Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone from your carry-on bag and place them into a bin with nothing placed on or under them for X-ray screening. (E.g. laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles.) Remember to check the bins and collect all belongings after going through screening.

In 2026, the requirement to remove electronics depends entirely on the specific security scanner technology at your airport. Major global hubs have now transitioned to 3D CT (Computed Tomography) scanners, which allow you to leave all electronics—including laptops, tablets, and large cameras—inside your hand luggage. TSA and international security agencies are aggressively rolling these out to speed up queues; however, at smaller or secondary airports that still use traditional 2D X-ray machines, you are still required to place electronics in a separate bin. The 2026 "pro-traveler" rule is: always look for the signs or ask the officer, but generally, if you are in a TSA PreCheck lane or a modern international terminal (like London Heathrow or Dubai), you can leave your gadgets tucked away in your bag.