pass.
In case you’re ever wondering, honey is considered a liquid.
Learned that the hard way.
