The basic rule: checked bags have fewer restrictions than carry-on

Checked luggage allows you to pack items that are banned from the cabin — mainly liquids larger than 3.4 ounces, sharp objects, and tools. The TSA (Transportation Security Administration) permits most everyday items in checked bags as long as they are not explosives, flammable, or otherwise hazardous. The catch is that airlines can still refuse items, and some things that are legal to check are still fragile enough that you should not pack them if you want them to arrive intact.

What you can check depends partly on which airline you fly. Most major carriers — United, American, Delta, Southwest — follow TSA rules, but they add their own restrictions on top. Before packing anything unusual, check your specific airline's baggage policy on their website, not just the TSA list.

Key Takeaways

  • Liquids, gels, and pastes larger than 3.4 ounces are allowed in checked bags but must be packed so they cannot leak onto other items.
  • Sharp objects like knives, razors, and tools are permitted in checked luggage but banned from carry-on bags.
  • Electronics like laptops, cameras, and power banks can go in checked bags, though airlines recommend keeping valuable items with you.
  • Certain items — firearms, ammunition, lithium batteries over a specific wattage, and anything flammable — are either banned or require special handling and advance notice to the airline.
  • Perishable foods and plants have restrictions that vary by destination and airline, so research before packing.

Liquids, gels, and creams in checked bags

You can pack full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, and other liquids and gels in checked luggage without the 3.4-ounce limit that applies to carry-on bags. Deodorant, sunscreen, peanut butter, yogurt, and honey all count as gels or pastes and follow the same rule — no limit in checked bags.

The requirement is that these items must be packed so they cannot leak and damage other belongings. Use sealed, leak-proof containers, and consider placing them in a separate plastic bag inside your suitcase. If a bottle leaks during the flight, the airline is not responsible for damage to your other items, so the burden is on you to pack carefully.

Alcohol in checked bags is allowed by the TSA but restricted by airlines. Most carriers permit alcohol between 24 and 70 percent alcohol by volume (ABV) — roughly spirits and fortified wines — in quantities up to 5 liters per passenger. Beer and wine are usually allowed in larger quantities. Check your airline's specific limits before packing.

Sharp objects and tools

Knives, razors, scissors, box cutters, and other sharp items are banned from carry-on bags but permitted in checked luggage. This includes kitchen knives, pocket knives, and safety razors. Pack them in a way that protects both the item and your hands — a knife roll, a sheath, or a box works well.

Tools like screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, and saws are allowed in checked bags. Power tools such as drills and circular saws are also permitted. The restriction is that tools cannot be in your carry-on bag, where they could be used as weapons. If you are traveling with tools for work, pack them in your checked suitcase.

Sporting equipment with sharp edges — ice skates, ski poles, fishing hooks — can be checked. Firearms and ammunition have their own rules and require advance notice to your airline; contact them directly before your trip if you plan to travel with a gun.

Electronics and batteries

Laptops, tablets, cameras, phones, and other consumer electronics are allowed in checked bags. However, airlines and the TSA recommend keeping valuable electronics in your carry-on instead, since checked bags are handled roughly and items can be lost or damaged. If you do check electronics, pack them in protective cases and consider removing batteries if the device allows it.

Portable chargers and power banks with lithium batteries are permitted in checked bags only if they are under 100 watt-hours (Wh). Most standard phone chargers and small power banks fall under this limit. Larger power banks and spare lithium batteries may be banned or require special handling — check your airline's policy before packing. Lithium batteries in checked bags are a fire risk, which is why airlines restrict them.

Drones, e-cigarettes, and vaping devices with lithium batteries have specific rules that vary by airline. Some carriers ban them entirely from checked bags; others allow them under certain conditions. Contact your airline before your trip if you plan to travel with any of these devices.

Clothing, shoes, and personal items

Everyday clothing, shoes, belts, hats, and accessories have no restrictions in checked bags. Pack as much as your luggage weight and size limits allow. Leather goods, jewelry, and watches are permitted. Sunglasses, eyeglasses, and contact lens solution can be checked, though keeping eyeglasses with you is practical since you may need them during the flight.

Cosmetics and personal care items — makeup, nail polish, perfume, and cologne — are allowed in checked bags. Nail polish and perfume are flammable, which is why they are restricted in carry-on bags, but checked luggage can accommodate them. Pack them securely so they do not spill.

