As a crew member I go through a separate security screening process than a regular passenger on most domestic flights. However, I recently flew internationally and realized I had completely forgotten a few basic TSA regulations. In fact, I wound up having to throw away a brand-new bottle of perfume because it was over 3.4 ounces! I do not want you to make any similar mistakes before your next flight (nor do any passengers want you holding up the line)…so I am here to present you with a crash course on airport security!
Liquids
According to the TSA, you are permitted to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in your carry-on bag and through the checkpoint. Sadly you must say goodbye to any big bottles of shampoo, conditioner, hairspray, and even your precious self-tanner. Liquids are restricted to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces or less per item. It is recommended to place these items in a small bag, separating them from your carry-on baggage to better facilitate the screening process. Therefore, if you simply cannot live without that mega bottle of dry shampoo on your next vacation – just opt for checking your bag!
Food
Flying home from a trip with your favorite chips or a special snack? Luckily for you, the TSA allows solid food in carry-on bags! Although, the administration does say that any non-solid foods must be put in a sealed container and then into a quart-sized bag to follow the liquid requirements. This means no large jars of items such as salsa or peanut butter. The regulations for solid food in carry-ons have become more lenient in recent years and now you can bring nearly any kind of non-perishable food with you on your next flight.
Medication
For some reason when I go through security, I feel like a criminal with my Ziploc baggie of ibuprofen and various supplements. Have you ever thrown medication in your bag and questioned if it had to be placed in the original bottle? Well, the TSA states it is not necessary to present your medication to or notify an officer about any medication you are traveling with unless it is in liquid form You can pack an unlimited amount of medication in your carry-on luggage as long as it goes through the required screening. For a liquid medication, separate it into a bottle of 3.4 ounces and notify an officer at the checkpoint of your liquid prescription.
Fashion Tips
Save everyone the hassle and wear slip-on shoes before going through the security checkpoint. I personally wear a fashionable pair of slides because I know no one wants to see me unlace my shoes for 5 minutes while they’re trying to make a flight. It is highly recommended to wear socks so your bare feet don’t have to make contact with that germ-ridden floor! You can always change your shoes before you step onto the plane.
For all you bougie travelers, you do not need to remove any expensive jewelry before going through airport security. In fact, the TSA even requests that you keep all your bling on! This thwarts any chances of your most treasured pieces from being stolen from the bin or somehow misplaced during the screening process. In most instances, your valuables are not going to set off the metal detector.
Alcohol
First things first, please do not be the drunk person on the plane (or in the airport)… ironically enough, it’s a total buzzkill. As a flight attendant, I cannot serve you if you are intoxicated, nor can I even allow you to board the aircraft! FAA regulations prohibit travelers from consuming alcohol on board an aircraft unless served by a flight attendant.
That being said, you are free to bring mini bottles of alcohol in your carry-on bag! The TSA states alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol is limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags. Just remember, no drinking those minis on the plane!
Follow these guidelines and you will be waltzing through TSA like a seasoned professional!
