What makes a backpack TSA approved?

A backpack is considered "TSA-friendly" or "TSA-approved" if it has a designated laptop compartment that unzips and lays flat (clamshell-style), allowing the laptop to be scanned by X-ray without being removed from the bag, saving time and keeping electronics secure. Key features include a separate, openable laptop section with no internal metal or extra pockets that obstruct the view, letting it lie fully flat on the conveyor belt.

What makes a backpack TSA compliant?

Tsa-friendly bags are typically designed to be butterfly - or triple-folded and can be flipped open, so when you place the bag flat on a conveyor belt leading to the X-ray machine, the screener can see each part of the bag independently.

Does TSA actually care about quart size bags?

Yes, the TSA is strict about the quart-size bag rule (3-1-1) for liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in carry-ons, requiring all containers 3.4oz (100ml) or less to fit into one clear, quart-sized bag per passenger, though enforcement can vary by airport and if you have TSA PreCheck. It's a literal rule: one bag, all liquids must fit inside, and items over 3.4oz must go in checked bags.
 

What three new items did TSA ban?

The TSA recently banned three types of cordless hair styling tools from checked baggage (but not carry-ons): butane/gas-powered irons, lithium-ion/metal battery-powered irons, and spare butane gas refills, due to fire hazards; these can still fly in carry-ons with safety covers. 

What triggers a TSA bag check?

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.
 

NEW TSA Carry-On Rules You NEED to Know in 2025

Can TSA see my tampon?

No, TSA body scanners generally cannot see inside your body to identify a tampon, as the millimeter wave technology doesn't penetrate skin; however, the density of menstrual products (like pads or even a tampon's applicator/material) can sometimes create an anomaly that flags for a pat-down, but they don't reveal what the product is, only that something is there. You might get pulled aside for extra screening, but it's usually quick and discreet, and you can request a private room for the pat-down. 

What is the most confiscated item at airports?

The Most Frequently Detected Prohibited Items in Airport Baggage Checks

1. Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs) ...
2. Knives and Sharp Objects. ...
3. Firearms. ...
4. Explosives and Flammable Materials. ...
5. Realistic Replicas and Novelty Items. ...
6. Ammunition. ...
7. Flammable Household Items. ...
8. Restricted Powders.

Why is deodorant not allowed in hand luggage?

Pressurised containers such as large deodorant cans, hair sprays, or insect sprays are not allowed in hand luggage. They are seen as risky items due to the pressurisation inside the cabin. Small travel-size sprays of 100 ml may be allowed, but larger cans will be removed at security.

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. 

Do you still need to put toiletries in a plastic bag in 2025?

Yes, in 2025, you still need to put travel-sized toiletries (liquids, gels, aerosols, creams, pastes) in a single, clear, quart-sized plastic bag for carry-on luggage due to the TSA's 3-1-1 rule, though some airports are testing advanced scanners that might ease this, it's not universal, so always be prepared to use the bag. Solid items (like lipstick, powders) and medically necessary liquids have different rules, but the quart-sized bag for liquids remains the standard.
 

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. 

Can I use a Ziploc bag for TSA?

Yes, you can use a standard clear, quart-sized Ziploc bag for liquids in your carry-on, as it fits the TSA's 3-1-1 rule (3.4oz containers, 1 bag, 1 quart size), but it must be removed from your bag for screening unless your airport has advanced scanners that allow you to leave liquids in. Using a durable freezer bag is recommended for leak-proofing and reusability, and remember only one bag is allowed per passenger.
 

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.
 

What do you have to take out of your backpack at TSA?

Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin. Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on). Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.

Why does TSA always flag my groin?

Some common, legitimate reasons your crotch might trigger an alert include: metallic elements in clothing (such as buttons, zippers, or decorative fabric), medical implants, incontinence pads, menstrual products, or even sweat causing an unusual reflection in the scanner.

What is the best backpack for travel on a plane?

The best travel backpack depends on your needs, with top contenders like the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L for overall organization, Osprey Sojourn Porter 46L for gear-heavy trips, and Osprey Farpoint 40/Daylite Carry-On 35L for budget-friendly options, offering features like suitcase-style openings, laptop sleeves, and durable materials for efficient air travel.
 

What cannot go in hand luggage?

Not allowed in carry-on bags are firearms, ammunition, explosives, sharp objects (knives, large scissors), most tools, large liquids/gels/aerosols (over 3.4oz/100ml), and flammable items, as well as some sports equipment like baseball bats or ski poles, but always check the TSA website for specific rules. Items like power tools, drones, bear spray, and even some toy guns are also prohibited.
 

Where do I pack my phone charger when flying?

You must keep your mobile charger (especially power banks with lithium-ion batteries) in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage, due to fire risk. Pack it securely in a pouch for easy access and to prevent short circuits, and be ready for security to inspect it; some airlines want them easily accessible in the cabin for quick response if needed.
 

What is not allowed through TSA?

The TSA bans items like firearms, explosives, sharp objects (knives, ice picks), large tools, and flammable liquids from carry-on bags, with many of these restricted to checked luggage (if properly packed/declared) or completely prohibited, while rules also cover liquids, powders, and specific sporting goods, so always check the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" tool for specifics before flying.
 

Can I carry medications in my carry-on?

You can bring your medication in pill or solid form in unlimited amounts as long as it is screened. You can travel with your medication in both carry-on and checked baggage. It's highly recommended you place these items in your carry-on in the event that you need immediate access.

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.
 

What to not carry in a flight?

You can't bring weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray), explosives (fireworks, flares), flammable items (gas, lighter fluid, aerosols), sharp objects (axes, box cutters, large tools), certain chemicals (bleach, chlorine), and large quantities of liquids (over 3.4oz/100ml in carry-ons) on planes, with many items being completely banned or restricted to checked bags with specific packing requirements. Hoverboards and other lithium-battery-powered rideables are also generally prohibited due to fire risk, while some items like firearms require strict declaration and locking in checked bags. Always check with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and your airline for specific rules, as policies can vary.
 

What is the 45 minute rule at the airport?

The "45-minute rule" at airports means most major airlines require passengers to complete check-in (including dropping bags) at least 45 minutes before departure for domestic flights, with some airlines like United Airlines enforcing it universally, while Delta requires it for bags but only 30 mins without, and American Airlines has similar deadlines, ensuring time for security, baggage processing, and boarding, with international flights needing even earlier arrival (often 60+ mins). Missing this cutoff can result in denied boarding or checked bags being offloaded, making early arrival crucial. 

What is the most bought item in an airport?

eSIM provider Holafly analyzed nationwide keyword search volumes (and by state) to determine the most popular snacks available in airports. Leading the way is a popular American dessert—Oreo. The sandwich cookie paved the path to number one with 113,380 searches nationwide.

Can TSA confiscate your cash?

To be clear, TSA agents cannot seize your cash. Their authority is limited to transportation security. However, they can detain you and call in law enforcement officers—such as the DEA, FBI, or local police—who do have the authority to perform a seizure.