If you are headed out to the airport, be aware that there are certain items that you can't take on a plane. Airlines, the TSA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prohibit a significant number of items from being on your person or stored in carry on bags and stowed bags. Below, we take a look at exactly what objects are prohibited when flying.
Carry On Baggage Rules
When packing your carry on bag, do not pack liquids, gels or aerosols that are in containers larger than 3.4 ounces in size. If you do pack these items in 3.4 ounce or smaller containers, store them within a sealable plastic bag. Toothpaste and shampoo count as liquids/gels, so be sure to buy the small travel sizes that won't raise a red flag at the TSA checkpoint. Other common items that also fall under the liquids/gels umbrella include:
- Perfumes
- Soaps
- Scented oils
- Lotions and creams
There are a few exceptions. Travelers with medications, medication injectors, breast milk, baby food and liquids/gels that are essential to health will be allowed to store these items in their carry on bags. However, travelers must declare such items to a security officer and put them through the checkpoint screener. Only reasonable amounts of each of these substances will be allowed onto the plane and security personnel are allowed to remove them from the plastic bag for inspection.
The liquids must be stored in small containers within a plastic bag so that TSA agents can scan them at a fast pace. They don't have the time to look through your bag to find the liquid containers one by one. The plastic bag should have a zip top and be one quart in size.
Inbound International Flights
Travelers flying into the United States with a connecting flight can bring 100 milliliters or more of liquids in their carry on bags. However, these liquids must be purchased at the duty free shop, stored in transparent containers and further stored within a secured bag. Liquids kept in a bag that does not meet the definition of “tamper evident” must be removed from the carry on bag and placed into a checked bag.
The TSA Security Checkpoint
When you reach the TSA security checkpoint, you must remove your shoes, coat, belt, hat, hoodie and the contents of your pockets. You will also need to remove electronic devices from your carry on bag, including laptops and tablets.
Checked Baggage Rules
Travelers with tools must check them in stowed bags. Examples include pliers, drills, crowbars and hammers. Do not pack film in stowed luggage as the TSA screening process could potentially ruin it. Remember, your checked baggage can be opened by security screeners, so don't store money, credit cards, blank checks, travelers checks or other valuable items (laptops/tablets) in these bags. It is advisable to keep all medications in your carry on as well. Flares, gun powder, gun lighters, plastic caps, fireworks, dynamite, aerosols, fuel, lighter fluid, spray paint, lighters, matches, chlorine and bleach are all prohibited from checked baggage.
Keep these tips in mind before you leave your home for your next flight. There's nothing worse than a stressful airport visit, so be prepared before you arrive! Happy travels!
Image Credits
Connecting in Hong Kong by Trey Ratcliff
New Security Rules by BAA
TSA At Gate B9 by Dan Finkelstein
Luggage by Katy Warner
