Can You Retrieve ‘Confiscated’ Items From TSA? What To Know

By: Natasha Decker

December 30, 2025

Always check your carry-on luggage before going through TSA to avoid having to say goodbye to prized, yet prohibited possessions.

Travelers have a high likelihood of being disappointed if they try to retrieve something they forgot, surrendered, or had confiscated at a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint at an airport.

TSA authorities “confiscating” travelers’ items isn’t as common as it seems. Technically, travelers are more often than not “voluntarily surrendering” a prohibited item during their TSA screening. Examples of common no-go items are beauty products (or beverages) over 100 mL (3.4 oz) and sharp objects.