Newsflash, travelers: You may have to put your souvenir or gift-giving dreams on hold, or at the very least, in a checked bag. It turns out there are some odd items that are forbidden in carry-on luggage.
While this isn’t a complete list, knowing some of these can help you avoid surprises at the security checkpoint.
It’s always wise to verify with the TSA’s website before arriving at the airport, as their policies are constantly updated.
Here are 16 items that might get your carry-on rejected:
1. Baseball Bats
If you’re a baseball fan hoping to bring your bat along while traveling and prefer to travel light, you might need to reconsider.
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) does not permit baseball bats in the aircraft cabin. The reason given for this restriction is to reduce the risk of them being used as weapons.
2. Foam Toy Sword
While it’s generally acceptable to bring toys in carry-on bags, a foam toy sword is identified as an exception to this rule. It is not allowed in carry-on bags.
However, there is good news for children: they can pack foam toy swords in their checked bags.
3. Gel Candles
When traveling with candles, the type matters. According to the source, the TSA allows passengers to bring solid candles in both their carry-on and checked luggage. Gel candles, however, are not permitted in carry-on bags.
4. Bowling Pins
If you’ve just won a bowling trophy or simply want to bring a bowling pin with you, you’ll need to use a checked bag for it.
The TSA prohibits bowling pins in your carry-on bag. Similar to baseball bats, the source notes this is done to prevent them from becoming a weapon.
5. Magic 8 Ball
Just like certain snow globes, Magic 8 Balls are not allowed in carry-on bags. The specific reason provided is that the liquid inside the ball doesn’t meet TSA regulations. Travelers who wish to bring home a Magic 8 Ball must pack it in their checked bag.
6. Samsung Galaxy Note7
This specific electronic device is subject to a strict ban. It is prohibited to bring a Samsung Galaxy Note7 in any piece of luggage, whether you plan to carry it on the plane or place it beneath the plane in checked baggage. The Department of Transportation banned the device because it poses a fire hazard.
7. Sling Shots
Passengers who are considering packing slingshots in their carry-on bags should refrain from doing so. The TSA policy only permits slingshots and items described as “catapult-like” in checked bags.
8. Spray Paint
Spray paint is considered a definitive “hard no” by the TSA. This is due to a flammable propellant within the spray paint that makes it hazardous.
Because of this, spray paint is not permitted in either checked or carry-on bags. The source suggests that you will need to purchase spray paint at your final destination if you need it.
9. Lacrosse Sticks
Beyond the potential for use as a weapon, lacrosse sticks are also typically too large to fit comfortably inside most airplane cabins. The source notes that lacrosse sticks commonly range in size from 37 to 72 inches.
10. Gel Heating Pads
Most types of gel products are not allowed in carry-on bags. The reason for this restriction on gel heating pads and similar items is that gel is considered too similar to a liquid.
The source humorously notes that your back pain will “have to wait” until you reach your destination.
11. Medical-Clinical Thermometer
Medical-clinical thermometers are only allowed in a passenger’s checked bag. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows one medical-clinical thermometer per person.
Due to the mercury contained within the thermometer, it must be kept in a protective case when packed in checked luggage.
12. Liquid Bleach
If your travel plans involve cleaning, the source suggests it is wise to purchase liquid bleach after you arrive at your destination rather than trying to bring it with you.
Regardless of the standard TSA rules regarding liquid sizing, liquid bleach is prohibited in both checked and carry-on bags.
13. Rocket Launcher
While it might seem incredibly obvious, the source states that “some people have tried” to bring rocket launchers onto planes.
This item is explicitly not allowed on planes, and the source adds, “or near them, for that matter”. It is described as being “about as common sense as it gets for this list”.
14. Cattle Prod
A cattle prod is defined as a handheld device used to encourage livestock to move. These devices are allowed in checked bags, but travelers are not permitted to bring them in carry-on bags.
15. Vehicle Airbags
Despite any potential disappointment, the TSA does not allow vehicle airbags on planes. They are banned from both checked and carry-on luggage.
16. Tactical Pen
Tactical pens are designed to serve as self-defense weapons. They have sharp tips. Because of this design and purpose, passengers are not allowed to bring them in their carry-on bags.
However, the source mentions that the TSA has no issue with travelers carrying tactical pens in their checked bags.
Alicia Richards