attention holiday travelers

The Transportation Security Administration wants you to know the “3-1-1 on Air Travel” - the weakest, least inspired mnemonic to come from government since “Stop, Drop, and Roll.” From the site:

Make Your Trip Better Using 3-1-1

3 –1–1 for carry-ons = 3 ounce bottle or less; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3 oz. container size is a security measure.

Consolidate bottles into one bag and X-ray separately to speed screening.

Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.

3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.

Declare larger liquids. Prescription medications, baby formula and milk are allowed in quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.

Come early and be patient. Heavy travel volumes and the enhanced security process may mean longer lines at security checkpoints.

TSA working with our partners. TSA works with airlines and airports to anticipate peak traffic and be ready for the traveling public.

Just remember, by trying to pack amenities instead of buying them at your destination, fostering local economies, and abandoning them wastefully prior to return home, you have brought this on yourself. Come early and be patient, indeed.