Can I leave my Apple Watch in my carry-on?

If you're worried about your watch getting snatched or scratched while going through security, we suggest tucking it into a pocket of your carry-on bag.



Yes, you can—and in 2026, you generally should—leave your Apple Watch in your carry-on luggage rather than your checked bag. FAA and global aviation regulations are increasingly strict about lithium-ion batteries in the cargo hold due to the risk of "thermal runaway" or fire. While you can wear the watch through security (it usually won't trigger the metal detector), if you decide to pack it, placing it in your carry-on ensures it remains in the pressurized cabin where any potential battery issue can be addressed by the crew. In 2026, many airports utilize CT scanners that allow you to leave all electronics inside your bag, making the process even smoother. Just ensure the device is either powered off or in "Power Reserve" mode to prevent accidental activation and battery drain.

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Smartwatch. Smartwatches, such as Apple watches and other electronic wristwear, including FitBits, can often be worn through airport security. However, this might differ from airport to airport and you might be asked to remove your smartwatch.

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In the United States, it's required to switch your phone to airplane mode. But it's not because the plane will crash if you don't. According to Smarter Travel, by not turning your phone onto airplane mode, your phone will attempt to make connections with the cell towers around it.

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Firearms, ammunition, and fireworks are prohibited, as are all knives and safety razors (including pocket knives and Swiss Army knives). Straight razors and replacement blades for straight razors are also not allowed. Most tools also cannot be packed in carry-on luggage, as they have the potential to cause harm.

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Baggy clothing can include low-hanging pants, flowy skirts, heavy sweaters or sweatshirts, and loose dresses – things that would allow malicious travelers to hide prohibited items. Airport security may need to do a pat-down inspection if your clothes are too loose and they suspect you may be hiding prohibited items.

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Apple Lithium-ion Batteries They're inside every iPhone, iPad, iPod, Apple Watch, MacBook, and AirPods, helping you do all kinds of things in all kinds of places. Find out more about your battery to get the most out of it throughout its lifespan — and beyond.

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When your phone is in Airplane mode, callers will hear the phone ringing, although it's not ringing on your end because your phone is not active. If the caller hangs up without leaving a voice mail, no notification will be generated as it would if your phone were in an active state.

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Not only will the signals cause interference with airplane navigation, but the effort it takes your cell phone to keep scanning and tower hopping at fly-by speeds will also drain your battery and still not maintain a constant signal.

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Remove the 3-1-1 liquids bag and place it in the bin. Ensure pockets are empty (keys, tissues, currency, wallets, cell phones, etc.) and remove bulky jewelry (valuable items can be placed in carry-on). Remove your shoes and place them directly on the X-ray belt.

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