The role of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is to inspect luggage to ensure the safety of passengers and airline employees. There are many items that travelers are prohibited from carrying on a plane in their bags, and that will have to be checked in order to travel with. Examples of items prohibited from carry on luggage include box cutters, scissors, knives, razor blades, sporting goods, guns and firearms, tools, and martial arts and self defense items. In addition, items such as candles, gel inserts for shoes, lighter fluid, and snow globes are not allowed in carry on luggage. Items that are prohibited from any luggage that will be carried on a plane include flammable liquids, disabling chemicals, explosive materials, gun powder, and flares. Individuals needing to carry an item on the prohibited list should always check with the airline and airport security.
In 2006, the TSA conducted testing that determined that small amounts of liquids are safe to bring on board a plane. Travelers are allowed to bring one clear bag of liquid materials which must be x-rayed outside of the carry on bag. The TSA established a 3-1-1 rule for carry on luggage which amounts to a 3.4 ounce bottle or less; one quart size clear, zip-top bag containing the liquids, and one bag per passenger in a screening bin. Items such as medications, breast milk and baby food and formulas are allowed in reasonable larger amounts if items are declared at the checkpoint for inspection.
Each airline sets a specific requirement for the allowed number of bags each traveler is allowed to bring. Carry on bags for all airlines must fit either in the overhead bin or underneath the seat without sliding. In addition, the majority of United States airlines allow two checked bags per passenger up to 50 pounds. Heavier bags may be subject to an additional fee. Customers may also pay an additional fee for extra bags. Airlines such as Southwest are still allowing travelers to check bags at no additional charge, although some airlines are beginning to charge a fee for any checked bags.
