The TSA regulation allows you to bring however many 3.4-ounce or smaller bottles of liquids you can pack into one quart-sized plastic bag. Each passenger is allowed one quart-sized bag. This is known as the 3-1-1 rule (3.4 ounce bottles per 1 passenger per 1-quart bag). All of your liquids must go into this bag. This includes lotion, shampoo, perfume, liquid makeup, hairspray and gels. Solid toiletries, such as deodorant or lipstick, do not need to go into your 1-quart bag.
Bottles of liquids larger than 3.4 ounces will be confiscated by TSA agents at the security check point. If the liquid is medically necessary, baby formula or part of a prosthetic you must tell the security agent who will do a special check of the item. To avoid holding up the security line, separate the larger bottles of liquids before you go through the inspection point.
The only sharp objects allowed in your carry on are nail clippers and small manicure scissors. The scissors must have blades less than four inches long. Hand tools measuring less than seven inches also are allowed in your carry on bag. All other sharp objects, tools and sporting goods must be packed in your checked luggage.
A standard cigarette lighter is allowed in your carry on. Only empty lighters or lighters in special cases may be packed into your checked luggage. No other explosives or flammable items are allowed in your carry on or your checked bags.
Although airlines vary in their regulations, most require carry on luggage to measure no more than 10 inches by 17 inches by 24 inches. The bag typically must weigh less than 40 pounds. Each passenger may bring one bag this size and another bag, such as a backpack or purse. The second bag must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you.
