The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is responsible for the security screening checkpoints and the checked baggage searches. The TSA offers a myriad of information and multiple tips on their Web site at: www.tsa.gov/travelers.
TSA Cares Helpline: Travelers with medical conditions and disabilities can call toll-free at 1-855-787-2227 prior to traveling to ask questions about screening policies, procedures and about what to expect at the security checkpoints. The helpline is staffed Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. PST, excluding federal holidays. Travelers who are deaf or hard of hearing can use a relay service to contact TSA Cares or can e-mail: TSA-ContactCenter@dhs.gov.
Please consider the following tips when preparing for your flight:
Thoroughly check your baggage before leaving for the airport to avoid mistakenly carrying on prohibited items. View prohibited items list.
All carry-on items (including cell phones, lap-tops and film) will be x-rayed. Be prepared to place cell phones, keys, pagers, etc. in a carry-on bag, take laptops out of their carrying case, and take coats, jackets and shoes off for X-ray inspection. Separately, pack all permitted liquids contained in one quart-size zip-top bag to be placed into a security bin.
“1+1” rule: You are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item – such as a laptop computer, purse, small backpack, briefcase, or camera case
– through security screening and onto the aircraft.
3-1-1 For Carry-Ons: The amount of liquids, gels or aerosols you may carry through the security checkpoints is restricted by the TSA to 3.4 ounce (100ml) or smaller size containers of liquid or gel in 1 quart-size, clear plastic, zip-top bag allowing 1 bag per traveler placed in the security bin. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.
Snow globes that appear to contain less than 3.4 ounces (approximately tennis ball size) will be permitted in carry-on luggage if the entire snow globe, including the base, is able to fit in the same one clear, plastic, quart-sized, re-sealable bag, as the passenger’s other liquids. Larger sizes may be packed in checked baggage.
Declare larger liquids: The items listed below are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding 3.4 ounces and are not required to be in a zip-top bag. Passengers are requested to declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint:
- Prescription and over-the-counter medications
- Baby formula, breast milk and juice. View more information.
- Liquids including water, juice, or liquid nutrition or gels for passengers with a disability or medical condition.
Do not wrap gifts. Gifts are subject to search, even if placed in checked baggage.
Fireworks are prohibited.