How to Travel With Contact Solution in a Carry-On Bag

The Transportation Security Administration's rules and regulations regarding carry-on items have become increasingly strict. TSA limits the size of liquid carry-on containers to 3.4 ounces. Liquids, gels and aerosols have to be carried separately through security in a clear zip-top bag, ready for inspection if needed. Contact solution can sometimes be found in travel sizes; however, for longer trips where more solution is needed, it might be necessary to travel with the original-size bottle of the solution.

Instructions

1

Separate the full-size bottle of contact lens solution from the carry-on bag prior to reaching the security checkpoint at the airport. Travel-size bottles of contact lens solution can be included with other travel-size liquids and placed in a 1 quart clear zip-top bag for security screening separately. Only full-size bottles of solution need to be separated.

2

Present a boarding pass and identification to the security checkpoint agent. The agent will verify all the information and clear you for baggage and personal screening.

3

Declare the full-size bottle of contact lens solution as a medical supply to the security screening agent. Airport security regulations consider contact lens solution to be an over-the-counter medication. The solution will need to be inspected separately from luggage and other liquid carry-on bottles.

4

Place luggage and other carry-on items on the security x-ray belt for screening. The security officer will take the full-size bottle of contact lens solution until after the luggage and body screening process is completed successfully.

5

Present the boarding pass to the officer and proceed through the security body screening machine. Further screening might be necessary; if so, the security officer will give instructions on what to do next. If liquid contact lens solution containers are travel-size, further inspection won't be necessary.

6

Follow the security officer to the special screening area for contact solution inspection. Retrieve luggage and other items before going to screening area. Contact lens solution will be checked before you are allowed to proceed to the gate.