What Can You Bring in Your Carry-On Luggage in 2024?
The ultimate packing question—carry-on or checked bag? Whether you're the type of traveler who packs everything and the kitchen sink or a minimalist who can survive three weeks with just a carry-on, knowing what you can pack in your hand luggage is key.
Packing efficiently makes your trip smoother and helps you avoid those dreaded Transportation Security Administration delays at security checkpoints or TSA checkpoints. In this post, we’ll dive into what’s allowed in your carry-on for 2024, helping you pack smart and make the most of your hand luggage, including tips on avoiding TSA delays and additional screening procedures.
Before you go, be sure to check the latest TSA guidelines, especially if you're flying internationally, as different countries may have varying rules. Different airlines and destinations, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, may have their own rules. The below information applies to flights originating within the United States.
Items You Can Pack in Your Carry-On Baggage
Personal Items
Streamer
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Make sure the liquid tank is empty.
Eyelash Curler and/or Metal Eyelash Curlers
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
People often question whether they can bring eyelash curlers in their carry-on because it’s a small metal item with moving parts, making them appear similar to certain restricted or potentially dangerous items (like tools or blades). The confusion arises from the general caution travelers have when packing metal objects due to TSA security rules regarding sharp objects or dangerous items. Though it seems harmless, the design of an eyelash curler might lead to second-guessing, especially when people try to avoid delays or extra scrutiny at airport security. However, TSA and most international regulations do allow eyelash curlers in both carry-on and checked baggage without issue.
Hairspray
Carry-on: Yes (3.4-ounce containers or smaller)
Checked Bag: Yes
Hair spray, whether aerosol or non-aerosol, must follow the TSA’s 3.4-ounce liquid rule.
Nail Clippers, Nail Files, Tweezers
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Umbrella
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Scissors
Carry-on: Yes (must be less than 4 inches from the pivot point and without a sharp edge or sharp point)
Checked Bag: Yes
Facial Cleansers
Carry-on: Yes (must adhere to the 3.4-ounce rule)
Checked Bag: Yes
Safety Razors (including disposable razors)
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Toy Weapons or Toy Guns (if NOT realistic replicas)
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Martial Arts Equipment
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
But there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
Blunt or sharp objects: Items like nunchucks, throwing stars, or batons can be packed in checked baggage, but they are not allowed in carry-on luggage due to security concerns This also applies to other sharp or blunt martial arts weapons like sais, swords, or tonfas.
Protective gear: Items such as gloves, headgear, and pads are allowed in both carry-on and checked luggage, as they are not considered hazardous items.
Weight and size restrictions: Some martial arts equipment can be heavy or oversized, so make sure it complies with your airline's baggage allowance. Check with the airline for specific rules about oversized items or additional fees for heavy luggage.
Always double-check with your airline and refer to the TSA's What Can I Bring page to ensure your equipment meets current regulations.
Liquids and Gels
Travel Tip: 3-1-1 Liquid Rule
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Liquid Foundations
Carry-on: Yes (must adhere to the 3.4-ounce rule, in a transparent bag)
Checked Bag: Yes
Perfume
Carry-on: Yes (must adhere to the 3.4-ounce rule in a single quart-sized bag)
Checked Bag: Yes
Hand Sanitizer and Lens Solution
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Nail Polish Remover
Carry-on: Yes (must adhere to the 3.4-ounce rule)
Checked Bag: Yes
It must follow the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule. This means the nail polish remover must be in a container that is 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less and fit within a quart-sized bag usually clear plastic along with other liquid items
However, since some types of nail polish remover are flammable, make sure that the product label does not indicate any specific hazardous restrictions. If you're unsure, it’s best to carry a smaller travel-friendly bottle that complies with airline regulations to avoid any issues at security checkpoints.
Remember, any necessary liquids such as prescription medication, baby formula, and breast milk are exempt from the standard liquid limits but must be declared at the TSA checkpoint and may undergo additional screening procedures.
Food and Drink
Baby Food, Toddler Drinks, Liquid-Filled Teethers
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Peanut Butter
Carry-on: Yes (must follow the TSA liquid limit)
Checked Bag: Yes
Alcoholic Beverages
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
but there are specific restrictions:
Alcohol under 3.4 ounces (100 ml):
You can bring small bottles of alcohol in your carry-on as long as they follow the TSA's 3-1-1 liquids rule. This means the containers must be 3.4 ounces or less and fit into a quart-sized clear plastic bag along with other liquids
Alcohol content:
Beverages with less than 24% alcohol by volume (ABV) (e.g., beer and wine) have no limitations on the amount you can bring, aside from following the 3.4-ounce rule.
