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Quiz: Can You Check That?

Test your knowledge of what you can — and can’t — pack in your luggage, according to the TSA

By

Susan B. Barnes,

 
AARP
Published June 17, 2024
couple printing luggage tags at an airport
Travelers should double-check the TSA prohibited items list before checking a bag.
Getty Images

Are you Team Checked or Team Carry-On? Either way, there are guidelines to follow for what can be checked in your bag when flying.

A recent AARP survey found that 65 percent of Americans 50-plus are planning to travel this year, many of whom will be flying. With so many people vying for overhead bin space, you may think that if you can’t carry it on, you can just check it. But that’s not always the case. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has the final say on what’s OK in checked luggage, so know the rules before you go.

Question 1 of 8

True or False: You can pack extra oxygen cylinders in your checked bag.

Personal oxygen cylinders are not permitted in checked luggage. The TSA suggests checking with the airline regarding availability of oxygen service if you will need it during your flight.

Question 2 of 8

Which of these can you not pack in your checked bag?

As you might imagine, there are many rules around traveling with firearms, all of which say they must be securely packed in checked luggage and declared at the check-in counter. It’s always good to check with the airline to confirm that it does in fact permit checked firearms. That said, gunpowder, including black powder and percussion caps, is not allowed in checked or carry-on luggage.

Question 3 of 8

True or False: You can pack ice cream in your checked bag.

If you want to bring ice cream as a gift or prefer to travel with emotional support pints, you can fill a cooler with bags of dry ice or ice packs and you’re good to go. Keep in mind that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) limits packed dry ice to 5.5 pounds, and its use must be approved ahead of time by the airline. 

Question 4 of 8

True or False: You can pack spare lithium batteries in your checked bag.

Lithium batteries have become part of our everyday lives, powering our cell phones, laptops, tablets and other devices. Any spare lithium batteries (including portable rechargers) must stay with you in the cabin because they are flammable. You can, however, check most personal devices containing lithium batteries in your luggage if they’re completely powered off.

Question 5 of 8

Which of these pieces of sports equipment do you have to check?

It’s a matter of size. Golf clubs are too big for the overhead bins in the cabin, so you’ll need to check them. Also, check with the airline to see whether there’s an additional fee to check your clubs. Just like regular luggage, if your golf clubs weigh more than 50 pounds, you may have to pay extra.

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Question 6 of 8

True or False: You can check your battery-powered wheelchair or mobility device.

If you travel with a battery-powered wheelchair or mobility device, you can check it for your flight if you follow TSA and FAA guidelines. Most important, the battery needs to be securely attached to the device and protected from damage in a battery housing. If your wheelchair uses a lithium battery, the battery will need to be disconnected and carried on board in your carry-on. Check with your airline for its specific requirements.

Question 7 of 8

Which of these camping items can you check?

When it comes to camping, you can take it with you. Go ahead, pack your sleeping bag and tent, including tent spikes and poles, and your air mattress in your luggage. Insofar as your camp stove, make sure there’s no fuel left inside, and clean it so that it’s free of any fuel vapors and residue.

Question 8 of 8

True or False: You can pack alcoholic beverages in your checked bag.

If your travels take you to a craft brewery, distillery or winery, you can bring some beverages home with you via your checked bags. The TSA allows up to 5 liters, or 1.3 gallons, of beverages up to 70 percent alcohol, or 140 proof, in checked luggage. Anything over 140 proof is considered too flammable to fly.

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