How to Pack Luggage Efficiently? 5 Professional Guidelines from the TSA

▲Packing Illustration. (Image / Dagchi / Illustration)

By Rita

Traveling abroad is exciting, but the thought of packing can give you a headache—who to bring what and what not to? Here are the luggage safety rules from the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) that will bust your packing myths and make customs security checks quicker and smoother.

Regarding airport security screening standards,U.S. media USATODAYreported that the TSA has provided comprehensive guidelines for liquids, large items, and potentially dangerous objects on both domestic and international flights in the U.S., aiming to avoid flight delays caused by tedious luggage inspections.

Step 1
Roll your clothes and arrange them lengthwise in your suitcase. This allows security personnel to quickly inspect the contents of your bag and also maximizes luggage space.

Step 2
Liquids over 100ml must go in checked luggage, including liquids, gels, and aerosols such as lotions, perfumes, and toothpaste. Liquids under 100ml—such as medications, baby formula, breast milk, or similar essentials—can be carried on board in a quart-sized zip-top bag, but these items are still subject to inspection.

Step 3
Place your shoes on top of your luggage, as they may be inspected at airport security.

Step 4
Place heavy items like books around the suitcase rather than stacking them in one spot.

Step 5
Prohibited items, including sports equipment and sharp objects, must be checked. Utility knives, scissors, and knives (excluding plastic or butter knives) are not allowed in carry-on luggage.