Make Your Labor Day Travels a Breeze With These Carry-On Tips

With Labor Day right around the corner, airports will start seeing a slight increase in travelers. That dreaded security line we all hate so much? Well, that just got a bit worse. One of the most frustrating things surrounding flying is never knowing what you’re allowed, or not allowed, to pack into your carry-on bag.

TSA guidelines can often be a bit confusing. It’s uncomfortable and humiliating to be singled out and questioned. To top it off, the solution is generally to throw the questionable item out.

To make your Labor Day travel plans move along with a bit more ease, here are some common everyday items that we’re never sure about, and the 411 on their carry-on permittance.

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TSA generally allows a wide array of different foods and drinks. Non-perishable items—like sealed cans and boxed foods—are perfectly acceptable. Items with a short shelf life? Also acceptable. For example, cheese, meat and fresh fruit.

Alcoholic beverages seem to be one of the big questions among travelers. TSA regulations state that travelers may carry as many 3.4 ounce bottles of liquid—including the small liquor bottles that are 1.7 ounces—that can fit into a clear, quart-sized, zip-top bag. Keep in mind that although you’re allowed to pack these into your carry-on, you are not allowed to drink them on your plane.

Medication is also another thing we’re never sure about. It’s actually not recommended to pack into your checked bags, as there’s no guarantee your luggage will arrive at your destination. All forms of medication are allowed, including liquids exceeding 3.4 ounces, as long as it’s considered a reasonable amount for your flight.

Just like medication, it’s also recommended to put batteries into your carry-on. Dry cell alkaline batteries—your typical AAA, AA, C, D, 9-volt and small cell batteries—are all allowed. Lithium-ion batteries, which are generally found in cell phones, cameras and camcorders, laptops and other personal electronics, have also been given the okay.

Personal hygiene products are a bit more confusing than they should be. Disposable and electric razors, along with replacement blades, can go into your carry-on or checked luggage. Safety and straight razors are also allowed in your carry-on, but the blades must be removed and put into your checked bags.

As far as makeup goes, there’s no limit to solid or powder-based ones—it’s the liquids that pose the most questions. All liquid, gel, creamy makeup and lotion must be stored in a 3.4-ounce container or less. Again, all containers must comfortably fit into a quart-sized, zip-top bag.

The same rules apply for shampoos, body-wash and deodorant. Roll-on, gel and aerosol deodorant must fit into your quart-sized bag, while solid and powder deodorant can be placed anywhere in your carry on, sans zip-top bag.

Shampoos and body-wash need to be in a 3.4-ounce container or less and be able to fit inside of your quart-sized bag. Most retailers sell travel size hygiene products which all meet TSA requirements.

Adhere to these regulations and your airport experience should be a breeze. SAFE TRAVELS!