After years of watching airport personnel discard your beloved perfume, shampoo, or pricey hair mask just because they don’t fit in a travel-sized bottle or aren’t in a resealable plastic bag, the struggle could soon be over. For many, these moments have become distressing flashbacks, but we bring you some exciting news: change is on the horizon! Believe it or not, the United States is set to transform the flying experience, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) finally allowing you to travel with your favorite full-size products—without any hassle at the security checkpoint! Is this the future of air travel?
Understanding the 3-1-1 Rule
For nearly two decades, U.S. airline passengers have faced a puzzling regulation: liquids could only be carried in 3.4-ounce (100 ml) containers within a quart-size clear plastic bag. The reason behind this rule? It was implemented to thwart potential terrorist attacks utilizing liquid explosives, with 100 ml being the maximum volume a cabin could withstand in the event of a detonation.
Originally, the 3-1-1 rule had a clear purpose and rationale—it aimed to minimize the risk of dangerous substances slipping through security unnoticed. Nevertheless, as we advance into a technology-driven era, the persistence of this rule seems outdated, especially as we approach 2025.
Technological Advances Leading the Change
As mentioned, advancements in technology have been pivotal to these upcoming changes. The TSA can now effectively analyze liquid contents without imposing size restrictions, thanks to new computed tomography (CT) scanners, which also enhance the efficiency of the screening process. And if you’re skeptical, take a look at how the United Kingdom has successfully implemented similar measures!
Once these changes are ratified, passengers will notice immediate benefits: less time spent retrieving bottles, fewer specific containers required, and overall, a much more seamless travel experience (not to mention being able to carry your favorite perfume without the fear of leaving it behind).
Full-Size Liquids
The list of approved items is expected to grow, but currently, there are 11 approved full-size products that you can take on board:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Prescription medications in gel, liquid, or aerosol form
- Ice packs or gel packs for medically necessary items
- Food and drink for infants and toddlers
- Wet batteries
- Live fish transported in water
- Biological specimens
- Breast milk or baby formula
- Liquid-filled teethers
- Duty-free items sealed in a tamper-evident bag
- Fresh eggs
And if everything proceeds as planned, items like shampoo, perfume, sunscreen, and your go-to body wash may soon be added to this list without size limitations!
Implementation Timeline
Throughout 2025, the list of permissible liquids is expected to gradually expand. Currently, this initiative is being trialed in Atlanta, JFK, and LAX—some of the largest airports in the U.S.
International Flights: What to Know
Regrettably, these changes have yet to be implemented nationwide and will currently only apply to domestic flights within the country.
Advice for Travelers
While this development is certainly a positive step, travelers should verify with their airline to ensure compliance with these regulations to avoid surprises at the security checkpoint. Also, keep in mind that sharp, flammable, or prohibited items remain banned—this rule hasn’t changed!
A new era for American travelers is on the horizon. We’re edging closer to the day when we can travel with our full-size toiletries!
