Carry-On Items Allowed on Flights

JUN 18, 2024 2 MIN READ PACKING TIPS TSA

Carry-On Items Allowed on Flights

Whether you prefer to get your packing done early or you're a last-minute packer, it's important to know what carry-on items are allowed on your flight before you start packing. With so many rules and regulations in place to ensure safety, it’s easy to get confused about what’s allowed on flights and what isn’t. Follow along to save yourself some worry as you prepare for your trip.

Personal Items vs Carry-On

First, let’s look into the difference between a carry-on and a personal item. All airlines allow you to bring a personal item on your flight. This can be a purse, briefcase, backpack, etc.

But how big can my personal item be? Some airlines have their own size/weight dimensions, but the general rule of thumb across all airlines is your item must fit under the seat in front of you.

A carry-on is luggage smaller than your checked bag. Sizes across airlines may vary, but the general size for carry-on luggage is 22” x 14” x 9” and it is intended to be stored in the overhead bin above your seat.

Rule of thumb: Most liquids, gels, or aerosols in their luggage are allowed if they are 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or smaller-sized containers that fit in 1 quart-sized, resealable bag in your carry-on and through security. Double-check the TSA checklist to confirm.

TSA Approved Carry-On Items

Planning ahead and doing some research on what carry-on items are allowed on flights can help make your travel experience as seamless as possible.

Here are some popular carry-on items allowed:

Food Drinks

Alcoholic beverages*

Less than 3.4 oz/100ml and under 24%
Mini bottles of alcohol must be able to fit in a quart-sized bag

Baby food
Breast milk** and pump are allowed
Coffee (beans or ground)
Coffee (liquid)* must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100 ml) rule

Must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100 ml) rule

Empty water bottles
Scissors (shorter than 4 inches)

Self-Care

Shampoo/conditioner
Hairspray
Shaving cream/gel
Toothpaste
Contact lens solution

Must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100 ml) rule

Scissors (shorter than 4 inches)
Liquid Medications/Vitamins*

Must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100 ml) rule

Vitamins/Medication pills
Nail clippers
Safety pins
Tweezers

Child Care

Child car seat**

Check your airline for specific instructions

Baby food

Breast milk** and pump are allowed
Must adhere to the 3.4 ounces (100 ml) rules

Miscellaneous

Up to two lighters

It depends on what kind of lighter as well make sure to check your specific lighter rules

Disposable/Zippo Lighters if enclosed correctly in a DOT-approved case
Lithium Battery Powered Lighters: Can’t exceed a Watt-hour (Wh) rating of 100 Wh; or for lithium metal batteries, a lithium content of 2 grams.
Torch Lighters and Gun Lighters are not allowed

Bowling balls

Bowling pins aren’t allowed

Bottle opener
Knitting needles/sewing needles

See the full list of carry-on items allowed on flights on the TSA website.

Carryon Tips:

It’s worth getting a clear, reusable, quart-sized toiletry bag if you are an avid traveler.
Bring empty water bottles in your carry-on; once you pass through the security checkpoint, you can fill those water bottles at a fountain and save yourself a few bucks. Read our post for more tips on navigating through the TSA checkpoint.
Keep items as much as possible centralized within your bag so that they can be quickly removed during TSA security (laptops, liquids, etc.) and put back just as quickly.
Consider using packing cubes to help organize your bag so it is easily accessible.
If you require, keep a small medical kit in your bag with stomach relaxers such as emetrol, Tums, painkillers, and extra feminine products. Bring it for peace of mind and to help make your flight easier.

Planning and packing properly can save you some stress once you arrive at the airport. Knowing the difference between a carry-on and a personal item, size regulations, and what carry-on items are allowed will make your traveling experience much easier.