Yes. Laptops are allowed in carry-on and checked bags, but the FAA recommends keeping them in your carry-on. In standard TSA lanes you must take the laptop out of your bag for screening.
Allowed. In standard screening lanes, take the laptop out of your bag and put it in its own bin; TSA PreCheck travelers can leave it in the bag. Officers may ask you to power it on, and a device that won't turn on can be refused.
Allowed only if completely powered off (not sleep mode) and protected from accidental activation and damage. The FAA recommends carry-on instead because crews can deal with a battery fire in the cabin.
Checked against official TSA, FAA and government pages on . These are US rules unless we say otherwise; the TSA officer at the checkpoint makes the final call.
The rules in numbers
- Installed battery up to 100 Wh: no approval needed (virtually all consumer laptops)
- Laptop batteries 101–160 Wh: airline approval required
- Spare laptop batteries: carry-on only, terminals protected
- In checked bags: fully powered off and protected from activation/damage
Packing tips
- Shut the laptop down fully instead of closing the lid if it must go in a checked bag; sleep mode does not count.
- Pack spare batteries and power banks for the laptop in your carry-on even if the laptop itself is checked.
- Charge it before you fly in case an officer asks you to power it on.
Questions people ask
Do I have to take my laptop out at TSA?
In standard lanes, yes: place it in a separate bin. TSA PreCheck travelers can leave laptops in their bags.
Can I put my laptop in checked luggage?
Yes, if it is completely powered off and protected from damage, but the FAA recommends carrying it on.