All luggage—checked and carry-on—must be screened and may be hand-searched by TSA personnel. Be sure to check TSA’s list of prohibited items. In deciding whether to check or carry on baggage, keep in mind that carry-on luggage is subject to additional restrictions (for example, regarding liquids and gels), and may be searched in your presence. Packing valuable items like cameras, cash, or laptop computers in your checked luggage is not recommended.
Medical equipment and prosthetics will be allowed through the checkpoint after completing the screening process, but some travelers may feel more comfortable putting these things in checked baggage. Gel-filled prosthetic items such as breast forms are not included in the three-ounce liquid limit for carry-ons, as they are considered medically necessary, but their presence in your carry-on luggage may result in extra screening. If possible, consider packing items containing liquid, gel, or powder in your checked luggage. Any medications and supplies, such as syringes should be placed in a separate bag in your carry-on luggage. All travelers may ask any TSA official for private screening if their bags need to be opened.
You have the right to wear what you wish. Certain types of clothing, shoes, binding materials, prostheses or jewelry may cause you to receive additional screening. Remove outerwear before you get to the security checkpoint. Airport metal detectors are extremely sensitive and may be set off by piercing jewelry, underwire or metal boning in clothing, and many shoes.
Travelers with questions about medical equipment, prostheses, or other assistive devices or about medical privacy can call the TSA Cares hotline in advance of their trip at 1-855-787-2227 to speak with a trained representative. For other advance travel questions, you can call TSA’s Contact Center at 1-866-289-9673, or ask a question via @AskTSA on Facebook or Twitter.