Packing a carry-on bag can sometimes feel like a game of Tetris trying to fit in all the essentials while keeping weight and size within limits.
But beyond making everything fit, there’s something far more important: making sure what you’re packing won’t get flagged by TSA.
Security agents are trained to detect potentially hazardous or prohibited items, and while most of us know to avoid packing knives or large bottles of liquids, there are plenty of less obvious items that can raise red flags.
From novelty toys to seemingly harmless gadgets, here are 16 surprising items that can get your carry-on bag flagged and in some cases, confiscated entirely.
1. Baseball Bats
It may be America’s favorite pastime, but bringing a baseball bat into the cabin is a hard no. While it may seem like innocent sports equipment, bats are considered potential bludgeoning weapons. If you must travel with one, place it in your checked luggage.
2. Foam Toy Sword
You’d think a soft foam toy would pass through TSA without issue, but even a toy sword can be seen as a replica weapon.
TSA regulations often err on the side of caution, and anything that resembles a weapon even made of foam might not make it past security unless it’s in your checked bag.
3. Gel Candles
Candles make for cozy souvenirs or gifts, but not all are created equal when it comes to air travel. Solid candles are fine for carry-ons, but gel candles are off-limits.
The semi-liquid nature of the gel doesn’t comply with the TSA’s liquid rules, and thus, these must go into checked luggage.
4. Bowling Pins
This might seem like an odd item to carry, but some travelers like to take home a bowling pin as a keepsake. Unfortunately, TSA prohibits them in carry-ons because they can be used as blunt weapons.
So if you’re celebrating a perfect game with a pin souvenir, make sure it goes in your checked bag.
5. Magic 8 Ball
Surprised? This iconic toy doesn’t pass TSA muster either. It’s not about the fortune-telling powers it’s the liquid inside.
Since it exceeds TSA’s allowed volume for liquids and cannot be separated, Magic 8 Balls are banned in carry-on bags.
6. Samsung Galaxy Note7
This now-infamous smartphone was recalled for a serious reason: it posed a fire risk due to battery defects.
So severe was the issue that the U.S. Department of Transportation banned the device from all commercial flights entirely—whether in checked or carry-on bags.
7. Slingshots
Slingshots, though small and seemingly harmless, are categorized as potential weapons by TSA.
They’re capable of launching projectiles, and that alone is enough to land them on the banned-in-cabin list. If you’re carrying one for recreation or as a souvenir, check it instead.
8. Spray Paint
Spray paint might be useful for art or DIY projects, but it’s considered highly flammable and hazardous in pressurized environments.
As such, spray paint is prohibited from both carry-on and checked luggage. If you need it, purchase it once you arrive.
9. Lacrosse Sticks
Lacrosse sticks are not just large and awkward they’re also viewed as potential weapons.
Given their length and shape (ranging from 37 to 72 inches), they are simply impractical for overhead bins and pose a safety risk. TSA requires that these be checked.
10. Gel Heating Pads
Comfort items like gel heating pads may feel like travel essentials, especially for those with chronic pain or injuries.
But gels, just like liquids, are subject to TSA’s 3-1-1 liquid rule. Most gel-based products exceed the permitted size and can be flagged, so it’s best to check them.
11. Medical-Clinical Thermometers (with Mercury)
These old-school thermometers contain mercury, a toxic substance that poses serious risk if leaked under pressure or breakage.
The FAA permits one thermometer per person, but only in checked baggage and only if it’s secured in a protective case. Leave this one out of your carry-on entirely.
12. Liquid Bleach
Whether you’re a germaphobe or just like to be ultra-clean, bleach isn’t going to make it past airport security.
The strong chemical composition makes it dangerous for both carry-on and checked bags. If disinfecting is a must, consider TSA-approved wipes or travel-sized sanitizers instead.
13. Rocket Launcher
It may sound absurd, but TSA agents have reported confiscating rocket launchers at security checkpoints.
Clearly, military-grade weaponry is not allowed anywhere near a plane, checked or carry-on. While it may be a rare case, it’s one of those “believe it or not” items that have actually appeared at airports.
14. Cattle Prod
Designed to shock livestock into movement, cattle prods are high-voltage devices—definitely not carry-on material.
TSA allows them in checked bags (if you really need to bring one), but they’re banned from the cabin for obvious safety reasons.
15. Vehicle Airbags
Planning to bring back a replacement airbag from your road trip adventures? Think again.
Airbags are explosive devices by design and are banned from both checked and carry-on luggage due to safety concerns. They’re considered hazardous material and must be shipped separately.
16. Tactical Pen
At first glance, a tactical pen looks like a standard writing tool, but it’s far from ordinary. These pens are designed for self-defense and often feature pointed metal tips that can shatter glass or be used to inflict injury.
While they’re great for personal safety, TSA doesn’t allow them in carry-on bags. You’ll have to pack it in your checked luggage or leave it at home.
Alicia Richards