25 Surprising Items You Can’t Take on a Plane According to TSA

Traveling can swiftly transform from an exciting venture to a frustrating ordeal if your luggage contents don’t comply with TSA regulations. Packing for air travel is not just about space efficiency but also about adhering to strict security rules that many passengers might not be fully aware of. Items that are mundane in everyday life can become sources of delay—or worse, confiscation—when placed in carry-on or checked bags. This guide will walk you through the most common items that, if packed incorrectly, can complicate your journey and displease TSA officials.

Liquids Over 3.4 Ounces

TSA limits the amount of liquids, gels, and aerosols travelers can bring in carry-on bags to containers no larger than 3.4 ounces, all of which must fit in a single quart-sized bag. This rule helps prevent delays during security screening. Pack larger volumes in checked baggage to avoid having to throw them away at the checkpoint.

Full-Size Toiletries

Full-size bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries are a no-go in your carry-on. These items often exceed the TSA’s liquid restrictions and can be confiscated. To stay prepared, opt for travel-sized containers for your toiletries or purchase them upon arrival.

Sharp Objects

Items with sharp edges, such as knives, box cutters, and some types of scissors, are prohibited in carry-on luggage. Such items can be perceived as weapons and pose a security risk. Pack them in your checked luggage or leave them at home to ensure a smooth security check.

Sporting Goods

Sporting goods like baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, and golf clubs are not allowed in carry-on luggage due to their potential use as weapons. Secure these items in your checked luggage to avoid issues during screening. Always check airline policies for specific restrictions on sporting equipment.

Firearms and Ammunition

Firearms and ammunition are strictly regulated and must be declared and placed in checked baggage in specific types of locked containers. Carrying these items improperly can lead to fines or even arrest. Make sure to follow all airline and TSA regulations if you need to travel with these items.

Large Electronic Devices

While laptops and smartphones are allowed in carry-on luggage, larger electronic devices can sometimes complicate the screening process. Items like drones or large cameras might need additional screening, so having them easily accessible in your carry-on can speed up the process. Always remove these items from your bag and place them in a separate bin during screening.

Tools

Tools longer than seven inches, such as screwdrivers, hammers, and pliers, must be packed in checked luggage. Smaller tools can be packed in carry-on luggage, but prepare for additional screening. Keeping these items in checked baggage helps maintain a hassle-free passage through security.

Flammable Items

Flammable items, including lighter fluid, certain types of batteries, and fireworks, are prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. These materials pose a significant fire hazard and are strictly regulated by TSA. Check the guidelines for specifics, as some items, like disposable lighters, may be allowed in carry-ons.

Chemical Substances

Household chemicals such as bleach, chlorine, and spray paint are not permitted in carry-on or checked luggage due to their corrosive and flammable properties. If traveling for a specific project, consider purchasing these materials at your destination. It’s safest to leave them out of your luggage altogether.

Hoverboards

Due to their lithium-ion batteries, hoverboards are generally not allowed on airplanes as they pose a fire risk. Check with your airline for their specific policy, but most carriers have banned these from both checked and carry-on luggage. Consider leaving your hoverboard at home or shipping it ahead to your destination.

Gel-Type Candles and Snow Globes

Gel-type candles and large snow globes contain liquids that fall under the TSA’s restrictions for carry-on items. While solid candles can be packed in carry-on luggage, gel-type candles must be placed in checked bags. For snow globes, make sure they contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid if you’re carrying them on.

Alcoholic Beverages Over 140 Proof

While you can travel with alcohol in your checked baggage, TSA prohibits any alcoholic beverages over 140 proof. High-proof spirits are considered hazardous materials due to their high flammability. Pack lower-proof alcohol in your checked luggage, ensuring they are securely sealed to prevent leaks.

Magic 8 Balls

The liquid inside Magic 8 Balls classifies them as a potential security risk according to TSA guidelines. If you must travel with one, place it in your checked luggage to avoid confiscation. It’s a quirky item that many travelers wouldn’t think to check.

Remote-Controlled Toys

Remote-controlled toys can cause concern during security screening because of their components and the batteries they contain. To avoid delays, pack these toys in your checked luggage, especially if they use lithium batteries. If carrying on, make sure the toy is easily accessible for inspection.

Bear Spray

If you’re heading to a destination where bear spray might seem necessary, note that it cannot be brought on a plane in either carry-on or checked baggage. Purchase bear spray at your destination if needed and familiarize yourself with local regulations on its use and disposal. Bear spray is considered a hazardous material and poses significant risks in confined spaces like aircraft.

Cast Iron Cookware

Due to its weight and density, cast iron cookware can obstruct images on security X-rays. If you’re traveling with cast iron pots or pans, it’s best to place them in checked luggage. Inform the TSA officer beforehand, as these items might need additional screening.

Jelly and Peanut Butter

Like gels and liquids, jelly, jam, and peanut butter must comply with the TSA’s 3.4-ounce rule for carry-on luggage. For a hassle-free security check, pack these items in your checked baggage if they exceed the size limits. They’re perfect for longer trips where grocery shopping might not be an immediate option.

Christmas Crackers

While festive, Christmas crackers are not allowed on flights in either carry-on or checked luggage because they contain a small amount of explosive material. If you plan to celebrate with these, purchase them at your destination. This rule is in place to ensure the safety of all passengers on board.

Rice Cookers and Instant Pots

While not prohibited, rice cookers, Instant Pots, and similar appliances often require additional screening. Packing them in your checked luggage can save time at security checkpoints. Be prepared to show and power up any electronic device you bring through security if kept in your carry-on.

Paint

Cans of paint are generally not allowed on airplanes due to their flammable nature. If you need paint for a project, consider shipping it to your destination or buying it upon arrival. Always prioritize safety and follow airline guidelines when considering items like paint.

Self-Defense Items

Self-defense items such as pepper spray or mace are allowed in checked luggage in limited quantities but are not permitted in carry-ons. Ensure these items are less than 4 ounces, have a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge, and are packed according to airline regulations. It’s vital to check local laws at your destination regarding the possession and use of such items.

Camping Stoves

Camping stoves are allowed in checked luggage only if they are empty of all fuel and thoroughly cleaned to remove any flammable residue. Declare these items at the check-in counter since they can pose a fire hazard. This precaution helps prevent accidents and ensures compliance with airline safety regulations.

Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

While e-cigarettes and vaping devices can be carried on your person or in carry-on luggage, they are prohibited in checked bags due to fire risk. Always remove batteries from these devices and keep them in a carry-on to prevent accidental activation. This rule is strictly enforced to prevent in-flight fire incidents.

Bleach and Cleaning Supplies

Bleach and other cleaning supplies are not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage due to their corrosive and toxic properties. If traveling for a move or to clean a property, plan to purchase these supplies locally. Ensuring the safety of all passengers is the priority, and these items can be hazardous.

Non-prescription Medicines in Large Quantities

While prescription medications are allowed in reasonable quantities, carrying large amounts of non-prescription medicines can raise flags during security checks. Limit what you carry to quantities necessary for the duration of your trip. Always declare any large quantities of medications to avoid potential issues during screening.