Read about civil penalties for prohibited items. For items not listed here, our AskTSA team looks forward to answering your questions 365 days a year; live assistance is available from 8 am – 6 pm (ET).

TSA officers may need to test the liquids for explosives or concealed prohibited items. Although not required, to expedite the screening process, it is recommended that formula and breast milk be transported in clear, translucent bottles and not plastic bags or pouches.

TSA officers have the discretion to prohibit any item through the screening checkpoint if they believe it poses a security threat. Any sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.

Remember to check your baggage for prohibited items. Use the Can I Bring My…? tool to check if items like sporting goods, foods, tools and others are permitted. Some carry-on items may be prohibited even if they appear not to be, like a cane with a hidden sword.

TSA may impose civil penalties of up to $17,062 per violation per person. This table outlines some of the penalties that may be imposed on individuals for prohibited items violations and violations of other TSA regulations. Repeat violations will result in higher penalties.

The items inside the secure, tamper-evident bags must be screened and cleared. Any item that alarms or is unable to be screened will not be permitted in your carry-on bag. We recommend packing all liquids, gels, and aerosols that are over 3.4 oz or 100 ml in your checked baggage, even if they are in a secure, tamper-evident bag.

Review the prohibited items list for both carry-on and checked baggage. If purchasing a baggage lock, be sure to look for those that are TSA recognized. Tape a card with your name and contact information on your electronics.

TSA’s screening procedures are intended to prevent prohibited items and other threats to transportation security from entering the sterile area of the airport and are developed in response to information on threats to transportation security.

The special guide for service members and their families includes travel tips, such as how to prepare, pack and declare a firearm, checkpoint dos and don’ts, and an inside look at some of TSA’s programs and employees, with a special military emphasis.

If you start packing with an empty bag, you are less likely to bring prohibited items to the checkpoint. Not sure what’s prohibited? Visit our “What Can I Bring?” webpage.