🛠 New TSA Rules for Checked Baggage in 2025
Starting in 2025, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the United States will implement a series of important changes to the regulations for checked baggage on flights to or from the country. These measures aim to improve security, reduce handling errors, and align controls with international standards.
💡 Main reasons for the change
- Increase in prohibited items found in checked baggage.
- Advancements in automated inspection technologies.
- Need to standardize criteria with other international security agencies.
🛡 Items with new restrictions
- ⚠️ Loose lithium batteries prohibited in checked luggage.
- 💥 Stricter limits on aerosols and flammable products.
- 🔧 Increased control over tools, external batteries, and large electronics.
📝 Mandatory labeling and documentation
- 📱 Visible tag with phone number or email address.
- 🔒 Avoid including full residential addresses for safety reasons.
- 🖼️ Recommended to include a QR code or a photo of the passenger inside the suitcase.
💧 Limits for liquids, aerosols, and pressurized products
New restrictions apply to checked baggage starting in 2025 to improve overall safety:
- 💣 Flammable liquids: Completely prohibited. Includes fuels, solvents, thinners, lighters with a full tank, among others.
- 🧴 Personal-use aerosols (deodorants, hair spray, shaving foam): Allowed up to 500 ml per item, with a maximum of 2 liters per person.
- ❌ Non-personal aerosols (pesticides, spray paint, lubricants): Prohibited in all types of baggage.
- 📦 All containers must be tightly closed, leak-free, and visibly labeled.
🛈 Important note: The limits for liquids in carry-on baggage are different: only up to 100 ml (3.4 oz) per container allowed, and all must fit in a 1-liter transparent plastic bag.
✉ Tips for preparing your luggage
- 📝 Check the list of prohibited items before packing.
- ❗ Avoid checking valuable or hard-to-replace items.
- 🔒 Use suitcases with TSA-approved locks.
- 📷 Take photos of the contents in case you need to file a claim.
- 📍 Include a digital tracker (like an AirTag) inside your checked bag.
🛠 What is a TSA-approved lock?
A TSA-approved lock meets the standards set by this U.S. agency. Its main advantage is that it can be opened and inspected by airport authorities without being damaged. After inspection, the suitcase is closed properly so it can continue its journey.
- 🔖 Identifiable by a red diamond symbol with the letters "tsa" in white.
- ✅ Allows inspections without damaging the luggage.
- 🚀 Recommended for all flights to or with connections in the United States.
🗺 Coordination with airlines and airports
- 💬 Airlines will actively inform passengers about the changes.
- 📍 New signage in check-in areas and travel apps.
🚧 Consequences of non-compliance
- ❌ Baggage may be retained or removed from the flight.
- 💸 Fines or reports to authorities in case of repeat offenses.
- 📝 The passenger is responsible for non-compliance.
🛈 Stay informed
- 💻 Check the official TSA website and your airline's site.
- 📱 Use apps that notify you of updated regulations.
- 🌍 Verify international rules if making flight connections.
✂️ Before going through security
- 🔋 Make sure your electronic devices (phones, laptops, tablets) are charged before passing through security.
- 🔑 You may be asked to power them on or show your boarding pass on your phone.
👌 General best practices
- ❗ Do not carry packages for others.
- 🔖 Label each bag with your contact details.
- 📍 Use visual identifiers to distinguish your luggage.
🛑 If your luggage is held or lost
- 📋 Keep the receipt for your checked baggage.
- 📷 Having a photo of your suitcase helps with identification.
- ⛔ Report any damage or issue within the first 24 hours.
- 📝 If inspected, you may find an official notice inside.
📝 In summary
The new TSA rules for checked baggage in 2025 apply especially to flights to, from, or with connections in the United States. Adopting them early will help you avoid issues and ensure a safe, efficient journey. With good preparation, your airport experience will be much smoother.