So can you take cables on a plane?
Cables and chargers are essential items to bring during your trip. You will need them to charge your phone, for your computer and your camera, but traveling with a large amount of electronic cables may cause some confusion.
So what are the rules on taking cables or extension cords on planes?
The TSA doesn’t restrict cables and extension cords in both carry on and checked baggage , however; when transported with other electronics , ensure that you wrap them tightly around your electronic items.
Let’s dive right in.
Do You Have To Take Out Wires For The TSA?
According to the TSA you can bring cables and extension cords in both carry-on and checked luggage without any restrictions.
You don’t need to remove cables, wires or other extension cords from your bag when going through the security checkpoint, but it is advised to pack them neatly and perfectly, so they don’t block the x-ray from scanning your bag.
Here is what the TSA displays on its website.
I also checked their social media.
@Joseph asked the TSA if there are any restrictions on traveling with long cables in carry-on baggage; and the TSA confirmed to him that cables are good to go inside carry-on bags.
| Type Of Cables | Carry-on Baggage | Checked Baggage |
|---|---|---|
| Extension Cords | Usually allowed, but may be subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| USB Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| HDMI Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Power Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Ethernet Cables | Usually allowed, but subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| Audio Cables | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
| Coaxial Cables | Usually allowed, but subject to security screening. | Generally permitted, but check with specific airlines. |
| Electrical Wires | Allowed in carry-on baggage. | Allowed in checked baggage. |
Can I Carry Cables In My Carry-on Luggage?
Can you take an extension cord on a carry on? yes.
all kinds of cables are allowed in carry-on baggage, without any restrictions.
When I travel I usually place cables inside my backpack especially my laptop and phone cables, so I can reach them whenever I need too.
For those I know I will not need them until I get to my destination. I make sure to pack them neatly, and place them in either my suitcase or in the base of my backpack.
Long cables ,like electrical wires or other device cables like TV cables, are preferable to remain inside your checked baggage but when traveling carry-on only you can place them inside your carry-on bag.
Can I Carry Cables In Checked Luggage?
The best way to travel with cable is in your checked baggage.
@Wex is not sure if he can take his Xbox and its cables and controller in checked baggage; and the TSA answered that gaming console cables and controllers are allowed in checked baggage without any restrictions.
If you are traveling with cables that you won’t need during your flight it is better to place them inside your checked baggage instead of your carry on bag, because they will just take space inside your bag.
Can You Take An HDMI Cable On a Plane?
Yes HDMI cables and other TV cables are allowed on planes and on most airlines in either carry-on and checked baggage.
It is preferable to organize your cables and extension cords in your bag so the airport security won’t get confused or tend to open your bag during the security process.
Packing your cables neatly will keep them last longer.
Can I Bring a Power Strip On a Plane?
Power strips are allowed on planes, and you can pack them in both carry-on and checked bags.
If you are willing to do some work on your computer, charge your phone or iPad at the same time then long cord power strips are really helpful items to have during a trip.
Even helping out a fellow traveler.
How To Protect Your Cables While Traveling?
Before placing your cable inside your organizer it is important to know how to pack and protect your them.
If you also have a problem with breaking cables like me, you can folow the video bellow for TV and long cables.
If you have small charger cables you can either wrap them with tape or use paracord and cover the whole wire.
Also you can use small cable protectors, you can just easily slip the protectors into the end of the wire and prevent the wire from breaking.
Some other protectors have open sides that you can stretch easily and cover the whole wire.
How Do I Organize My Travel Cables?
Taking many small cables on your trip and on planes will need to be more organized and neat, so with that said a travel Tech Accessory Organizer will be a life saver.
You can easily fit all your cables inside it and place it in your backpack or carry on bag.
Voila!!
If you are traveling with a bunch of cables, adapters or chargers, this BAGSMART Accessories Organizer bag it’s really beneficial, will work wonderfully, keep everything you need in reach and be your best friend, with its wide space and various compartments to organize your gear.
If you want something large enough for those cords but not bulky, this Bevegekos Cable Organizer It’s nice to have all your cords in one place when traveling and even at home.
Final Thoughts: Can You Take Cables On a Plane?
Cables are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage without any restrictions.
If you are traveling with your devices along with cables, make sure to separate them from the devices before you put them inside your bag.
And remember your carry-on bag will end up stowed in the overhead locker, so keep what you will need in your personal item.
Furthermore, some airlines may gate check in your carry-on if the overhead compartment is overloaded or your suitcase above the limits, so place your valuable items and electronics inside your personal item or backpack.
We hope this helps
Safe and happy travels!
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