The 5 Items Travelers Frequently Inquire About with the TSA

As you’ve likely encountered when flying both domestically and internationally, there are stringent rules regarding what you can include in your carry-on and checked luggage.

Whether you’re gearing up for a long weekend in Austin or embarking on a two-week adventure in Asia, it’s wise to ensure you’re adhering to all regulations to avoid any issues with airport security.

To make your packing experience smoother—and your next trip through the airport a bit less hectic—the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has outlined the top five items they receive the most inquiries about in this handy blog post. From razors to deodorant, here’s what you need to know if you plan to take these essential travel items on your next getaway.

Razors

The TSA specifies that while some razors are allowed on planes, others are not. You can pack disposable razors, replacement blades, and electric razors in either your carry-on or checked luggage. If you have a safety or straight razor, it can be carried on, but the blades must be removed and stored in your checked bags.

Batteries

Fortunately, in our technology-driven world, you can carry a variety of batteries and chargers in your carry-on. The TSA permits dry cell alkaline batteries (like AA, AAA, C, and D), rechargeable dry cell batteries, lithium-ion batteries, consumer-sized lithium-ion batteries, and lithium metal batteries—all essential for powering devices like cell phones, cameras, laptops, and more. You can also bring up to two larger lithium-ion batteries, but for those between 101 and 160 Watt-hours, you must obtain the airline's approval in advance.

Lithium batteries, portable chargers, external battery packs, and power banks are not allowed in checked luggage, so you'll need to carry them with you. Other types of permitted batteries can be checked, but the TSA recommends keeping them in your carry-on for safety in case of a fire, as cabin crew may need to access them quickly.

Conversely, car batteries, wet batteries, and spillable batteries are completely prohibited on flights. However, if you require one of these for a scooter or wheelchair, you may bring it in your checked baggage, provided you notify the airline in advance. For further details on batteries, reach out to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Makeup

You can pack unlimited amounts of solid and powder makeup in either your carry-on or checked luggage without any restrictions.

If you prefer to bring liquid, lotion, gel, paste, or creamy makeup, each container must be 3.4 ounces or smaller, and all containers must fit within a single quart-sized zip-top bag. Any makeup that doesn't fit into this liquids bag will need to be checked.

Shampoo and Deodorant

The regulations for liquid makeup also apply to shampoo, conditioner, body wash, lotion, and deodorant. All liquid shampoos and conditioners, as well as roll-on, aerosol, and gel deodorants, must be travel-sized and fit within a single quart-sized zip-top bag to comply with standard carry-on bag requirements. Any container exceeding 3.4 ounces must be placed in your checked luggage.

However, if you choose solid or powder deodorant, you can bring it in your carry-on without needing to pack it in your liquids bag.