TSA Rules 2026: What You Can Bring on a Plane

Getting through airport security smoothly starts with knowing exactly what you can and cannot pack. TSA rules have not changed dramatically from year to year, but a few important updates for 2026 affect every traveler, most notably the Real ID requirement that is now fully enforced for domestic flights.

This guide covers every major TSA rule you need to know before your next flight. Whether you are packing liquids, traveling with medications, flying with kids, or wondering if you can bring that souvenir through security, you will find clear answers below. For a broader look at organizing your entire trip, start with our complete trip planning guide.

TSA Rules in 2026: What Has Changed

The core TSA rules have remained consistent for several years, but there are a few things worth noting for 2026:

Real ID enforcement is active. As of May 7, 2025, you need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license (look for the gold or black star), a passport, passport card, military ID, or another approved form of identification to fly domestically. Standard driver’s licenses without the Real ID star are no longer accepted at TSA checkpoints.
CT scanners at more airports. TSA continues rolling out computed tomography (CT) scanners, which produce 3D images of your carry-on bags. At airports with CT scanners, you may not need to remove laptops or liquids from your bag during screening.
The 3-1-1 rule still applies. Despite occasional rumors, the liquids rule has not changed. Containers in your carry-on must still be 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller.

The 3-1-1 Liquids Rule

The 3-1-1 rule is the single most important TSA rule to remember for packing your carry-on. Here is what it means:

3.4 ounces (100 ml) is the maximum size for any individual container of liquid, gel, cream, paste, or aerosol
1 quart-sized clear, resealable plastic bag to hold all your containers
1 bag per passenger allowed through the checkpoint

What Counts as a Liquid?

TSA defines liquids broadly. In addition to obvious liquids like shampoo and water, these items also fall under the 3-1-1 rule:

Toothpaste, sunscreen, and lotion
Mascara, lip gloss, and liquid foundation
Hair gel, mousse, and spray
Creamy cheese spreads and hummus
Peanut butter, jelly, and honey
Perfume and cologne
Contact lens solution
Aerosol deodorant and dry shampoo spray

Exceptions to the 3-1-1 Rule

A few categories of liquids are exempt from the 3.4 oz limit in your carry-on:

Medications: Liquid medications (prescription and over-the-counter) in reasonable quantities. Declare them at the checkpoint.
Baby formula, breast milk, and juice for infants: Allowed in quantities greater than 3.4 oz. Must be declared at the checkpoint for additional screening.
Medically necessary liquids: Items like saline solution or liquid nutrition for medical conditions.

There is no limit on liquids in your checked baggage, though individual containers of alcohol must be between 24% and 70% ABV and limited to 5 liters per passenger.

Prohibited Items: Carry-On vs. Checked Bags

Some items are banned from the cabin but allowed in your checked luggage. Others are prohibited everywhere. Here is a clear breakdown.

Never Allowed (Carry-On or Checked)

Explosive materials (fireworks, flares, gunpowder)
Flammable liquids and solids (gasoline, lighter fluid in bulk, strike-anywhere matches)
Chlorine, bleach, and spillable batteries
Tear gas and pepper spray over 4 oz
Dynamite, plastic explosives, and replica explosives

Prohibited in Carry-On, Allowed in Checked Bags

Sharp objects: Knives (all types), box cutters, razor blades, scissors with blades over 4 inches, swords, ice picks
Sporting goods: Baseball bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks, pool cues, ski poles
Tools: Hammers, wrenches over 7 inches, screwdrivers over 7 inches, drills, saws
Self-defense items: Martial arts weapons, billy clubs, brass knuckles, pepper spray (one 4 oz container with safety mechanism)

Allowed in Carry-On

Scissors with blades shorter than 4 inches from the pivot point
Disposable razors and cartridge razors (but not safety razor blades)
Tweezers, nail clippers, and nail files
Screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers under 7 inches
Knitting needles and crochet hooks
Lighters (one disposable or Zippo-style lighter per person, carried on your person, not in checked bags)
Safety matches (one book, not in checked bags)

If you are unsure about a specific item, download the myTSA app and use the “Can I Bring?” feature for real-time answers. You can also reach TSA on social media (@AskTSA on X/Twitter or Facebook Messenger) for a quick response.

