Standard and TSA PreCheck® Screening As you know, standard screening requires that you remove all items and place them on the X-ray belt for screening. With TSA PreCheck®, you are able to speed through security and don't need to remove your shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

In 2026, the requirement to empty your bag depends heavily on whether the security lane uses standard X-ray or new CT (Computed Tomography) scanners. At "Next-Gen" checkpoints, which are now widespread in major global hubs, you can leave your laptop, tablet, and 3-1-1 liquids inside your bag because the 3D imagery allows agents to rotate and inspect items virtually. However, at older checkpoints, you must still remove large electronics and your quart-sized bag of liquids. Regardless of the technology, in 2026, TSA and international agents are increasingly strict about lithium-ion batteries and heat-producing gadgets. You may be asked to take out power banks, electric toothbrushes, or vapes if they are obscured by other items. For those with TSA PreCheck, the experience is even more streamlined, allowing you to keep your shoes, light jackets, and belts on. Always watch for the signage at the entrance of the lane, as "Next-Gen" lanes will specifically instruct you to "Keep everything in your bag" to speed up the flow of traffic.