21 Things TSA Cautions Against Packing
Traveling by air requires careful packing, especially when it comes to understanding what you can and cannot bring on a plane.
TSA regulations are strict and specific, designed to ensure the safety and security of all passengers. Here we outline the items that TSA strongly advises against packing in your luggage, from flammable liquids to large tools.
Let’s familiarize ourselves with these restrictions, which can prevent unnecessary delays and ensure a smoother travel experience.
Loose Lithium Batteries
TSA advises against packing loose lithium batteries in checked luggage due to fire risk. These batteries are found in items like cameras, cell phones, and laptops and must be carried in your hand luggage. Ensuring they are properly packed can prevent short-circuiting and possible combustion.
Firearms
Firearms must be declared and packed in checked baggage according to specific regulations, not carried onto planes in hand luggage. They should be unloaded, placed in a locked, hard-sided container, and declared at the airline check-in counter. Improper packing of firearms can lead to fines or arrest.
Explosive Materials
Carrying explosive materials, including fireworks, flares, or blasting caps, is prohibited on aircraft. These items pose significant risks to the safety and security of all passengers and can result in criminal charges. Always leave these hazardous materials at home when traveling by air.
Large Quantities of Alcohol
While you can travel with alcohol, TSA restricts the amount to less than 140 proof and under five liters of checked luggage for personal use. Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof are banned on airplanes due to their high flammability. Pack alcohol correctly to avoid spills and ensure compliance with regulations.
Flammable Items
Flammable items such as gasoline, gas torches, lighter fluid, and strike-anywhere matches are banned from both carry-on and checked bags. These materials can ignite spontaneously, causing danger to passengers and the aircraft. Non-flammable safety matches and lighters without fuel are permissible in carry-on luggage only.
Chemicals
Hazardous chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and spray paint are not allowed on flights. These substances pose a threat due to their corrosive and reactive properties. Always check TSA guidelines if you need to travel with chemical products for professional reasons.
Self-Defense Sprays
Pepper spray and tear gas are examples of self-defense items that are limited on flights; if allowed, only one 4-ounce container is permitted in checked luggage and must have a safety mechanism to prevent accidental discharge. Carrying these items in hand luggage is strictly prohibited. This rule ensures the safety of all passengers aboard.
Gel-Type Candles
Gel-type candles can only be transported in checked luggage as they are considered potential fire hazards. Unlike solid candles, which passengers can carry, gel candles pose a higher risk due to their consistency and combustibility. Pack them carefully in your checked baggage to prevent any issues.
Sporting Goods
Sporting goods such as baseball bats, cricket bats, hockey sticks, and golf clubs are not allowed in carry-on luggage due to their potential use as weapons. These items must be checked and securely packed to avoid damage. Make sure to wrap them in bubble wrap or a soft case for added protection.
Tools Over Seven Inches
Tools longer than seven inches, like hammers, drills, and saws, should be placed in checked baggage. Their size and shape can be considered dangerous if carried onto the plane. Smaller tools can be packed in carry-on luggage as long as they comply with TSA size regulations.
Bear Spray
Bear spray, a type of self-defense pepper spray, is not permitted in carry-on or checked luggage due to its high concentration and capacity. If traveling to or from camping areas where bear spray may be necessary, purchase it at your destination. This ensures compliance with flight safety regulations while allowing you to protect yourself when hiking in bear-populated areas.
Paints and Varnishes
TSA prohibits all types of paints and varnishes in carry-on luggage due to their flammable nature. If travel with such items is necessary, they must be securely packed in checked luggage and comply with FAA regulations regarding hazardous materials. Always check the quantity limits and packaging requirements.
Liquid Bleach
Liquid bleach is prohibited on flights because of its corrosive properties. If traveling for a purpose that requires bleach, consider purchasing it upon arrival at your destination. This avoids any complications during your flight and ensures the safety of everyone on board.
Hoverboards
Hoverboards and other battery-operated personal transportation devices are not allowed on flights due to the risk posed by their lithium batteries. These batteries can overheat and potentially catch fire, posing a serious risk. Check with your airline for alternative methods of transportation, or consider renting a device at your destination.
Creamy Cheeses
Creamy cheeses and other liquids and gels over 3.4 ounces are restricted in carry-on luggage under the TSA’s 3-1-1 liquids rule. Pack these items in your checked luggage or buy them once you reach your destination to avoid losing them during security checks. Solid cheeses, however, are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
Meat Cleavers
Meat cleavers are considered dangerous items and are not permitted in carry-on luggage. They must be securely wrapped and placed in checked luggage to ensure they do not pose a threat during the flight. Always declare any sharp objects to your airline to avoid security concerns.
Camping Stoves
Camping stoves are allowed in checked baggage only if they are completely emptied of all fuel and cleaned to remove flammable vapors. TSA requires that these items be declared and inspected to ensure they pose no fire hazard. Preparing your camping stove properly helps avoid delays and ensures safety on your journey.
Fertilizer
Fertilizer, because of its potential use in explosives, is banned from all flights. If you need fertilizer at your destination, buy it locally instead of attempting to fly with it. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety and security of air travel.
Electric Skateboards
Like hoverboards, electric skateboards are prohibited on planes due to the safety risks associated with their lithium batteries. If you need an electric skateboard at your destination, consider shipping it ahead or renting one upon arrival. This ensures you comply with airline regulations while still enjoying your preferred mode of transportation.
Drones
Drones equipped with lithium batteries must be carried in hand luggage with the batteries removed and safely stored. Due to their potential interference with aircraft equipment and the risk posed by their batteries, drones are closely scrutinized for security. Always follow the airline’s guidelines on transporting electronic devices to ensure a smooth travel experience.
Scuba Tanks
Scuba tanks, even if empty, are not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage due to the pressure changes during flight that can pose safety risks. If scuba diving is part of your travel plans, consider renting gear at your destination. This avoids complications with airline security and baggage handling.
Amy Brown
Amy Brown has over ten year of journalism experience and covers business, lifestyle, politics, and entertainment articles. When she's not busy writing or researching ideas, she enjoys cycling, skiing, and spending quality time with her family.