Information current as of 06/08/2025.
Pack an uncluttered carry-on in layers, with your liquids bag in an accessible front pocket and larger electronics near the top. Keep spare batteries and power banks protected in your carry-on, remove items only when the checkpoint instructs you to, and check your departure airport’s current rules because screening procedures vary. This organization can reduce delays and repacking, but it cannot guarantee faster screening.
Quick carry-on packing checklist
Start with an empty bag and check every pocket for prohibited or restricted items. Remove unnecessary clutter, then pack in layers so clothing, shoes, electronics, and other categories are easy to distinguish. Put the liquids bag in a front pocket and place larger electronics on the top layer or in another readily accessible location. Before leaving, review the current prohibited-item and baggage rules for your departure airport and route.
Arrange liquids and electronics for access
A clear, sealed bag with liquid containers no larger than 100 ml is a common requirement, but the applicable limit and screening process depend on the airport and jurisdiction. Keep the liquids bag accessible rather than buried in the main compartment. Larger electronics may need to come out for separate screening in some standard TSA lanes, so avoid packing them beneath clothing or other dense items. Do not assume every checkpoint requires the same removals.
Handle batteries, medication, food, and powders carefully
Keep spare batteries and power banks in cabin baggage and protect them against short circuits. Medical liquids and infant-related liquids may qualify for exceptions to ordinary limits; declare them and present them separately when required, because they may receive additional screening. Food, powders, and unusual items should be removed only when instructed or when the applicable local rules require it. An unusual amount of electronic equipment may lead to an extended check.
Use an organized checkpoint routine
Before entering the lane, make sure your liquids bag and larger electronics are easy to reach and that loose items are not scattered through the carry-on. Follow the officer’s instructions for that lane, including any request to remove the liquids bag or electronics. Repack only after clearing the screening point if space is limited. Organization can facilitate screening, but an item may still receive additional screening or be refused if it alarms or presents a security concern.
Verify the rules before you leave
TSA procedures apply to screening in the United States, while other airports and countries may use different limits or steps. Check the departure airport’s current instructions, the applicable national regulations, and your route’s baggage requirements before travel. Pay particular attention to liquid restrictions, spare-battery rules, prohibited items, and any instructions for medical or infant supplies.