TSA Permitted/Prohibited Items

May 12th, 2008 · No Comments

TSA rules on what items are permitted and what items are prohibited were developed after extensive research, and are constantly monitored through ongoing analysis of current homeland security threats. Depending on threat levels, permitted and prohibited travel items are subject to change, sometimes on very short notice.

For instance, the discovery of a potential terrorism plot in August 2006 resulted in an almost instant ban of all liquids, aerosols, gels and creams on board aircraft in the U.S. and U.K. Everything from expensive perfume to top-shelf liquor had to be tossed in order to clear security. After a few weeks, the ban was modified to include limited amounts of liquids, gels and aerosols and the current 3-1-1 Rule came into effect.When packing wheeled carry-on luggage or a travel tote bag, the 3-1-1- Rule allows each traveler to bring three ounce or less containers of liquids, gels and creams in one zippered one quart bag. (According to TSA officials, the 3-1-1 Rule is here to stay - at least for the foreseeable future.) There are exceptions for required medications and some other liquids and these items not packed in the one quart bag must be declared and inspected separately.

The TSA website lists over 10 pages of permitted and prohibited items. As of the present time, the leading prohibited items are weapons, including knives and scissors with blades over four inches long. You can carry on your corkscrew and knitting needles, but you must check baseball bats, pool cues, golf clubs, ski poles and most tools.

Best case scenario, play by the rules and be ready for the rules to change. Avoid traveling with expensive cosmetics. Opt for sample sizes of toiletries and make-up. If an instant ban occurs again, you won’t have to ditch expensive cosmetic and toiletries in order to board an aircraft. And, don’t listen to hearsay; depend on the latest security updates only at the TSA website.