Food and perishables

Solid foods like bread, cheese, fruit, vegetables, and cooked meats can be packed in checked bags. Liquids and gels — peanut butter, honey, jam, yogurt, sauces — are allowed under the same rules as other liquids: they must be sealed and packed so they cannot leak. Some foods are restricted depending on your destination, particularly if you are flying internationally or to Hawaii or Alaska, which have strict agricultural rules.

If you are traveling internationally, research the destination country's food import rules before packing. Many countries ban fresh produce, dairy, and meat. The U.S. also restricts what you can bring back from other countries. When in doubt, pack non-perishable snacks instead — granola bars, crackers, and dried fruit are safer choices.

Plants and flowers

Live plants and flowers are generally not permitted in checked or carry-on bags on domestic flights within the United States, though some airlines make exceptions for small potted plants. The restriction exists because plants can harbor pests or diseases that could spread to agricultural areas. International flights have even stricter rules — most countries ban live plants entirely.

If you need to transport a plant, contact your airline in advance to ask whether they allow it. Some carriers permit small houseplants in checked bags if they are in a sealed, leak-proof container with soil. Cut flowers in a vase or box are sometimes allowed, but again, this varies by airline and destination. When traveling internationally, assume plants are banned unless the airline confirms otherwise.

Items that are banned or require special handling

Explosives, fireworks, flares, and ammunition are banned from both checked and carry-on bags, with limited exceptions for ammunition under specific conditions. Firearms require advance notice to your airline and must be unloaded, in a locked hard case, and declared at check-in. Contact your airline at least 24 hours before your flight if you plan to travel with a firearm.

Flammable items — lighter fluid, paint thinner, gasoline, and aerosol cans with flammable contents — are banned from checked bags. Self-inflating life jackets and airbags are also prohibited. Dry ice is allowed in checked bags in limited quantities (usually 2.5 kg or 5.5 pounds per passenger) if it is properly packaged and labeled, but you must notify the airline in advance.

Magnetic items, including strong magnets and magnetic tools, are restricted in checked bags because they can interfere with aircraft navigation systems. Check with your airline before packing any item with a powerful magnet. Radioactive materials and certain medical devices also have restrictions — if you travel with medical equipment, contact your airline ahead of time.

Weight and size limits for checked bags

Most airlines allow one or two checked bags per passenger, with weight limits of 50 pounds and size limits of 62 inches (length plus width plus height). Overweight or oversized bags incur fees, typically $35 to $100 per bag depending on the airline. Some airlines charge for the first checked bag itself — check your specific carrier's policy.

If you are packing heavy items like tools, books, or electronics, weigh your bag before you leave for the airport. A bathroom scale works if you do not have a luggage scale. If your bag is over the limit, remove items and pack them in your carry-on, ship them separately, or pay the overweight fee at check-in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack a lighter or matches in my checked bag?

No. Lighters and matches are banned from both checked and carry-on bags on all flights. This is a strict TSA and international rule with no exceptions. If you need a lighter at your destination, purchase one after you arrive.

Are laptops and cameras safe in checked luggage?

Physically, they are allowed, but checked bags are handled roughly and items can be damaged or lost. Airlines recommend keeping valuable electronics in your carry-on bag where you can watch them. If you must check electronics, pack them in protective cases and consider removing batteries if possible.

Can I pack my medications in checked luggage?

Yes. Prescription and over-the-counter medications in their original labeled containers are allowed in checked bags. It is smart to keep a copy of your prescription or a doctor's letter in case you need to refill medication at your destination. Some people keep medications in carry-on bags instead so they have access during the flight.

What happens if I pack something that is not allowed?

TSA agents screen checked bags before they are loaded onto the plane. If they find a prohibited item, they will remove it, and you may face a fine. In some cases, the airline will contact you. To avoid this, check the TSA website or your airline's baggage policy before packing anything you are unsure about.

Can I pack my vape or e-cigarette in checked luggage?

Most airlines ban vaping devices and e-cigarettes from checked bags because lithium batteries pose a fire risk. Some carriers allow them in carry-on bags only, under the assumption that a fire would be noticed and addressed during flight. Check your specific airline's policy before traveling.