10 Surprising Items You Can Bring on a Flight

When packing for a flight, most travelers are hyper-aware of TSA regulations—especially when it comes to liquids and oversized items. However, there are exceptions that let you carry certain items onboard, regardless of their size or volume. Whether you’re a parent, a pet lover, or someone trying to stay healthy, here are 10 items you can bring in your carry-on—no matter how big they are.

1. Over-the-Counter Medications

You don’t need to worry about your allergy pills, cough syrup, or pain relievers. As long as they’re for personal use, over-the-counter medications are allowed in your carry-on—even if they exceed the usual 3.4-ounce liquid rule. Just keep them separate for easy screening.

2. Prescription Medications

Need insulin, an inhaler, or another prescription medication in gel, liquid, or aerosol form? TSA allows you to bring them in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces. Just inform the agent and pack them for easy access during screening.

3. Ice Packs or Gel Packs for Medically Necessary Items

Worried about keeping medications cool? You’re allowed to bring ice packs or gel packs specifically for medical purposes—even if they’re not frozen when going through security.

4. Food and Drink for Infants and Toddlers

Parents, rejoice! Formula, breast milk, baby food, and toddler snacks and drinks are all exempt from liquid restrictions. Just inform the TSA officer at the checkpoint, and you're good to go.

5. Live Fish in Water

Yes, you read that right. You can bring live fish in a clear, spill-proof container with water. It sounds strange, but TSA does allow it—just check with your airline for any specific pet policies.

6. Solid Foods

Bringing a sandwich, snack bag, or box of cookies? Go for it! Solid foods like bread, fruits, vegetables, chips, baked goods, and even a whole rotisserie chicken are allowed through security in any quantity. Just be sure any dips or sauces are under the 3.4-ounce liquid limit if not packed separately.

7. Breast Milk or Baby Formula

Even if you’re not traveling with a child, you can bring breast milk or formula through security in quantities greater than 3.4 ounces. It’s considered medically necessary and gets special clearance.

8. Liquid-Filled Teethers

These soothing lifesavers are also allowed in carry-ons—even if they're filled with liquid. They’re considered a child-care necessity, so they won’t be confiscated at the gate.

9. Duty-Free Items Sealed in a Tamper-Evident Bag

Buying a big bottle of perfume or a liter of whiskey at the airport? As long as it’s packed in a tamper-evident bag with the receipt, you can carry it on—even if it’s over the standard liquid limit.

10. Fresh Eggs

Here’s one most travelers don’t know: you can bring raw or fresh eggs onboard in your carry-on. TSA allows it, as long as they’re packed securely to prevent breaking. Bonus points if they’re farm-fresh souvenirs from your trip.

Conclusion

TSA rules can be a bit confusing, but many exceptions exist for travelers. When in doubt, check the TSA website or use their “What Can I Bring?” tool. For anything medically necessary or child-related, just declare it at security and keep it easily accessible. Happy flying—and pack smart!

Learn More About TSA Regulations