How to Store Toiletries for Airport Security

Air travelers must be alert to new and changing airport security policies. The rule to remember is "3-1-1." This stands for 3 oz. containers, one plastic bag, one bag per passenger. The U.S. Transportation Security Administration implemented the 3-1-1 rule in response to a bombing plot using liquid explosives that occurred in August 2006 in the United Kingdom.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pack toiletries, including liquids, gels and aerosols, in the baggage that you are checking if you prefer not to carry smaller containers on board. However, if you are concerned about your luggage being lost or delayed and want to be sure you won't have to replace lost toiletries, bring small portions of "must-have" items in your carry on luggage in small plastic containers that hold 3 oz. or less.

2. Transfer your essential toiletry liquids into 3 oz. bottles and bring them in the plastic bag in your carry-on luggage. Empty plastic containers are available in many drugstores and supermarkets. Acceptable toiletry items include hair styling gel, lip gels and glosses, bubble bath, perfume and cologne, hand sanitizers, liquid soaps, mouthwash, shampoo, toothpaste, personal lubricants, lotions, mosquito repellent and eye drops.

3. Place all 3 oz. or smaller bottles into a quart-sized clear plastic zip-top bag. The TSA allows one bag per passenger.

4. Place the plastic bag in a bin to go through security screening. You may return the plastic bag to your carry on luggage after you pass through screening.