13 Things TSA Strongly Advises Against Packing in Hand Luggage
When flying, you want to avoid the hassle of bag checks and so often, it’s tempting to squeeze everything you need into your hand luggage. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has a very long list of things that shouldn’t go in your carry-on. Breaking these rules will result in delays, confiscated items, or even worse, some strained conversations at security checkpoints.
Knowing what not to pack in your hand luggage doesn’t only save you time; it saves you stress. Just think of it as getting yourself ready for some smoother travel vibes. Below are the top things the TSA doesn’t want to see in your carry-on, along with a few reasons why this information might save your next trip from becoming a logistical nightmare.
Firearms and Ammunition
This is no surprise, but don’t make the mistake of thinking guns or ammunition are allowed in your carry-on bag. Even if you’re licensed to carry or you’re going to a state where firearms are legal, the TSA still requires you to check these items and secure them properly. Not only is it illegal, but you will surely find yourself in some trouble trying to sneak them through security.
Liquids Over 3.4 Ounces
The infamous 3-1-1 rule. Shampoo, lotions, and even bottled water are all limited to containers no larger than 3.4 ounces. In addition, they must be packed into a single quart-sized bag. TSA is not forgetting this rule anytime soon — it’s a recipe for TSA confiscating your expensive moisturizer or favorite cologne.
Sharp Objects
Sharp tools such as screwdrivers that are longer than 7 inches, knives, scissors, and small blades or crafting tools may seem harmless to you, but security staff won’t see it that way. If you want hassle-free travel, leave these sharp items in your checked luggage.
Explosives and Flammable Materials
Fireworks are packed with fun, but they shouldn’t go into your hand luggage. Neither should materials that are hazardous like lighter fluid, gasoline, or some aerosol sprays. They’re banned because nobody wants to sit next to flammable items at 30,000 feet.
Self-Defense Items
Pepper Spray, stun guns, or brass knuckles might make you feel safer, but they’re not allowed in your carry-on. They are limited to checked luggage; there may be further packaging requirements. If you pack them in your carry-on they’re at risk of being confiscated, or worse, fined.
Gel-Type Candles
Gel-based candles are actually liquid and restricted. If you’re flying back from a vacation with a souvenir candle, be sure it’s solid wax. Unfortunately, gel candles will not make it through TSA checks.
Hoverboards
Although these high-tech gadgets may make you feel like you’re riding into the future, they are powered by lithium-ion batteries, which are fire hazards. Most airlines won’t permit them in checked or carry-on bags — leave them at home.
Large Quantities of Powders
Are you packing protein powder, baby formula, or even spices? If you don’t want extra screening, make sure they’re under 12 ounces. Those powdery substances in large amounts, raise red flags in the security process, causing them to delay and attract questions.
Wrapped Gifts
If you are bringing holiday cheer to loved ones with your carry-on luggage, you’ll have to unwrap them. TSA agents will unwrap an item if they need to take a closer look — no matter how pretty the bow is. You can save yourself the trouble by wrapping them when you’ve landed.
Tools
TSA bans most tools over 7 inches in your hand luggage, so that handy wrench set or hammer might seem harmless but it could get you in trouble. Larger tools are potential weapons, smaller ones are fine. Put these in your checked luggage to avoid security snags.
Prohibited Foods
Certain cheeses, sauces, or spreads that are strong-smelling or messy are discouraged. Peanut butter or yogurt, for example, foods that look like liquids or gels, must follow the 3-1-1 rule. That’s why nobody wants to be that person holding up the line because their brie looks ‘suspicious’.
Large Batteries
Whether you have a spare battery pack for your phone or a power bank for your laptop, check the watt-hour limit with your airline. For safety reasons, batteries above a certain capacity can’t be put in your carry-on or checked luggage.
Replica Weapons
Fake guns, toy grenades, and anything at all that looks like a weapon can cause major delays. If it’s a souvenir, it will probably get confiscated at the checkpoint. Save yourself the trouble and embarrassment by leaving these at home.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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