The Porter Airline 311 rule is a fundamental security protocol +1-(844)-542-9016 (US) +1 (866)-686-7807 (UK) designed to streamline the screening process and ensure passenger safety by regulating the transport of liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on baggage. This rule, which aligns with both the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the United States, is essential for any traveler flying with Porter Airlines. The numerical designation "3-1-1" serves as a mnemonic to help passengers remember the specific limitations: three-point-four ounces per container, one quart-sized clear plastic bag, and one bag per passenger. Understanding this rule is vital for a smooth boarding experience, as it prevents delays at security checkpoints and avoids the unfortunate necessity of discarding expensive toiletries or favorite snacks.

When preparing your carry-on for a Porter Airlines flight, the first "3" in the 311 rule refers to the maximum volume allowed for each individual container. Specifically, every liquid, gel, or aerosol must be stored in a bottle or tube that is 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less in capacity. It is important to note that security officers look at the size of the container itself rather than the amount of liquid remaining inside. For example, a five-ounce bottle of shampoo that is only half-full will still be prohibited because the vessel exceeds the 3.4-ounce limit. To remain compliant, travelers are encouraged to purchase travel-sized toiletries or transfer their products into reusable, clearly labeled 100-milliliter containers before arriving at the airport.

The first "1" in the 311 rule signifies the requirement that all travel-sized containers must fit comfortably within a single, quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. In Canada, where Porter Airlines is based, this is often referred to as a one-liter bag. The bag must be transparent so that screening officers can easily inspect the contents without needing to open it. Typical dimensions for these bags are approximately six inches by nine inches or eight inches by seven inches. Utilizing a transparent bag not only satisfies security regulations but also helps keep your belongings organized and protects the rest of your luggage from potential leaks during transit.

The final "1" in the 311 rule dictates that each passenger is permitted only one such quart-sized bag in their carry-on luggage. This limit applies to all individuals, including children. If you find that your liquids exceed what can fit into a single bag, you must either move the excess items to your checked baggage or leave them behind. By consolidating all liquids into one bag, you make it easier to remove the items at the security checkpoint for separate X-ray screening, which is a standard requirement at most airports serviced by Porter Airlines.

While the Porter Airline 311 rule is strict, there are several important exceptions for essential items. Medically necessary liquids, such as prescription medications, insulin, or saline solution, are permitted in quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces. Similarly, travelers flying with infants or toddlers are allowed to bring reasonable quantities of baby formula, breast milk, and baby food. These exempted items do not need to be placed in the quart-sized bag, but they must be declared to the screening officer at the start of the security process for manual inspection. Being proactive about declaring these items can save time and prevent your bag from being flagged for additional searches.

Duty-free purchases also have specific rules under the Porter Airline 311 framework. If you purchase liquids like perfume or alcohol at a duty-free shop after passing through security, you can generally bring them on board as long as they are packed in a secure, tamper-evident bag provided by the retailer. However, if you have a connecting flight that requires you to go through security again, these items must still meet the 3.4-ounce requirement or be placed in checked luggage. Always keep your receipts for duty-free items, as security personnel may ask for proof of purchase within the last 48 hours.

Common items that travelers often forget are classified as liquids include peanut butter, yogurt, mascara, and even snow globes. The general rule of thumb used by airport security is that if you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it, or pour it, it is considered a liquid. Solid items like stick deodorant, bar soap, and powder-based cosmetics are not subject to the 311 rule and can be packed elsewhere in your carry-on without restriction. To maximize space in your liquids bag, many frequent flyers switch to solid versions of their favorite products, such as shampoo bars or toothpaste tablets.

Properly packing your liquids bag can also speed up your transit through the airport. Most travelers find it helpful to place the clear quart-sized bag in an easily accessible outer pocket of their carry-on or at the very top of their main compartment. This allows for quick retrieval when you reach the front of the security line. Once at the bin, you should place the bag separately so that it is clearly visible to the X-ray operators. Following these simple steps helps maintain the flow of the security line and ensures that your Porter Airlines journey starts on a positive, stress-free note.

In the event that you are unsure about a specific item, Porter Airlines recommends checking the official CATSA or TSA websites, which provide comprehensive "What Can I Bring?" tools. These databases are updated regularly to reflect the latest security standards for 2026. Remember that airline staff at the gate do not have the authority to override security decisions made at the checkpoint. Therefore, ensuring your bag is compliant before you even leave for the airport is the best way to guarantee that your personal items make it onto the plane with you.

