TSA carry-on restrictions levy limits and prohibitions on certain items, such as liquids over 3.4 oz, sharp objects, and explosives, to ensure passenger safety onboard. Any sort of non-compliance can lead to confiscation, penalties, or even denied boarding. Hence, understanding these guidelines becomes important.
Recent Updates in TSA Regulations
The Transportation Security Administration implemented several significant updates that affect how travelers pack and navigate security checkpoints.
- Real ID Enforcement: TSA requires Real ID-compliant identification for domestic flights. In 2026, travelers without proper ID face a $45 fee for temporary identity verification through TSA ConfirmID (fee-based option).
- Shows Stay On: TSA ended the decade-old shoe removal requirement. Most passengers now keep shoes on during screening, though officers may request removal for additional screening.
- Advanced Scanning Technology: Many airports use 3D CT scanners that allow travelers to keep laptops and liquids inside bags at select checkpoints.
Important tip: TSA regulations change periodically. Always verify current rules at TSA.gov before traveling.
Understanding TSA Carry-On Restrictions on Size
Airlines will enforce carry on luggage size standards more strictly in 2026. While TSA doesn’t set size limits, individual carriers do.
Standard Dimensions
Most major airlines follow the carry on luggage specifications of 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This measurement includes wheels and handles. Bags exceeding these dimensions are subject to gate-checking, often with fees.
What Counts as Carry-On
Passengers typically bring one carry-on bag plus one personal item. The carry-on bag dimensions are the same on most airlines, though some budget carriers vary slightly.
Items qualifying as carry-on include:
- Rolling suitcases
- Large backpacks
- Duffel bags
- Garment bags
Personal items include:
- Purses and handbags
- Laptop bags
- Small backpacks
- Briefcases
TSA Rules for Carry-on Liquids
The TSA liquid regulations remain among the most misunderstood rules.
The 3-1-1 Rule
TSA rules regarding liquids follow the 3-1-1 standard:
- 3.4 ounces (100 ml) maximum per container.
- 1 quart-sized clear plastic bag.
- 1 bag per passenger.
This applied to all liquids, gels, creams, pastes, and aerosols. The TSA fluid restrictions and limit for carry on liquids haven’t changed despite new scanning technology at some airports.
11 New Items Now Added by TSA as an Exception to Liquid Rules
These 11 items that were once restricted can now be carried onboard in carry-on luggage without any quantity limits.
- Over-the-counter medications.
- Prescription medications in gel, liquid, or aerosol form.
- Ice packs or gel packs for medically necessary items.
- Food and drink for infants and toddlers.
- Wet batteries.
- Transportation of live fish in water.
- Biological specimens.
- Breast milk and baby formula.
- Liquid-filled baby teethers.
- Duty-free items (sealed in tamper-evident bags).
- Fresh eggs.
Travelers must declare these items to TSA officers at screening. Medical liquids undergo additional screening but aren’t limited to 3.4 ounces.
TSA Acceptable Items in Carry-Ons
The TSA acceptable items list includes many items that travelers might not expect:
| Categories | Acceptable Items |
| Electronics | Laptops and tablets Phone and chargers Cameras and equipment Power banks (carry-on only) |
| Personal Care | Razors (disposal and cartridge) Electric shavers Tweezers and nail clippers Small scissors (blade under 4 inches) |
| Food | Solid foods (sandwiches, snacks, fruit) Empty water bottles (fill after security) Baby food and formula |
| Medical Items | Prescription medication Over-the-counter medicines Medical devices (CPAP machines, nebulizers) Syringes with medical documentation |
TSA Prohibited Items for Cabin Bags
Understand which items fall under the carry-on luggage restrictions to prevent security delays and confiscation of belongings.
Items Not Allowed in Carry-Ons:
- Firearms and ammunition
- Sharp objects (knives over 4 inches, box cutters, razor blades)
- Tools longer than 7 inches
- Sporting equipment (baseball bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks)
- Martial arts weapons
- Flammable items
- Explosives
Special Considerations:
- Lithium batteries over 100 watt hours require airline approval
- Smart luggage with non-removable batteries is forbidden on all U.S. airlines.
