Carry-On Checklist Printable
One-Minute Summary
This printable carry-on checklist ensures you pack TSA-compliant and have everything you need in the cabin. Liquids 3.4 oz or less, electronics accessible, documents ready. No checked bag, no lost luggage. Print on U.S. Letter paper, check off as you pack, and walk onto the plane confident. Designed for U.S. domestic flights with TSA rules; adaptable for international.
Preview & Download
Print Settings
- Paper: U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11")
- Orientation: portrait
- Scale: 100%
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Print and check off as you pack. Laminate for reuse with dry-erase marker.
What’s on this carry-on checklist
This checklist organizes what goes in your cabin bag for TSA-compliant, stress-free flying. Four sections cover everything that must be accessible and correctly packed.
The liquids bag holds all toiletries in 3.4 oz containers in one quart-sized clear bag. Electronics — phone, laptop, charger — go where you can grab the laptop quickly for screening. Documents stay in an easy pocket. Comfort & essentials include meds, snacks, empty water bottle, and a spare outfit for delays or lost bags.
How to use this checklist — 2 real scenarios
Scenario 1: Business traveler, 2-day trip
One carry-on, no checked bag. Laptop, charger, one spare outfit, toiletries in TSA bag. Documents in jacket pocket. Through security in 5 minutes. No baggage claim. The checklist ensures nothing gets left behind and everything passes security.
Scenario 2: Vacationer avoiding checked bag fees
Airlines charge $30–40 per checked bag. You’re packing carry-on only for a week. Use our Pack Carry-On Only guide plus this checklist. Rolling clothes, TSA bag, wear bulky items. You save money and never worry about lost luggage.
Example fill-out
Liquids bag: Toothpaste, deodorant, face cream, sunscreen — all 3.4 oz. Quart bag ready.
Electronics: Phone + charger, laptop + charger, earbuds, power bank.
Documents: ID in wallet, boarding pass on phone.
Comfort: Meds in original bottle, empty water bottle, snacks, spare shirt.
Common mistakes (and how to fix them)
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Forgetting the 3.4 oz rule. TSA will confiscate oversizes. Buy travel sizes or refillable bottles. One quart bag per person.
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Burying the laptop. Pack it for easy access. TSA requires it out for screening.
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Checking medications. Never check meds. Keep in carry-on. Original bottles help for international.
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No change of clothes. Delays and lost bags happen. One spare outfit in carry-on saves the day.
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Forgetting empty water bottle. Fill after security. Saves money and reduces plastic.
Customization tips
International travel: Check liquid rules for your destination. EU is similar to TSA; some countries differ. Keep adapters in carry-on.
Long flights: Add eye mask, earplugs, compression socks. Still keep liquids compliant.
Family travel: Each person gets their own liquids bag. One quart bag per person.
Printing Tips
- Print on U.S. Letter (8.5" × 11") in portrait orientation
- Scale: 100% (do not use "Fit to Page")
- Margins: Default (0.5")
- 💡 Print and check off as you pack. Laminate for reuse with dry-erase marker.
Next step in your meal prep workflow:
Carry-on ready — now pack your full trip with the packing list →
Related Templates You Might Need
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Helpful Guides
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Frequently Asked Questions
What's the TSA 3-1-1 rule?
3.4 oz (100ml) per container, 1 quart-sized clear bag, 1 bag per person. All liquids must fit in that one bag. Exceptions: medications, baby formula — declare them. Everything else follows the rule.
Can I bring a power bank in carry-on?
Yes. Power banks must be in carry-on, not checked — airline rule due to lithium battery risk. Keep under 100 watt-hours for most airlines; check your carrier for limits.
Do I need to take my laptop out?
Yes. TSA requires laptops out for screening. Pack in easy-access spot. Some airports have separate lanes for electronics — follow signs.
Can I bring an empty water bottle?
Yes. Empty is fine. Fill after security at a fountain or ask for water on the plane. Saves money and reduces plastic. Collapsible bottles save space.
What if my liquid is just over 3.4 oz?
TSA will confiscate it. No exceptions. Buy travel size or transfer to smaller bottle. The rule is strict. A $8 mini toothpaste beats losing a $25 full-size at security.
Should I pack a change of clothes in carry-on?
Yes. Delays, cancellations, lost checked bags. One spare outfit (at least underwear and shirt) in carry-on means you're not stuck. Packing cube keeps it compact.