What TSA will allow you to fly with this holiday season
Flying this holiday season shouldn’t prevent you from contributing to the fun! Here are some of the things you can and can’t take through TSA.
Traveling during the holidays can often be a time of great stress. With AAA forecasting over 55 million people heading somewhere for the holidays this year, it’s important to be prepared. Lines at airports are expected to get longer and slower due to the high volume of travelers. Knowing what to pack before you head out can help to speed up the process.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a comprehensive guide for most items. For example, snow globes are okay to bring if they contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid, antlers are allowed in carry-on or checked baggage, and box cutters are permitted only in checked luggage. Here are some categories of items to review for your holiday travels.
According to TSA spokesperson Lisa Farbstein, the most common issue that slows down travelers at security checkpoints is having a prohibited item in their carry-on bag. It’s advisable to start with an empty bag when packing for a trip to ensure that there are no prohibited items hidden away.
Items to Carry On
◾ Medication: Ensure you have any necessary medications with you in case you get separated from your checked bags during flight disruptions.
◾ Batteries: Regular AA and AAA batteries can be packed in either checked or carry-on bags, but devices using lithium-ion batteries must be brought into the cabin due to safety concerns.
◾ Baby supplies: All items your baby needs on board should be allowed, including formula in containers larger than 3.4 ounces.
Items to Check
◾ Weapons of any kind: Check with your airline first for guidance on how to pack them. TSA has reported a rising number of firearms at checkpoints recently, which can lead to delays and referral to law enforcement.
◾ Battery-powered mobility devices: These are generally required to be checked due to their size, and there have been frequent reports of damage. Refrain from storing lithium-ion batteries in the cargo hold.
◾ Corkscrews with foil blades: While corkscrews without blades can be packed in carry-on, those with foil blades are not permitted due to their potential misuse.
Cruising Altitude: Avoid lines and high ticket prices by traveling on the holidays
Gray Areas
◾ Food: Most food items are allowed on board, but certain spreadables and creamy cheeses may need to be checked. Items like coffee and canned goods can appear suspicious during TSA screenings and may be more convenient to check.
◾ Wrapped gifts: While technically allowed on board, TSA agents may require you to unwrap gifts for inspection. It’s best to avoid wrapping gifts until you arrive at your holiday destination.
For further questions, the TSA can be reached via multiple social media platforms or by text at 275-872.
Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]
