TSA Shares Holiday Travel Rules for Gifts, Electronics, Food, and Drinks

Millions of holiday travelers are gearing up for the year‑end season, and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has released a detailed guide to help passengers keep gifts, gadgets, and goodies from getting stuck in the security line. The advice covers everything from wrapped presents to batteries, liquids, and even the holiday beverages you might bring along.

Holiday Gift Rules

TSA warns that wrapped items are treated like any other object. If a gift is wrapped in festive paper, TSA officers may ask you to unwrap it to confirm it poses no security threat. A safer approach is to place the gift in a bag or box, or simply add a bow. Perfume can travel in bottles of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, as long as the bottle fits inside a standard quart‑sized liquids bag. Decorative perfume bottles that exceed that size must go in checked luggage. Snow globes are allowed in carry‑ons if they are roughly the size of a tennis ball, contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid, and have a base attached; larger globes must be checked. Jewelry such as rings, necklaces, and small pieces can travel in carry‑ons, even when tucked inside a gift box, but TSA cautions against wearing bulky jewelry or oversized belt buckles that could trigger alarms. Solid scented candles are permitted in carry‑ons; gel candles, however, must be packed in checked bags. Advent calendars are welcome in carry‑ons, and officers will not open them to spoil the surprise.

Electronics and Batteries

Most electronics fit comfortably in carry‑on luggage. Items larger than a cell phone should be placed in a separate bin so TSA can obtain a clear image during screening; the same rule applies to drones. Batteries follow specific guidelines: standard “dry” batteries—AA, AAA, 9‑volt, C, and D—are allowed through checkpoints without issue. Lithium batteries are permitted if installed in a device and rated at 100 watt‑hours or less. Loose lithium batteries are prohibited in checked baggage because of fire risk. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) maintains detailed regulations on lithium batteries, so travelers are encouraged to consult the FAA’s website before packing. For more detailed guidance, the TSA homepage offers a “What can I bring?” tool that lets you type an item to determine its status.

Food and Drinks

Solid baked goods—including cookies, pies, and cakes—are allowed through security checkpoints, even if packaged in tins. Liquids such as preserves, jellies, jams, and syrups must be packed in checked bags if the container exceeds 3.4 ounces. Holiday chocolates can be carried on board. When bringing a festive charcuterie board, TSA advises that soft and spreadable foods should be packed in checked bags, whereas solid foods are acceptable in carry‑ons. Holiday beverages such as eggnog, wine, and champagne must be checked, and each traveler is limited to five liters total. Alcoholic drinks containing more than 70% alcohol by volume are not permitted in either carry‑on or checked bags. Miniature bottles of alcohol are allowed in carry‑on bags as long as they fit neatly inside a single quart‑sized liquids bag, with the standard limit of one quart bag per passenger.

Expert Insight

Child psychologist Mariana Pérez Borrero explains why giving children coal can cause confusion and harm, while Dr. Eileen Kennedy‑Moore, PhD, host of the Kids Ask Dr. Friendtastic Podcast, shares advice on broaching the subject this holiday season. Their comments underscore the importance of clear communication during travel and celebrations.

TSA Online Tool

The TSA’s “What can I bring?” tool is a quick reference that helps travelers decide whether an item should be packed in a carry‑on, checked bag, or neither. Users simply enter the item name, and the tool returns the applicable regulations. This feature is particularly useful for last‑minute travelers who want to avoid surprises at the checkpoint.

Winter Sports Gear

For those heading to the slopes, the rules vary by equipment. Snowboards, snowshoes, and ice skates can pass through security, though overhead bin space depends on the airline. Skis and ski poles, however, must be checked. Travelers should verify airline policies in advance to ensure sufficient space and avoid additional fees.

Key Takeaways

• Wrapped gifts may need to be unwrapped for screening; consider bags or bows.
• Liquids over 3.4 ounces must be checked; gel candles and large snow globes go in checked luggage.
• Loose lithium batteries are prohibited in checked bags; consult FAA rules for battery limits.

Closing

By following TSA’s clear guidelines, holiday travelers can keep their gifts, gadgets, and goodies secure while avoiding delays. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party or a Hanukkah celebration, a little preparation goes a long way toward a smooth, stress‑free journey.

Final Note

Remember that TSA’s rules apply to all passengers, regardless of destination. Pack thoughtfully, stay informed, and enjoy a safe, joyful holiday season.