• Interactive PackSafe Chart
• Printable PackSafe Chart
• Damaged or Recalled Batteries and Battery-Powered Devices

PackSafe for Air Travel

For a Safe Start, Check the Chart!

Some of the items you pack in your baggage may be considered dangerous goods, also known as hazardous material. Most dangerous goods are forbidden in carry-on and checked baggage. There are a few exceptions for some personal items such as toiletries, medicines, and assistive devices. Check the chart below to see which common dangerous goods are allowed in checked and/or carry-on baggage and which are not. Remember, this is just a listing of common dangerous goods; if you don't see your item here, it doesn't mean it's allowed in baggage. When in doubt, leave it out!

Security Screening Questions: The Transportation Security Administration also has rules on "prohibited items" that pose a security threat. Though they sometimes overlap, the TSA security rules are separate from the FAA dangerous goods safety rules; go to the TSA Prohibited Items web page.

You can download a printable copy of the PackSafe chart here. 

What is a Hazardous Material?

From lithium batteries to aerosol whipped cream, many items used every day at home or work are regulated as hazardous materials (a.k.a. "hazmat" and "dangerous goods"). These products may seem harmless; however, when transported by air they can be very dangerous. Vibrations, static electricity, and temperature and pressure variations can cause items to leak, generate toxic fumes, start a fire, or even explode. Hazardous materials include, but are not limited to: explosives, gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, toxic and infectious materials, radioactive materials, corrosives, and many other items that can endanger the traveling public when not handled correctly. The good news is that many of the hazardous materials we can't live without are allowed in our baggage, but only if we follow the rules.

Dangerous goods discovered that are improperly packaged, not permitted in baggage, leaking, or hidden/artfully concealed are subject to civil and criminal penalties as appropriate.

Damaged or Recalled Batteries and Battery-Powered Devices

Damaged or recalled batteries and battery-powered devices, which are likely to create sparks or generate a dangerous evolution of heat, must not be carried aboard an aircraft (e.g. carry-on or checked baggage) unless the damaged or recalled battery has been removed or otherwise made safe. The airline may offer further public guidance on transporting individual recalled products.

For additional information on understanding the risks of damaged, defective, or recalled lithium batteries see the Department of Transportation’s brochure.

For additional information on recalls, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission, manufacturer, or vendor website.

For HAZMAT-related questions, contact us at hazmatinfo@faa.gov.