How TSA’s ‘Naughty-or-Nice List’ Keeps Your Christmas Gifts Intact at Airports
You might want to reconsider making your Christmas gifts look tree-ready as the TSA could unwrap those presents when you go through a security checkpoint before your flight.
In fact, the TSA has its own sort of “naughty-or-nice list” for travelers to take a look at before jetting off on holiday adventures.
“When there is an alarm that must be resolved, often the only way that a Transportation Security Officer (TSO) has available is to see the item that caused the alarm. If a package is wrapped, then the TSO must unwrap it for inspection,” the spokesperson added.
It seems prudent now to delay those festive final touches until touching down at your destination. Imagine the joy of revealing a gift without the constraints of wrapping paper—perhaps a simple gift bag would do, offering a peek without full disclosure.
“What TSA recommends is to either wait to wrap the gifts after the airport checkpoint or place the item inside a gift bag so that it can be inspected without having to dismantle the wrapping paper,” the TSA spokesperson said.
As they gather their holiday treasures, travelers might benefit from familiarizing themselves with the TSA’s naughty-or-nice list—guidelines that dictate what can swiftly pass through security screenings, versus items that could lead to the unsightly unwrapping of thoughtful gifts.
Some classic holiday wonders, while enchanting, are subject to specific regulations; otherwise, “the Grinch will be paying you a visit at the checkpoint, and you may opt to leave your prized snow globe behind,” warns the TSA’s website.
Small snow globes, with a capacity of less than 3.4 ounces—roughly the size of a tennis ball—can accompany passengers in their carry-on, provided they snugly fit inside a quart-sized plastic bag. Larger globes, however, must find a home in checked luggage instead.
Advent calendars, brimming with excitement behind their twenty-four tiny doors, can ride comfortably in carry-ons without a hitch or a threat of being opened prematurely.
Electronics, often at the top of every wish list, also come with their share of travel nuances. It’s a wonder how these modern wonders can cause a stir at security, but therein lies the necessity of understanding the rules.
“Electronics are popular gifts and can travel in carry-on luggage. However, all electronics larger than a cell phone should be placed in a bin with nothing above or below it so that TSA can get a good X-ray image to ensure that it has not been tampered with.” So, whether it’s a tablet, laptop, or the latest gaming console, they can airlift into the cabin freely, as stated in a TSA press release.
Batteries, the lifeblood of devices, have their own travel etiquette, too. ‘Dry’ batteries like AA, AAA, 9-volt, C, and D can glide through checkpoints with ease. Lithium batteries with 100 watt hours or fewer installed in a device are permitted, but loose lithium batteries are forbidden in checked luggage.
Drones, the toys of today, can also find their way into carry-on bags, but a gentle reminder to check with the respective airline about their specific policies might save the day.
If uncertainty lingers regarding the status of your holiday gift on the TSA’s naughty-or-nice list, seekers of clarity can visit the TSA’s “What can I bring?” page or send a message to @AskTSA on X.
As the holiday season unfolds, the anticipation of giving intertwines with the practicalities of travel. Amidst the hustle of gift shopping, a moment’s pause to reflect on how to best protect those heartfelt tokens can make all the difference, ensuring that each present arrives, unscathed and ready to bring joy.
