What can I bring on a plane in 2026 without getting stopped at TSA? Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.
Packing for a trip should be exciting… but for a lot of travelers, it’s stressful for one big reason:
You don’t want to bring the wrong thing and get stopped at TSA.
If you’ve ever wondered:
- “Can I bring this in my carry-on?”
- “Should this go in checked baggage instead?”
- “Will TSA throw this away?”
- “What’s the liquids rule again?”
You’re in the right place.
This guide breaks down what you can bring in your carry-on vs checked bag in a simple, everyday way—so you can pack smarter, avoid delays, and get to your gate with less stress.
Tip: Rules can vary depending on the exact item (and sometimes the size), so if you’re unsure about something specific, the safest step is to check TSA’s official “What Can I Bring?” tool before packing.
Carry-On vs Checked Bag: The Simple Difference
Here’s the easiest way to understand it:
Carry-On Bag = “Items you want with you”
Your carry-on is for things you need access to during travel, like:
- medications
- electronics
- chargers
- important documents
- valuables
- a change of clothes (just in case)
Checked Bag = “Items that may be restricted or too big”
Checked baggage is better for:
- large liquids
- sharp items (many types)
- bulky toiletries
- things you won’t need until you arrive
If you pack the right items in the right place, your TSA experience becomes 10x easier.
The #1 Rule That Stops People at TSA: Liquids in Carry-On
Liquids are one of the most common reasons people get pulled aside.
The TSA 3-1-1 Liquids Rule (Carry-On)
In your carry-on, most liquids must be:
- 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less per container
- stored inside 1 clear quart-size bag
- 1 bag per passenger
Common “liquids” people forget include:
- toothpaste
- lotion
- liquid makeup
- gel deodorant
- perfume
- hair gel
If it spreads, sprays, pours, or squeezes, TSA often treats it like a liquid.
What happens if you bring a big liquid in your carry-on?
In many cases, TSA will require you to:
- throw it away,
- or move it to checked baggage (if you can).
Best tip: If it’s over 3.4 oz and you want to keep it, put it in checked baggage.
What You Can Pack in Your Carry-On (Most Common Items)
Your carry-on should be built around safety + convenience.
Travel documents & essentials
Carry-on is the best place for:
- ID / passport
- boarding pass
- wallet
- keys
- printed confirmations (optional)
- any medical documentation if needed
Medications (always keep these with you)
Carry-on is best for:
- prescription medications
- over-the-counter medicines
- vitamins you need daily
Important: Don’t put critical medication in checked bags—you don’t want to risk a lost suitcase.
Electronics
Carry-on is usually where you want:
- phone
- laptop
- tablet
- headphones
- camera
- chargers and power cords
Personal comfort items
These are safe and smart for carry-on:
- empty water bottle (fill after security)
- snacks (in most cases)
- travel pillow
- blanket or sweater
- wipes / tissues
What Should Go in Checked Baggage (Best Practice)
Checked baggage is ideal for items that are allowed to travel but may cause issues at security.
Larger toiletries
Checked bag is the best place for:
- full-size shampoo
- full-size conditioner
- body wash
- large lotion bottles
- large hair products
Sharp items (don’t risk it in carry-on)
Many travelers accidentally pack:
- pocket knives
- razor blades
- scissors (certain sizes)
- multi-tools
If you’re bringing anything sharp, checked baggage is safer.
Sports and tools
Checked baggage is often where items like tools, tent stakes, and other hard/sharp items belong (depending on what they are).
Food: Can You Bring Snacks Through TSA?
Yes—most travelers can bring food. The confusion is usually around what’s considered “liquid” or “spreadable.”
Foods that are usually fine in carry-on:
- granola bars
- chips
- crackers
- sandwiches
- fruit (domestic travel)
Foods that may cause confusion:
- peanut butter (often treated like a spread)
- yogurt
- dips
- soups
Best tip: If it’s spreadable or spoonable, treat it like a liquid.
Makeup & Toiletries: What Goes Where?
This category trips people up because makeup is not always obvious.
Carry-on friendly (small sizes):
- mascara
- lip gloss
- small foundation
- travel deodorant
- face wash (3.4 oz or less)
Better in checked baggage:
- full-size perfume
- aerosol hairspray
- large skincare bottles
Pro tip: Use travel-size containers so you don’t have to choose between TSA rules and your routine.
Can You Bring Batteries and Power Banks?
Batteries are one of those topics people don’t think about until something goes wrong.
General best practice:
Keep items like power banks and spare batteries in your carry-on, not checked baggage.
Why? Because batteries can be sensitive to heat and pressure changes in checked baggage.
If you’re unsure about an exact battery type (especially larger ones), check TSA guidance before traveling.
Gifts: Can You Fly With Wrapped Presents?
Yes, but there’s one simple warning:
Wrapped gifts can be opened by TSA
If TSA needs to inspect your bag and the gift is wrapped, they may open it.
Best tip:
- Keep gifts unwrapped until you arrive
OR - Use gift bags instead of wrapping paper
What NOT to Pack (Common Mistakes Travelers Make)
Here are the biggest packing mistakes that create TSA stress:
Oversized liquids in carry-on
This causes delays and often results in you losing the item.
Sharp objects forgotten in side pockets
This happens with:
- keychain tools
- pocket knives
- mini scissors
- tweezers in some cases
Packing valuables in checked baggage
Avoid putting these in checked bags:
- cash
- jewelry
- electronics
- important documents
Forgetting that gel/paste items count as liquids
Toothpaste, hair gel, and even some skincare items count.
Your Simple Packing Plan (So You Don’t Overthink It)
If you want a simple way to pack without stress, use this:
Pack these in carry-on:
- ID/passport + boarding pass
- medications
- electronics + chargers
- 1 change of clothes
- small liquids bag
- snacks + empty water bottle
Pack these in checked bag:
- large toiletries
- sharp items (if allowed)
- bulk items
- anything you won’t need until arrival
The Best Tip for Travelers: Check Before You Pack
If you’re unsure about any item—especially something unusual—don’t guess.
The safest move is to check TSA’s official “What Can I Bring?” tool before you leave home.
This can save you from:
- delays
- confiscated items
- missed flights
- stress at the checkpoint
Packing Smart Makes Travel Easier
TSA rules aren’t meant to ruin your trip—but they can feel frustrating if you get caught off guard.
The key is simple:
- Pack liquids correctly
- Keep essentials in your carry-on
- Put larger or questionable items in checked baggage
- When unsure, check before you pack
Your future self at the airport will thank you.
Quick Question
What do you always forget until the last minute?
1. liquids bag
2. chargers
3. snacks
4. I always overpack
Drop your answer in the comments!