Flying with Liquids in 2025: The 11 TSA 3-1-1 Exemptions You Need to Know

Starting 2025, fly easier! The TSA announces exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule, clearing 11 specific items. Learn how this change impacts your carry-on luggage.

If you have ever found yourself in an airport security line, quickly rearranging your liquids bag, then you are not alone. In 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) enforces its well-known “3-1-1” rule: liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on bag must each be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), and all must fit into a single clear quart-sized bag.

For many travelers, especially those flying internationally, this rule often causes confusion and last-minute stress at security checkpoints, which causes delay. Fortunately, Transportation Security Administration updated guidelines now include 11 important exemptions that can help save you time, hassle and unnecessary repacking.

What is the 3-1-1 Rule?

The TSA 3-1-1 Rule is a security guideline for carrying liquids in the carry-on luggage bag when flying.

3-1-1 Rule Means:

• 3: Each container of liquid, gel, aerosol, cream, or paste must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
• 1: All liquids must be placed in a single, clear and quart-sized zip-top plastic bag.
• 1: Each passenger is allowed only one quart-sized bag.

Therefore, this rule is designed to limit the amount of liquids passengers bring through security, which makes screening faster and safer.

TSA 11 Liquid Rule Exemptions List of 2025

Here are the 11 types of liquids and gels that are now allowed through airport security without being limited to small bottles:

1. Prescription Medications: You can bring any liquid, gel, or aerosol medications, but ensure that they are in their original packaging.
2. Over-the-Counter Medicines: Common medications, liquid pain relievers, and allergy treatments in full-sized bottles are acceptable. The standard travel limitations for liquids do not apply to these goods.
3. Ice Packs & Gel Packs: You can include ice or gel packs in your carry-on luggage bag if you have prescription drugs or other items that need to be kept cold.
4. Breast Milk or Formula: Baby formula and breast milk can be carried in amounts more than the standard 3.4 ounces. These liquids are allowed beyond the standard limit for traveler convenience.
5. Baby Food: When traveling with a young kid or toddler, baby food in a liquid state is usually allowed and is not limited to the usual amount.
6. Liquid-Filled Teethers: No matter the size, travelers with teething infants are permitted to bring liquid-filled teethers on board. The usual 3-1-1 restriction does not apply to them.
7. Live Fish Transport: Live fish can be transported in containers filled with water. The TSA's limitations on liquid carry-on are not applicable to them.
8. Biological Samples: Scientific materials and biological samples have been removed from the 3-1-1 liquid carry-on limit. But It is necessary to bring them in the proper containers.
9. Wet Batteries: Batteries for items such as medical equipment and wheelchairs that contain liquid electrolytes are allowed without any limitations.
10. Duty-Free Purchases: Perfume and alcohol purchased at duty-free stores within 48 hours are not subject to the limitations on liquid carry-on. restrictions. However, carry them in their original sealed packaging along with the receipt.
11. Fresh Eggs: Since eggs in their original packaging offer no security risks, they are typically permitted in carry-on luggage.

Important Considerations while Traveling with Exempt Liquids

• Declare at Security: Always inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process if you have any exempt liquids for easy and fast checking.
• Pack for Easy Access: Keep these liquid items in an easily reachable part of your carry-on bag to speed up inspection.
• Bring Documentation: Prescriptions or a doctor's note for medicinal liquids should always be carried when flying.
• Check Airline Rules: Some airlines may have additional restrictions or special requirements for carrying certain medical liquids or devices. Please check the rules before booking the flight.

How This Makes Travel Easier

These exemptions truly update air travel and put passenger comfort first. Families with young children can now pack everything they genuinely need without compromise, which makes long-haul flights and layovers less stressful. Travelers with medical conditions no longer have to justify every bottle or tube of essential medication and have no fear of having to throw away liquids at security points.

Overall, these changes bring back a sense of ease in flying. Passengers have more time at the airport to relax or simply grab a snack before boarding. Also, with reliable in-flight Wi-Fi and a luggage-tracking feature from the FlyFi app, you can stay connected and informed throughout your trip.

Takeaways

In 2025, the updated TSA liquid exemptions have transformed the flying experience, making it more convenient and less stressful for all travelers. Families can bring what their children truly need, passengers with medical conditions have peace of mind carrying essential items, and everyone can enjoy smoother and faster security checks. By understanding the updated rules, travelers can pack confidently, pass through security, and enjoy a more comfortable journey.