How many carry ons can you have?

You can typically have one carry-on bag plus one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) on most airlines, with the carry-on stowing in the overhead bin and the personal item fitting under the seat in front of you. However, budget airlines or basic economy tickets might limit you to only a personal item, so always check your specific airline's policy, as rules vary, especially with basic fares or on certain international routes.

What are the TSA rules for carry-on luggage?

TSA carry-on rules focus on the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule (3.4oz/100ml containers in one quart-sized bag), prohibiting many sharp objects (like box cutters, razors) and large sporting equipment, while allowing electronics, batteries (loose), and some sharp items like nail clippers and 4-inch scissors; remember that airline-specific size limits (around 22x14x9 inches) and the final call by the TSA officer also apply. 

Does carry-on have a limit?

Carry-on bag limits vary by airline, but the common size is 22" x 14" x 9" (56x36x23 cm), including wheels and handles, fitting in overhead bins, with a personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) fitting under the seat. Major US airlines often allow one carry-on and one personal item for free, but budget fares (like United's Basic Economy) might charge for the carry-on. Always check your specific airline's website, as some have stricter limits or weight restrictions, especially on smaller planes.
 

How many 3 oz bottles can I put in my carry-on?

If you're wondering, “how many 3oz bottles can I carry on a plane,” the answer is approximately seven or eight. Any more, and you won't be able to seal the bag with the containers inside. In terms of how many liquid ounces can be taken on a plane, this translates to approximately 25 liquid ounces.

Can I bring 3 bags for hand carry?

No, generally you can't have three carry-on bags; most airlines allow only one carry-on bag plus one personal item (like a purse, laptop bag, or small backpack) that fits under the seat. While some travelers use a "three-bag system" by packing a small item inside a larger one or utilizing loopholes, airlines enforce the 1+1 rule strictly, and you'll likely be forced to check the third bag at the gate if it doesn't fit the policy. 

NEW Carry-On Rules Starting Jan 1st, 2026 (New Carry-On Size?)

Can I wear a backpack and have a carry-on?

Yes, you can usually bring one standard carry-on bag (for the overhead bin) plus a smaller backpack as your personal item (fitting under the seat) on most major airlines, but it depends on the specific airline, your ticket type, and the size of your items, with international budget carriers being stricter. Your backpack needs to fit under the seat in front of you, while the carry-on goes above; always check your airline's exact size/weight rules before flying, as dimensions vary.
 

Can you go through TSA with two carry-ons?

You can bring only one carry-on item along with your personal item. Your carry-on must fit in in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. If it doesn't fit, it will need to be checked. Be sure all your carry-on items are labeled in case they are checked.

Do toiletries have to be in clear bag in 2025?

Yes, for carry-on bags in 2025, toiletries (liquids, gels, aerosols) must still fit in a clear, quart-sized, sealable bag, following the TSA's 3-1-1 rule (3.4oz/100ml max per container, one bag per passenger). While some airports are upgrading to CT scanners in 2025 that might eventually allow you to keep them in your bag, for now, you'll likely need to remove the clear bag for screening. Solid toiletries (like shampoo bars) and makeup (lipstick, powder) are exempt.
 

Can I bring snacks through TSA?

Yes, you can bring most snacks through TSA in your carry-on or checked bag, but solids (cookies, crackers, fruit, sandwiches) have no limit, while liquid/gel/creamy items (yogurt, hummus, peanut butter, dips) must follow the 3-1-1 rule (under 3.4 oz/100ml) in your carry-on. All food goes through X-ray screening, so keep bags organized and be prepared for extra checks, especially for messy or large items like whole cakes or pizzas. 

Does toothpaste count as a liquid?

Yes, for air travel, toothpaste counts as a liquid, gel, or paste and must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule: containers must be 3.4 ounces (100ml) or smaller, fit in one clear, quart-sized bag, with only one bag per passenger. This rule applies because toothpaste is a cream or gel, similar to lotion, shampoo, or mascara, which can be squeezed or spread.
 

How to pack 20 outfits in one carry-on?

Essential Tips

1. All of the tops should coordinate with all of the bottoms you pack.
2. All outerwear items should match all tops and bottoms. ...
3. Layering is a great way to get lots of combinations from just a few items - make sure your tops are thin enough to layer and have coordinating colors.

Do carry-on bags get weighed?

Yes, carry-on bags can be weighed, especially by international or budget airlines, though many US carriers focus more on size; it depends heavily on the airline, route, and even the agent, so weighing your bag at home to meet specific airline limits (often 7-10kg/15-22lbs) is the safest bet to avoid fees or gate-checking. 

What is the 45 minute rule?

The 45-minute rule in air travel is the minimum time you must check in and drop off bags before a domestic flight, a common cutoff for major airlines like American and United, though this can vary by airport and flight type (international flights often need more time). Essentially, it's the latest you can complete check-in/baggage drop to ensure your luggage gets loaded and you make it to the gate on time, with some airlines also requiring you to be at the gate 45 minutes prior if flying with carry-on only.
 