TSA Food Rules

You can bring food through TSA security, but the rules depend on whether the food is solid or liquid/gel-like.

Solid Foods: Allowed in Carry-On

Sandwiches, wraps, and burritos
Fresh fruit and vegetables
Candy, cookies, chips, and crackers
Bread, bagels, and pastries
Meat jerky and dried fruit
Cooked meat and seafood
Hard cheeses (cheddar, parmesan)
Protein bars and granola bars
Solid chocolate
Baby food in solid form (purees in pouches count as liquids)

Liquid or Spreadable Foods: Subject to 3-1-1 Rule

Soups, stews, and chili
Sauces, salsa, and gravy
Peanut butter, Nutella, and jams
Hummus, guacamole, and dips
Soft cheeses (brie, ricotta)
Yogurt and pudding
Ice cream and frozen treats (if melted)

A good rule of thumb: if you can pour it, spread it, or it would make a mess if you turned the container upside down, TSA considers it a liquid. Pack these items in containers of 3.4 oz or less, or put them in your checked bag. Include a snack plan on your trip planning checklist so you do not get caught off guard at the checkpoint.

Alcohol

Miniature bottles of alcohol (the 50 ml “nip” size) are allowed in your quart-sized liquids bag since they fall under 3.4 oz. However, FAA regulations prohibit passengers from drinking their own alcohol on the plane. Only alcohol served by the airline is permitted during the flight.

Electronics and Laptops

Personal electronics are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags, but there are specific screening procedures to follow.

Standard Screening (Non-PreCheck Lanes)

Laptops must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin
Tablets (iPad-sized and larger) should be removed from your bag
Phones, cameras, and small electronics can stay in your bag
Chargers and cables can stay in your bag

CT Scanner Lanes

At checkpoints equipped with CT scanners, you typically do not need to remove laptops or tablets from your bag. The 3D imaging can see through the contents without separation. TSA officers will let you know at the checkpoint whether removal is required.

Lithium Battery Rules

This is an important one that many travelers miss:

Spare lithium batteries (loose batteries, portable chargers, power banks) are only allowed in carry-on bags. They are banned from checked luggage due to fire risk.
Batteries installed in devices (laptops, phones, cameras) are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
Power banks and portable chargers must be under 100 watt-hours (Wh) without airline approval, or 100 to 160 Wh with airline approval. Most consumer power banks fall well under 100 Wh.
Spare batteries should have their terminals protected (use tape or a battery case) to prevent short circuits.

Compare flight options using tools like Google Flights to find airlines with the best electronics policies and power outlet availability.

Medications and Medical Devices

TSA allows medications and medical devices with some specific guidelines designed to protect your health needs while maintaining security.

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medications

All medications (pills, tablets, capsules) are allowed in carry-on and checked bags with no quantity limit
Medications do not need to be in their original prescription bottles, but keeping them in labeled containers speeds up screening and can help if questions arise
Liquid medications over 3.4 oz are allowed in carry-on bags. Declare them to the TSA officer at the beginning of the screening process. They will receive additional screening.
Medically necessary gel ice packs for medication cooling are allowed in reasonable quantities

Medical Devices and Supplies

Insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors: Can be worn through screening. You may request a visual inspection instead of going through the body scanner if you are concerned about the device.
Syringes and needles: Allowed when accompanied by medication. EpiPens are allowed.
CPAP machines: Allowed as a carry-on item and do not count toward your carry-on bag limit
Wheelchairs, canes, and mobility aids: Allowed and will receive additional screening at the checkpoint
Prosthetics and medical implants: May trigger the body scanner. Inform the officer before screening. You can request a private screening area.

TSA has a dedicated helpline for travelers with disabilities and medical conditions: TSA Cares at 855-787-2227. Call at least 72 hours before your flight to request assistance at the checkpoint.

