Have you ever stood in a TSA line with a jar of peanut butter, a snow globe, or your grandma’s apple pie packed in your carry-on, wondering if it will make it through security? You’re not alone.
Every day, thousands of travelers get stopped at TSA checkpoints for trying to bring items that are restricted, misunderstood, or simply confusing. As TSA rules continue to evolve—and technology improves—understanding what you can and can’t bring through airport security in 2025 is more important than ever.
Here’s a clear, practical breakdown of TSA’s most common policies, including surprising yes/no items, how to check for yourself, and how recent changes could mean fewer surprises at the checkpoint.
What TSA Actually Bans (And Why)
TSA’s primary goal is to prevent dangerous items from boarding an aircraft—especially those that could be used as weapons or explosives. That’s why they strictly regulate:
- Liquids, gels, aerosols (the infamous 3-1-1 rule)
- Sharp objects
- Flammable items
- Certain tools or sporting equipment
But many items fall into a gray area—not quite banned, but not obviously safe. This is where confusion sets in.
Surprisingly Common “Can I Bring It?” Questions
Here’s how TSA currently handles some of the most-searched—and most-confusing—carry-on items:
Peanut Butter
- Carry-on? Yes—but only in containers under 3.4 oz (100 mL).
- Why? TSA classifies peanut butter as a gel. That means it falls under the liquids rule, even though it’s spreadable food. Larger jars must go in checked baggage.
Snacks and Sandwiches
- Carry-on? Yes.
- Why? Solid foods like chips, sandwiches, baked goods, and whole fruit are perfectly fine. But if your food has liquid components (e.g., soup or yogurt), it must meet the 3.4 oz rule.
Snow Globes (Mostly)
- Carry-on? Usually no.
- Why? Most snow globes exceed the 3.4 oz liquid limit, and TSA can’t easily verify the volume inside. Very small globes might be permitted but often cause delays.
Medications and Medical Devices
- Carry-on? Yes, without quantity restrictions.
- Why? TSA makes exceptions for medically necessary liquids and equipment. Bring them in a separate bag and notify agents during screening.
Large Bottles of Shampoo, Lotion, or Sunscreen
- Carry-on? No—unless under 3.4 oz and in a quart-size bag.
- Why? Standard 3-1-1 liquids rule still applies. Oversized toiletry bottles should be checked.
TSA’s 3-1-1 Rule, Still Going Strong (for Now)
As of 2025, the liquid restrictions at TSA checkpoints are still in place at most U.S. airports:
- 3 – Liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers no larger than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters).
- 1 – All containers must fit in 1 quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag.
- 1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed in carry-on.
There have been rumors and limited trials of advanced CT scanners that could eventually end these liquid rules, as seen at some airports in the UK and select U.S. terminals. But for now, unless you’re departing from one of the few TSA PreCheck lanes or pilot airports testing new tech, plan to follow the rule.
Prohibited vs. Discouraged: There’s a Difference
TSA’s website and app often say an item is “allowed,” but that doesn’t mean agents won’t scrutinize it. Some examples:
- Pies and cakes: Allowed, but can be subject to extra screening due to their density.
- Wrapped gifts: Technically allowed, but may be unwrapped for inspection.
- Lighters and matches: One lighter per person is allowed, but strike-anywhere matches are banned.
When in doubt, use TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool or tweet them directly at @AskTSA.
Travel Smarter in 2025: Final Tips
- PreCheck helps: If you fly often, enroll in TSA PreCheck. It saves time and allows more items through with fewer restrictions.
- Separate your electronics: Unless you’re in PreCheck, remove laptops and large electronics from your bag.
- Pack strategically: Put liquids and questionable items near the top of your carry-on for easy access.
- Don’t argue with agents: Even if the rules seem inconsistent, TSA agents have discretion. Be polite—it’s faster.
Coming Soon: Easier Screening?
TSA has begun rolling out next-gen scanners and smart lanes at major airports. The infamous shoe rule was recently eliminated. Some terminals (like Atlanta, Chicago, and Phoenix) are trialing systems that may eventually eliminate the 3-1-1 rule entirely. But widespread adoption is likely years away.
Until then, pack carefully, read the rules, and don’t let peanut butter slow you down.