Updated 6 November 2026.
What the checkpoint will and will not let through, written against TSA and airline rules rather than guesswork.
Liquids and the 3-1-1 rule
- Liquids in checked baggage – the FAA 2 kg limit and the alcohol rules.
- Liquids on international flights – where the rules differ from the US.
- Avoiding the liquid rules hassle – what is worth repacking.
- Toiletry bags that fit the rules.
Is it allowed?
Everyday items, answered against the current TSA list:
- Wine opener, handcuffs, a 12-pack of soda
- A sandwich through security, chapstick, pill bottles
- Hiking sticks, glassware, nicotine pouches
Scanners and screening
- How airport scanners work – what each technology sees and misses.
- What triggers extra screening.
- Random checks explained – why selection is not personal.
- Avoiding a pat-down – and what to do if you are selected.
- Jewellery through the scanner, scar tissue
Getting through faster
- TSA PreCheck – cost, application and the mistakes that cancel it.
- Packing so you do not get stopped.
- Connecting flights and repeat screening.