The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) offers a complete guide to which items passengers can pack in carry-on and checked luggage. These guidelines offer passengers step-by-step instructions on how to pack liquids, large items and potentially dangerous items when preparing for a domestic or international flight. To minimize delays, pack luggage per the TSA's directions.

Roll clothes and place in rows along the length of your suitcase. TSA officials can more quickly inspect the content of your suitcase if clothes are ordered in rows. This packing technique also offers an effective way to maximize space.

Pack liquids, gels and aerosols that exceed a total volume amount of 3.4 oz. in your checked luggage. This includes bottles of lotion, perfume and tubes of toothpaste. According to the TSA, medications, baby formula and breast milk as well as liquids, gels and aerosols with a total volume amount of 3.4 oz. (or less) may be stored in a quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag and carried on board a plane. All liquids must be declared and inspected.

Pack footwear on top of other contents in your luggage. TSA officials may want to check your footwear, so keep these items on top for easy inspection.

Spread heavy items such as books around in your luggage instead of in piles in one location.

Pack prohibited items including tools, sports equipment and sharp objects in your checked luggage. The Transportation Security Authority restricts box cutters, scissors, knives (excluding plastic or butter knives) and other items from carry-on baggage. This rule is true for domestic or international flights.

Tip

Passengers with a medical condition may declare liquid nutrition and medicine gels for inspection. If approved, you can carry the liquid in a carry-on bag. After packing, measure the height, width and length of your bags and weigh them to ensure they fit the guidelines of your airline.

Warning

If you are in doubt about an item, pack it in your checked luggage and declare it when you arrive at the airport. To declare an item means to inform TSA officials about the item and then submit it for inspection.