Knives, box cutters and scissors are all prohibited items aboard commercial airlines. If you carry a sharp object through security, there's a good chance it won't make it aboard a flight. TSA has an extensive list of items that fall within the banned category. If your item can be used as a potential weapon, it's probably on the list of items not allowed on commercial airplanes. You may bring a single match or lighter with you on a flight, even though those items are considered potentially hazardous. If you're unsure about whether something is banned, it's best to check the TSA website before you head to the airport.
A rule went into place on June 21, 2008 requiring passengers boarding commercial aircrafts to furnish acceptable identification documents. These include, but are not limited to, a passport, driver's license, permanent resident card or border crossing card. If your identify can't be verified at an airport security checkpoint, you may be required to go through additional screening and there's a good chance you won't be allowed to board a plane. Also be sure that your documents match the name on your boarding pass; a discrepancy there will result in further screening.
While in many cases, items banned from hand luggage are OK in checked baggage (like liquids over three ounces), batteries are an exception. They're not allowed in checked baggage, but can be brought on board in carry-on baggage. Be sure to purchase batteries from a reputable source; counterfeit batteries are more likely to cause a fire and put you and others at unnecessary risk.
Not all locks are made so they can be opened by TSA security officers. If your baggage needs to be inspected for its contents and is secured by a lock they can't easily open, they may need to cut it. To prevent this from happening, make sure your lock is TSA compatible. The packaging on these locks will indicate whether they can be opened by TSA officers. If in doubt about your lock's compatibility, simply ask a representative at the store where you plan to purchase it.
If an alarm goes off when you go through a metal detector or Advanced Imaging Technology unit, you'll typically be subjected to a pat-down. The TSA officer will lightly place his or her hands over various parts of your body to ensure there are no prohibited items on your person. Passengers can request pat-downs be done in a private room, as this process can be awkward and embarrassing for some travelers. It's always advisable to remove all items from your pockets along with anything metallic to prevent an alarm sounding at a security checkpoint. Passengers with metallic parts or devices in them (like a knee replacement) should advise TSA officers ahead of being screened.
