Jazmin Li
Airport security can be a confusing and stressful part of air travel. The rules seem to vary for different travellers, and it can be frustrating to know that even if an item is generally permitted, it may not be allowed through the checkpoint if a security officer deems it unsafe. Knowing the rules can help expedite the security process. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in the US was created in response to the September 11 attacks to prevent dangerous items from being carried onto airplanes. Similar rules are in place in other countries, with different restrictions on the types and sizes of bags, electronic items, and liquids you can carry.
What you can and can't take through airport security
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Liquids | Allowed in containers up to 100ml. Allowed in containers up to 2 litres for essential medical purposes, special dietary requirements, or baby food/milk. |
| Food items and powders | Not allowed in hand luggage as they can obstruct X-ray images. |
| Frozen liquids or items | Not allowed in hand luggage, except for baby food/milk, medicines, and dietary requirements. |
| Medicines | Allowed if essential for the journey. Must be screened separately and accompanied by a letter from a doctor. |
| Lighters | Only one lighter is allowed and must be kept in a resealable plastic bag throughout the flight. |
| Electronic devices | Allowed, but may be subject to additional screening. Officers may ask you to power up the device. |
| Lithium batteries | Allowed in carry-on with airline approval, but must be individually protected. |
| Firearms and ammunition | Allowed in checked bags if declared to an agent at check-in. Small arms ammunition for sporting purposes must be securely packed in the original manufacturer's packaging. |
| Medical marijuana | Not allowed by the TSA and American Airlines. |
| Pushchairs, walking aids, and wheelchairs | Allowed in the cabin but must be security screened. |
| Luggage locks | TSA-approved luggage locks can save time and hassle during security. |
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What You'll Learn
Liquids: Containers must be under 100ml
Liquids are a common source of confusion and frustration when passing through airport security. To save time and hassle, it's important to know the rules regarding liquids.
The restrictions on liquids vary depending on the airport and country, so it's always a good idea to check with the specific airport and country before travelling. However, as a general rule, most airports do not allow liquids in containers larger than 100ml to be taken through security. This rule applies even if the container is only partially filled.
For example, in the UK, there are restrictions on the amount of liquid that can be taken in hand luggage. It is recommended that liquids be packed in hold baggage (checked-in luggage) if possible. If you must carry liquids in your hand luggage, they must be in containers that hold no more than 100ml each. These containers should be placed in a single, transparent, resealable plastic bag, which holds no more than a litre and measures approximately 20cm by 20cm. The bag should be sealed and the liquids should fit comfortably inside.
There are some exceptions to the 100ml limit for liquids. For essential medical purposes, special dietary requirements, or baby food and milk, you may be allowed to carry containers holding up to two litres of liquid in your hand luggage. It is important to have the necessary documentation, such as a letter from a qualified medical professional, to support the need for these exceptions. Additionally, liquids purchased at an airport or on a plane, such as duty-free items, are usually allowed through security if they remain sealed inside a security bag with the receipt visible.
It's worth noting that airport staff may need to open liquid containers for screening, and even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or confiscation if it triggers an alarm, appears tampered with, or raises security concerns.
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Electronic devices: May be subject to additional screening
When travelling with electronic devices, it's important to be aware of the relevant airport security procedures. Most airports will require you to remove electronic devices from your bag and place them in a separate tray for X-ray screening. This includes items such as laptops, tablets, and cameras. Officers may also ask you to turn on your electronic devices, including cell phones, to demonstrate that they are functional and not tampered with.
In general, portable electronic devices containing lithium batteries are permitted in carry-on baggage, but restrictions apply. For example, American Airlines allows a maximum of two devices containing lithium batteries per passenger, and each device must be individually protected in accordance with their lithium battery acceptance policy. Additionally, spare lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on baggage only and are limited to a maximum of two per passenger, not exceeding 160 Wh each.
It's important to note that different countries may have varying regulations regarding electronic devices. For instance, when travelling to, from, or through Japan, you are allowed to carry one lighter per person. In contrast, in the UK, you can only carry one lighter onboard and must keep it with you throughout the flight. Therefore, it is advisable to check the specific regulations of the countries you are travelling to or from.
