Quick Answer
✅ Yes. TSA allows tablets and iPads in both carry-on and checked luggage.
⚠️ At security, tablets may need to be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin (like laptops).
✅ Small tablets (Kindle, iPad Mini) often don’t require removal if below laptop size.
Details
- Carry-on:
- Tablets, iPads, and e-readers are allowed with no limits.
- At TSA checkpoints, full-size tablets (like iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy Tab) often must be removed from your bag.
- Small devices (iPad Mini, Kindle) usually can remain in your bag.
- Checked luggage:
- Tablets are permitted but not recommended:
- Risk of theft or damage.
- Lithium batteries pose a fire hazard if damaged.
- Accessories:
- Chargers, styluses (like Apple Pencil), keyboards, and cases are all permitted.
- Spare lithium-ion batteries must be carried in carry-on only.
- International flights:
- Some countries may require passengers to power on tablets during screening.
TSA Tablet Rules Summary
| Tablet / Device Type | Carry-On | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Full-size tablet (iPad Pro, Galaxy Tab) | ✅ Allowed (remove at screening) | ✅ Allowed (not recommended) |
| Small tablet (Kindle, iPad Mini) | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Tablet accessories | ✅ Allowed | ✅ Allowed |
| Spare tablet batteries | ✅ Carry-on only | ❌ Not allowed |
Gotchas / Common Issues
- ✈️ Security screening: Be ready to remove full-size tablets.
- ✈️ Checked bag risk: Tablets in checked luggage may be stolen or damaged.
- ✈️ Battery rules: Spare lithium batteries cannot go in checked bags.
- ✈️ International checks: Some airports may require tablets to be powered on.