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visitor-checklist-baten-unit-allowed-and-prohibited-items

Visitor Checklist: What You Can (and Can't) Bring to Baten Unit

Visiting the Baten Unit goes smoother when you show up with only what's allowed past the secure perimeter. This checklist helps you pack light, skip the contraband hassles, and breeze through check-in.

• 2 min read • tdcj.texas.gov
Visitor Checklist: What You Can (and Can't) Bring to Baten Unit

Allowed Small Items

  • ✓ A small wallet
  • ✓ A clear plastic bag (Ziploc-type) or a change purse
  • ✓ Up to $35 in coins for the vending machines in the visitation area

Bringing an infant or small child? You can carry a limited set of baby essentials - just keep everything in a clear plastic bag. Check the exact limits below so you pack once and don't end up walking items back to your car.

Visitor Checklist: What You Can (and Can't) Bring to Baten Unit

Prohibited Common Contraband

  • ✓ Cell phones
  • ✓ Smartwatches
  • ✓ Cameras
  • ✓ Laptop computers
  • ✓ Digital recorders
  • ✓ Any other electronic or wireless devices
  • ✓ Paper money (bring coins only, if you plan to use vending machines)
  • ✓ Tobacco products
  • ✓ Lighters or matches
  • ✓ Knives
  • ✓ Firearms or other deadly weapons

Quick pocket-check: Before heading to the entrance, check your pockets, bag, and vehicle for a phone or paper cash. These are the most common reasons visitors get stopped at the gate.

For infants and small children, you’re allowed to bring no more than three diapers, a supply of baby wipes, and two baby bottles (or a “sippy” cup for toddlers). Keep these items together and pack only what you’ll actually need for the visit.

Reminder: Baby items must be stored in a clear plastic bag, and the only personal carry-in options allowed past the secure perimeter are a small wallet, a clear plastic bag (Ziploc-type), or a change purse.

Medication generally isn't allowed past the secured perimeter. The exception: prescribed medication, which may be approved case-by-case. Don't assume you can bring it in - check with the facility first.

  1. Call ahead before you travel - prescribed medication exceptions are handled case by case, so confirm what you’ll be allowed to bring.
  2. Bring documentation and original packaging - have proof it’s prescribed and keep it in the container it came in.
  3. Declare it at entry - let staff know about the medication during check-in rather than trying to carry it through unnoticed.

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