Traveling is another great way to explore, connect, and transform yourself and your relationships
but no one wants unexpected hassles at security to dampen the start of an exciting adventure!
I came across a video that breaks down the new TSA carry on rules for 2025 clearly
which you can find here: 
NEW TSA Carry-On Rules You NEED to Know in 2025 from the Portable Professional.
From that video I put together a “Before You Go” travel checklist and a few more resources and tips to help you ensure that your next journey is smooth, intentional, and stress-free.
Before You Go: Domestic Travel Checklist
Know the 3-1-1 Rule:
All liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller. The rule applies to the container size, not the amount of liquid inside.
Use a Quart-Sized Bag:
Pack all your liquid containers into one transparent, resealable quart-sized bag. These are often available for free at the entrance to the security line at some airports.
MODIFIED Now Limited to One Liquids Bag:
MODIFIED Medication Exceptions:
Prescription medications (including liquids, creams, and pre-filled pens/syringes) are allowed in larger quantities. Keep them in their original labeled containers.
Over-the-counter medications like saline solution, cold medicine, and liquid nutrition are also allowed in larger quantities. Medical gels and creams, such as hydrocortisone and antibiotic ointments, are also permitted.
Infant and child nourishment, including breast milk, baby formula, and juice boxes, is allowed in quantities over 3.4 ounces and do not need to be screened in a quart-sized bag. Ice packs and other items needed to keep these items fresh are also allowed.
MODIFIED Hand Sanitizer:
Hand sanitizer must adhere to the 3.4 ounce rule and fit inside your quart-size liquids bag.
| Here's a picture of us at the airport a few years back. At least we don't need to wear masks anymore! | Please check out some of my products, heart-crafted reflections of your integrity, connection, and thoughtful living. My Shampoo bars are TSA compliant! | |
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NEW Unexpected Scenarios:
Be prepared for the unexpected, as rules can vary by airport, day, or even hour. Even with TSA Pre-Check, you might still need to remove your liquids bag.
Utilize Free Quart Bags:
If you know your airport has them, try to find and use the free quart-sized bags at the airport security entrance. These can be useful for packing at home and for storing other items while traveling. For your checked bags as well, it's a good idea to always put any liquid in an airtight bag that is over-sized enough to allow for any expansion that occurs during cabin pressure changes.
NEW Real-ID Deadline is May 7, 2025:
Starting on May 7, only state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards that meet the security requirements established by the REAL ID Act will be allowed for official purposes, including boarding commercial aircraft.
NEW Ask TSA:
I'm willing to risk some things, but if you are unsure about an item and need an official answer, you can now engage with the "Ask TSA" program by messaging a photo or link of the item to a TSA agent via the following social platforms:
- Instagram DM, (visit & click message)
- Facebook Messenger, (visit & click message)
- Text "Travel" to AskTSA at (275-872) on your mobile device, or
- X (formerly Twitter) @AskTSA.
AIRLINE SPECIFIC Carry-On Size Restrictions:
If your bag is less than 22" x 14" x 9" (and adding your bag's height, length, and width together is less 45" total) your carry-on will be allowed all 14 US domestic airlines. Some carriers are more generous, but at moment none are stricter than this. Restrictions are carrier specific, so check with them if your bag is bigger than these dimensions.
Before You Go: International Travel Checklist
Be Aware of Varying Rules:
In addition to TSA guidelines, be aware that the rules may be different internationally.
Medication Regulations:
Be aware that some common medications, such as Adderall, that are allowed in the US might be illegal in other countries. Similarly, some cold medications, including those with pseudoephedrine, are prohibited in certain countries.
Research Medication Laws:
Research the specific medication laws of your destination country before you travel. You can find a resource here for Travelers Carrying Medicines Containing Controlled Substances that includes specific agency contact information if you need more detailed information.
NOTE: Reusable liquid bags may cause issues internationally,
so consider using a disposable zip-lock type bag if traveling outside of North America.
My hope for you is that by following these guidelines,
you can help ensure a smoother security experience at the airport. Consider signing up for TSA precheck if you are travelling often. Here's one more list if you got this far!
The Top, Most Likely Causes of Issues at TSA Checkpoints
Not Listening to Instructions
Not Having Acceptable Identification
Not Know or Following the 3-1-1 Rule
Not Knowing That Foods (and Drinks) Must Comply With the 3-1-1 Rule
Not Declaring All Liquids Exempt from 3-1-1 (I.e. liquid medications and infant food)
Razor blades (i.e. the old fashioned “safety razor” kind)
Firearms and Ammunition (about 30 per year per airport)
E-Cigarettes (vape) carry on is allowed, but any liquid must follow the 3-1-1 rule.
Not Removing Electronic Devices for separate scanning
Comments
You might want to reconsider wearing masks. I recently was on an international flight from Tokyo to Chicago and by the time I arrived in Chicago I was so sick I couldn’t breathe. Lots of passengers were coughing and blowing their noses. After that 12-hour flight I am sure it spread to many passengers. A few had masks on and I wondered why they were wearing masks. Now I know. I will wear a mask when I fly again.
My wife and I, both late 70’s, are planning to go to Scotland for 2-3 weeks in mid summer, I would like updates to be aware of what to take etc. Before then. Thank- you for any assistance you can provide.