What changed on 16 October
Under the updated CAAT screening rules, security staff may open checked baggage without the passenger present when there are reasonable grounds to suspect a prohibited item. This is not a policy of opening every suitcase. The inspection is recorded and a notice is placed in the bag.
Where your power bank goes
Airports of Thailand says power banks and spare lithium batteries must not go in checked baggage. They belong in cabin baggage, subject to capacity limits. Use the airport’s Pick & Pack guide and your airline’s rules to check your particular battery.
Locks and valuables
AOT recommends internationally recognised TSA-approved locks to allow inspections without forcing the lock. Keep valuables and important documents with you. Its published guidance below explains the screening procedure and the possible consequences for non-standard locks.
Original sources
Suvarnabhumi Airport / AOT — checked baggage inspection ↗Report / effective date: 16 Oct 2026CAAT — screening rules and effective date (Thai) ↗Report / effective date: 6 Aug 2026Source-checked editorial summary, not a live operational feed. Our editorial standards.