- Firearms must travel in checked baggage with a proper declaration.
Visit TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool at tsa.gov for specific items.
Airline-Specific Baggage Policies
While TSA rules for carry-on apply at security, individual airlines set their own size and allowance policies.
Delta Carry On Rules
Delta AirLines carry on policies allow one carry-on bag and one personal item for all passengers. The policy matches industry standard dimensions, i.e., 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
- All fare classes get free carry-in.
- Gate-checking is conducted when bins fill.
- No weight restrictions on most routes.
WestJet Baggage Policy
The WestJet Airlines carry-on baggage allowance now follows 22 x 14 x 9 inch dimensions (previously 21 x 15 x 9 inches).
- One carry-on plus one personal item.
- UltraBasic fares include only a personal item on domestic routes.
- Personal item maximum: 16 x 13 x 6 inches.
- No weight limits, but passengers must lift bags unassisted.
Air Canada Carry-On Rules
Carry on baggage restrictions Air Canada permits slightly larger dimensions than other airlines. Travelers can carry a bag up to 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches. Weight limits apply on some international routes.
- One carry-on bag.
- One personal item.
- Additional items for infants and medical equipment.
Cabin Bag Dimension on Other Major Airlines
- Southwest Airlines: 24 x 16 x 10 inches (most generous U.S. carrier).
- Alaska Airlines: 22 x 14 x 9 inches, no weight restrictions.
- JetBlue: 22 x 14 x 9 inches. This is also for the Basic Economy passengers.
- Frontier and Spirit: 24 x 16 x 10 inches, but UltraBasic/Economy fares charge fees.
Packing Smart Within TSA Limits
Implementing some strategic packing tips will help you maximize space while complying with TSA regulations.
- Liquid Strategy
Place all qualifying liquids in one quart-sized bag before reaching security. Keep this bag accessible for quick removal. Purchase drinks and full-size toiletries after clearing security.
- Organize Electronics
Although newer scanners don’t require laptop removal, keeping electronics accessible speeds screening if officers request inspection.
- Prohibited Item Alternatives
- Bring travel-size toiletries instead of full bottles.
- Pack tools in checked baggage.
- Ship sporting equipment separately.
- Use TSA-approved locks.
In Conclusion
TSA carry-on restrictions in 2026 are in line with passenger convenience. New technology and updated procedures make screening faster, but travelers must be aware of the current rules.
Frequently Asked Questions:
TSA carry-on rules permit one bag (22x14x9 inches max) and a personal item, restrict liquids to 3.4 oz in a clear quart bag, and prohibit guns, knives, and explosives.
Delta Air Lines permits one carry-on bag under 22 x 14 x 9 inches and one personal item that must fit under the seat.
The TSA limit for carry on liquids states that passengers can carry 3.4 oz or 100 ml of liquid items per container.
You can pack essential, high-value, and daily-use items, such as passports, medications, phones, chargers, portable batteries, toiletries, etc., per the 3-1-1 rules.
Liquid items over 3.4 oz, sharp objects, firearms, explosives, flammable items, and tools over 7 inches are not allowed in carry-on bags as per TSA regulations.
Liquid over the standard limit is the most confiscated item at the airport security checkpoint. This indicates that a lot of travelers neglect the 3-1-1 liquid rule.
Yes, authorities at the airport can ask to check your phones, but only when it is required. Generally, phone checking is not included in the screening process.
TSA 3-1-1 rules state that a passenger can carry 3-4 oz of liquid per container, packed in a 1-quart-sized clear plastic bag. Only one such bag is allowed per passenger.
TSA has recently banned cordless hair-styling tools from checked bags. These are cordless curling or flat irons that use gas/butane cartridges, butane-fueled curling or flat irons, and spare gas/butane cartridges.
Yes, the Transportation Security Administration counts toothpaste as a paste, cream, or gel, which is considered under the 3-1-1 liquid rule.
