Rules for Air Travel: Packing

There was a time when you were permitted to pack a knife with a blade of 4 inches or less in a carry-on bag. But as of 2009, you cannot carry any sharp objects onboard. In addition to knives, this includes common items like scissors and nail files. While these items may be allowed in your checked luggage, to avoid possible security hassles, leave them at home if possible.

Liquids are permitted in your carry-on bag as long as you follow the "3-1-1" rule. This means that your liquid should not exceed 3.4 oz. in weight, and the container should be packed in a 1 qt. or smaller plastic bag. You're only allowed one of these bags. You can exceed the 3.4 oz. limit for items such as baby formula and breast milk, but you need to declare them at the security checkpoint.

To help you move through security faster, the TSA recommends that you pack your carry-on bag in an organized manner. Heavier items should be placed on the bottom, which should be covered by a layer of clothing. Electronic items would be next, with another layer of clothing placed on the top. Larger electronic items such as laptop computers should not be packed in a carry-on, as this will slow down the inspection process. Carry your laptop in a separate checkpoint-friendly bag (see Resources below).

Items such as jackets and coats should be packed in your checked luggage. You must check your golf clubs, as you are not permitted to carry them onto the plane. And golf-related tools such as wrenches for changing the spikes on your golf shoes can be checked or packed in your carry-on bag as long as they do not exceed 7 inches in length.

The TSA has an extensive list of items that may be packed only in checked luggage or may not be carried at all (see Resources below). In addition to golf clubs, other sporting goods items such as baseball bats, hockey sticks and ski poles must be checked. Flammable or potentially explosive items are not permitted.