Airport Security: Folders, A Forbidden Item Or Not?

Airport security can be a frustrating and stressful experience, especially if you're unsure about what you can and can't bring on board. Knowing the restrictions on carry-on luggage will help you prepare for your next trip and ensure a smooth journey through security. One common question travellers have is whether folders are allowed through airport security.

Are folders allowed through airport security in hand luggage?

The short answer is yes, folders are allowed through airport security in hand luggage. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when packing your carry-on bag to ensure a smooth experience when passing through security. Here are some guidelines and recommendations to help you prepare:

Planning and Packing:

Firstly, planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and make your travel experience at the airport much easier. It is important to know what items are permitted in your carry-on luggage before you arrive at the airport. Even if an item is generally allowed, it may be subject to additional screening or may not be permitted through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns.

Electronic Devices:

Electronic devices such as laptops, tablets, and mobile phones are allowed in carry-on luggage. However, devices containing lithium-ion batteries should be carried in hand luggage. During the security screening, officers may ask you to power up your electronic devices, including cell phones. Devices without power will not be permitted onboard the aircraft. It is also recommended to remove login credentials, clear browsing history and cookies, and disable autofill on your devices before travelling.

Liquids and Gels:

When packing liquids and gels, remember that they must be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and fit into a single, quart-sized, clear, zip-closure plastic bag. This includes items such as liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes. Medically necessary liquids, such as prescription medications and breast milk, are exempt from these restrictions and can be brought in larger quantities.

Food:

Solid food items can be transported in carry-on or checked bags. Liquid or gel food items larger than 3.4 ounces should be placed in checked luggage if possible. Baby food, formula, breast milk, and toddler drinks are considered medically necessary liquids and are allowed in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces. It is recommended to inform the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process and remove these items for separate screening.

Prohibited Items:

It is important to be aware of items that are not allowed in carry-on luggage. This includes liquids, gels, and creams exceeding the allowed quantity; alcohol over 140 proof; harsh or corrosive chemicals; weapons and ammunition; explosives (including fireworks); knives (unless rounded or plastic); and medical marijuana and CBD oil containing THC.

Dress Code:

When passing through security, you will need to remove jackets, shoes, and items from your pockets. Wear clothing and shoes without metal to avoid any issues. Large metal jewellery should be tucked into your carry-on bag before reaching the security checkpoint.

Identification and Documentation:

Don't forget to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. It should include your name, date of birth, gender, and expiration date. It is also recommended to have your tickets and identification easily accessible to avoid delays during screening.

Trusted Traveller Programs:

Consider enrolling in Trusted Traveller Programs such as TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, which offer expedited security screening at participating airports. Members of these programs can often keep their shoes and light jackets on and leave laptops in their bags during screening.

Additional Screening:

Some items may require additional screening, and you may be asked to separate certain items from your carry-on bag, such as liquids, snacks, and powders. If you are travelling with a wheelchair, mobility aid, or other medical devices, these will also need to go through the screening process.

Final Decision:

It is important to remember that the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the security checkpoint rests with the TSA officer. If you have any doubts about an item, it is best to pack it in your checked luggage or leave it at home.

What about in checked luggage?

Folders are not mentioned in the TSA's official guidance on what can be packed in checked luggage. However, the guidance does refer to "paper" and "books", which are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage without restriction. It is reasonable to assume that folders would be permitted in checked luggage, given that paper and books are allowed.

It is important to note that the TSA's guidance on carry-on luggage specifically mentions "books" and "paper", but not folders. This could be interpreted as folders being prohibited in carry-on luggage. However, it is more likely that folders are simply not mentioned because they are not commonly packed in carry-on luggage.

When packing folders in checked luggage, it is important to consider the contents of the folders. If the folders contain important or confidential documents, it may be advisable to keep them in your carry-on luggage, as checked luggage is more likely to be lost or stolen. Additionally, electronic devices such as hard drives and laptops are often checked by airport security, so if your folders contain sensitive information on electronic devices, it may be advisable to keep them with you in your carry-on luggage.

Another consideration when packing folders in checked luggage is the weight and size of the folders. Most airlines have weight and size restrictions for checked luggage, so packing large or heavy folders may impact your ability to stay within those limits.