Do pills have to be in original bottles when flying?

For domestic U.S. flights, the TSA doesn't require pills to be in original bottles, so pill organizers are fine, but for international travel, original containers with labels are strongly recommended by the CDC and State Department to avoid issues with customs and varying local laws. While the TSA allows unlimited solid medication in carry-ons, having a doctor's note and keeping meds in original bottles (especially for international trips) provides clear proof of legitimacy and helps with potential questions from officers, particularly for controlled substances. 

What cannot go in a carry-on bag?

You can't pack firearms, explosives, large sharp objects (knives, tools over 7 inches), large quantities of liquids (over 3.4oz/100ml), flammable items, or certain sporting goods (bats, ski poles) in a carry-on; these pose safety risks and must be checked or are outright banned, though electronics, medications, and some sharp items (like nail clippers) with limitations are generally allowed. 

Can I take my phone charger in my carry-on?

Yes, you can take phone chargers (cables, wall adapters, and power banks) in your hand luggage, but portable power banks with lithium-ion batteries must be in your carry-on, never in checked bags, due to fire risks, with limits of 100Wh (around 20,000mAh) for standard travel and airline approval needed for larger ones (101-160Wh). Keep them easily accessible in your carry-on for security checks and convenience. 

Can you bring cookies in a Ziploc bag through TSA?

Specific Guidelines for Cookies

At the security checkpoint, your cookies will need to go through the screening process just like all other items in your carry-on. To make this easier, consider these tips: Keep cookies in a clear, resealable bag: This helps TSA officers quickly identify the contents.

Can I bring a burger on a plane?

Yes, you can bring a burger on a plane in your carry-on or checked bag, as it's a solid food, but keep sauces minimal (under 3.4oz/100ml if liquid/gel) for carry-ons, pack it in a clear bag for easier screening, and be aware of customs for international travel. TSA officers have the final say, but generally, solid foods like burgers, sandwiches, fruits, and snacks are fine; just watch the liquids and strong smells. 

How do I pack toiletries for a flight?

To pack toiletries for a flight, follow the TSA's 3-1-1 rule for carry-ons: liquids (gels, creams, aerosols, pastes) must be in containers 3.4 oz (100ml) or smaller, fitting into one clear, quart-sized zip-top bag, with one bag allowed per passenger; solid toiletries (toothbrush, hairbrush, solid shampoo) go in a separate bag and don't need to follow these rules. For checked bags, you can pack full-sized items, but use plastic wrap under lids and tape them shut to prevent leaks.
 

Can I put my wallet in my pocket through airport security?

No, you generally cannot keep your wallet in your pocket and walk through the metal detector or body scanner; the TSA requires you to remove it, along with phones, keys, and coins, and place all pocket items into a bin or your carry-on bag for X-ray screening to ensure a smooth process and prevent triggering alarms or theft. For easier access and safety, put wallet contents in a secure, zippered pocket of your carry-on or jacket, or use a money belt/neck wallet. 

Is a quart Ziploc bag TSA approved?

Yes, a quart-size Ziploc bag is perfect for the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule, holding all your travel-sized (3.4oz/100ml or less) liquids in one clear, sealable bag, limited to one bag per passenger for easy checkpoint screening. The standard Ziploc quart bag size (around 7x7 inches) fits these requirements, but ensure it's easily sealable and not overstuffed.
 

What needs to be taken out at TSA?

At a TSA security checkpoint, you need to take out your liquids bag, large electronics (laptops, tablets), outerwear (coats, bulky sweaters), belts, shoes (unless PreCheck/exempt), and empty your pockets of keys, phones, wallets, etc., placing them in bins to allow for clear X-ray views and faster screening. 

What are the most common items confiscated by TSA?

Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes exceeding the 3.4-ounce (100-milliliter) limit are among the most frequently confiscated items. These include everyday products like water bottles, coffee cups, toothpaste, lotions, perfumes, and even duty-free alcohol without proper documentation.

Can I bring a purse and a backpack on a plane?

Yes, you can generally bring a purse and a backpack on a plane, as most airlines allow one carry-on bag (like a backpack) and one personal item (like a purse) that fits under the seat, but you must check your specific airline's size and weight limits, as some budget carriers might charge for the second item or have stricter rules. The key is that your personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. 

What triggers TSA to search a checked bag?

TSA triggers for checked bag searches usually involve anomalies on X-ray scans (dense items, unclear shapes), the presence of prohibited items (flammables, certain batteries, sharp objects), or random security protocols, often indicated by items like electronics, power banks, large liquids, or even oddly packed food or lots of cables appearing suspicious to the scanner. The goal is to find explosives, weapons, or other dangerous materials, so anything that looks unclear or mimics a threat causes a manual inspection, with a notice left inside if opened.