The short answer
Most things are allowed in a carry-on. The big exceptions: liquids over 3.4 oz (100 ml), knives and blades, tools over 7 in, self-defense sprays and flammables. Lithium batteries, vapes and power banks are the reverse: they must stay out of checked bags.
The four rules that matter
1. Liquids: 3-1-1
Liquids, gels, aerosols, creams and pastes in your carry-on must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less, all fitting in one quart-size bag, one bag per passenger. Medication, baby formula and breast milk are exempt in reasonable amounts. Full rules: TSA Liquid Limit: The 3-1-1 Rule (3.4 oz / 100 ml) Explained.
2. Sharp objects
Knives of any size, box cutters and loose razor blades are checked-bag only. Scissors are fine in a carry-on if the blades are under 4 in (10 cm) from the pivot. Tools longer than 7 in (18 cm) must be checked.
3. Batteries
Spare lithium batteries, power banks, vapes and e-cigarettes are carry-on only. Devices with batteries installed (phones, laptops, cameras) can go in either, but the FAA recommends keeping them with you.
4. Flammables and weapons
Fuel, fireworks, torch lighters and strike-anywhere matches are banned everywhere. Firearms travel only in checked bags, unloaded, in a locked hard case, declared to the airline.
Can I bring it? A–Z
Tap an item for the full rule, exceptions and packing tips.
| Item | Carry-on | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Liquids, gels, aerosols | Limits3.4 oz containers, 1 quart bag | Allowed |
| Food & snacksSandwiches, wraps, cooked meals | AllowedAny amount | AllowedPack to avoid spoiling |
| VapesVape pen, e-cigarette, disposable vape | AllowedCarry-on or on your person only | NoLithium battery ban |
| RazorsDisposable razor | Allowed | Allowed |
| DeodorantStick deodorant (solid) | AllowedAny size | Allowed |
| ToothpasteTravel tube (3.4 oz / 100 ml or less) | AllowedIn liquids bag | Allowed |
| Cologne & perfumeBottle 3.4 oz (100 ml) or smaller | AllowedIn liquids bag | Allowed |
| LightersDisposable lighter (Bic type) | AllowedOne per person | LimitsOnly empty of fuel |
| ScissorsScissors, blades under 4 in (10 cm) from pivot | Allowed | Allowed |
| Nail clippersNail clippers | Allowed | Allowed |
| Zyn & nicotine pouchesZyn / nicotine pouches | AllowedNo TSA limit | Allowed |
| Pepper sprayPepper spray up to 4 fl oz (118 ml), safety lock | No | AllowedOne container per person |
| AlcoholMini bottles (3.4 oz / 100 ml or less) | AllowedIn liquids bag | Allowed |
At the checkpoint
- ID: adults need a REAL ID-compliant license or another accepted ID, such as a passport, on domestic flights.
- Laptops and liquids: take them out of your bag unless you are in a TSA PreCheck lane or at a checkpoint with CT scanners that tell you otherwise.
- Shoes: TSA no longer requires most travelers to remove shoes at standard checkpoints.
- Food: officers may ask you to take bulky food out so the X-ray can see through your bag.