Finally, it is worth noting that the TSA's guidance on what can be packed in checked luggage is not exhaustive. The guidance states that "for items not listed here, our AskTSA team looks forward to answering your questions 365 days a year; live assistance is available from 8 am – 6 pm (ET)". Therefore, if you have specific questions about packing folders in checked luggage, it is recommended to contact the AskTSA team for more information.

What about digital folders on a hard drive?

It is generally permitted to bring digital folders on a hard drive through airport security. However, it is important to note that airport security rules can vary depending on the country and specific airport. While it is uncommon for airport security to physically open and search the contents of a hard drive, they may request that you power up your device to ensure it is functioning. In some cases, they may also plug in your hard drive to examine its contents, particularly if they suspect illegal material.

To ensure a smooth airport security experience, it is recommended to pack your hard drive in your carry-on luggage, as placing it in checked luggage may raise suspicion. Additionally, carry-on luggage reduces the risk of damage to your hard drive during loading and unloading, for which airlines typically do not take responsibility.

If you are concerned about protecting sensitive data, consider implementing data encryption or hiding certain folders. It is also advisable to remove saved login credentials, clear your browser history, and enable passwords for added security.

Do I need to remove folders from my bag at security?

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) outlines the rules for carry-on luggage at US airports. Although airport security rules tend to be similar around the world, it's always a good idea to double-check local rules before travelling.

The TSA requires passengers to follow specific guidelines, such as removing shoes, laptops, and liquids from carry-on bags. Liquids are restricted to containers of 3.4 ounces or less in a quart-sized bag. This includes all liquids, gels, and aerosols, such as creams, hair gel, toothpaste, and deodorant.

When it comes to folders, there are no specific restrictions mentioned by the TSA. However, it's important to keep in mind that folders can be made of different materials, such as paper, plastic, or metal. Here is an overview of what you need to know:

• Paper folders: Paper folders themselves are not restricted items. You can keep them in your carry-on bag or personal item. However, if you have a large number of paper documents, they may clutter the bag and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine. In such cases, TSA officers may instruct you to separate the documents and place them in a bin for separate screening.
• Plastic folders: Similar to paper folders, plastic folders are not specifically restricted. You can include them in your carry-on luggage without having to remove them. Again, a large number of plastic folders may require separate screening to reduce clutter and obtain clear X-ray images.
• Metal folders: Metal folders or folders with metal components fall into a different category. Metal items that are 7 inches or shorter in length are generally allowed in carry-on bags. Longer metal items must be placed in checked luggage. Additionally, sharp objects, including metal folders with sharp edges, must be properly sheathed or secured to avoid injury.

To ensure a smooth security screening process, it is recommended to keep your carry-on bag organised and uncluttered. If you are carrying a large number of folders, consider placing them in a separate bin for screening to facilitate the process.

Additionally, if you are a member of a Trusted Traveler Program like TSA PreCheck, you may be exempt from removing certain items from your bag, including laptops, which may be kept inside their cases. However, even with TSA PreCheck, there is no guarantee that you won't be asked to remove items like laptops and folders for separate screening.

In conclusion, folders are generally allowed through airport security, but the specific requirements may vary depending on the material of the folder and the local airport regulations. It is always advisable to check with the local airport authorities or the TSA for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

What are the size restrictions for folders?

The size restrictions for folders depend on the airline you are flying with. Most major airlines allow a carry-on bag with dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches, but some airlines have different requirements. For example, Allegiant Air's carry-on size limit is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, while Aer Lingus' carry-on size limit is 21.5 x 15.7 x 10 inches.

It's important to note that the size restrictions include the handles and wheels of the carry-on bag. Additionally, some airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on bags, so be sure to check the specific restrictions for your airline.

Regarding personal items, which can include purses, laptop bags, briefcases, and backpacks, the restrictions are generally that they must fit under the seat in front of you. However, some airlines have more specific size restrictions for personal items. For example, American Airlines allows a personal item with dimensions of 18 x 14 x 8 inches, while Allegiant Air allows a personal item with dimensions of 14 x 18 x 8 inches.

Frequently asked questions