I Didn’t Think I Could Hate This Travel Rule Any More…Until This Happened

Following all the travel rules and regulations is absolutely important, but it can also be a real pain…

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) implements a ton of travel protocols to protect travelers flying all over the country. That includes banning certain items while flying. One strict policy has been annoying for nearly two decades, but I recently had an experience that made my feelings about it sour even further.

Ever since 2006, the TSA has implemented the 3-1-1 rule, which governs how much liquid you can pack in a carry-on. Each container you pack cannot store more than 3.4 ounces of liquid, and all containers must fit inside a single, one-quart-sized, clear, zip-top bag. Furthermore, each passenger is limited to one bag.

There are exceptions for medically necessary liquids, of course, but it’s still a pretty strict rule. The only way to truly bypass this and bring large liquids with you onto a flight is to purchase them AFTER you pass through security. Or to pack them in a checked bag, of course. 

If you’ve flown at any point over the last 19 years, you’re probably familiar with this rule. In fact, I’m betting you’ve packed specifically to account for it. I know I have, putting shampoo into travel-sized containers, buying TSA-approved toiletries, and making sure to dump my drinks before going through security.

Unfortunately, during one of my recent travels, I experienced something that made me more agitated with the rule.

I was traveling with someone else, and they accidentally forgot to dump their water from their reusable water bottle before going through security. No big deal, right? Well, they were pulled out of line, questioned, and then — once done — had to go through the whole security line again. It’s a good thing we arrived super early at the airport, because this process took a chunk of time and could’ve caused us to miss our flight had we not given ourselves a cushion.

Obviously, rules exist for a reason, and — while I may be annoyed — I get it, despite my annoyance. 

Still, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) might be reconsidering the rule altogether.

DHS Secretary Kristi Noem said, “The liquids, I’m questioning. So that may be the next big announcement, is what size your liquids need to be.”

At face value, all I can infer is that the rules could change at some point. What those changes mean is really just a guess right now. The size requirements could become more lax, or the rule could be removed altogether. It’s just a guess at this point.

With security processes involving more upgraded screening technology that has even negated the need to take your shoes off when going through the TSA line, changing the liquid rule is the natural next step.

Either way, the AllEars team and I will continue to do a bunch of traveling and report back to you with our experiences and what to expect when YOU fly. Stay tuned right here at AllEars for the latest updates and tips!

TSA Has Banned 6 Popular Travel Items

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Which TSA rules would you like to see changed? Let us know in the comments!

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