What the TSA allows in checked bags

Most items you wear, use daily, or need at your destination can go in checked luggage. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits clothing, shoes, toiletries, electronics, books, sports equipment, and tools in checked bags — the same things you'd pack for a trip. The real restrictions are on dangerous materials: flammables, explosives, certain chemicals, and compressed gases are banned entirely or allowed only under strict conditions.

Your airline may have additional rules beyond the TSA's list. Some carriers charge fees for sports equipment or musical instruments, or limit how many bags you can check. Before packing, check your airline's website for their specific policy on weight, dimensions, and prohibited items — these vary between carriers.

Key Takeaways

  • Checked bags can hold most everyday items: clothing, shoes, toiletries, electronics, books, and sports gear.
  • Flammable liquids, aerosols, explosives, and certain chemicals are banned from checked luggage entirely or allowed only in limited quantities under specific conditions.
  • Lithium batteries and battery-powered devices have restrictions in checked bags; some must be in carry-on only.
  • Your airline may prohibit or charge extra for certain items like golf clubs, skis, or musical instruments, so verify their policy before packing.
  • Checked bags are X-rayed and may be opened for inspection, so pack items you don't mind TSA agents handling.

Liquids and gels that must stay in carry-on

Liquids, gels, creams, and pastes in containers larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) cannot go in checked bags. This includes shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, peanut butter, yogurt, jam, honey, and anything with a consistency thicker than water. The rule exists because pressurized cargo holds can cause containers to leak or burst.

If you need these items at your destination, buy travel-size versions or purchase them after you land. Solid toiletries — bar soap, solid deodorant, solid shampoo bars — have no size limit and can go in checked bags. Medications in liquid or gel form may be packed in checked luggage in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces if they are declared, though carrying them in your carry-on is safer in case your checked bag is delayed.

Batteries and electronics in checked luggage

Lithium batteries — the rechargeable kind in phones, laptops, and power banks — are restricted in checked bags. Spare lithium batteries must go in carry-on only. Devices with lithium batteries built in, like phones and laptops, can be checked if they are powered off and protected from damage (wrapped in cloth or placed in a case so the power button cannot be pressed accidentally).

Other electronics with non-lithium batteries — digital cameras, handheld games, electric shavers — can go in checked bags. Larger items like hair dryers, curling irons, and electric kettles are permitted. If you are unsure whether a device contains a lithium battery, check the manufacturer's label or manual before packing.

Flammable items and aerosols

Lighters, lighter fluid, and matches are banned from checked bags. Aerosol cans — hairspray, deodorant, spray paint, insect repellent — cannot be checked. These items are allowed in carry-on bags under the TSA's 3.4-ounce rule, but only one 18-ounce container of self-defense spray (like pepper spray) per person is permitted, and it must have a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge.

Perfume and cologne in spray bottles count as aerosols and must stay in carry-on. If you need these items at your destination and cannot carry them on, purchase them after arrival. Nail polish, nail polish remover, and rubbing alcohol are also prohibited in checked bags because they are flammable.

Sports equipment and tools

Most sports equipment can be checked: golf clubs, tennis rackets, skis, snowboards, fishing rods, and bicycles are generally allowed. However, airlines often charge a fee — typically $15 to $50 per item — and may require special packaging or advance notice. Some carriers limit the number of sports items per passenger or have size restrictions.

Tools can be checked, but certain items are restricted. Firearms and ammunition have strict rules and must be declared to the airline before arrival; they cannot be in carry-on under any circumstance. Knives with blades longer than 2.36 inches, box cutters, and ice axes must be checked, not carried on. Hammers, saws, and wrenches are allowed in checked bags. Always verify your airline's policy on sports equipment before packing, as fees and restrictions vary.

Medications and medical devices

Prescription and over-the-counter medications in pill, capsule, or tablet form can be checked in their original labeled containers. Liquid medications — cough syrup, insulin, eye drops — can be checked in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces if they are declared to TSA agents at security. Keep medications in their original containers with your name on the label.

Medical devices like CPAP machines, nebulizers, and glucose monitors can be checked. Syringes and lancets are allowed if they are accompanied by injectable medication or a prescription. If you travel with medical equipment regularly, ask your doctor for a letter explaining what you use and why; this can speed up security screening. Checked bags are safer for medications than carry-on if your flight is delayed, because the cargo hold stays cooler and more stable than the cabin.

Items that require declaration or special handling

Some items are legal to check but must be declared or packed carefully. Lithium batteries in devices must be powered off. Dry ice (used to keep items cold) is allowed in checked bags only in quantities of 2.5 kilograms (5.5 pounds) or less, and the bag must allow carbon dioxide gas to escape. Perfumes and colognes in non-aerosol bottles can be checked if they are in find, leak-proof containers.

Firearms and ammunition must be declared to the airline before you arrive at the airport — do not show up with them undeclared. They must be unloaded, in a locked hard-sided container, and packed so they are not accessible during flight. Explosives, fireworks, flares, and signal devices are banned entirely. If you are unsure whether an item needs declaration, contact your airline's baggage department before arriving at the airport.

What happens during baggage screening

All checked bags are X-rayed. If an item looks suspicious or unclear on the scan, TSA agents may open your bag and inspect the contents by hand. They will repack your bag, but items may be shifted or rearranged. If your bag is opened, you will find a notice inside explaining that TSA conducted the inspection.

Pack fragile items in the center of your bag, surrounded by soft items like clothing. Use hard-sided luggage for valuable electronics or breakables. Avoid packing items you would not want TSA agents to handle or examine closely. If your bag contains something unusual — medical equipment, sporting gear, or tools — a brief note explaining what it is can prevent unnecessary unpacking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack a power bank or portable charger in my checked bag?

No. Lithium batteries in power banks must go in carry-on only. This applies to all spare batteries and battery packs. Devices with built-in batteries, like phones and laptops, can be checked if powered off and protected from accidental set up.

Are there limits on how much medication I can pack?

Solid medications have no limit. Liquid medications can be checked in quantities larger than 3.4 ounces, but keep them in original labeled containers and declare them at security if asked. For controlled substances, carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor.

Can I pack a lighter or matches in checked luggage?

No. Lighters, lighter fluid, and matches are banned from checked bags entirely. You can carry one lighter or one box of matches in carry-on only, and some airlines prohibit these even there.

What if my airline charges a fee for checked sports equipment?

Fees vary by airline and item. Golf clubs, skis, and bicycles often incur charges of $15 to $50. Check your airline's website before packing, or call their baggage department to confirm the fee and any size or packaging requirements.

Do I need to declare my checked bag contents to TSA?

You do not need to declare most items. However, firearms and ammunition must be declared to the airline before arrival. Liquid medications and dry ice should be declared if you have more than the standard allowance. When in doubt, contact your airline ahead of time.