3-1-1 Rule to Stay for Another Year

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

See recent posts by Carl Unger

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Last October, travelers received a surprising bit of hopeful news from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA): New liquid-scanning technology was on the way, meaning the 3-1-1 rule could be on the way out.

It’s a year later, and guess what? Not only are we still putting our liquids and gels in three-ounce containers, but the TSA says we’ll be doing so for another year.

The agency has installed 875 of the high-tech liquid-scanning X-ray machines, but software problems have slowed down the process. Full implementation of the machines is expected to take another year, at which point liquid restrictions could be eased.

Readers, do you think the 3-1-1 rule will ever be lifted? Leave a comment below.Thanks!

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