Current TSA Prohibited Items in Carry-On and Checked Bags
The Transportation Security Administration maintains a detailed list of TSA banned travel items that passengers cannot bring in carry-on or checked luggage. The rules are based on threat assessment, material hazards, and aviation security protocols. The official TSA Prohibited Items list is updated regularly and serves as the primary reference for travelers and airlines TSA Security Screening Rules.
Common carry-on prohibitions include firearms, ammunition, explosives, knives with blades over 2.36 inches, and tools such as box cutters and saws. Sporting goods like bats and golf clubs, as well as martial arts weapons, are also restricted. In checked bags, many of these items are allowed only if packed unloaded and declared, but flammables, aerosols beyond 18 ounces, and certain toxic or corrosive substances remain banned TSA Prohibited Items.
Liquids, Gels, Aerosols, and Electronics Restrictions
Liquids Rule and Exceptions
The TSA liquids rule limits containers to 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters per item, with all containers fitting into a single quart-sized clear plastic bag. Medically necessary liquids, baby formula, breast milk, and juice for infants are exempt but must be declared at the checkpoint. The rule applies to gels, aerosols, creams, pastes, and similar items in both carry-on and gate-checked bags TSA Liquids Rule.
Electronics and Large Devices
Laptops, tablets, and larger electronics must be removed from bags and placed in separate bins for screening. Spare lithium batteries and power banks are prohibited in checked luggage and must be carried in carry-on bags with terminals protected from short circuits. Devices with non-removable batteries exceeding 100 watt-hours require airline approval, and those above 160 watt-hours are banned on passenger aircraft FAA Battery Rules.
Recent Changes, Enforcement Trends, and Compliance Tips
Enforcement Data and Common Violations
TSA checkpoint data shows that firearms, large knives, and replica weapons remain the most frequently intercepted prohibited items. In recent fiscal years, TSA officers have intercepted tens of thousands of firearms at checkpoints, with the majority loaded. Liquids, aerosols, and gels continue to account for a large share of carry-on confiscations, especially items exceeding the 3.4-ounce limit TSA Press Releases.
Practical Compliance Guidance
Travelers should use the TSA What Can I Bring? tool before packing and review airline-specific policies for restricted items. Packing prohibited goods in checked luggage does not guarantee compliance if the item is on the banned list. For air cargo and special categories such as ammunition, paints, or compressed gases, shippers must follow Hazardous Materials Regulations administered by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration PHMSA Hazmat Rules.