Electronics Security Tray Checklist
Allowed
Large electronics must be screened separately for clear X-ray images.
Quick answer
Security trays are essentially X-ray stages. When you dump a tangled ball of chargers on top of a MacBook, you create a dense blob that hides potential threats. Officers then pull you aside, empty the bag, and rescanâcosting everyone time.
Think assembly line: tray 1 for electronics, tray 2 for liquids, tray 3 for shoes and belts. Labels face up, nothing overlapping, pockets emptied. The more intentional your tray looks, the more confident the screener feels clearing it.
Airports with CT scanners (Delhi T3, Bengaluru T2) sometimes allow laptops to remain in bags. But unless the queue marshal explicitly says so, stick to the classic layout. Consistency beats guesswork when flights are boarding.
Tray packing order
- âTray 1: Laptop/tablet/camera laid flat with labels facing up.
- âTray 2: Liquids in a 1L pouch + aerosols.
- âTray 3: Shoes, belt, watch, jacket, and empty pockets.
Before reaching the belt
- âUnzip pockets and remove coins or metal keys ahead of time.
- âDetach smartwatches if asked; some airports require it.
- âFold boarding pass and ID together so you can grab them once trays exit.
Common tray mistakes
| Mistake | What happens | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Stacking cables over laptop | Bag rescanned | Place cables beside electronics |
| Leaving coins in pocket | Body search | Use tray for pocket items |
| Mixing liquids with electronics | Confusing X-ray image | Separate trays |
Do this
- â Use silicon bands to keep chargers tidy.
- â Place power banks in small fireproof sleeves so inspectors identify them instantly.
- â Wait at the end of the belt to reclaim trays promptly.
Avoid this
- â ď¸ Donât push trays roughly; they can jump the rollers and spill contents.
- â ď¸ Donât leave trays unattendedâabandoned electronics trigger alerts.
- â ď¸ Avoid standing directly at the belt exit; give others room to gather belongings.
FAQ
Q. Do tablets need a separate tray like laptops?
Yes, unless signage at that airport specifically says tablets can stay in the bag.
Q. Can smart trays identify my property automatically?
DigiYatra trials include RFID trays, but they are not widespread yet. Label your gear until the rollout finishes.
Q. What about medical devices?
Declare them before the tray. Officers handle CPAPs and insulin coolers gently but still expect them outside the bag.
Tips before you fly
- âď¸ Keep a lightweight tote folded in your bag; it serves as a staging mat for tray prep.
- âď¸ Wear slip-on shoes if possible so youâre not wrestling with laces while trays queue up.
- âď¸ Clip AirTag or contact info to laptop sleeves in case of mix-ups.
Related YourTravelGuide guides
Official references
India DGCA guidelines â simplified
Verified on: 6 Dec 2025
Disclaimer: Aviation and security rules change frequently. Always confirm with your airline, airport help desk, or CISF officers before you travel.