The TSA's core prohibited list for hand luggage

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains a list of items you cannot bring through security in your carry-on bag. These rules exist because the TSA classifies certain items as threats to aircraft safety. The prohibited list is the same whether you fly domestic or international, though some international carriers add their own restrictions on top of TSA rules.

The TSA's website lists every prohibited item in their "What Can I Bring?" database, which you can search by item name. If you are unsure about a specific object, searching there takes 30 seconds and gives you a definitive answer. The rules do not change based on your destination — only based on whether the item itself is on the list.

Prohibited items fall into a few categories: weapons and sharp objects, flammables and explosives, tools, and certain sporting equipment. Some items are prohibited only in carry-on (you can pack them in checked luggage), while others are banned from both. That distinction matters if you are checking a bag.

Key Takeaways

  • Knives, box cutters, razors, and most sharp objects are prohibited in carry-on bags, though some can go in checked luggage.
  • Lighters, lighter fluid, aerosols, and most flammable liquids cannot travel in either carry-on or checked bags.
  • Tools longer than 7 inches or heavier than one pound are prohibited in carry-on; some tools can go in checked bags.
  • Sporting equipment like baseball bats, hockey sticks, and ski poles are prohibited in carry-on but allowed in checked luggage.
  • The TSA's "What Can I Bring?" database lets you search any item by name to confirm whether it is allowed.

Weapons and sharp objects you cannot carry on

Any object designed as a weapon or that can be used as one is prohibited in your carry-on bag. This includes firearms, ammunition, explosives, and realistic replicas of firearms. Even if you own the item legally at home, you cannot bring it through airport security in your hand luggage.

Sharp objects are restricted because they can be used as weapons in the cabin. Prohibited items include kitchen knives, box cutters, razor blades, ice picks, and most scissors. Scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches and rounded tips are allowed. Pocket knives and multi-tools with blades are not allowed, even if the blade is small.

Sporting equipment that could be used as a weapon — such as baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, and ski poles — cannot go in your carry-on. These items are allowed in checked luggage. Martial arts equipment like nunchucks, throwing stars, and brass knuckles is prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags.

Flammable liquids and gases you cannot pack

The TSA prohibits lighters and lighter fluid in both carry-on and checked bags. This rule applies to all lighters, including disposable ones and refillable ones, with very limited exceptions. The only lighter allowed is a single butane or zippo lighter in your checked bag if you notify the airline in advance — and many airlines do not permit even that exception, so check with your carrier before packing one.

Aerosol cans are restricted based on what they contain. Self-defense sprays (pepper spray, mace) are prohibited in carry-on but one 2% by mass tear gas cartridge is allowed in checked luggage only if it is equipped with a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Hair spray, deodorant, and other personal care aerosols are allowed in carry-on in limited quantities (3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters per container) as part of your liquids bag, but many airlines restrict aerosols further, so verify with your carrier.

Flammable liquids like paint thinner, gasoline, and acetone are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags. Alcohol above 70% proof is also prohibited. Perfume and cologne under 70% proof are allowed in carry-on in your liquids bag (3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters per container).

Tools and equipment with size and weight limits

Most tools are prohibited in carry-on bags if they are longer than 7 inches or weigh more than one pound. This covers hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, and saws. Cordless tools like cordless drills are prohibited in carry-on but may be allowed in checked luggage — check with your airline, as policies vary.

Some tools are allowed in carry-on if they meet the size requirement. A small multi-tool without a blade or knife attachment, under 7 inches, is allowed. Nail clippers and tweezers are allowed. Straight razors are prohibited, but safety razors and electric razors are allowed in carry-on.

If you are traveling with tools for work or a project, pack them in your checked bag whenever possible. If you must carry them on, measure them first and verify the specific tool on the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" database, because exceptions exist for certain items.

Sporting and recreational equipment rules

Most sporting equipment is prohibited in carry-on because of its size and potential as a weapon. Baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, oars, ski poles, and pool cues cannot go in your carry-on bag. All of these items are allowed in checked luggage.

Skis and snowboards are allowed in checked luggage. Golf clubs are allowed in checked luggage but not in carry-on. Fishing rods are allowed in checked luggage. Spear guns and other diving equipment with sharp points are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags.

Bicycles can be checked if you disassemble them and pack them in a bike bag or box — they cannot travel as carry-on. Bowling balls are allowed in checked luggage. If you are traveling with sports gear, plan to check it rather than carry it on.

Liquids, gels, and aerosols in carry-on bags

All liquids, gels, creams, and aerosols in your carry-on bag must follow the 3-1-1 rule: each container holds 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, all containers fit in one quart-sized clear plastic bag, and you bring one bag per person. This applies to shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, peanut butter, yogurt, and any other liquid or gel-like substance.

Exceptions exist for medications, baby formula, and breast milk — these are allowed in reasonable quantities beyond the 3.4-ounce limit. Solid foods like granola bars, cheese, and fruit are not subject to the liquids rule and can travel in carry-on bags in any quantity.

Pack your liquids bag at the top of your carry-on so you can remove it quickly at security. If a container is larger than 3.4 ounces, even if it is not full, it cannot go in your carry-on — it must be checked or left behind.

Items that vary by airline or destination

Some items are allowed by the TSA but restricted by individual airlines. Electronic devices like laptops, tablets, and cameras are allowed in carry-on by the TSA, but some airlines limit the number or size. Lithium batteries have specific rules: spare lithium batteries are prohibited in checked luggage but allowed in carry-on in limited quantities (typically two spares per person).

International flights may have additional restrictions beyond TSA rules. If you are flying internationally, check your airline's website and the TSA's rules for your destination country. Some countries prohibit items that the TSA allows, and some require advance notice for items like medications or medical devices.

Duty-free alcohol purchased after security is allowed in your carry-on if it is in a sealed, tamper-evident bag. Once you land, that bag must remain sealed until you reach your final destination, or you risk having it confiscated at your next connection.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pack a knife in my checked bag?

Most knives are allowed in checked luggage if they are packed safely so the blade cannot injure baggage handlers. Pack the knife in a sheath or wrapped securely, and place it in the center of your bag surrounded by soft items. Knives are prohibited in carry-on bags. Check your airline's specific policy, as some carriers have additional restrictions.

What if I forgot I had a prohibited item in my carry-on?

If TSA finds a prohibited item during screening, they will confiscate it. You will not face a fine for a first offense of an item you genuinely forgot about. If you realize you have a prohibited item before reaching security, you can leave it at home, check it, or ask the airline if you can leave it at the ticket counter for them to dispose of.

Are electronic cigarettes and vaping devices allowed?

Electronic cigarettes, vape pens, and spare lithium batteries for them are allowed in carry-on bags only — they are prohibited in checked luggage because of fire risk. The device itself can go in your carry-on, but you cannot use it during the flight. Liquid nicotine is subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

Can I bring my medication in carry-on?

Yes. Medications in reasonable quantities are allowed in carry-on bags and are exempt from the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Bring them in their original labeled containers. If you are traveling internationally, carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, as some countries restrict certain medications.

How do I know if an item is allowed if it is not on the list?

Use the TSA's "What Can I Bring?" database on their website — search by item name and it will tell you whether it is allowed in carry-on, checked luggage, or both. If you cannot find your item, contact the TSA through their social media accounts or call your airline directly before you travel.