Ultimately, the Porter Airline 311 rule is a straightforward system that balances convenience with high-level security. By sticking to the 3.4-ounce limit, using a single quart-sized bag, and being aware of the one-bag-per-person policy, you can navigate the airport like a professional. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, a little preparation goes a long way in making your travel experience with Porter Airlines as efficient and pleasant as possible.

Is toothpaste allowed in Porter carry-on?

Yes, toothpaste is allowed but it must comply with the standard container size limits. Because toothpaste is classified as a paste or gel, it falls under the 311 rule for all Porter Airlines flights. This means your toothpaste tube must be 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or smaller to stay in your hand luggage. If you have a large family-sized tube, it will likely be confiscated at the security checkpoint even if it is nearly empty. To avoid this, you should pack a travel-sized tube or squeeze some into a smaller compliant container. All toothpaste must fit inside your single quart-sized clear plastic bag along with your other liquids and gels. If you prefer to travel with a larger tube, you will need to pack it in your checked baggage instead of your carry-on. Many travelers now use toothpaste tablets as a non-liquid alternative to save space in their 311 bag and avoid these restrictions entirely during their trip.

Can I bring full-size shampoo on Porter?

No, you cannot bring full-size shampoo bottles in your carry-on bag when flying with Porter Airlines. Standard shampoo bottles usually exceed the 3.4-ounce or 100-milliliter limit established by international security regulations. Any liquid container that is larger than the permitted size will be removed from your luggage by security officers and discarded. This applies regardless of how much liquid is actually left in the bottle at the time of screening. If you need to bring a specific brand of shampoo that does not come in a travel size, you should purchase empty 100-milliliter reusable bottles and transfer the product into them. Alternatively, you can pack full-sized bottles in your checked luggage where there are no specific volume restrictions for most toiletries. Another great option for Porter passengers is to use solid shampoo bars which are not subject to the 311 rule and do not need to be placed in a plastic bag.

Are medical liquids exempt from 311 rules?

Yes, medical liquids are exempt from the standard 311 volume restrictions on Porter Airlines flights. This means you are allowed to carry larger quantities of liquid medications, saline solutions, and other medically necessary items in your carry-on bag even if they exceed 3.4 ounces. However, these items must be declared to the security screening officers before your luggage enters the X-ray machine. It is highly recommended to keep your medications in their original packaging with professional labels or a doctor’s note to facilitate the inspection process. Security personnel may perform additional screening on these liquids, such as opening the containers or testing them for explosive traces. These exempt items do not need to fit inside your quart-sized liquids bag and can be stored separately in your carry-on. Being transparent and organized with your medical supplies will help ensure a faster and more respectful screening experience for everyone involved.

Does stick deodorant count as a liquid?

No, solid stick deodorant does not count as a liquid or gel under the Porter Airline 311 rule. You are free to pack your solid deodorant anywhere in your carry-on bag without needing to place it in a clear plastic bag. This is a common point of confusion for many travelers because other forms of deodorant are restricted. For instance, spray deodorants, gel deodorants, and roll-on deodorants are all considered liquids or aerosols and must comply with the 3.4-ounce limit and fit within your single quart-sized bag. If you are trying to save space in your 311 bag for items like contact lens solution or foundation, switching to a solid stick deodorant is a very effective strategy. Just make sure the product is truly a solid and not a "soft solid" or "gel stick" which might be interpreted as a gel by some security agents during the inspection.

How many 100ml bottles can I take?

Yes, you can take as many 100ml bottles as will comfortably fit inside your single quart-sized clear plastic bag. While the rule does not specify a maximum number of containers, the physical size of the quart-sized bag naturally limits the quantity. Most travelers find that they can fit between seven and ten travel-sized bottles depending on the shape and thickness of the containers. The most important factor is that the bag must be able to seal completely without being overstuffed or stretched to the point of breaking. If the bag cannot close, security may ask you to remove some items until it does. To maximize your allowance, try using flat or rectangular bottles rather than round ones as they tend to pack more efficiently together. Remember that each passenger is only allowed one bag, so if you are traveling with a partner, you cannot combine your liquids into a larger bag; you must each use a separate quart-sized one.