What Liquids are Allowed on Planes?

If you are an avid air traveler and hale from Great Britain then you will probably remember the August 10, 2006 event wherein security inside the U.K came upon a terrorist plot which threatened a number of flights between the United States and the United Kingdom. The devices used to effect explosion were all comprised of a liquid base.

This set off warning bells between the two countries. The Transportation Security Administration(TSA)within the United States effected rules immediately in order to prevent any similar event occurring. Naturally, all countries have their own particular rules as to what gels and liquids you may carry on the plane. However, a good majority of the countries world-wide tend to have adopted the rules set forth by the TSA. Here are some tips as to what is and is not acceptable as far as taking liquids onto the plane.

The TSA views liquids within certain amounts not a threat to security therefore you may carry on a set limit within your carry-on bag. In order to get through the security checkpoint with the greatest amount of ease keep this standard rule in mind: only carry liquids or gels measuring a total of less than three ounces in volume. If you need to take more you can stash liquids of greater weight within your checked-in luggage. Each person may carry one plastic bag (qt. size) in order to hold such gel bottles and each person is permitted one plastic bag with the gels or liquids inside per bin (used for screening purposes).

Let's say you've purchased one of those snow globes while on holiday; you'll need to place it inside your checked-in luggage. In other words, decorative items that are liquid-filled are not permitted to be placed inside carry-on bags. However, you can still purchase water or other beverages or even gel items once you have made it past security and are well inside the terminal area. For the most part, the majority of countries follow the liquid carry-on rules established by the TSA.

Exceptions to the liquid carry-on rules include medications that have been declared. The list includes OTC medications such as eye drops, as well as other medicinal type items, i.e. insulin. Also liquids that are needed for life support are naturally acceptable. If you have liquids over and above the amounts permitted by the air company you'll need to allow the airlines to inspect the items.

Some items that may require you declare them for inspection by airline security. They include: a) baby formula; b) silicon gels found in certain items; and c) saline solution. Also items such as water or liquids necessary for proper health and nutrition are passable if needed for a medical condition. Toiletries are acceptable as long as they are presented as solid formulations. You don't want to be held up by security due to the fact you are carrying some type of face scrub in liquid form; therefore it is recommended you take along alternatives or wait and purchase the item once you are off the plane.