Do You Have To Take Cables Or Chargers Out At Airport Security?

Last Updated on October 11, 2021

We’ve written previously about packing chargers in your hand luggage.

You are permitted to pack laptop chargers or cell phone chargers in your carry-on bags.

But do you have to take chargers or cables out of your bag when going through airport security?

Let’s find out.

TSA Security Screening of Chargers & Cables

You probably already know that laptops should be removed from your carry-on luggage or personal item and placed in a separate bin when going through airport security.

In fact, all personal electronic devices that are larger than a cell phone should be removed from your bags so the TSA agents have easy access to inspect them.

But what about all those chargers and cables?

I checked on Twitter to get a definitive answer for you:

This passenger had asked the TSA about bringing charging cables.

The TSA had said that charging cables and external batteries can remain in your carry-on bag during the screening process.

Becca was traveling for the first time and asked the TSA specifically what to do about chargers when going through airport security.

The TSA replied:

“You may leave your adapters, phone chargers and solid food snacks inside your bag through security checkpoint.”

And Orion asked about packing pc components, assorted cables, and a phone charger.

The TSA replied that it’s only the laptop that needs to be removed from your bag and placed in a separate bin when going through the security checkpoint. Laptop chargers and cables can remain in your bag.

This passenger offered to be helpful and remove his bag with lots of cables (HDMI, VGA, Audio, Adapters) so it would be easier to scan.

The TSA replied that accessories and cables can remain in your carry-on bag for screening.

What Do You Need To Put In A Separate Bin At The Security Screening Checkpoint?

Now that you know you can leave chargers in your carry-on bag what do you need to remove when going through airport security?

You may need to remove these items from your bag and place them in their own bin:

  • Any personal electronics device larger than a cell phone
  • Laptops, desktop pcs, games consoles
  • Tablet or iPad
  • E-readers kindle
  • Larger cameras, DSLR cameras
  • Your quart-size liquids toiletry bag
  • Powders over 12 oz
  • Cremated remains, ashes
  • Medically neccessary liquids over 3.4 oz
  • Injectable medication, syringes and needles
  • Breast milk, juice for kids

You do not need a separate bin for each item. Multiple items may go in one bin but do not pile items on top of each other since this obstructs the x-ray screening.

The Bottom Line

You need to remove any personal electronic device that is larger than a cell phone and place it in a separate bin when going through the security screening checkpoint.

But you don’t have to take cables or chargers out of your bag at airport security.

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