If you don't travel by air on a regular basis, you may have questions about how and what to pack. To save time and prevent inconvenience, we recommend advanced planning about the items with which you want to travel.
For the most accurate, recent information about what items are permitted or prohibited on board an aircraft, please explore the information for travelers on the Transportation Security Administration's Web site.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
The 3-1-1- Rule: Passengers are only allowed to pack liquids, gels, and aerosols in a carry-on bag when they are in 3 oz. or smaller containers in a 1-quart, clear plastic zip-top bag. Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed. Plastic bags must be removed from carry-ons and placed in screening bins for visual inspection and separate screening.
Permitted and prohibited items: Curious about what you can take on board an aircraft in your carry-on bag or checked luggage? Unsure if a particular item is allowed on a plane at all? Those who want or need to travel with medication and medical devices, electronics, sharp objects, sporting goods, guns, tools, self-defense items, explosive and flammable materials, food and drinks, and other items should review this list.
Travelers with disabilities and medical conditions: If you are a traveler with a physical disability (or a caregiver for a disabled passenger), please review the latest TSA information about traveling with medical conditions, medical equipment, and more.
Traveling with children: Do you have questions about traveling with infants, toddlers, or small children? For security rules regarding traveling with infant formula, breast milk, strollers, car seats, and more, please review this information.
Traveling abroad or outside of the United States: If you are traveling to Mexico, Canada, or any other country, please review the requirements for international travel, including passports and documents required to proof citizenship and identity. Only certain documents are accepted when attempting to reenter the United States. Allow six to eight weeks in advance of your travel date to obtain, replace, or change a passport. The U.S. Customs & Border Protection Web site also has good information about crossing the U.S. border by air, land, and sea.
Traveling with special items: If you'll be transporting large, unusual, or potentially dangerous items, be sure to review TSA's guidlines on traveling with special items. TSA has covered everything from traveling with wine, camping gear, crematory containers and remains of the deceased, precious metals and coins, knitting needles, paintball equipment, parachutes, and more. Always check with your airline about their policies and fees for transporting large or oversize items.