Alcon Opti-Free is TSA Compliant
I noticed this bright orange banner atop Alcon’s “Opti-Free” contact lens solution. The package reads “Carry on Size, TSA Compliant.”
First, I should hope that any contact lens solution would be carry on size. I don’t believe they have or ever will sell contact lens solution in keg size.
Second, I glanced down at the bottom and saw that this bottle is “4 ounces.” Now the TSA is currently in the process of restructuring their liquid carry on restrictions, but as of now and for the past few years its always been UNDER three ounces.
That makes me wonder how a 4 ounce bottle can be “TSA Compliant?”
Alcon’s site has a paragraph lifted from the TSA site stating “if its a medical necessity and over three ounces you MUST (capitalized,) declare it to the screener.
Apparently if you volunteer the fact you have a four ounce bottle, and REQUEST a bag search – then you will be allowed to carry this through. Why on earth would anyone REQUEST an additional screening over ONE ounce?
No one gets into trouble for “not volunteering” their medical supplies. I’m type 1 diabetic who travels with insulin, syringes, and testing supplies. I’ve had my bag inspected many times AFTER getting x-rayed, but I would find it quite “Ned Flanders-ish” to request an inspection in advance. I guess Alcon thinks you should.
The logical solution to this non-issue, and Alcon’s gimmicky marketing: Just throw it in your bag and “carry on” as usual.
by Caleb Cross and James Van Dellen / Denver
I would take it as yet another form of marketing. AFAIK (don’t wear contacts but the wife does) the solution has always come in a 4oz bottle. Desperate times call for desperate measures? or a bored advertising department.
Aaron
According to the TSA, you can actually bring a very large quantity of lens solution.
Thanks Anil – yeah I’ve really never given any thought to this. Although I carry contact lens solution with me for every overnight trip, its one of those things I’ve never stressed about because if it does get confiscated I can purchase it anywhere.
So basically it is pointless to reference its carry-on ease, as any amount of reasonable size would be TSA compliant, although a two-liter might stir some questioning…
When I was on my way to Mexico recently, a TSA functionary confiscated my 1/3-full tube of sunscreen, I learned that 3 ounces = 100 milliliters and that the 110ML capacity of the tube is over the limit. I blocked about it at http://travel-babel.blogspot.com/2008/11/fyi-110-ml-3-ounces.html. On the way back, I was able to pass through security without removing my shoes, my laptop or my little plastic zip-lock bag of toiletries — AND I was able to carry a bottle of drinking water aboard too. It almost felt naughty. Sigh!