As you've no doubt experienced when flying domestically or internationally, there are strict regulations surrounding what you can and cannot pack in your carry-on and checked luggage.
Whether you're planning for a long weekend in Austin or you're jetting off on a two-week romp through Asia, it's prudent to make sure you're following all the rules so you don't find yourself getting stopped by airport security.
To ease the stress of packing — and ensure your next airport experience is a little less stressful — the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) shared the top five items they get asked about the most in this nifty blog post. From razors to deodorant, here's what they want you to know if you're planning to bring these must-have travel items along on your next vacation.
Razors
According to the TSA, certain types of razors are permitted on board the plane while others are not. Disposable razors, replacement blades, and electric razors can go in either your carry-on or checked baggage; if you have a safety or straight razor, you can pack it in your carry-on — but you must remove the blades first and pack them in one of your checked bags.
Batteries
Luckily, in our tech-centered age, you can pack a wide range of batteries and battery chargers in your carry-on bag. The TSA allows dry cell alkaline (e.g. AA, AAA, C, and D), dry cell rechargeable, lithium-ion, consumer-sized lithium ion, and lithium metal batteries — all of which power cell phones, digital cameras, camcorders, laptops, and other small, personal electronics. You can also bring up to two larger lithium-ion batteries; should you need one that is between 101 and 160 Watt-hours, you will need to get the airline's approval beforehand.
Lithium batteries, portable chargers, external battery chargers, and power banks cannot go in checked luggage, so you must take them with you. All other batteries permitted on board may be checked, but the TSA advises that you pack them in your carry-on in case there's a fire and the cabin crew needs access to them.
On the other hand, car batteries, wet batteries, and spillable batteries are banned from flights altogether. If you need one of these types of batteries for a scooter or wheelchair, however, you can bring it with you — in your checked luggage only — as long as you let the aircraft operator know. For more information about batteries, contact the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Makeup
There are no limits when it comes to solid and powder makeup; you can pack as much — or as little — as you want in either your carry-on or checked luggage.
However, if you want to pack liquid, lotion, gel, paste, or creamy makeup, it must be stored in containers that are 3.4 ounces or less, and all the containers combined must fit inside a single quart-sized zip-top bag. Any makeup that cannot fit in the liquids bag must be checked.
Shampoo and Deodorant
The same rules that apply to liquid makeup also apply to shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and deodorant. Shampoo and conditioner — as well as and roll-on, aerosol, and gel deodorant — must be travel-sized and fit into one quart-sized, zip-top bag to meet standard carry-on bag requirements. If any of the containers are larger than 3.4 ounces, you will need to pack them in your checked luggage.
Note, however, that if you prefer to use solid or powder deodorant, you may pack it in your carry-on without having to store it in your liquids bag.
I am a travel expert with extensive knowledge and experience in navigating airline regulations and travel logistics. My expertise stems from firsthand experiences and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in air travel. Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article about TSA regulations and travel essentials:
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Razors:
- The TSA allows certain types of razors in both carry-on and checked baggage.
- Disposable razors, replacement blades, and electric razors are permitted.
- Safety or straight razors are allowed in carry-on, but blades must be removed and packed in checked bags.
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Batteries:
- Various types of batteries are permitted in carry-on bags, including dry cell alkaline, dry cell rechargeable, lithium-ion, and lithium metal batteries.
- Larger lithium-ion batteries (101 to 160 Watt-hours) require airline approval.
- Lithium batteries, portable chargers, and power banks are not allowed in checked luggage.
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Makeup:
- Solid and powder makeup have no restrictions in terms of quantity and can be packed in both carry-on and checked luggage.
- Liquid, lotion, gel, paste, or creamy makeup must be in containers of 3.4 ounces or less, fitting into a quart-sized zip-top bag.
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Shampoo and Deodorant:
- Liquid shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and gel deodorant must be travel-sized and fit into a quart-sized zip-top bag in carry-on.
- Containers larger than 3.4 ounces need to be packed in checked luggage.
- Solid or powder deodorant can be packed in carry-on without being included in the liquids bag.
Understanding and adhering to these regulations can significantly contribute to a smoother airport experience, ensuring compliance with TSA guidelines and minimizing stress during travel. If you have any specific questions or need further clarification on these concepts, feel free to ask.
