Traveling can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with its own set of rules, especially when it comes to what you can bring on board.
While most travelers are aware of the usual suspects like guns and knives, many are surprised to learn about the range of seemingly harmless items that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) prohibits in carry-on luggage.
From common household goods to unexpected gadgets, these items can pose significant risks during a flight. Understanding these restrictions not only helps ensure a smooth journey but also keeps everyone safe in the skies.
Let’s dive into 16 banned items that could land you in hot water at the security checkpoint.
1: Baseball Bats
Baseball bats are prohibited in carry-on bags due to their potential as weapons. Travelers must pack them in checked luggage to ensure compliance with TSA regulations.
It’s important for passengers to confirm they meet size and weight limits set by the airline when traveling with sports equipment. Always check with your airline for any specific rules regarding transporting bats.
2: Foam Toy Sword
Foam toy swords, despite their playful nature, aren’t allowed in carry-on bags. The TSA prohibits these items due to safety concerns, as they could be mistaken for weapons.
Travelers should always pack foam swords in checked luggage. Ensuring they’re stored securely will help avoid complications at security checkpoints and lead to a smoother travel experience.
3: Gel Candles
Gel candles aren’t allowed in carry-on bags but can be packed in checked luggage. Travelers should ensure these candles are securely sealed to prevent leaks.
Since they contain flammable materials, especially in larger quantities, it’s best to avoid carrying them in the cabin to comply with TSA regulations. Always check local regulations before traveling to ensure compliance.
4: Bowling Pins
Bowling pins aren’t allowed in carry-on bags due to their potential to be used as blunt objects. Travelers must check these items instead. It’s essential to ensure that they meet the airline’s size and weight restrictions to avoid extra fees.
For a hassle-free journey, confirm specific airline rules about transporting sports equipment before heading to the airport.
5: Magic 8 Ball
Magic 8 Balls aren’t allowed in carry-on bags. Travelers can only pack them in checked luggage. The TSA considers these novelty items a potential security risk.
It’s important for travelers to secure the ball to prevent leaks and check with their airline for any specific restrictions regarding size or additional rules. Always plan ahead to avoid surprises at the checkpoint.
6: Samsung Galaxy Note7
Samsung Galaxy Note7 devices are strictly forbidden in carry-on bags due to their history of battery issues that led to safety hazards, including fires.
Travelers must leave these devices at home or check them in luggage, ensuring they follow airline guidelines.
Major airlines and the FAA remind travelers to be aware of the dangers and confirm with their airline regarding any further restrictions on carrying similar devices.
7: Sling Shots
Sling shots aren’t allowed in carry-on bags due to their potential as weapons. Travelers should check them in instead, ensuring they’re securely packed to prevent accidental injuries.
The TSA views sling shots as dangerous items, and packing them in checked luggage helps avoid delays at security checkpoints.
Always confirm specific airline policies regarding sports equipment to ensure compliance and a smooth travel experience.
8: Spray Paint
Spray paint isn’t allowed in carry-on bags due to its flammable nature. It’s classified as an aerosol, which poses a fire risk in the confined environment of an airplane.
Travelers should pack spray paint in checked luggage if necessary, ensuring it’s properly secured to prevent leaks.
Always verify the volume limitations and airline-specific policies before packing to avoid complications at security checkpoints.
9: Lacrosse Sticks
Lacrosse sticks are prohibited in carry-on bags due to their potential use as weapons. Travelers must pack lacrosse sticks in checked luggage only, ensuring they adhere to the airline’s dimensions and weight restrictions.
It’s crucial to confirm specific airline policies regarding sports equipment before traveling, as regulations can vary.
By following these guidelines, travelers can avoid issues at security checkpoints and enjoy a smoother journey.
10: Gel Heating Pads
Gel heating pads aren’t allowed in carry-on bags. Travelers must pack these items in checked luggage due to safety regulations. Gel heating pads contain flammable materials, which can pose risks if heated during the flight.
It’s crucial to check airline rules regarding size and weight limitations before packing to ensure compliance and avoid issues at security checkpoints. Always secure gel heating pads to prevent leaks during transport.
11: Medical-Clinical Thermometer
Medical-clinical thermometers are not allowed in carry-on bags due to safety regulations. Travelers may bring one small mercury thermometer in checked luggage for personal use.
When packing this item, it’s essential to secure it properly to prevent breakage or leaks during transport. Always confirm with your airline about specific rules regarding the shipment of medical devices to ensure compliance and a hassle-free travel experience.
12: Liquid Bleach
Liquid bleach is prohibited in carry-on bags due to its corrosive nature and potential safety hazards. It can produce harmful fumes, especially in enclosed spaces.
Travelers should ensure they don’t pack any bleach in their carry-on luggage. If it’s necessary to bring bleach for specific purposes, pack it in checked bags following airline regulations. Always check for volume restrictions and securely seal the container to prevent leaks.
13: Rocket Launcher
Rocket launchers are flatly prohibited in carry-on bags due to their potential use as weapons and safety hazards. Travelers must leave these items entirely at home, as even replicas or toy versions are not allowed.
Packing them in checked luggage is not an option, given the serious implications of attempting to bring such devices onto an aircraft. Always double-check airline guidelines for any related restrictions to ensure compliance.
14: Cattle Prod
Cattle prods are banned in carry-on bags due to their potential for causing harm. Travelers must pack them in checked luggage if necessary.
It’s important to ensure they’re securely stored to avoid accidental activation. Also, travelers should always double-check airline regulations regarding similar items, as policies may vary, and strict adherence is necessary for a smooth travel experience.
15: Vehicle Airbags
Travelers can’t bring vehicle airbags in their carry-on bags due to their explosive devices that can activate under pressure changes.
Travelers must leave these items at home, as attempting to carry them can pose safety risks. If you need to transport an airbag, consider packing it in checked luggage while ensuring it meets all airline safety regulations.
Always confirm with your airline regarding their specific policies on transporting any automotive parts.
16: Tactical Pen
Tactical pens aren’t allowed in carry-on bags due to their potential use as a weapon. Travelers must pack them in checked luggage to ensure compliance with TSA regulations.
It’s important to consider the design; pens that can function as self-defense tools pose significant concerns at security checkpoints.
Always check with airlines regarding specific guidelines before traveling to avoid unexpected delays.
Alicia Richards