Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows laptops in both carry-on and checked luggage.
⚠️ In carry-on, laptops must be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin at security (unless using TSA PreCheck or an approved laptop bag).
⚠️ In checked luggage, laptops are permitted but not recommended due to theft and battery risks.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Laptops are permitted with no limit on quantity.
- At security, laptops must be taken out of bags and scanned separately unless you have TSA PreCheck or a “checkpoint-friendly” laptop case.
- Accessories like chargers, mice, and external drives are allowed.
- Checked luggage:
- Laptops can be packed in checked bags, but it’s discouraged:
- Risk of theft or mishandling.
- Lithium-ion batteries pose fire risks if damaged.
- Batteries:
- Spare lithium batteries or power banks cannot go in checked luggage — they must be in carry-on.
- International flights:
- Some countries may require passengers to power on laptops during security checks.
TSA Laptop Rules Summary
| Laptop Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Standard laptop | ✅ Allowed (remove at screening) | ✅ Allowed (not recommended) |
| Gaming laptop | ✅ Allowed (same rules) | ✅ Allowed |
| Laptop accessories | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Spare laptop batteries | ✅ Carry-on only | ❌ Not allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Security checkpoint: Always be ready to remove laptops from your bag.
- ✈️ Checked bag risk: Theft and damage make it risky to check a laptop.
- ✈️ Battery restrictions: Spare batteries and power banks must stay in carry-on.
- ✈️ International travel: Be prepared to power on your device if requested.