Beverages with 24-70% alcohol by volume (e.g., most liquors) are also allowed in carry-on bags but again, limited to containers of 3.4 ounces or less
Alcohol over 70% ABV:
Alcoholic beverages with more than 70% alcohol content (such as certain spirits like Everclear) are not allowed in either carry-on or checked baggage due to their flammability
Note: You cannot drink alcohol you bring aboard in your carry-on while on the plane. It must be served by a flight attendant due to airline regulations. For more details, visit the TSA's alcohol rules page.
Electronics and Devices
Camera Equipment
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Note: Screening equipment can damage the undeveloped film, so pack cameras with film in your carry-on and request a hand inspection.
Laptop Computers
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Cell Phones
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Portable Electronic Devices
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets with built-in lithium-ion batteries are allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, but it's safer to carry them in your hand luggage.
Power Banks (External Batteries)
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: No
Power banks contain lithium-ion batteries, which means they must be carried in your carry-on luggage. They are not allowed in checked baggage due to fire risks.
Lithium Batteries
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: No
(You generally cannot pack spare (uninstalled) lithium batteries in checked luggage due to the risk of overheating or catching fire)
There are specific guidelines based on the type and size of the battery:
Lithium-ion batteries (rechargeable):
Under 100 watt-hours (Wh): These are commonly found in cell phones, laptops, cameras, and other personal electronics. You are allowed to bring them in your carry-on without restriction
100 to 160 watt-hours: These are typically used for larger devices like drones or extended battery packs. You can bring up to two spare batteries of this size in your carry-on
Lithium-metal batteries (non-rechargeable):
Up to 2 grams of lithium content: These batteries, often found in watches or small medical devices, are allowed in carry-on luggage
Key TSA Guidelines:
Spare (uninstalled) lithium-ion and lithium-metal batteries must be carried in carry-on bags and cannot be placed in checked luggage.
Batteries should be protected from damage or short-circuiting by either keeping them in their original packaging, using individual protective cases, or taping over the terminals
Traveling With Kids
Child Car Seat
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
Baby Wipes, Baby Powder, Breast Milk, and Baby Formula
Carry-on: Yes
Checked Bag: Yes
*Breast milk, formula, and related baby items are exempt from the liquid rule but may require a separate bin at the TSA screening process.
Ice Packs and Freezer Packs
Carry-on: Yes (If used to keep medication or baby food cold)
Checked Bag: Yes
What You Cannot Bring in Your Carry-On
Keep in mind dangerous goods, sharp points, and anything that could be a potential threat should not be traveled with and are usually on the TSA prohibited item list.
Pepper Spray
Carry-on: No
Checked Bag: Yes (1 container up to 4 fl. oz. with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge)
Pepper sprays are prohibited in carry-on bags but are allowed in checked luggage with restrictions. Self-defense sprays containing more than 2% tear gas are not allowed in any luggage.
Razor Blades
(Example: box cutters, utility knives)
Carry-on: No
Checked Bag: Yes
Ice Axes / Ice Picks
Carry-on: No
Checked Bag: Yes
Crossbows
Carry-on: No
Checked Bag: Yes
When packed in a checked bag, they should be unloaded and properly secured. Some airlines may have additional requirements, so it's a good idea to check with your specific airline regarding the packaging, handling, and any potential fees associated with transporting weapons or sporting equipment.
Firearms of all types are by a general rule prohibited in the aircraft cabin.
Carry-on: No
Checked Bag: Yes
Check with your airline or travel agent to see if firearms are permitted in checked baggage on the airline you are flying. Ask about limitations or fees, if any, that apply. Firearms carried as checked baggage MUST be unloaded, packed in a locked hard-sided gun case, and declared to the airline at check-in. Only you, the passenger, may have the key or combination.
TSA WEBSITE
For additional information or updates on specific items, visit the TSA website or check with your airline for international flight restrictions.
THE END
Packing your carry-on doesn’t have to be a guessing game. By knowing what’s allowed, you’ll save time at security and travel more confidently. Keep these TSA regulations in mind when packing for your next trip, and remember to check for updates before each flight. TSA PreCheck can further streamline your travel experience, especially at major airports.
