TSA Rules: Guide to What You Can Bring in Your Carry-On
- Joy Bartholomew
- Jul 1
- 5 min read
Flying soon and wondering what you can toss in your carry-on without getting that dreaded TSA side-eye? No worries, I’ve got you covered with a rundown of what’s allowed, based on the latest TSA guidelines as of June 2025. Let’s keep it simple, practical, and maybe even a little fun.
The Golden Rule: Liquids and the 3-1-1 Rule
You’ve probably heard this one before, but it’s worth repeating: liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on need to follow the 3-1-1 rule. That means:
• 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less per container.
• All containers must fit in 1 quart-sized, clear, zip-top bag.
• 1 bag per passenger.
This applies to stuff like shampoo, toothpaste, lotion, hand sanitizer, and even your fancy face cream. Pro tip: If you’re bringing a liquid that’s pricey or hard to find, consider putting it in your checked bag if it’s over 3.4 ounces—nobody wants to toss their $50 moisturizer at security.
Exceptions: Medications, baby formula, breast milk, and juice for kids are allowed in “reasonable quantities” beyond 3.4 ounces, but you’ll need to declare them at the checkpoint. Same goes for liquid or gel-filled teethers for babies. Just let the TSA officer know, and they’ll guide you through.
Food: Snacks Are Your Friend
Good news for snackers: you can bring solid foods in your carry-on! Think granola bars, chips, sandwiches, or that apple you didn’t finish on the way in. But if your food is spreadable or liquid-like (hummus, yogurt, peanut butter), it falls under the 3-1-1 rule. So, that jar of Nutella? Keep it under 3.4 ounces or pack it in your checked bag.
Frozen foods are okay, too, as long as they’re solid when you go through security. If your ice pack or gel pack is partially melted, it needs to follow the 3-1-1 rule. Dry ice? You can bring up to 5.5 pounds for food or medical purposes, but check with your airline first.
Electronics: Keep Your Gadgets Close
You can absolutely bring your phone, laptop, tablet, e-reader, and even your portable charger in your carry-on. In fact, TSA prefers you keep these in your carry-on rather than checked bags because lithium batteries can be a fire risk. Just be ready to take larger electronics (like laptops) out of your bag during screening.
Drones, cameras, and gaming consoles are fine, too, but double-check airline rules for size limits or restrictions on using them onboard. And yes, your headphones are good to go—wired or wireless.
Personal Items: The Everyday Stuff
Here’s a quick hit list of common items you can bring in your carry-on:
• Medications: Pills, inhalers, EpiPens, and insulin are all good. Liquid meds over 3.4 ounces are allowed but declare them. Bring a prescription if you can, just in case.
• Makeup: Solid makeup (lipstick, powder, eyeshadow) is fine. Liquid or gel makeup (mascara, liquid foundation) needs to fit the 3-1-1 rule.
• Toiletries: Toothbrushes, deodorant sticks, and solid shampoo bars are good. Aerosol deodorants or liquid toiletries? 3-1-1 rule applies.
• Baby Gear: Diapers, wipes, baby bottles, and even breast pumps are allowed. Formula and breast milk get a pass on the 3-1-1 rule—just declare them.
• Books, Notebooks, Pens: No restrictions here. Bring that novel or journal to keep yourself entertained.
Sharp Objects and Tools: Proceed with Caution
This is where things get tricky. Most sharp objects are a no-go in carry-ons, but there are a few exceptions:
• Disposable razors and nail clippers (without blades) are fine.
• Scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches (measured from the pivot point) are allowed.
• Knives, pocketknives, and multi-tools? Nope, those go in checked bags. Same for tools like hammers, screwdrivers, or wrenches longer than 7 inches.
If you’re a crafter, knitting needles and crochet hooks are usually okay, I’ve traveled with them, but circular thread cutters or anything with a blade is a no. Check with your airline, as some have stricter rules.
Sports Gear and Hobbies
Heading to a game or hobby sesh? You can bring some sports equipment in your carry-on, like tennis rackets, fishing rods (if they fit overhead), or a skateboard (check airline size rules). Golf clubs, baseball bats, and hockey sticks, though? Those are checked bag territory.
For hobbies, things like paintbrushes or pencils are fine, but liquid paints or solvents need to follow the 3-1-1 rule.
What’s Totally Banned?
Some stuff is a hard no in carry-ons (and sometimes even checked bags). Here’s a quick list:
• Weapons: Firearms, ammo, replicas, and even BB guns are banned from carry-ons. Some can go in checked bags with strict rules—check TSA’s website.
• Explosives and Flammables: Fireworks, flares, gunpowder, or gasoline are a no-go in any bag.
• Large Liquids: That 16-ounce water bottle? Drink it before security or pack it empty.
• Self-Defense Items: Pepper spray, tasers, and batons are generally not allowed in carry-ons. Some pepper sprays can go in checked bags—check TSA rules.
Pro Tips for a Smooth TSA Experience
1. Empty Your Water Bottle: You can bring an empty reusable bottle and fill it up post-security. Saves money and the planet.
2. Organize Your Bag: Put your 3-1-1 bag and electronics where they’re easy to grab. TSA loves efficiency.
3. Declare Weird Stuff: Got something unusual, like a medical device or specialty food? Tell the TSA officer upfront to avoid delays.
4. Check Airline Rules: TSA might say yes, but airlines can have stricter policies, especially for oversized items.
5. When in Doubt, Check It: If you’re unsure about an item, toss it in your checked bag or leave it at home to avoid the stress.
Final Thoughts
Navigating TSA rules doesn’t have to be a headache. Stick to the 3-1-1 rule for liquids, keep your gadgets and snacks handy, and leave the sharp or flammable stuff at home (or in checked luggage). If you’re ever unsure, the TSA’s website (tsa.gov) has a handy “What Can I Bring?” tool, or you can message them on social media for quick answers. Safe travels, and may your airport experience be as smooth as a sunny runway!
Disclaimer: This info is based on TSA guidelines as of June 2025, but rules can change. Always check tsa.gov or with your airline for the latest.
Joy Bartholomew is the founder of Reinvent Retired Travel and Wellness. She is a travel advisor specializing in helping empty-nesters, retirees, and the "50+ travelers" find their perfect vacation, whether it's a new city, country, or continent. She enjoys helping couples, individuals and groups check off itineraries from their bucket-list, and enjoy all of the luxuries and comforts in midlife on a mid-level budget. As a yoga teacher, she works with the same 50+ travelers to improve their health and wellness so they can travel better for longer and enjoy all of life's blessings.
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