Real ID Requirements for 2026

This is the biggest change affecting domestic air travel. Since May 7, 2025, Real ID enforcement is fully active. Here is what you need to know.

What Is Real ID?

Real ID is a federal standard for state-issued identification. Licenses and IDs that meet the Real ID standard have a gold or black star marking in the upper corner of the card. This standard was created by the REAL ID Act of 2005 but was delayed multiple times before full enforcement began in 2025.

What You Need to Fly Domestically

To board a domestic flight, you must present one of the following at the TSA checkpoint:

A Real ID-compliant driver’s license or state ID (with the star marking)
A valid U.S. passport or passport card
A U.S. military ID (DoD CAC card)
A DHS trusted traveler card (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI)
A permanent resident card (green card)
A tribal-issued photo ID
A foreign government-issued passport

What If You Do Not Have a Real ID?

If your driver’s license does not have the Real ID star and you do not have an alternative form of acceptable ID, you will not be permitted through the TSA checkpoint. You can still get a Real ID by visiting your state’s DMV with the required documents (proof of identity, Social Security number, two proofs of residency). Processing time varies by state. In the meantime, a valid passport or passport card will work at TSA checkpoints.

If you arrive at the airport without proper ID, TSA may still be able to verify your identity through alternative procedures, but this process is not guaranteed, takes additional time, and may cause you to miss your flight. Do not rely on it.

TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, and CLEAR

Trusted traveler programs can dramatically reduce your time at the security checkpoint. Here is how they compare.

TSA PreCheck

Cost: $78 for 5 years (renewal: $70)
What you get: A dedicated faster screening lane where you keep your shoes, belt, and light jacket on. Laptops and liquids stay in your bag. No need to remove them.
How to enroll: Apply online at tsaprecheck.tsa.dhs.gov, then visit an enrollment center for a background check and fingerprinting (about 10 minutes).
Wait time: PreCheck lanes average under 5 minutes, compared to 15 to 30 minutes in standard lanes during busy periods.
Eligibility: U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, and lawful permanent residents. No serious criminal history.
Online renewal: Available for most members, eliminating the need for another in-person visit.

Global Entry

Cost: $100 for 5 years
What you get: Everything in TSA PreCheck, plus expedited U.S. customs and immigration processing when returning from international trips. You use automated kiosks instead of waiting in the passport control line.
How to enroll: Apply online through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, get conditionally approved, then complete an in-person interview at a Global Entry enrollment center or participating airport.
Best for: International travelers. Since it includes PreCheck, it is better value than PreCheck alone if you travel internationally at all.

CLEAR Plus

Cost: Approximately $189 per year
What you get: CLEAR uses biometric identity verification (fingerprint or iris scan) to move you to the front of the security line. It replaces the ID check portion of screening, not the physical screening itself.
Important distinction: CLEAR does not replace PreCheck. CLEAR gets you to the front of the line. PreCheck gives you easier screening. You can use both together for the fastest possible experience.
Availability: Available at 50+ airports. Not available everywhere.

If you fly more than a few times per year, TSA PreCheck pays for itself in saved time on the first trip. For frequent international travelers, Global Entry is the better choice. Use a travel planning app to keep your Known Traveler Number handy so you never forget to add it to your booking.

Traveling with Children

Traveling with kids requires some extra awareness of TSA procedures.

ID Requirements for Children

Children under 18 do not need identification for domestic flights. They do not need a Real ID, a passport, or any form of ID.
The accompanying adult must have valid identification.
For international flights, every traveler (including infants) must have a passport.

Screening Procedures for Children

Children 12 and under do not need to remove shoes, belts, or light jackets
Children 12 and under can go through the body scanner or walk-through metal detector. TSA officers try to minimize pat-downs for children.
Children 13 and older follow the same screening rules as adults
Strollers and car seats go through the X-ray machine. Fold the stroller and remove the child before sending it through.

Baby Formula, Breast Milk, and Juice

Exempt from the 3-1-1 rule. You can bring more than 3.4 oz.
Inform the TSA officer at the beginning of screening. These items receive additional inspection (usually a quick swab test).
Gel ice packs for keeping breast milk or formula cold are permitted.
The child does not need to be present for you to carry breast milk or formula.

