The 2024 Definitive Guide to Everything You Can (and Can’t) Pack in Your Checked Luggage

GEGO GPS Global Tracker inside a packed suitcase with clothes

YES! GEGO GPS Global Tracker is fully compliant for Checked Bags and Carry-Ons!

Can you bring carbonated beverages in a checked bag? What about a lighter? Or a pocket knife? We all have those items that leave us baffled pre-trip. Even the most seasoned travelers have a hard time keeping the rules straight. For parents traveling with infants, people with special medical needs, or handicapped individuals, there's even more to know. Thankfully, the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) website has a massive A-Z list of what's allowed in checked and carry-on bags, but some rules are contradictory and confusing.

Bringing Alcohol and Drinks on a Plane

1. Can I pack liquids in my checked bag?

Yes, liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces must be packed in checked luggage. There is no limit to the amount of non-alcoholic liquid that can be brought, but too many full-size bottles can exceed the maximum weight limit for your luggage.
For carry-on luggage, individual bottles must meet the 3-1-1 rule: they cannot exceed 3.4 ounces and must fit inside a single, zipped quart-sized plastic bag.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

2. Can I pack alcohol in my checked bag?

Up to five liters (1.3 gallons) of alcoholic beverages can be packed in checked luggage, as long as the alcohol content is more than 24% and less than 70% and the bottle is unopened. Alcohol with more than 70% alcohol content, including grain alcohol and 151-proof rum, or opened bottles are not allowed.
Mini bottles of alcohol are allowed in carry-on luggage as long as they meet the 3-1-1 rule.

Checked Bag: Yes, With Restrictions
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

3. Can I pack canned beer in my checked bag?

Canned beer is allowed in checked bags, but it may explode due to changes in air pressure and potentially damage clothes in your luggage. Luggage with cans and bottles may also be flagged during screening, so make sure to use a TSA-approved lock.
Canned beer is not allowed in carry-on luggage because the can is likely larger than 3.4 ounces.

Checked Bag: Yes (Not Recommended)
Carry-On: No

4. Can I pack carbonated beverages or soda in my checked bag?

Carbonated beverages are allowed in checked bags, but they may explode due to changes in air pressure.
Carbonated beverages are not allowed in carry-on luggage because bottles and cans are larger than 3.4 ounces.

Checked Bag: Yes (Not Recommended)
Carry-On: No

5. Can I pack wine bottles in my checked bag?

Wine bottles are allowed in checked bags, including high alcohol content wines such as vermouth and Madeira.
Mini wine bottles, which are at least one glass worth, are not allowed in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

6. Can I pack whiskey in my checked bag?

Whiskey is allowed in checked luggage as long as it has less than 70% alcohol content. Most popular whiskeys are around 40% alcohol and are allowed.
Mini whiskey bottles are allowed in carry-on luggage as long as they are sealed.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

7. Can I pack water bottles in my checked bag?

Water bottles are allowed in checked bags.
Empty water bottles are allowed in carry-on luggage and can be filled after passing through security.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

Bringing Fire Starters and Smoking Items on a Plane

8. Can I pack a lighter in my checked bag?

Disposable or Zippo lighters are allowed in carry-on bags, but must be empty if placed in checked luggage. Up to two filled lighters may be placed in a checked bag if they are in a DOT-approved carrying case.

Checked Bag: Yes, With Restrictions
Carry-On: Yes

9. Can I pack matches in my checked luggage?

Strike-anywhere matches are not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage. One book of safety matches is allowed in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

10. Can I pack butane in my checked luggage?

Butane is not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage, except for cordless curling irons with butane and a gas cartridge in carry-on bags with a safety cap.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes (for curling irons)

11. Can I pack candles in my checked luggage?

Gel-type candles are not allowed in carry-on luggage, but all other types of candles are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

12. Can I pack cigarettes or tobacco in my checked luggage?

Regular cigarettes and tobacco products are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage. E-cigarettes, including Juul products, are only allowed in carry-on luggage or pockets.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

13. Can I pack vaping items or e-cigarettes (e-cigs) in my checked luggage?

A big no. Regular cigarettes and tobacco products are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage. E-cigarettes, including Juul products, are only allowed in carry-on luggage or pockets.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes

**14. Can I pack Juul in my checked luggage?**

Whether it’s mango, crème, or mint Juul, sorry to say these still fall under the same e-cigarette rules above, so packing it in a checked bag is a no-go. You’ll have to stash this in your carry-on or keep it in a pocket.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes

