Answers to questions surrounding the latest changes in the federal Transportation Security Administration’s guidelines for traveling on airplanes with liquids or gels:
Q: What liquids or gels are now allowed in carry-on baggage?
A: Passengers can take toiletries such as toothpaste, hair gel and shampoo if they are in containers of 3 ounces or less and are stored in a single quart-size, clear plastic zip-top bag. They also can take any amount of saline solution, eye drops and medicines onto planes. However, those items should be kept separate from toiletries stored in the plastic bag and must be declared to screeners before entering the security checkpoint, said TSA spokesman Christopher White.
Q: What if I have a six-ounce bottle of shampoo that’s only half-full, therefore with only 3 ounces in it?
A: The containers must be travel-size. If a passenger brings a container larger than 3 ounces, it must be placed in checked luggage. Or the liquid can be transferred to a 3-ounce bottle.
Q: What about things I buy in the concourses after I go through the security checkpoint, such as wine, liquor or perfume at duty-free shops?
A: After going through the security checkpoint, passengers can bring onto the plane any beverage or other items purchased in the secure area of the airport.
Q: How come the TSA or airlines aren’t providing the plastic bags for toiletries?
A: The TSA’s preference is that passengers pack their own plastic bags, according to White.
Q: What if my plastic bag is larger than a quart?
A: TSA officials were allowing larger plastic bags on Tuesday but warning people they must use a quart-size bag on another trip. Bags smaller than a quart are OK.