Is it OK to put film through TSA?
Asked by: Dr. Haven O'Keefe V | Last update: July 27, 2025Score: 5/5 (31 votes)
Checked Bags: Yes We recommend that you put undeveloped film and cameras containing undeveloped film in your carry-on bags or take undeveloped film with you to the checkpoint and ask for a hand inspection. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?'
Can you put film through TSA?
Film in carry-on baggage: Ask for a 'hand inspection'
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) says that the X-ray machines it uses for carry-on baggage are safe for photographic film up to ISO 800*.
Is my film ruined if it went through TSA?
Typically, airport scanners, including X-ray machines used for carry-on luggage, should not damage ISO 800 film. However, it's always a good idea to inform security personnel that you have film in your bag, as they might request a hand inspection to prevent potential damage.
Can unused film go through TSA Reddit?
TL;DR: if going through airport security with unexposed/unprocessed film, place all film in a clear bag for inspection, ask an agent for a hand-check, and give yourself a little extra time (~10 minutes) just in case the hand-check takes some time.
Can I take Kodak film on a plane?
Airport X-Ray Security
Kodak recommends that air travelers do not carry unexposed or unprocessed motion picture film.
How to Fly with Film: X-Ray Damage, Airport Security, Hand Checking & More! (Detailed Guide)
Does TSA ruin disposable cameras?
Never place undeveloped film (disposable cameras) in checked baggage. Security equipment used for screening checked baggage will damage undeveloped film. Place film in your carry-on baggage and request a hand inspection. You may be required to open the box, canister, or wrapper so a Security Officer can inspect it.
What happens if you take film on a plane?
The TSA states that film less than 800 ISO can go through the x-ray machine for carry-ons without a problem.
Why can't you film TSA?
TSA does not prohibit photographing, videotaping or filming at security checkpoints, as long as the screening process is not interfered with or sensitive information is not revealed.
What items are not allowed past TSA?
TSA allows solid food items, small tools under 7 inches, and liquids under 3.4 ounces in a quart-sized bag in carry-ons but restricts items like large liquid containers, firearms, and sharp objects. Medications, baby formula, and breast milk are exceptions to the liquid rule but must be declared at security.
Can polaroid film go through TSA?
In the past, the carry-on x-ray scanners did not damage the film. But since the end of 2019, new scanners are being installed in certain airports. These scanners damage the film as they do a 360° scan using a higher radiation dose. Therefore, we recommend having the film hand-checked.
Can super 8 film go through airport security?
CAN SUPER 8 FILM GO THROUGH AIRPORT SECURITY? Yes you can travel with Super 8 film, but always ask for a hand check and never x-ray film.
Should I get 200 or 400 film?
A low ISO film, such as 100 or 200, produces sharper images with less grain, but will require more light to capture an image. A high ISO film, such as 400 or 800, results in brighter images in low-light environments but can introduce more grain in the photo.
What is an undeveloped film?
Found film is the most common name for the still film or movie footage found exposed but undeveloped; it is also often referred to as undeveloped film, or forgotten film.
Why can't you take pictures in airport security?
The increased security measures also mean new technologies were introduced; airport security sections do not want photos taken of how they operate. The airport security process is a major choke point in the flow of passenger movement due to the screening process.
What is ISO 35mm film?
ISO is the film sensitivity. It's a number, more common ISOs are 100 and 400. The higher the ISO, the higher the film sensitivity and the larger the film-grain size. If you plan to shoot indoors in low light conditions, film ISOs of 400, 800, or even 1600 are preferred.
What will TSA stop you for?
In addition to screening personal electronic devices separately, including laptops, tablets, e-readers and handheld game consoles, TSA officers may instruct travelers to separate other items from carry-on bags such as foods, powders, and any materials that can clutter bags and obstruct clear images on the X-ray machine ...
What happens if you accidentally left a lighter in your checked bag?
If the lighter is in your checked luggage, your name will be called over the airport PA system. You will be directed to where your suitcase is being held, and you will be asked to open it for inspection. A security officer will examine the contents of your luggage, and they can remove any items they deem a risk.
What is the 3-1-1 rule?
You are allowed to bring a quart-sized bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes through the checkpoint. These are limited to 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. This is also known as the 3-1-1 liquids rule.
Can you put 35mm film through TSA?
Checked Bags: Yes
We recommend that you put undeveloped film and cameras containing undeveloped film in your carry-on bags or take undeveloped film with you to the checkpoint and ask for a hand inspection. For more prohibited items, please go to the 'What Can I Bring?' page.
What film can go through TSA?
The two types of scanners used at airports have different considerations. The newer CT scanners will fog all film, regardless of ISO. The older, more common X-ray scanners will only fog film 800 ISO and over. All film under 800 ISO is safe to go through X-ray scanners, even multiple times (although that isn't ideal).
Is it illegal to film TSA?
All filming within the gate areas, concessions or other leased spaces is not allowed without the permission of the leaseholders. TSA Public Affairs must approve any filming of the TSA checkpoints in advance. U.S. Customs and Border Protection must approve any filming within customs areas in advance.
Does polaroid film get ruined in airport security?
X-ray in airport scanners don't affect film that is already developed – digital photos, slides, and developed pictures aren't affected. But undeveloped film is sensitive to light because they are waiting to be exposed. The X-ray may penetrate and expose the film.
Do disposable cameras get ruined in airport security reddit?
Unless your cameras use very high ISO film (1600 or more-not likely in a disposable) you have nothing to worry about.