What Can I Bring?

Planning ahead and packing properly can facilitate the screening process and ease your travel experience at the airport. Know what you can pack in your carry-on and checked baggage before arriving at the airport by reviewing the lists below. Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. Read about civil penalties for prohibited items.

For items not listed here, simply snap a picture or send a question to AskTSA on Facebook Messenger or Twitter. We look forward to answering your questions, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. ET weekdays; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. weekends/holidays.

 

The final decision rests with the TSA officer on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.

Flammables

Solid Candles

  • Carry On Bags: Yes
  • Checked Bags: Yes

Sparklers

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No

Spray Paint

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No

Strike-anywhere Matches

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No

Tear Gas

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No

Self-defense sprays containing more than 2% by mass of Tear Gas are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage.


Torch Lighters

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No

Torch lighters create a thin, needle-like flame that is hotter (reaching 2,500 F) and more intense than those from common lighters. Torch lighters are often used for pipes and cigars, and maintain a consistent stream of air-propelled fire regardless of the angle at which it is held.


Vehicle Airbags

  • Carry On Bags: No
  • Checked Bags: No