Travel Checklist | Transportation Security Administration (2024)

FAQs

Can you refuse to answer TSA questions? ›

Citizens: You only have to answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship (in addition to customs-related questions). Refusal to answer other questions may cause delay, but officials may not deny you entry into the U.S. if you have established your identity and citizenship.

Before Packing

Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule: 3.4 ounces or less per container. 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag) 1 bag per passenger.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you need only answer questions establishing your identity and citizenship, although refusing to answer routine questions about the nature and purpose of your travel could result in delay and/or further inspection.

The TSA is a division of Homeland Security and is primarily responsible for screening passengers and baggage for terrorism threats. The TSA does not have the power to make an arrest; however, a TSA agent can detain you until local law enforcement arrives.

You have the constitutional right to remain silent. In general, you do not have to talk to law enforcement officers (or anyone else), even if you do not feel free to walk away from the officer, you are arrested, or you are in jail. You cannot be punished for refusing to answer a question.

Metal Objects: If you have metal objects in your crotch area, such as zippers, buttons, or belt buckles, they can trigger the scanner to highlight that specific area for further inspection [1].

Have your boarding pass ready to be inspected by the officer. Place coins, keys and small metal items in your carry-on bag. Make sure your liquids, aerosols and gels are in containers no larger than 100ml. Place these items in a clear, resealable plastic bag and place it in the bin – one bag per passenger.

Why am I randomly stopped for a security check almost every time I go to an airport? This does not seem random. If you are flying in the US, it is possible you have been singled out by Secondary Security Screening Selection . Check your boarding pass.

How many 3-ounce bottles can I carry on? You must be able to fit all your 3-ounce bottles into a 1-quart bag, which is 6 x 9 inches. This usually equates to nine bottles.

Does chapstick count as a liquid TSA? ›

You are permitted to bring solid cosmetics and personal hygiene items as such lipstick, lip balm and similar solids. Please remember these items must be solid and not liquid, gel or aerosol. Only the items mentioned above are permitted in your carry-on bags.

Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, gels and aerosols. Common travel items that must comply with the 3-1-1 liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotion.

TSA officers use the back of the hands for pat-downs over sensitive areas of the body. In limited cases, additional screening involving a sensitive area pat-down with the front of the hand may be needed to determine that a threat does not exist.

Refusing a pat-down may result in being denied entry to the secure area of the airport, and therefore, not being allowed to board your flight.

Keeping Calm at Security

Any time you disobey a TSA agent's instructions, you run the risk of violating the law. But, people are not usually prosecuted unless they hit officials or repeatedly ignore, argue with, or disobey them.

While TSA agents do have the right to search you and your belongings, including a manual search of your bag, they can even search you after the initial screening of your bags comes up without any prohibited items; however, they may not base the reason for their secondary search or screening on your race, religion, ...

Passengers who have consented to participate may choose to opt-out at any time and instead go through the standard identity verification process by a Transportation Security Officer (TSO).