15. Can I pack dip in my checked luggage?

Dip and chewing tobacco are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

16. Can I pack medical marijuana in my checked luggage?

Nope. Even if you’re in a state where medical marijuana is legal, going through airport security means you’re on federal turf—and possession of medical marijuana is illegal under federal law. It’s worth noting that TSA screenings are focused on “threats to aviation and passengers” and “officers do not search for marijuana or other illegal drugs,” according to their site. However, if they do find a stash, they’re obligated to report it to the police.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

17. Can I pack CBD oil in my checked luggage?

Medical marijuana and CBD products, including oil, are not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

18. Can I pack edibles in my checked luggage?

All the restrictions on marijuana also hold true for edibles. Edibles are not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

19. Can I pack a bong in my checked luggage?

Yes! Traveling with marijuana paraphernalia is completely legal. A bong packed in a checked bag isn’t likely to raise a flag, even with trace amounts of resin. If you go through security with one stashed in your carry-on though, you can bet on getting pulled over and having your bag rummaged through to make sure you aren’t bringing any buds aboard. But a bong by itself shouldn’t be an issue.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

Bringing Food and Food Prep Items on a Plane

20. Are you allowed to bring food on a plane?

Yes, both checked and carry-on luggage allow food. However, TSA agents may inspect and potentially remove food items from carry-on luggage for further screening.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

21. Can I pack canned food in my checked luggage?

Absolutely. Stuff in as many tins of foie grás as you please! Canned food is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but may be inspected and removed by TSA agents in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

22. Can I pack frozen food in my checked luggage?

There are no restrictions for food in checked or carry-on bags. Frozen food is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but be aware that melting ice can cause issues with liquids in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

23. Can I pack frozen meat in my checked luggage?

Carnivores, your worries are over. Meat is treated like any other frozen food and is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

24. Can I pack fruit in my checked luggage?

Most fresh fruit and vegetables from Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands can’t be brought to the U.S. mainland.Additionally, international travel may have restrictions on the transport of certain fruits and vegetables.

Checked Bag: Yes, With Restrictions
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

25. Can I pack chocolate in my checked luggage?

Solid chocolate is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but may melt in transit. If bringing more than 12 ounces of powdered chocolate in a carry-on, it will be screened separately at security and may need to be opened.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

26. Can I pack cheese in my checked luggage?

Cheese is allowed in checked luggage, but creamy cheese and yogurt in carry-on luggage must follow the 3-1-1 rule for liquids. Agricultural products brought from other countries must be declared on customs forms.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

27. Can I pack butter in my checked luggage?

Butter is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but may be considered a liquid if it melts in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

28. Can I pack flour in my checked luggage?

Bakers, you are clear for takeoff. Flour is allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but containers over 12 ounces in carry-on luggage will be screened separately at security.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

29. Can I pack ground coffee in my checked luggage?

Coffee beans and ground coffee are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but containers over 12 ounces of ground coffee in carry-on luggage will be screened separately at security.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

30. Can I pack jam in my checked luggage?

You can pack jam in checked luggage, but it must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces to be placed in a zip-top bag. Smaller jars may also be allowed.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

31. Can I pack protein powder in my checked luggage?

Protein powder is allowed in checked luggage, but if you bring more than 12 ounces in your carry-on, it will be screened separately.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

32. Can I pack formula in my checked luggage?

You can pack any amount of formula in checked luggage, and the TSA allows a "reasonable" amount of formula, breast milk, and juice in carry-on bags. These items may be subject to additional screening.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

33. Can I pack dry ice in my checked luggage?

You can pack dry ice in checked and carry-on luggage, but you must get airline approval and properly package and mark the dry ice. The TSA limits the amount of dry ice you can bring to 5.5 ounces.

Checked Bag: Yes, With Restrictions
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

It's important to note that the TSA has specific guidelines for packing food items in your luggage, and it's always a good idea to check the agency's website for the most up-to-date information.

Bringing Health and Beauty Items on a Plane

34. Can I pack soap in my checked luggage?

Go ahead and take your favorite suds with you. Solid soap (and solid shampoo!) is fine for both checked and carry-on luggage, liquid soap and hand sanitizer must be in a container 3.4 ounces or less if it's in a carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

35. Can I pack shampoo in my checked luggage?

There are no issues with packing shampoo in checked luggage. If you’re only traveling with a carry-on, and you prefer BYO shampoo, make sure it’s in a 3.4-ounce container to meet the 3-1-1 rule. Alternatively, shampoo bars and powder shampoos are ingenious ways to bypass the liquid restrictions.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

36. Can I pack a can of hairspray in my checked luggage?

Hairspray, both pump and aerosol, is allowed in checked luggage. If it's under 3.4 ounces, it can also be packed in a carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

37. Can I pack dry shampoo in my checked luggage?

You won’t be plagued with greasy hair after a long flight—the TSA doesn’t treat dry shampoo any differently than liquid shampoo. Pack as much as you want in your checked bag, but keep it under 3.4 ounces in your carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