Furthermore, certain items are prohibited onboard aircraft due to safety concerns. For example, electronic cigarettes may be subject to different regulations depending on the country, and some countries may not allow them at all. Similarly, devices containing lithium-ion batteries are prohibited in checked bags due to safety risks and must be carried in your hand luggage.
To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is recommended that you familiarise yourself with the specific rules and regulations of the airport and country you are visiting. Checking the websites of official government sources and transportation authorities can provide up-to-date and accurate information on what you can and cannot bring through airport security.
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Food items: Can obstruct X-ray images
Food items and powders in your hand luggage can obstruct X-ray images. This means that your bags may need to be checked again manually by security. To reduce delays, it is recommended that you pack these items in your hold luggage.
There are also restrictions on the amount of liquids you can take in your hand luggage. At most airports, you cannot take liquids in containers larger than 100ml through security, even if the container is only partially full. However, there are exceptions for liquids that are essential for medical purposes, special dietary requirements, or baby food and milk. Liquids purchased at duty-free can also be taken through security if they are sealed inside a security bag with the receipt visible.
It is important to note that airport security staff will not allow any items that they consider dangerous, even if they are typically permitted in hand luggage. This includes items such as firearms and ammunition, which must be declared and checked in, and electronic devices containing lithium-ion batteries, which are restricted to carry-on bags only.
Additionally, some items may be generally permitted but may be subject to additional screening or prohibited from passing through the checkpoint if they trigger an alarm, appear tampered with, or pose security concerns. These items include electronic devices, which may need to be powered up for inspection, and medical equipment, which requires documentation from a qualified medical professional.
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Lighters: Only one allowed, in a plastic bag
Airport security can be confusing and stressful, especially when you're unsure about what you can carry in your luggage. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of the traveling public in the U.S. and preventing dangerous items from being carried onto airplanes.
One of the items that is allowed but with restrictions is lighters. You are only permitted to carry one lighter on board. This lighter must be placed inside a resealable plastic bag, similar to the ones used for storing liquids. It is important to note that this bag must remain with you at all times throughout the flight.
These restrictions are in place to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Lighters are considered hazardous materials and fall under the TSA's prohibited items list. While you are allowed to carry one lighter, it is important to properly declare it and follow the prescribed storage guidelines.
Failure to comply with the TSA's regulations can result in confiscation of the item and even legal consequences. To avoid any issues, it is advisable to properly declare any prohibited items and follow the instructions provided by the TSA officers. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with the TSA's prohibited items list before packing can help ensure a smoother travel experience.
Overall, understanding and adhering to airport security regulations, including those related to lighters, is crucial for maintaining safety and facilitating a seamless travel experience. By following the guidelines and staying informed, passengers can contribute to a secure travel environment for everyone.
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Medical equipment: Allowed with valid documents
If you are travelling with medical equipment, you will need to show valid documents from a qualified medical professional, such as a letter from your doctor. The equipment will also be screened separately. It is important to plan ahead and pack properly to facilitate the screening process and make your travel experience at the airport easier. For example, if you are carrying medicines that contain controlled drugs, different rules may apply.
Additionally, if your medical equipment includes electronic devices, batteries, or liquids, you should be aware of the following:
- Electronic devices: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) may ask you to power up your electronic device to ensure it is functional. If your device cannot be turned on when requested, it may not be allowed on the plane, or it may require additional screening.
- Batteries: If you are travelling with batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, you should check the specific guidelines provided by your airline. Some batteries are only permitted in carry-on baggage and must be individually protected.
- Liquids: Most airports have restrictions on the amount of liquid that can be carried in hand luggage. Typically, you cannot take liquids in containers larger than 100ml through security. However, there may be exceptions for essential medical liquids, which can be up to 2 litres. These liquids will need to be screened separately at the security point, and airport staff may need to open the containers for inspection.
It is always advisable to check with your airline and airport before travelling to ensure you comply with any specific requirements or restrictions.
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Frequently asked questions
Liquids, gels, creams, and pastes must be in containers of no more than 3.4 ounces (100ml) and packed in a single, clear, quart-sized, zip-top bag. Exemptions include medications, baby formula, and breast milk, which must be declared at security.
Any items that are considered dangerous will not be allowed through security, including flammable substances and bear spray. Food items and powders are also prohibited as they can obstruct X-ray images.
It depends on the airport and whether you have a specific pass, such as TSA PreCheck, which allows you to keep your shoes on.
