TSA-Friendly Carry: How to Pack Your EDC for Smooth Air Travel
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
For frequent travelers, navigating airport security with your everyday carry (EDC) gear can be tricky. The last thing you want is to lose your favorite multitool or EDC knife at a TSA checkpoint. That’s why it’s important to curate a TSA-friendly EDC setup that keeps you prepared without the risk of confiscation.
At Blueprint EDC, we’ve put together a guide to help you build a versatile, travel-friendly EDC kit that meets TSA regulations. These are the tools that provide maximum utility while keeping you hassle-free at airport security.
1. TSA-Approved Multitool
A multitool is essential for any EDC setup, but most of them include blades, which will definitely get flagged at airport security. Thankfully, there are some multitools designed specifically for travel.
Top Pick: The Leatherman Style PS is the perfect TSA-approved multitool. It includes pliers, scissors, a bottle opener, nail file, and tweezers—all in a compact, bladeless design that’s safe to carry through airport security. Weighing only 1.58 ounces, it’s a great way to stay prepared without any risks.
2. Key Organizer Without Tools
If you usually carry a key organizer with attached tools, you’ll need to swap it out for something more travel-friendly. A simple key organizer without sharp components is ideal for TSA-friendly EDC setup.
Top Pick: The Bellroy Key Cover is a sleek, minimalist key organizer designed to hold up to four keys, keeping them organized and quiet in your pocket. It doesn’t contain any sharp or prohibited tools, so it’s perfect for airport travel. Plus, its slim leather design adds a touch of sophistication to your EDC.
3. TSA-Compliant Flashlight
A flashlight is an indispensable tool in any EDC kit, and luckily, most flashlights are TSA-friendly as long as they meet size and battery restrictions. Look for a compact, rechargeable option to avoid issues with disposable batteries.
Top Pick: The Fenix E12 V2.0 is a compact and lightweight flashlight that produces up to 160 lumens of brightness. Its small size (under 4 inches) and use of a single AA battery make it compliant with TSA regulations. It’s powerful enough for everyday use, and its durable construction makes it perfect for travel.
4. Travel Wallet with RFID Protection
When traveling, keeping your cards and personal information safe is a priority. A minimalist travel wallet with RFID-blocking technology can help protect your data from electronic theft while maintaining a slim profile that’s easy to carry.
Top Pick: The Nomatic Slim Wallet is a great choice for travelers. It holds up to 12 cards and features RFID-blocking technology to prevent skimming. The slim, minimalist design is ideal for travel, fitting comfortably in your pocket without creating bulk.
5. Travel-Friendly Pen
A pen is always useful for filling out forms, jotting down notes, or signing receipts while on the go. A TSA-friendly pen with a slim, sleek design will help you stay organized and prepared without hassle.
Top Pick: The Pokka Pen is a compact, travel-friendly pen that extends to full size when in use. Its small, lightweight design makes it perfect for traveling, and it’s made from durable materials to withstand heavy use.
6. Cord Organizer
Traveling often means carrying multiple devices, chargers, and cables, which can easily get tangled in your bag. A cord organizer will keep your tech accessories neatly stored, making them easier to access and reducing the risk of damaging your cables.
Top Pick: The BUBM Travel Cord Organizer is a compact, zippered case that can hold cables, chargers, and small tech accessories. Its lightweight design makes it easy to pack, and the interior compartments ensure everything stays organized.
7. TSA-Friendly Travel Bottle Set
If you’re planning to carry liquids in your carry-on, a TSA-approved travel bottle set is a must. These sets help you meet the 3-1-1 rule while keeping your toiletries neatly organized.
Top Pick: The GoToob+ Travel Bottle Set includes soft, squeezable silicone bottles that are leak-proof and TSA-compliant. The bottles are perfect for storing liquids, gels, or lotions in your carry-on without worrying about spills.
8. Wireless Earbuds
Noise-canceling earbuds are a must-have for frequent travelers, but bulky over-ear headphones can take up valuable space in your bag. Compact wireless earbuds are perfect for traveling light and blocking out noise during your flight.
Top Pick: The Jabra Elite 75t wireless earbuds provide excellent sound quality and passive noise isolation in a small, compact package. They’re perfect for long flights or noisy terminals, and their sleek design makes them easy to carry in any EDC setup.
9. Travel-Friendly Water Bottle
Staying hydrated during travel is important, but bringing a bulky water bottle can be inconvenient. A collapsible water bottle is a great alternative, allowing you to carry a bottle that takes up minimal space when not in use.
Top Pick: The Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle is a durable, leak-proof water bottle that can be rolled up when empty to save space in your bag. It’s BPA-free and TSA-compliant, making it the perfect travel companion for staying hydrated on the go.
10. TSA-Approved Power Bank
A portable power bank is essential for keeping your devices charged during travel, but it’s important to ensure it meets TSA guidelines. Look for a power bank with a capacity below 100Wh to avoid any issues at security.
Top Pick: The Anker PowerCore Slim 10000 is a slim, lightweight power bank that’s TSA-compliant and offers plenty of charge for your devices. It’s compact enough to slip into your bag without taking up much room and can charge your phone multiple times.
Final Thoughts: Building a TSA-Friendly EDC
Traveling doesn’t mean you have to leave your EDC essentials behind. By choosing TSA-friendly EDC gear, you can maintain a well-rounded setup that keeps you prepared without running into trouble at airport security. From the Leatherman Style PS multitool to the Nomader Collapsible Water Bottle, these tools are designed for both convenience and compliance.
At Blueprint EDC, we believe in curating a TSA-friendly EDC setup that meets the demands of everyday life while adhering to travel regulations. With the right gear, you’ll be ready for your next trip without sacrificing your EDC essentials.
