actually eliminated the shoe removal requirement for travelers at domestic airports. Additionally, several policies have also been adjusted for the sake of efficiency, particularly concerning TSA electronics regulations. Beyond identifying which devices are allowed and which are prohibited, it’s also beneficial to understand how to interact at checkpoints. While you no longer need to take off your shoes, what electronics indeed have to be screened at TSA security outside of your bag?
Generally, the TSA typically informs you that any device larger than a smartphone should be taken out of your bag and placed in a bin, with the largest items such as laptops requiring their individual bins. However, this is more of an informal guideline, meaning it is at the discretion of each agent, and they can still request the removal of specific items. Retro handhelds are generally the size of smartphones, so you might need to take those out, especially a Steam Deck or Nintendo Switch. Cameras can often remain in the bag but might need to be taken out if in their own case or if they’re oversized.
Laptops and tablets must always be extracted. Large charging bricks or power banks might need to be taken out. Portable drones and sometimes their accessories may need to be removed as well. Even electronics-based toys might need to be scanned separately if children are accompanying you. Inquisitive individuals may wonder why these electronics must exit their cozy bags and go through distinct scans. This merits a succinct yet separate clarification.
