Airport security can make traveling stressful, with constantly changing TSA regulations. The Transportation Security Administration and airlines are tightening the rules for 2025 on what can go in the carry-on bag, and you had better know what to expect. This guide uncovers the new carry-on rules for 2025, the surprising items they’re seizing every day, and clever ways to pack to avoid unnecessary delays through security. Avoid the hassle of outdated information keeping you from traveling on time; know what to do and pack wisely!
Size and Weight Limits for Carry-On in 2025
The traditional rule of thumb for the classic 22x14x9 inch carry-on may no longer suffice. Bin sizes in overhead compartments are decreasing, particularly on low-cost carriers like Ryanair, Frontier, and Wizz Air. These carriers often employ aircraft-specific bin dimensions, so that your well-proportioned bag will be rejected regardless. Plus, many airlines now have weights on carry-ons with tight restrictions under 7 kg or 15 lbs. Being over these can incur hefty gate charges, often the cost of your ticket. Check the website of your airline for the latest dimensions, weights, and battery restrictions for each flight to prevent costly surprises. Intelligent luggage is being looked at under the microscope, as well.
Top 5 Carry-On Items Being Confiscated
- Oversized Power Banks: Portable batteries over 27,000 mAh or 100Wh do not allow. If the label does not exist or cannot otherwise be read, TSA will take possession.
- Smart Luggage with Built-In Batteries: If the battery cannot be quickly removed, your bag will be grounded, no exceptions.
- Full-Sized Aerosols: Any hairspray or deodorant can over 3.4 oz (100ml) gets tossed, even if it’s nearly empty.
- Spreadable Foods: Peanut butter, hummus, cream cheese – anything with a paste-like texture counts as a liquid and is subject to the TSA liquid rules.
- Improperly Stored Vapes: Vapes must be in your carry-on (never checked bags) in a clear case with detached batteries.
Pro Tip: Check the mAh rating on your charger and pack all vapes and power banks in your personal item, ready for inspection. One wrong move, and your gear could be confiscated!
TSA’s Crackdown on Liquids and Tech in 2025
You’ve heard of the TSA 311 rule, but enforcement is stricter than ever in 2025. Even slightly oversized liquids are headed for the bin. Here’s an updated cheat sheet:
- Liquids: Still limited to one quart-sized zip-top bag. Each container must be 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less.
- Electronics: Anything bigger than a smartphone must come out. That includes tablets, e-readers, power banks, and even handheld game consoles.
- Medications: Allowed, but must be clearly labeled and preferably in original containers.
- Liquids Over 3.4 Ounces: Okay if declared, but expect additional testing.
- Water Bottles: Must be empty. TSA won’t let you through unless the bottle is bone dry.
To breeze through security, keep your liquids, tech, and meds accessible and organized. The TSA isn’t playing games!
TSA-Proof Packing Hacks
How you pack your carry-on can significantly impact your security experience. Here’s how to pack smarter:
- Packing Cubes: Use one for electronics – chargers, batteries, and headphones. This prevents you from fishing through personal items to find a power bank.
- Top Zipper Pocket: Store liquids and meds here for easy access. Agents appreciate quick access, and so will the people behind you.
- Laptop/Tablet Placement: Always pack it on top. Burying it under shoes guarantees a bag dump and delay.
- Avoid Overstuffing: Dense bags are scanner nightmares. If TSA can’t see through it clearly, it’s getting pulled for manual inspection.
- Lay-Flat Backpack: These open fully at security, eliminating the need to remove your laptop. Use a VPN when using airport Wi-Fi for added security.
The more TSA-friendly your bag, the faster and more confident you’ll move through security. For booking tours check out Expedia Travel Tours.
Common Mistakes That Get You Flagged
- Bulging Bags: If your zippers are screaming, scanners can’t see inside clearly, triggering an instant flag.
- Heavy Metal Gear: Big belt buckles, studded jackets, and steel-toe boots will set off the hypersensitive 2025 scanners.
- Multiple Personal Items: TSA allows one carry-on plus one personal item. A backpack, purse, and shopping bag will result in consolidation or charges.
- Forgetting to Remove Laptops/Liquids: This delays everyone. Agents remember repeat offenders.
- Not Doing a Final Check: Laptop out? Liquids on top? Bag zipped? One personal item only? Quick self-check equals a smooth trip.
Airlines with the Strictest Carry-On Policies in 2025
Flying budget? Read the fine print! These airlines are enforcing carry-on rules like never before:
- Ryanair: Slightly oversized, you’ll pay a gate fee that could exceed your ticket cost. Staff are ruthless about bag size and weight.
- Frontier Airlines: They now weigh carry-ons at the gate. Exceed the limit, even by half a pound, and you pay immediately. They’ll charge for extra purses too.
- Wizz Air: Carry-ons are no longer included in basic fares. Don’t prepay; you’re paying double at the gate.
Pro Tip: Always prepay for your carry-on during booking. It’s cheaper, guarantees space, and prevents last-minute flagging. These airlines have strict rules by design. Preparation is key to avoiding hefty fees.
TSA Agents’ Number One Pet Peeve
Ask any TSA officer, and they’ll tell you the number one thing that slows down security lines in 2025: travelers who forget to remove their large electronics. Laptops, tablets, e-readers – anything bigger than a phone must come out and go in a separate bin.
Miss this step, and not only will your bag get flagged, but you’ll also hold up the line for everyone behind you. It’s one of the fastest ways to frustrate agents. Stand out positively by having your laptop out before your tray hits the conveyor belt.
2025 Carry-On Survival Checklist
- Bag under 22x14x9 inches
- Weight under 15 lbs for budget airlines
- Power bank under 27,000 mAh
- All liquids 3.4 oz or less
- Label medications in clear bags
- Tech packed on top
- One personal item only
- Smart luggage battery removable
Bookmark this page! A quick glance before leaving for the airport could save you hundreds in surprise fees and hours of security stress. Don’t forget to download your long haul flight checklist before you go.
FAQ About TSA Carry-On Rules
- Can I bring snacks through TSA? Yes, but be mindful of spreadable foods, as they are considered liquids.
- What if my medication is liquid and over 3.4 oz? Declare it to a TSA agent, and expect additional screening.
- Are there any exceptions to the electronic device rule? No, all devices larger than a smartphone must be removed from your bag.
Conclusion
Being aware of the current TSA carry-on regulations is essential for hassle-free travel in the year 2025. By being aware of the dimensions and weight limits, being careful about banned items, packing strategically, and steering clear of the common pitfalls, you can make the security process go as smoothly as possible. Make sure to review the particular policies of your airline before traveling and expect increased enforcement. Safe travels ahead.