38. Can I pack hair mousse in my checked luggage?

The rule for mousse is the same as hairspray or any other liquids. Pump or aerosol cans are allowed in a checked bag, and you can toss it in your carry-on as long as it’s a travel-size 3.4-ounce bottle or smaller.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

39. Can I pack spray sunscreen in my checked luggage?

Sunscreen can be packed in a checked bag without any restrictions. If you're taking it in your carry-on, it must be 3.4 ounces or smaller.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

40. Can I pack nail polish in my checked luggage?

Nail polish and nail polish remover can be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage, as long as the bottles are under 3.4 ounces.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

41. Can I pack nail scissors in my checked luggage?

Nail scissors shorter than four inches can be packed in both checked and carry-on bags. If they're sharp or long, it's recommended to put a sleeve on them for checked luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

42. Can I pack contact lenses in my checked luggage?

Contact lenses and contact lens solution can be packed in both checked and carry-on bags. If the solution is in a carry-on, it must be 3.4 ounces or smaller.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

43. Can I pack an electric toothbrush in my checked luggage?

Electric or battery-operated toothbrushes and regular batteries are allowed in both checked and carry-on bags.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

44. Can I pack an electric razor/shaver in my checked luggage?

Yup! Electric razors and disposable razors can be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage. Safety razors must be packed in checked luggage unless the blade is removed.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

45. Can I pack a hair straightener in my checked luggage?

Not all hair tools can be packed in a checked bag, but a straightener can. Hair straighteners can be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

46. Can I pack medicine in my checked luggage?

Medication can be packed in checked luggage. Liquid medication must be in a container 3.4 ounces or smaller in a carry-on. Remember to label everything clearly and tell a TSA agent if you're carrying medication that exceeds the 3-1-1 liquid rule.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

47. Can I pack vitamins in my checked luggage?

The same rules for medication applies for vitamins, except liquid vitamins must be in a bottle 3.4 ounces or smaller if you want them in your carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

48. Can I pack needles/syringes in my checked luggage?

Needles and syringes can be packed in checked luggage. If you're carrying them on, remember to tell a TSA agent and bring unused needles with their injectable medication. Used needles should be placed in a sharps container or similar hard case..

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

49. Can I pack paracetamol in my checked luggage?

Paracetamol (generic acetaminophen or Tylenol) can be packed in a checked bag. If it's in liquid form in a carry-on, it must meet the 3-1-1 requirements. There are exceptions for children's medication.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

50. Can I pack personal oxygen in my checked luggage?

Personal oxygen cannot be packed in checked luggage. If you require medically necessary personal oxygen on a flight, check with your airline in advance.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

51. Can I pack shoe inserts in my checked luggage?

Gel shoe inserts can only be packed in checked luggage. Gel heels built into shoes are allowed in a carry-on, but may require an additional TSA screening.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

52. Can I pack an air mattress in my checked luggage?

Air mattresses, with or without a built-in pump, are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage. However, if it's oversized, check with your airline in advance to confirm it doesn't exceed size restrictions.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

53. Can I pack a CO2 cartridge in my checked luggage?

Empty CO2 cartridges can be packed in both checked and carry-on luggage. Filled CO2 cartridges are not allowed on board.

Checked Bag: Yes, With Restrictions
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

Flying with Cleaning Supplies

54. Can I pack bleach/Lysol in my checked luggage?

Sorry, germophobes. Both of these liquid cleaning products are prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

55. Can I pack chlorine in my checked luggage?

Like bleach, chlorine is not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

56. Can I pack washing powders in my checked luggage?

You can pack washing powder in your checked luggage, but if it's in your carry-on, it may be subject to additional screening if there's more than 12 ounces.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

57. Can I pack detergent in my checked luggage?

Powder detergent can be packed in checked luggage, and liquid detergent that's in a carry-on must be 3.4 ounces or less (note: it should be bleach-free).

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

58. Can I pack Tide Pods in my checked luggage?

These are allowed in checked luggage, and a small number can be placed in your quart-size plastic bag for carry-on, as part of your 3-1-1 allowance.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

Flying with Tools: What's Allowed

59. Can I pack tools in my checked luggage?

Tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches: If they're longer than seven inches, they must go in checked luggage. Shorter tools can go in a carry-on. Multipurpose tools with scissors longer than four inches or those that include knives must also be checked..

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

60. Can I pack scissors in my checked luggage?

All lengths and types of scissors can be packed in checked luggage, but carry-on scissors must be shorter than four inches.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

61. Can I pack knives in my checked luggage?

You can pack knives in checked luggage (as long as they're sheathed), but they're not allowed in carry-on bags (apart from plastic or round-bladed butter knives).

