Lois Larson
Airport security can be a confusing and stressful part of air travel, with many travellers unsure about what they are allowed to bring in their carry-on luggage. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for ensuring traveller safety in the U.S. and has implemented a set of rules and procedures to prevent dangerous items from being carried onto airplanes. Knowing what is and isn't allowed can help travellers breeze through security with ease.
What can I take through the airport?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Food | Yes, almost any reasonable food is allowed through security. Liquids are not permitted. There are fruit restrictions for international flights. |
| Electronic devices | Yes, but they may need to be powered up for inspection. Powerless devices will not be permitted onboard. |
| Luggage locks | TSA-approved locks are recommended to save time and hassle during security checks. |
| Shoes | May need to be removed during security screening. |
| Liquids | Must be removed from bags during security screening unless the passenger has TSA PreCheck. |
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What You'll Learn
Food items
When it comes to bringing food through airport security, it's important to follow the guidelines and restrictions set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). The key thing to remember is the difference between solid foods and liquids/gels. Solid foods are generally allowed, while liquids and gels must follow the 3-1-1 rule or 3-4-3 rule, which means you can carry containers holding 3.4 ounces or 100 ml of liquid, gel, or creamy substances. These containers must fit inside a single quart-sized, clear, and resealable bag. Each passenger is allowed one of these bags.
Examples of solid foods that are typically allowed in carry-on luggage include sandwiches, snacks, baked goods, fresh fruits and vegetables (for domestic flights, with restrictions for international flights), bread, candy, chocolate, cookies, crackers, chips, granola bars, nuts, dried fruits, and more. Even pizzas, whole cakes, and pies are allowed, although they may be subject to additional screening.
Foods that fall under the TSA's definition of liquids and gels include sauces, soups, yogurts, jams, preserves, dips, peanut butter, olive oil, vinegar, honey, salsa, and other similar items. These are allowed only in containers that meet the 3.4-ounce rule and must be placed in the quart-sized bag. If you can bring these items in solid form, such as by freezing them, they are typically permitted.
Some foods may trigger the metal detector or require additional screening, such as items wrapped in aluminum foil or containing metal. Canned foods can also be problematic if they appear suspicious or contain liquids. It is recommended to avoid wrapping food in foil, as it may look suspicious to X-ray scanners. Instead, use clear containers for better inspection.
It's important to note that different countries may have their own specific restrictions on bringing food items through airport security. For example, Australia is known for having strict rules regarding food items being brought into the country. Always check the regulations for your destination country when travelling internationally. Additionally, some foods may be prohibited onboard the aircraft due to their smell or impact on fellow passengers.
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Liquids
Any liquid containers larger than 3.4 ounces or 100ml must be packed in checked baggage. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, travellers are allowed to carry liquid medications and baby formula in their carry-on bags. Additionally, duty-free liquids purchased internationally can be carried in secure, tamper-evident bags when travelling to the United States with a connecting flight.
It is important to note that some airports may have different restrictions on liquids. For example, Heathrow Airport in London operates a two-bag policy, allowing passengers to carry two pieces of hand luggage through security control. However, the size of these bags must not exceed 56cm x 45cm x 25cm.
To ensure a smooth security screening process, it is recommended to pack liquids in a separate, transparent, resealable plastic bag. This bag should not exceed a capacity of 1 litre and should comfortably fit all liquid containers. By following these guidelines, travellers can avoid delays and ensure a safe and pleasant journey.
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Electronic devices
Most consumer personal electronic devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage. These include cell phones, smartphones, data loggers, PDAs, electronic games, tablets, laptop computers, cameras, camcorders, watches, calculators, and more. Devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries (like laptops, smartphones, and tablets) should be carried in carry-on baggage. If a device is powered by a lithium battery and placed in checked baggage, it must be completely powered off and protected to prevent unintentional activation or damage.
Spare lithium batteries (uninstalled) are always prohibited in checked baggage and must be placed in carry-on luggage. When a carry-on bag is checked at the gate or planeside, any spare lithium batteries must be removed from the bag and kept with the passenger in the aircraft cabin. There are no quantity limits for "personal use," but larger lithium-ion batteries and spare non-spillable wet batteries are limited to two per person.
Electronic smoking devices are always prohibited in checked baggage. Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate extreme heat, must not be carried aboard an aircraft. If an item triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns, it may be subject to additional screening or not be allowed through the checkpoint.
It is important to note that the rules for electronic devices may vary by airport and country. For example, in the United States, some airports have 3D X-ray machines that do not require passengers to remove electronics from their bags during security screening. However, in other countries like India, passengers may be required to take out all their electronic devices for inspection. Additionally, some airlines might have specific restrictions on certain electronic devices, so it is always a good idea to check with your airline before travelling.
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Shoes
Since 2006, travellers have been required to remove their shoes at airport security checkpoints. This rule was implemented after Richard Reid attempted to ignite explosives hidden in his shoes on a flight from Paris to Miami in 2001. However, as of July 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has ended this 'shoes-off' policy for domestic airports in the US.
Now, most passengers travelling through US airports can keep their shoes on while passing through security. This change is expected to reduce wait times and enhance the travel experience. However, it's important to note that in some cases, TSA officers may still ask passengers to remove their shoes if additional screening is required.
Previously, travellers could avoid the shoe removal requirement by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck program, which offers expedited security screening for a fee. With the new policy in place, the value proposition of PreCheck may change, but it still offers advantages, such as not having to remove belts or liquids and electronics from bags.
When choosing shoes for air travel, it's recommended to wear comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off. Some travellers suggest wearing shoes like Crocs to make the security process smoother, while others prefer ergonomically-designed slip-on shoes that look like sporty flats. Additionally, it's best to avoid wearing shoes with metal components that may set off the metal detectors.
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Luggage locks
When travelling through airports, it is important to keep your belongings safe. Using a lock on your luggage can help secure your items, but not all locks are created equal. TSA locks are a type of lock accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for use on luggage. Their design allows TSA agents to open and inspect the contents of your luggage without damaging the lock or your belongings.
TSA locks are identifiable by their distinctive red diamond logo, the Travel Sentry Red Diamond. These locks are commercially available, and the packaging should indicate that they may be opened by TSA officers. Using a TSA-approved lock is beneficial because, if your locked luggage uses a non-TSA-accepted lock, TSA agents may break the lock to inspect your bag, which can be frustrating and costly.
TSA locks are simple to use. First, make sure your lock is set to the default combination, which is usually 000. Then, insert the shackle into the lock and push down until it clicks into place. Next, set your desired combination by turning the dials to your chosen numbers. Finally, add the lock to your luggage and scramble the dials to protect your combination from being seen. To unlock the lock, simply enter your chosen combination and pull up on the shackle.
You can purchase TSA-approved locks from companies such as Master Lock. By using a TSA-approved lock and planning ahead when packing, you can help ensure a stress-free and secure travel experience.
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Frequently asked questions
You can take almost any food through airport security. This includes sandwiches, chips, snacks, fruits, and even a full stir fry or sushi platter. However, there are fruit restrictions for international flights, and liquids are also not allowed.
Yes, you may need to take your laptop out of your bag when passing through airport security. It is also recommended that you have a TSA-approved luggage lock, which can save you time and hassle during the security process.
It depends on the airport and the country. In the US, for example, travellers with TSA PreCheck status are not required to remove their shoes during security screening.