For a deeper look at flying with little ones, including gear recommendations and packing strategies, read our guide to traveling with a baby.

Firearms and Ammunition

Firearms are never allowed in carry-on bags or on your person at the checkpoint. However, you can transport firearms in checked luggage if you follow strict TSA and airline rules.

Rules for Firearms in Checked Bags

The firearm must be unloaded
It must be stored in a hard-sided, locked case that only you can open (TSA-approved locks are not acceptable for firearms cases; you must be the only one with the key or combination)
You must declare the firearm at the airline check-in counter before dropping your bag
Ammunition must be stored in its original packaging or a container designed for ammunition. It can be in the same locked case as the firearm or in a separate container in your checked bag.
Magazines and clips must be securely boxed or included in a case with the firearm
Ammunition is limited to 11 pounds (5 kg) per person on most airlines

Penalties for Bringing a Firearm to a Checkpoint

If TSA finds a firearm in your carry-on during screening, you will face a civil penalty starting at $3,000 and going up to $15,000. You may also be arrested, depending on state and local law. TSA PreCheck membership may be revoked. Even unloaded firearms or firearms that passengers claim they “forgot” about result in penalties. This is the number one avoidable mistake TSA encounters.

Special Items: Musical Instruments, Sports Equipment, and More

Musical Instruments

Small instruments (violins, guitars, smaller) can be carried on if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat
Federal law (the FAA Modernization and Reform Act) protects your right to carry an instrument as carry-on luggage if it fits safely in the cabin
Large instruments (cellos, some guitars) may require a purchased seat. Contact your airline in advance.
Instruments go through X-ray screening like any other carry-on. You can request a visual inspection if you are concerned about X-ray exposure.

Sports Equipment

Carry-on: Tennis rackets are allowed. Most other sports equipment (bats, clubs, sticks) must go in checked bags.
Checked bags: Golf clubs, baseball bats, hockey sticks, fishing rods, ski equipment, snowboards, bows (without arrows), and surfboards are all allowed in checked luggage. Check your airline’s oversize/overweight bag fees.
Camping: Camp stoves are allowed only if completely cleaned of all fuel. Bear spray and fuel canisters are prohibited in both carry-on and checked bags.

Other Commonly Asked About Items

Snow globes: Allowed in carry-on only if they are smaller than a tennis ball (the liquid inside counts toward the 3-1-1 rule). Larger snow globes must go in checked bags.
Wrapped gifts: TSA may need to unwrap gifts for inspection. Wait to wrap gifts until you arrive at your destination, or use gift bags.
Cremated remains: Allowed in carry-on. Use a container that can be X-rayed (no lead-lined urns). TSA will not open the container.
Dry ice: Allowed in carry-on and checked bags (up to 5.5 lbs/2.5 kg) for packing perishables, if the package is vented and marked. Airline approval required.
CBD products: Hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC are allowed. Marijuana and cannabis-infused products remain illegal under federal law and are not permitted.

What Happens If TSA Finds a Prohibited Item

If a prohibited item is found during screening, here is what typically happens:

The item is identified. The X-ray operator spots something and your bag is pulled for secondary inspection.
A TSA officer inspects the item. They will open your bag and locate the item in question.
You are given options. For non-dangerous prohibited items (like a large bottle of shampoo or a pocket knife), you can:
- Go back to the check-in counter and put the item in a checked bag (if time allows)
- Give the item to a non-traveling companion
- Place it in a self-service mailing station (available at some airports)
- Surrender the item (it will be disposed of)
For dangerous or illegal items (firearms, explosives, drugs), law enforcement will be called. This can result in arrest, fines, and criminal charges.

There is no TSA “list” that flags you permanently for having an accidentally packed pocket knife. Honest mistakes with non-dangerous items are handled without penalties. Firearms are the exception, as discussed above.

Tips for Faster Screening

Speed through security by preparing before you get in line.

