Lois Larson
When going through security at the airport, it's important to know what items you can bring with you. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a list of prohibited items that are not allowed through the checkpoint, and the final decision rests with the TSA officer. Items that are generally permitted may still be subject to additional screening if they trigger an alarm, appear tampered with, or pose security concerns. To speed through security, passengers can sign up for TSA PreCheck, which allows travellers to keep their shoes, laptops, liquids, belts, and light jackets on during screening.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Items allowed in carry-on and checked baggage | No changes |
| Powder-like substances | Over 12 oz. / 350 mL should be placed in checked bags |
| Electronics | No restrictions for large personal electronic devices |
| Light outer garments/bulky clothing | Must be removed during screening |
| Screening process | All items must be removed and placed on the X-ray belt for screening |
| Personal items | Place in bags instead of bins to keep them safe |
| Liquids | Must be removed during standard screening |
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What You'll Learn
Liquids: follow the 3-1-1 rule
Liquids that you want to carry in your hand luggage must follow the 3-1-1 rule. This rule dictates that travellers can bring small amounts of liquids onto the plane in their carry-on luggage. The rule is simple: each liquid container must not exceed 3.4 ounces or 100ml. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size, clear, plastic bag, and all liquid containers must fit inside this bag. This includes liquids and semi-liquids such as toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash, lotion, creams, gels, and aerosols.
It is important to note that the 3-1-1 rule is a general guideline, and there may be variations in its application depending on the country and airport. For example, some European countries have done away with the need to separate liquids during security screening. However, as not all airports have rolled out the new scanners, it is best to prepare for the 3-1-1 rule unless you know for sure that your departure airport has the new scanners.
To comply with the 3-1-1 rule, ensure that all your liquid containers are 3.4 ounces or 100ml, and that they fit inside a one-quart-sized bag. You can usually get these bags at the airport, but some travellers prefer to bring their own to ensure they meet the requirements. Double bagging is also an option for extra security.
Additionally, some airports may be more lenient than others regarding certain items. For example, lip gloss or contact lenses may be allowed in a handbag or makeup bag rather than the plastic bag. However, other airports, such as Manchester and Edinburgh, are known for being stricter in their application of the rules.
Ultimately, it is important to plan ahead and pack properly to facilitate the screening process and make your travel experience smoother. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or prohibited if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
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Electronics: larger devices need to be screened separately
When going through airport security, you will be required to remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a separate bin for X-ray screening. This includes devices such as laptops, tablets, e-readers, handheld game consoles, iPads, Kindles, and Nintendo Switches. These devices need to be screened separately from other items to provide security staff with a clearer look at the X-rayed images and to ensure that they have not been tampered with or modified in any way that could pose a security risk.
It is important to note that the rules for screening electronic devices may vary depending on the airport and the country. For example, Singapore's Changi Airport requires passengers to remove all electronic devices larger than a smartphone for X-ray screening, without specifying a limit on the number of devices. Meanwhile, Dubai International Airport has similar requirements but encourages passengers to check with their airlines regarding specific limits, especially on international flights. In the UK, passengers are generally allowed to carry several electronic devices as long as they can be taken out of their cases and placed into a tray during security checks.
To facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience, it is recommended to plan ahead and pack properly. Keep your carry-on bag organized and uncluttered, as this will help speed up the security checks. Officers may also ask you to power up your electronic devices, so make sure they are charged and easily accessible.
Additionally, be aware that some items may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if they trigger an alarm during the screening process, appear to have been tampered with, or pose other security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the security checkpoint.
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Clothing: light outerwear/bulky clothing must be removed
When going through airport security, it is important to remember that you will be required to remove any light outerwear or bulky clothing, such as hoodies, sweatshirts, vests, parkas, and coats. This is to facilitate the screening process and ensure the safety of all travellers.
While baggy clothing is not expressly prohibited, it may raise suspicion and cause delays as it could be perceived as a means to hide prohibited items. In such cases, airport security may require additional screening, including a pat-down inspection. To avoid this, it is advisable to wear fitted or less bulky clothing when passing through security checkpoints.
