Air travel just got more convenient for U.S. passengers. In 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) updated its guidelines to allow several everyday items in any size within carry-on luggage. These changes aim to streamline the travel experience without compromising safety. Whether you’re packing for work, leisure, or family travel, knowing what’s allowed can help you avoid last-minute surprises.
While these items are TSA-approved, airline-specific rules on size, weight, and batteries may still apply. For the latest information, check the TSA website or use the MyTSA app, and verify with your airline if you’re flying internationally.
Air Mattress with Built-in Pump
As of 2025, TSA permits travelers to carry air mattresses with built-in pumps in both carry-on and checked baggage. This policy aims to enhance passenger convenience while maintaining security standards. Travelers should ensure that the air mattress fits within their airline’s size and weight restrictions.
A standard air mattress equipped with an internal pump can be about 75 inches long and weigh close to 12 pounds (5.4 kg), which might exceed some airlines’ carry-on size limits. Always check the baggage rules with your airline before you travel.
Artificial Skeleton Bones
As of 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits artificial skeleton bones in both carry-on and checked baggage. These items must undergo standard security screening at the checkpoints.
The TSA does not provide specific statistics on the frequency of such items being transported. While unusual, items like skeleton props are often transported for educational, medical, or theatrical purposes. Passengers are encouraged to clearly label and pack them securely to avoid delays during screening.
Baby Carrier
Travelers can bring baby carriers in both carry-on and checked luggage, provided they fit within the airline’s size and weight restrictions. At security checkpoints, baby carriers must be placed on the X-ray belt for screening.
If the carrier does not fit through the X-ray machine, it will undergo a visual or physical inspection by TSA officers. This policy facilitates smoother travel for families with infants.
Electronic Toothbrush
As of 2025, TSA allows electronic toothbrushes in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, devices containing lithium metal or lithium-ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage due to safety regulations.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), lithium-ion batteries must not exceed 100 watt-hours (Wh) per battery. Most electronic toothbrushes fall well below this limit, typically ranging between 1.5 and 3 Wh, ensuring they are safe for air travel.
Knitting Needles
Travelers are permitted to bring knitting needles in both carry-on and checked baggage, as per TSA guidelines. To ensure safety, any sharp objects (such as box cutters, cigar cutters, or corkscrews) in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
TSA officers may still inspect bags containing knitting needles if they raise any concerns during screening. Knitting tools made of plastic or bamboo are less likely to be questioned compared to metal ones.
Powder Makeup
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) permits powder makeup in both carry-on and checked baggage. Travelers carrying powder-like substances exceeding 12 ounces (350 milliliters) should place them in a separate bin for X-ray screening.
Such items may require additional screening, and containers might need to be opened. To expedite the screening process, it’s advisable to pack non-essential powders over 12 ounces in checked luggage.
Scissors
Scissors (with blades less than 4 inches) from the pivot point are allowed in carry-on bags, as per TSA guidelines. Larger scissors must be placed in checked baggage. All sharp objects in checked bags should be sheathed or securely wrapped to prevent injury to baggage handlers and inspectors.
Blades must be measured from the pivot point to the tip to qualify under the 4-inch rule. For safety, it’s best to store scissors in a protective case or wrap them securely inside your bag.
Skateboards
As of 2025, TSA permits skateboards in both carry-on and checked luggage. However, travelers must follow their airline’s size and weight rules.
Standard skateboards, typically measuring 28 to 32 inches in length, may exceed some airlines’ carry-on size limits, which often cap at 22 inches in length. Airlines like Southwest, Delta, and United allow skateboards as carry-ons if they fit in overhead bins.
Sleeping Bag
TSA guidelines now allow passengers to bring sleeping bags in either their carry-on or checked luggage. Travelers should ensure that the sleeping bag fits within their airline’s size and weight restrictions.
For instance, a standard sleeping bag typically measures around 75 inches in length and weighs approximately 2 to 4 pounds, which may impact carry-on eligibility.
Umbrella
As per the official guidelines, TSA allows umbrellas in both carry-on and checked baggage. However, travelers should be aware that umbrellas with sharp or pointed tips may be subject to additional screening or could be prohibited.
Compact, foldable umbrellas are generally more acceptable and convenient for travel. It’s important to check with your specific airline, as policies may vary regarding the size and type of umbrellas permitted on board.
Walking Sticks
Travelers can now carry walking sticks of any size in their carry-on luggage, provided they’re used as mobility aids and have blunt tips. The TSA permits walking sticks through security checkpoints, but they must undergo X-ray screening.
If the stick cannot fit through the X-ray machine, a TSA officer will inspect it manually. It’s crucial to ensure that the walking stick does not conceal any prohibited items, such as hidden blades, as discovered in a 2021 incident at Dulles Airport.
Dumbbells
TSA allows dumbbells in both carry-on and checked bags, but they may be flagged at security. Heavier weights are best placed in checked luggage to avoid delays. Keep in mind that most airlines cap checked bag weight at 50 pounds (23 kg). For lighter workouts, consider resistance bands or collapsible water-filled weights. Be sure to review your airline’s individual policies before you pack.