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

62. Can I pack a Swiss Army knife in my checked luggage?

These are allowed in checked luggage, but not in carry-on bags.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

63. Can I pack a pocket knife in my checked luggage?

You can bring pocket knives in checked luggage (as long as they're sheathed or folded), but they're not allowed in carry-on bags.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

64. Can I pack a box cutter in my checked luggage?

These are only allowed in checked luggage, and not in carry-on bags.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

Bringing Technology and Electronics on a Plane

65. Can I pack a laptop charger in my checked luggage?

Laptop chargers are allowed in checked bags, though if you’re planning to do work in-flight, you’ll wanna stick it in your carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

66. Can I pack a phone charger in my checked luggage?

By all means, feel free to throw your phone charger in a checked bag. That said, we recommend you keep this in your carry-on so you can charge your phone on the fly and keep your battery topped up.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

67. Can I pack an AC adapter in my checked luggage?

Indeed you can! Just like laptop and phone chargers, AC adaptors are fine to pack in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

68. Can I pack an extension cord in my checked luggage?

These are also allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but it's a good idea to wrap them up to avoid tangles.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

69. Can I pack GEGO GPS in my checked luggage?

Our GEGO GPS Global Tracker device is TSA-approved and can be packed in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

70. Can I pack lithium batteries in my checked luggage?

Most devices with lithium-ion batteries are allowed in checked or carry-on luggage, as long as they're under 100 watts. However, loose batteries over 100 watts cannot go in checked luggage and must be carried in the cabin. Passengers are also limited to two spare batteries per person in their carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

71. Do controllers count as lithium-ion batteries when packing checked luggage?

These are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, as their lithium-ion batteries don't exceed the wattage limit.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

72. Can I pack an iPad in my checked luggage?

No problem. You can put this in your check bag. Our recommendation: Keep it handy in your carry-on where it’ll make your flight go faster.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

73. Can I pack a laptop/computer in my checked luggage?

These are allowed in both checked and carry-on luggage, but it's a good idea to keep them in your carry-on to avoid the risk of damage or loss.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

74. Can I pack a drone in my checked luggage?

The TSA doesn't have any restrictions on packing drones in either checked or carry-on luggage, but some airlines may have their own policies. Keep in mind that many drone batteries cannot be placed in luggage and must be carried on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

Bringing Crafts and Hobbies on a Plane

75. Can I pack knitting needles in my checked luggage?

Knitters, you’re in luck. You can absolutely pack your needles in your checked bag. And if you’re gunning to finish that scarf and want to do so in-flight, you can bring needles in your carry-on, too.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

76. Can I pack needlepoint needles in my checked luggage?

Yes, you can pack needlepoint needles in both your checked and carry-on luggage. However, if you plan to bring them in your carry-on, make sure they don't have circular thread-cutters or other blades.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

77. Can I pack acrylic paint in my checked luggage?

Yes! Acrylic paint is water-based, it is allowed in checked luggage, subject to 3-1-1 rule for carry-on.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes, With Restrictions

78. Can I pack spray paint in my checked luggage?

Sorry, graffiti artists. It's not allowed in either checked or carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: No
Carry-On: No

79. Can I pack books in my checked luggage?

Sure, and it might even save you time in the security line, since books can sometimes be pulled out for extra inspection as they’re a favourite hiding spot for prohibited items.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

80. Can I pack bowling balls in my checked luggage?

Yes, you can bring a bowling ball on a plane in both your checked and carry-on luggage. However, be aware that it may be subject to weight restrictions!

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: Yes

81. Can I pack darts in my checked luggage?

Yes, you can bring darts on a plane as long as they are packed in your checked luggage. Darts are not allowed in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

Bringing Self Defense Items and Weapons on a Plane

82. Can I pack pepper spray or mace in my checked luggage?

Permitted in checked luggage (4 fluid ounces or less), but prohibited in carry-on luggage. Note: Tear gas (over 2% by mass) is completely banned..

Checked Bag: Yes, with Restrictions
Carry-On: No

83. Can I pack a knife (for self defense) in my checked luggage?

Allowed in checked luggage only. Plastic or rounded butter knives can be carried in the cabin.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

84. Can I pack martial arts weapons in my checked luggage?

Allowed in checked luggage only. Prohibited in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

85. Can I pack a gun in my checked luggage?

Permitted in checked luggage, but check with your airline for additional restrictions. Only toy guns that do not look realistic (e.g. brightly colored water guns) and tattoo guns are allowed in carry-on luggage. All other guns must be packed in checked luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No

86. Can I pack ammunition in my checked luggage?

Check with your airline in advance to determine if it is allowed in checked luggage. Prohibited in carry-on luggage.

Checked Bag: Yes
Carry-On: No