Do laptops have to be turned on at airport security?

In some cases you might be asked to turn it on to prove it's an actual working computer. With newer multi-view scanning technology, security officials can view the bag from multiple angles to discern whether something is being covered up, or made to look like something else.



While it is not a universal requirement for every traveler, airport security agents (such as those from the TSA) have the authority to ask you to turn on your laptop to prove it is a functional electronic device and not a concealed threat. For this reason, it is highly recommended to ensure your laptop has at least a minimal charge before reaching the checkpoint. In 2026, a "frictionless" revolution is underway at many global hubs; airports equipped with next-generation Computed Tomography (CT) scanners no longer require you to remove your laptop or liquids from your bag at all. These scanners create 3D images that allow security to inspect electronics while they remain packed. However, at older checkpoints using traditional 2D X-rays, you must still place your laptop in a separate bin. If an agent suspects an item, a dead battery could lead to additional screening delays or even the device being barred from the flight, so always keep it "power-ready."

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Most electronic devices containing batteries are allowed both in carry-on and checked baggage. Customers can bring cell phones, smartphones, electronic games, tablets, computers, cameras, calculators, etc. General airline regulations suggest that all portable electronic devices are put in your carry-on baggage.

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Putting your laptop in a checked bag can cause it to get damaged from the rough baggage handling and the stacking of bags over one another. Putting your laptop, a valuable item, in checked baggage also means a higher chance of its disappearance.

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Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags. For more information, see the FAA guidance on portable rechargers. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?' page.

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TSA Guidelines for Jewelry You may need to remove multiple pieces or bulky jewelry. In general, small pieces of jewelry like rings and earrings can be worn through TSA checkpoints without issue. However, heavy jewelry with bulky metal components or multiple pieces can trigger the scanner.

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Can you see a tampon during an airport body scan? This is a frequently asked question on Google, and if it's something you're worried about, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Airport body scanners can't see inside the body and therefore can't detect a tampon on a TSA female body scan image.

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In spite of the fact that the scanners can see the density and mass of everything that you have packed, they are not always able to establish what the objects are. In this case, if your luggage contains objects that arouse any suspicions then, the security will take a look through the bag.

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For items left in other areas of the airport, please check the airport's website for contact information. Items left behind at TSA security checkpoints are held by TSA for a minimum of 30 days or until the item is reunited with the original owner.

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Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat must not be carried aboard an aircraft (e.g. carry-on or checked baggage) unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed, or otherwise made safe.

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It's generally recommended to carry laptop chargers in your carry-on luggage rather than checking them in. Lithium-ion batteries, which are commonly used in laptop batteries and chargers, can be a fire hazard if they are damaged or short-circuited.

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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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Firearms and ammunition, as well as any replicas or imitations. Explosives and flammable items, such as fireworks, gas, and aerosols. Poisonous and toxic substances, including pesticides and certain chemicals. Lithium batteries and other hazardous materials, as these can pose a safety risk if not handled properly.

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Portable chargers or power banks containing a lithium ion battery must be packed in carry-on bags. For more information, see the FAA guidance on portable rechargers. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?'

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Most airlines allow passengers to bring power banks in their carry-on luggage, but not in checked baggage, due to the risk of fire caused by lithium-ion batteries. The capacity of the power bank is also typically limited to 100 watt-hours or 20,000mAh.

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As a guide, anything larger than A5 size or an iPad mini needs to be placed in a tray with nothing covering it up. If you can spray, spread or pour something at room temperature, it counts as a liquid in aviation security terms. This includes aerosols such as asthma inhalers and foodstuffs, like butter or jam.

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You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.

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What happens if TSA finds a prohibited item in checked bag? For example, TSA guidance is very clear: If prohibited items are found during security checks, they won't be returned to their owners. That may vary in other countries, but the general rule is that confiscations are permanent.

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