Webcam
Webcams are allowed in carry-on and checked bags — most have no battery of their own and screen like any small electronic accessory.
Carry-on
Allowed
Checked
Allowed
Carry-on details
Allowed. A USB or plug-in webcam has no internal battery — it draws power over its cable from a laptop or wall adapter — so it's treated like any small electronic accessory and screens without issue in carry-on.
Checked-bag details
Allowed. Since a standard webcam has no built-in battery, none of the lithium-battery restrictions apply. It's still smart to pack it in carry-on with your other electronics to avoid damage from rough handling.
Special instructions
If your webcam clips onto a laptop or monitor, you can leave it attached — TSA officers may still ask to X-ray it separately along with your laptop.
FAQ
- Does a webcam need to come out of my bag at security?
- No, unless it's packed with a laptop, which does need to come out. A standalone webcam without a battery can usually stay in your bag.
- Can I pack my webcam in checked luggage?
- Yes. A standard USB webcam has no battery, so it's allowed in checked bags without restriction — though carry-on protects it better from rough handling.
Related items
Source: TSA — What Can I Bring? · Last verified: 2026-07-31
Final decision rests with the security officer at the checkpoint.