Additionally, metal objects can set off the metal detector, leading to further delays. This includes metal jewelry, piercings, and fasteners on clothing. It is recommended to remove these items before reaching the security checkpoint and placing them in a screening bin along with your other belongings.
It is worth noting that the final decision regarding what is allowed through the checkpoint rests with the TSA officer. Their primary concern is the safety of all passengers, and they may request additional screening or prohibit certain items if they pose security concerns or appear tampered with.
To ensure a smooth and efficient security screening process, it is advisable to plan ahead, pack properly, and follow the guidelines provided by the TSA and airport authorities. This includes being mindful of the type of clothing you wear and removing any light outerwear or bulky items before passing through the metal detector or body scanner.
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Food: no restrictions, but may be subject to additional screening
When it comes to food, there are no restrictions on what you can bring through airport security. However, it's important to note that your food items may be subject to additional screening if they trigger an alarm during the screening process, appear to have been tampered with, or raise other security concerns. This additional screening is at the discretion of the TSA officer, who has the final say on whether your food items are allowed through the security checkpoint.
To facilitate a smoother screening process and ease your travel experience, it's recommended to plan ahead and pack your food items properly. Place food items in an easily accessible compartment of your carry-on bag, separate from other items. This helps you quickly remove them for inspection if needed. Additionally, avoid bringing food items that resemble prohibited items, such as liquids or gels above the allowed limit, as they may be flagged for further inspection.
It's worth mentioning that certain food items may be subject to restrictions or regulations when travelling internationally. For example, some countries have restrictions on importing certain agricultural products, meat products, or fresh produce. Always check the regulations of your destination country to ensure your food items comply with their guidelines.
In general, it's advisable to pack food items that are non-perishable, well-packaged, and not too bulky. Consider items that are easy to transport and won't spoil during your travel. Energy bars, dried fruit, nuts, crackers, and pre-packaged snacks are often good options for air travel. If you're travelling with liquids or sauces, ensure they adhere to the TSA guidelines for liquid quantities and are securely sealed to avoid any spills.
Lastly, remember to dispose of any unfinished food items or waste responsibly before boarding your flight. Some foods, especially those with strong odours or perishable items, may not be allowed onboard due to the comfort of other passengers. Always follow the instructions of the flight crew and be considerate of those around you.
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Hazardous materials: forbidden in carry-on and checked baggage
Hazardous materials are forbidden in carry-on and checked baggage. Hazardous materials include, but are are not limited to, explosives, gases, flammable liquids and solids, toxic and infectious materials, radioactive materials, corrosives, and oxidizers. Many everyday items can be classified as hazardous materials, but they are allowed in baggage if the appropriate regulations are followed. For example, unused COVID-19 test kits are typically allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, but those containing diagnostic samples are not permitted in carry-on baggage and must be properly packaged and identified as a UN3373 Category B Infectious Substance.
Dangerous goods that are improperly packaged, leaking, or hidden are subject to civil and criminal penalties. This includes damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices that may create sparks or generate dangerous heat. These items must not be carried aboard an aircraft unless they have been made safe.
It is important to plan ahead and pack properly to facilitate the screening process and ensure a smooth travel experience. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or prohibited if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or poses security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA officer regarding what items are allowed through the checkpoint.
If you have any questions about specific items, the AskTSA team is available for assistance 365 days a year, with live assistance from 8 am to 6 pm ET. They can provide guidance on what items are permitted and any special instructions for packing or handling certain items.
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Frequently asked questions
Solid foods like sandwiches, snacks, and baked goods are permitted. Liquids, gels, and spreads must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces and fit inside a single quart-sized bag. Fresh fruits and vegetables are allowed on domestic flights only.
Large electronics should be packed separately on the top layer of carry-on luggage for screening accessibility. Laptops do not need to be removed from bags if you have TSA PreCheck. Officers may ask you to power up your electronic devices, including cell phones.
Pill bottles are allowed, and medication does not need to be in prescription bottles. However, items such as needles and liquids larger than 3.4 ounces will need to be inspected.
You will need a boarding pass and ID. If you have TSA PreCheck, you can breeze through without removing your shoes or taking out liquids from your bag.
