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SUPPORT AND MOBILITY

Can you bring a support brace on a plane?

TSA permits knee, ankle, wrist and back support braces in carry-on and checked baggage at US checkpoints. A brace worn on the body can be screened with the traveler; tell the officer if removing it would be difficult.

Sources checked: 2026-09-24

Source scope: United States · TSA

Carry-on baggage

Allowed

Keep a needed brace on or within reach. Tell the officer about any fixed support before screening and make spare hardware easy to inspect.

Checked baggage

Allowed

A spare brace may be checked. Close hook-and-loop straps and pad rigid stays so they do not catch on clothing or get bent.

Knee support brace with straps and rigid stays
Worn and spare braces are allowed; their packing needs differ.

Worn brace, spare brace and rigid stays

A flexible sleeve, a hinged knee brace and a rigid back support pack differently. Keep straps fastened and protect metal or plastic stays from bending. Medication or a cold gel pack tucked into the brace is a separate item with its own screening rule.

  1. Brace being worn

    Tell the officer if it cannot be removed easily.

  2. Spare flexible sleeve

    Fold with straps closed.

  3. Rigid hinged brace

    Protect hinges and stays from pressure.

BEFORE LEAVING HOME

Prepare support for screening

  1. Fasten loose straps and remove separate items.
  2. Keep any needed brace accessible.
  3. Pad rigid stays if checking a spare.

BASIS FOR THE ANSWER

Sources checked

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