Before any trip can truly begin, travelers and their baggage have to get through airport security. While most people are aware that liquids over 3.4 ounces (or 100 milliliters) are prohibited and that weapon-like or hazardous items are likely to be flagged, the list of restricted items is much broader. Having these prohibited items in your luggage can result in a massive penalty fee, with travelers facing up to $17,062 in civil penalties per violation, per person, if caught trying to bring a prohibited item through a checkpoint.
Some travelers may not realize that seemingly innocent household tools like cordless curling irons and certain sporting equipment are also banned, or that specific items are permitted in a carry-on but not in checked luggage, and vice versa. A critical rule involves power banks and any other devices containing lithium-ion batteries; these must be kept in a carry-on bag due to the inherent risks of overheating. Paul Stewart, a travel expert and founder of My Baggage, advised travelers last November to check TSA and airline rules before packing. He suggests keeping luggage organized, packing liquids and electronics separately for easy access, and ensuring that any items potentially requiring extra screening are placed on top or in an easily accessible pocket to avoid delays.
Travelers are encouraged to check the TSA website for a complete list of banned items for both carry-on and checked luggage. When an item is flagged, even if it is technically permitted, a suitcase may have to undergo additional screening, making it essential to do research ahead of time.
There are specific exceptions to the 3.4-ounce liquid rule, particularly for the smallest of travelers. Formula, breast milk, toddler drinks, and baby or toddler food are allowed in carry-on luggage because they are considered medically necessary liquids. This exemption also extends to the ice packs used to keep these liquids cool, even if the breast milk itself is not present. Travelers should inform the TSA officer of these liquids and remove them from their carry-on to be screened separately. It is also helpful to store these items in clear, translucent bottles.
With biometrics becoming more prevalent at U.S. airports, some travelers may be unaware that they can opt out of the scanning technology. The TSA is legally required to respect a traveler's decision to deny facial recognition and full-body scanners, though the screening process may take longer as a result. The TSA website states that biometrics are used only for verifying identity and not for surveillance, and that data is deleted by the Department of Homeland Security after 180 days. Travelers can inform the TSA officer that they do not want to participate in the face scan and will instead go through the standard ID verification process.
Furthermore, travelers can deny the full-body scanner in favor of a manual search, or "pat-down," performed by an officer of the same sex. Travelers with mobility issues or disabilities should inform the officers if they need a chair during the pat-down or have a medical device. According to the TSA, a pat-down may include inspection of the head, neck, arms, torso, legs, and feet, including head coverings and sensitive areas such as the breasts, groin, and buttocks. Travelers may be required to adjust clothing during the procedure. The officer will advise the traveler of the process to help them anticipate actions, and pat-downs require sufficient pressure to ensure detection, meaning areas may be checked more than once. Note that those whose boarding pass indicates they have been selected for enhanced screening may still be required to undergo the scan in a very limited number of circumstances. The Transportation Security Administration did not immediately reply to a request for comment.
Yes. An exception to the 3.4-ounce rule applies to the smallest of travelers.
