✈️ Travel
What You Can and Cannot Bring Through TSA Security
TSA rules are confusing " — and nothing ruins a trip faster than having your favorite item confiscated. Here's the complete guide to what's allowed.
The 3-1-1 Liquid Rule
- Each container: Must be3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller
- Bag type: One quart-sized clear zip-top bag per person
- Exceptions: Medications, baby formula, breast milk (declare at checkpoint)
Carry-On vs. Checked Bag
| Item | Carry-On | Checked Bag |
|---|---|---|
| Liquids (3-1-1) | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes (no limit) |
| Sharp objects | 🏥 No | ✅ Yes (sheathed) |
| Firearms | 🏥 No | ✅ Yes (locked case, declared) |
| Lighters | 1 on person | 1 in checked bag |
| Batteries (lithium) | ✅ Carry-on only | 🏥 No |
| Power banks | ✅ Carry-on only | 🏥 No |
| Scissors | <4 inches OK | ✅ Yes |
| Tools | 🏥 No | ✅ Yes (if <7 inches) |
Prohibited Items (Never Allowed)
- Fireworks or explosives
- Flammable liquids (gasoline, paint thinner)
- Martial arts weapons
- Stun guns (some states)
- Snow globes over3.4 oz
- Cigarette lighters with torch flames
The TSA PreCheck shortcut: With TSA PreCheck ($78/5 years), you keep shoes on, laptop in bag, and liquids in bag. Lines are3-5x faster. Worth every penny for frequent travelers.
⚠️ Common Mistakes:
- Don't forget to remove large electronics " — laptops and tablets go in separate bins
- Don't pack full-size toiletries in carry-on " — they'll be confiscated
- Don't wrap gifts " — TSA may unwrap them for inspection
- Don't assume food is allowed " — some items (honey, salsa) count as liquids
The bottom line: The3-1-1 rule governs liquids: each container under3.4 oz, in one quart bag. Power banks and lithium batteries must be carry-on only. Sharp objects go in checked bags. TSA PreCheck saves time. Check tsa.gov for the full prohibited items list before packing.