Answers to the most common questions about TSA airport security screening rules and procedures.
Empty water bottles are allowed through TSA security checkpoints. You can fill them at water fountains or bottle-filling stations after clearing security.
Yes, toothpaste is classified as a paste and falls under the TSA 3-1-1 liquids rule. It must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less.
Shampoo is allowed if it's in a container of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less and fits in your quart-sized liquids bag. Solid shampoo bars are not subject to liquid rules.
Gel, spray, and roll-on deodorants are classified as liquids and must follow the 3-1-1 rule. Solid stick deodorant is not considered a liquid.
Yes. Contact lens solution is considered a medically necessary liquid and may exceed the 3.4-ounce limit. Declare it to a TSA officer at the checkpoint.
Yes, most solid food items are allowed through TSA security in carry-on bags.
Yes, peanut butter is classified as a spreadable food and falls under the 3-1-1 rule.
Yes, baby food, formula, and breast milk are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule and allowed in reasonable quantities.
In standard screening lanes, yes — laptops must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin. TSA PreCheck members can leave them in their bags.
Yes, portable power banks are allowed in carry-on bags only. They are prohibited in checked luggage due to lithium battery safety rules.
Lithium batteries under 100 watt-hours are allowed in carry-on and checked bags when installed in devices. Spare batteries must be in carry-on only.
Yes, prescription medications are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags without quantity limits.
Yes, insulin and syringes are permitted when accompanied by injectable medication.
Yes, medically necessary liquids are exempt from the 3.4-ounce limit but must be declared at the checkpoint.
The 3-1-1 rule requires that liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, and pastes in carry-on bags be in containers of 3.4 ounces (100ml) or less. All containers must fit in one quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag. Each passenger is allowed one plastic bag.
Generally, you should remove laptops and large electronics from your bag, as well as your quart-sized bag of liquids. TSA PreCheck members can often leave these items in their bags. Remove jackets, belts, and shoes as directed.
Solid food items are generally allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. However, spreadable foods (peanut butter, hummus, yogurt) are considered liquids and must follow the 3-1-1 rule.
Yes. Prescription and over-the-counter medications are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags. Liquid medications exceeding 3.4 oz are permitted but must be declared at the checkpoint.
If a prohibited item is found, you'll typically have options: return it to your vehicle, give it to a non-traveling companion, mail it to yourself, surrender it to TSA, or check it in your luggage if time permits.
Yes, but with restrictions. Batteries under 100 watt-hours are allowed. Spare lithium batteries must be in carry-on luggage, not checked bags. Batteries between 100-160Wh require airline approval.
While TSA rules are consistent across U.S. airports, enforcement may vary slightly by location. International destinations may have different rules. When in doubt, pack questionable items in checked baggage.
Explosives, flammable items, certain chemicals, and weapons are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags. This includes fireworks, flares, gasoline, strike-anywhere matches, and realistic replica weapons.