Before You Leave Home

Pack your liquids bag the night before. Have it ready at the top of your carry-on so you can pull it out quickly.
Check your bags for forgotten items. The most common items confiscated at checkpoints are pocket knives, multi-tools, and water bottles. Do a quick check of every pocket.
Wear easy-to-remove shoes (unless you have PreCheck). Slip-on shoes save 30 seconds at the belt.
Avoid clothing with excessive metal. Heavy belt buckles, steel-toed boots, and lots of jewelry will trigger additional screening.

In the Security Line

Have your ID and boarding pass ready before reaching the document checker
Start unpacking before your turn at the belt. Laptop out, liquids out, jacket off, shoes off, pockets emptied.
Use multiple bins efficiently. Shoes and belt in one, laptop in another, liquids bag in another, coat and personal items in a fourth. This keeps the line moving.
Place small items (phone, wallet, keys, watch) inside your carry-on bag before putting it on the belt. This prevents them from being left behind or falling off the belt.

Choosing the Right Line

If you have PreCheck, always use the PreCheck lane. It is worth the $78 enrollment fee.
Lines with business travelers tend to move faster than lines with families and infrequent flyers. Look for laptop bags and roller boards.
The leftmost security lanes are often less crowded because most people drift right.
Check the myTSA app for real-time wait times at your specific airport and terminal.

For more tools to streamline your travel, check out our roundup of the best travel planning apps available right now.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring a water bottle through TSA?

You can bring an empty water bottle through TSA security and fill it at a water fountain or refill station after the checkpoint. A bottle with water or any other liquid in it will be flagged and you will need to either drink it, dump it, or surrender it. Many airports now have bottle refill stations in every terminal. Bringing a reusable bottle and filling it after security is one of the best ways to save money and stay hydrated while flying.

How much liquid medication can I bring on a plane?

There is no specific quantity limit for medically necessary liquids in your carry-on. You can bring the amount you reasonably need for your trip. This includes prescription liquid medications, insulin, eye drops, and liquid nutrition supplements. Declare liquid medications to the TSA officer at the start of the screening process. They will receive additional inspection, usually a quick swab or visual check. Keeping medications in labeled containers or carrying a copy of your prescription can speed up this process.

Do I need Real ID to fly in 2026?

Yes. Since May 7, 2025, Real ID enforcement is fully active. You need a Real ID-compliant driver’s license (marked with a gold or black star) or an acceptable alternative such as a valid passport, passport card, U.S. military ID, or permanent resident card. If your driver’s license does not have the Real ID star, you will need one of these alternatives to pass through the TSA checkpoint. Visit your state’s DMV to upgrade to a Real ID if you have not done so already.

Can I bring food through airport security?

Solid food items are allowed through TSA security with no restrictions. Sandwiches, fruit, snacks, baked goods, and cooked meals are all fine. Liquid or spreadable foods like soup, yogurt, hummus, peanut butter, and sauces are subject to the 3-1-1 liquids rule (3.4 oz or less per container, in a quart-sized bag). If you want to bring a larger quantity of these items, pack them in your checked bag instead.

What happens if I accidentally bring a prohibited item to TSA?

For common items like pocket knives, oversized liquids, or tools, the TSA officer will give you options: return the item to your car, put it in a checked bag, hand it to someone not traveling, mail it at an airport mailing station (if available), or surrender it. You will not be fined or flagged for an honest mistake with a non-dangerous item. Firearms are treated differently and always result in civil penalties starting at $3,000, even if you forgot the gun was in your bag.

Is TSA PreCheck worth it?

For most frequent travelers, yes. TSA PreCheck costs $78 for five years, which works out to about $15.60 per year or roughly $1.30 per month. In PreCheck lanes, you keep your shoes, belt, and jacket on. Laptops and liquids stay in your bag. The average wait time in PreCheck lanes is under 5 minutes compared to 15 to 30 minutes in standard lanes. If you fly even twice a year, the time savings justify the cost. If you also travel internationally, consider Global Entry ($100 for five years), which includes PreCheck plus faster customs processing when you return to the U.S.