The travel world was excited to hear this week that flyers could now bring full-sized bottles of sunscreen in carry-ons, but the excitement was short-lived. The Transportation Security Administration website stated that sunscreen containers larger than 3.4 ounces could be declared to security officers and carried onto planes, but they have since reversed course.
On April 7, the TSA mistakenly added sunscreen to their list of medically necessary items that don’t apply to its 3-1-1 rule, which limits liquid, aerosol, and gel carryons to 3.4-ounce containers or less, and all fit in one quart-size plastic bag. Less than a week later, the administration released a statement correcting the error.
“Our website incorrectly reported that sunscreen containers larger than 3.4 oz. were allowed in carry-on bags, if medically necessary,” the statement reads. “That error has been corrected. Travelers still need to ensure liquids, gels and aerosols in carry-on bags meet the 3-1-1 requirements and are no larger than 3.4 ounces.”
“TSA advises passengers who need larger quantities of sunscreen, or other liquids, gels and aerosols, to add them to checked baggage for use at their destination.”
Sun-loving flyers, continue to check your sunscreen when flying, or risk losing the expensive lotion while going through security.