Traveling soon and wondering what you are allowed to take through security? Do you know what TSA requires you put in your checked bag?
TSA has a database where you can find an item you want to take with you in your carry-on bag. Check out https://www.tsa.gov/travel/security-screening/whatcanibring/all.
If you don’t find the item you’re looking for, you can tweet them at @AskTSA or send a Facebook message to AskTSA.
Here is a list of their permitted items and where you must place them.
Permitted as carry-on or checked
- Knitting needles–sharp objects in checked bags should be securely wrapped to prevent inspector injury
- Canes–must undergo X-ray screening, a TSA officer will inspect item if it cannot fit through a machine
- Tents–check with airline, but tent stakes and poles must be checked in
- Umbrellas–Allowed in carry-on bags
- Insulin and insulin supplies–Notify TSA officer of your condition and that you are carrying supplies. Any forms or dispensers must be clearly identified.
- Liquid medications–Liquids, gels or aerosol medications greater than 3.4 ounces must be declared to security officers at the checkpoint for inspection.
- Sand, rocks, seeds, plants—OK in either
- Medical marijuana/CBD–Not searched for but if illegal substance is discovered, TSA will refer to law enforcement
- Yogurt–Must be less than 3.4 ounces
- Small fishing lures–Large hooks should be wrapped in checked luggage. Expensive reels or fragile tackle may be placed in carry-on
- Dry batteries—AA, AAA, C and D, but not lithium varieties
Only permitted as checked
- Golf clubs (balls and tees can be placed in carry-on)
- Canoe/Kayak paddles
- Walking sticks
Only permitted as carry-on
- Vape/E-cigarette
- Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery
- Disposable and Zippo lighters (no matches allowed in carry-on or checked-in)
And what about those small pets?
They are allowed through the checkpoints but don’t have to go through the scanner. A pet carrying case is required to go through the X-ray machine, but the animal must be walked through the metal detector.
Other advice
- Don’t forget the 3-1-1 liquid rule and pack your liquids in the front pocket on your carry-on for accessibility. Liquids, gels and aerosols must be stored in 3.4-ounce containers or less, and fit in a quart size clear plastic zip top bag, one per passenger
- Tape a card with your name and contact info to your electronics
- Pack items in layers (shoes one layer, clothes one layer, electronics one layer, etc.)
- Don’t forget your money at the checkpoint. In fiscal year 2018, travelers left behind over $960,000. (The TSA plans to use the unclaimed money toward checkpoint training requirements.)