Background

• Among the steps the Transportation Security Administration has taken in its effort to make air travel secure is the implementation of the "3-1-1" rule. In most cases, that means liquids can pass through a security checkpoint only if they are in 3.4-oz. or smaller containers. All liquids, gels and aerosols must fit into one quart-size plastic bag. Each traveler can bring only one quart-size plastic bag. Any liquid in a greater quantity must go in your checked luggage.
  
  

Exceptions

• The TSA allows liquids, gels and aerosols of more than 3.4 oz. into carry-on baggage for a few reasons. One valid reason is in the case of prescription and over-the-counter medications. Petroleum jelly, eye drops and saline solution are acceptable if you can state why they have legitimate medical purposes.
  
  

Procedures

• To bring more than 3.4 ounces of a liquid prescription medication in your carry-on baggage, you must take three steps. First, separate the medication from any other liquids, gels and aerosols that you have in your quart-size zip-top bag. Second, declare the medication to one of the officers at the security checkpoint. Third, be prepared for the medication to undergo additional screening and inspection at the X-ray machine. If you need to use a needle or syringe to administer your medication, you must have a pharmaceutical or medical label that identifies the medication.
  
  

Changes

• When the 3-1-1 policy first went into effect in 2006, the exception for prescription medications applied only if the name on the medication label exactly matched the name on the ticket. The TSA has since changed the rule for domestic flights. For flights departing from the U.S., your name does not need to appear on the medication at all. For some international flights, however, the name on your medication must match the name on your ticket.
  
  

Tips

• Keep prescription medication in your carry-on baggage rather than including it in checked baggage. Airlines occasionally lose checked baggage. Also, unforeseen delays can keep you on the airplane longer than expected. If it is in your checked baggage, you might find you need your medication but cannot access it. Pack prescription medications in a bag that is small enough to fit under your seat. If the medication is in a larger bag, you will have to store it in an overhead compartment and might have trouble getting to it. Also, if overhead space is at a premium, the airline might end up taking a larger bag from you on the plane and including it with the flight's checked baggage.