The rules are constantly changing… and the more you know, the smoother you’ll go! So here’s a refresher and update!
Most people don't know it, but no matches or lighters of ANY kind are permitted in checked baggage. Only the following types of lighters (limit 2) and matches (limit 4 books) are allowed in CARRY-ON BAGGAGE, or ON YOUR PERSON:
Lighters fueled with liquefied gas (example, BicTM lighters)
Lighters fueled with absorbed liquid (example, ZippoTM lighters)
Safety matches
Place the following items IN your carry-on baggage prior to entering the screening checkpoint:
Mobile phones
Keys
Loose change
Money clips
PDA's
Lighters
Large amounts of jewelry
Metal hair decorations
Large belt buckles
Take your laptop and video cameras with cassettes out of their cases.
Take off your outer coat, jacket, or blazer.
Avoid wearing shoes, clothing, jewelry, and accessories that contain metal. Metal items may set off the alarm on the metal detector.
Put all undeveloped film and cameras with film in your carry-on baggage. Checked baggage screening equipment will damage undeveloped film.
Declare firearms and ammunition to your airline and place it in your checked baggage.
You can lock your baggage again! To do so, use a "TSA-recognized" lock that officials are able to open without cutting. Most locks on the market are not TSA-recognized. Look for language such as: "Accepted and Recognized by TSA" on the package prior to purchasing. TSA screeners are issued codes and special tools for secured access to open these locks.
Planning to fly with kids? Here are some helpful airport tips especially for you!
All carry-on baggage, including children's bags and items, must go through the x-ray machine. Examples include: diaper bags, blankets, and toys.
All child-related equipment that will fit through the x-ray machine must go through it. Examples include: strollers, umbrella strollers, baby carriers, car and booster seats, backpacks, and baby slings.
When you arrive at the checkpoint, collapse or fold child-related equipment and secure items that are in the pockets, baskets, or attached to the equipment. Place these items on the x-ray belt for inspection.
When child-related equipment does not fit through the x-ray machine, the equipment will be visually and physically inspected.
Ask screeners for assistance to help reunite you with your bags and child-related equipment, if needed.
Screeners need to resolve the alarm for both the adult and child if something sets off the alarm as you're carrying a child through the metal detector.
Babies and children must be removed from their strollers or infant carriers so they can be individually screened.
You may not pass the child to another person behind you or in front of you during this process.
Do not pass your child to the screener to hold.
The screener may ask for your assistance with secondary screening of your child.
If your child can walk unassisted, it would be best to have the child walk through the metal detector independently.
Stay informed! Visit the Transportation Security Administration website at: tsa.gov/public/ and sign up for free critical travel alerts to help make traveling easier.
