17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble

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The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), established after 9/11, has continually revised its guidelines to seek new security measures and adjust to new threatening elements. In 2022, TSA agents alone screened over 750 million passengers, which has continued to rise post-pandemic.

In fact, on 23rd June 2024, TSA set a record for the most people screened on a single day, screening nearly 3 million (2.99 million) people. Along with this uptick, reports of prohibited items being flagged at checkpoints and in checked baggage have risen, reflecting the complexity of TSA rules and travelers’ lack of awareness.

Travel can be stressful, and nothing adds to the tension like an unexpected hiccup, especially when your checked luggage becomes the subject of a TSA investigation. Ready to pack smarter and avoid TSA trouble? Read on.

Vape Pens and E-Cigarettes

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Vape pens and e-cigarettes are not allowed to be packed in checked luggage due to the fire hazard posed by lithium batteries. The FAA reported more than 579 incidents involving lithium batteries in airplanes between 2006 and 2024, showing how volatile they can be under pressure.

Carry these devices in your carry-on, turn them off, and store them properly. Failure to comply with this regulation could result in confiscation and delays. Discharge the battery before your flight to avoid fines.

Wrapped Presents

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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While not outright banned, wrapped gifts can create TSA complications. If an agent suspects an item inside poses a risk, they’ll unwrap it for inspection, potentially damaging your packaging. Use gift bags or pack wrapping supplies separately to avoid frustration.

Carry fragile or high-value items, like electronics, in your carry-on. Alternatively, ship-wrapped presents ahead of time. This proactive approach saves time and ensures your gifts arrive in perfect condition.

Specialty Glue

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
Image Credit: Babi Hijau/Wikimedia Commons

Specialty glues, including industrial adhesives or epoxy, are among the TSA’s prohibited items because they contain hazardous chemicals. These chemicals are flammable and produce toxic fumes, so they are not recommended for flying.

According to TSA regulations, adhesives should be no more than 3.4 ounces in carry-on and generally not permitted in checked luggage. Opt for non-hazardous glues or confirm with your airline before packing. Some carriers allow a very minimal amount of glue, provided the glue must be sealed and labeled.

Fireworks

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
Image Credit: Sarah Trummer/Pexels

Fireworks are not allowed in carry-on or checked luggage. The CPSC reports fireworks are hazardous and caused more than 9,700 injuries in 2023. Transportation of these items is a federal offense, resulting in hefty fines and possible criminal charges.

TSA scans precisely for explosive materials, and fireworks are classified as such. If you’re going to an event that involves fireworks, buy them at your destination. Often, safer alternatives, such as LED sparklers, are permitted.

High-Proof Alcohol

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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The FAA forbids any alcohol above 70% ABV (140 proof) in checked luggage because it is highly flammable. Such liquids are considered hazardous materials. For example, Everclear is a high-proof brand that is not allowed.

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Alcohol can be packed with no restrictions below 24% ABV, but between 24% and 70%, only up to five liters per passenger are allowed. Store alcohol in original, sealed containers to avoid leaks and confiscation. Research your airline’s specific rules, as some impose stricter policies on alcohol transport. Violating these regulations can result in confiscation and fines.

Lighters and Matches

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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While one lighter or book of safety matches is allowed in carry-ons, they’re forbidden in checked luggage due to fire hazards. According to TSA, improperly packed lighters are among the top items confiscated annually.

Disposable lighters without fuel are an exception, but torch lighters, which burn hotter, are entirely banned. If traveling internationally, ensure compliance with your destination country’s regulations. TSA-approved travel cases can safely store permitted lighters.

Bleach and Chemicals

 
 	
17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Bleach and similar chemicals are banned in checked luggage because they’re corrosive and can damage aircraft materials. The EPA classifies bleach as a hazardous material and requires it to be tightly contained.

The TSA doesn’t allow corrosive materials on flights in any amount. Cleaning supplies should be purchased at the destination. If you must, choose travel-sized, non-hazardous versions of those items. Failure to comply may result in confiscation, fines, or civil penalties.

Christmas Crackers

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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These celebratory items contain small explosive charges and are forbidden in checked luggage. Christmas crackers, although seemingly harmless, are considered explosives.

Many airlines forbid them altogether, even in carry-ons. The TSA recommends buying crackers at your destination to avoid any issues. If flying domestically, it’s best to check with your airline beforehand. Non-explosive, decorative crackers are a far safer option.

Fertilizer

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Fertilizer, particularly ammonium nitrate-based types, is banned due to its potential use in explosives. According to Homeland Security, this substance has been involved in several high-profile security incidents.

Packing fertilizer in checked luggage could lead to fines, confiscation, or questioning. If traveling for agricultural purposes, consult the airline or shipping companies for safer transport methods. While less risky, organic fertilizers may still raise red flags during inspection.

Camp-Stove Propane Canisters

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
Image Credit: John Britton/Flickr

Propane canisters used for camping stoves are strictly prohibited in checked luggage. The FAA classifies these as hazardous materials because they’re pressurized and flammable.

Incidents involving leaking canisters have caused fires in cargo holds, prompting these strict regulations. Opt to purchase propane locally at your destination or consider alternative cooking methods. If you’re unsure about compliance, consult the TSA website or your airline.

Firearms and Ammunition

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Ammunition should be separately packed and in its original packaging. According to the TSA’s 2022 report, 6,542 firearms were intercepted at checkpoints, 88% of which were loaded. Undeclared carriage of firearms attracts fines of up to $13,910 and arrest.

Aerosol Spray

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Other items, like aerosol sprays, deodorants, and insect repellents, have limitations in checked luggage. The TSA allows only toiletries in containers under 18 ounces, with a total aggregate not exceeding 70 ounces.

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Other aerosols, such as those containing spray paint, are entirely prohibited since they are flammable. Make sure all containers are tightly sealed to prevent leakage or the creation of pressure. Failure to follow these rules may mean confiscation and/or fines.

Long Tools

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Tools greater than 7 inches in length, such as wrenches and hammers, are not allowed in carry-on bags but are permissible in checked baggage. Tools capable of causing injury that can be secured, such as a crowbar, must undergo extra screening.

Place heavy tools in a separate, sturdy bag to protect other baggage handlers. Cushion all heavy tools appropriately so they don’t shift around in transit. Failure to declare such items may lead to delays or fines.

Meat and Produce

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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The TSA and USDA highly regulate meat and produce to prevent pests and diseases from infesting other parts of the country. For instance, fresh fruits cannot be taken on flights into Hawaii or other agricultural states. Declare food items to avoid fines or seizure.

Vacation-sealed meats will pass inspection but must be adequately cooled. The TSA recommends checking the destination’s customs rules before packing. Non-perishable items are easier to travel with and far less hassle.

Electronic Devices

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Laptops and other large electronic devices, such as gaming consoles, are permitted in checked luggage but might be selected for additional screening. To avoid damage, ensure they’re packed securely.

TSA scans for explosives hidden in electronics lead to potential screening delays. Experts recommend carrying expensive electronics in your carry-on for added security. Use protective cases to minimize risks from turbulence or mishandling.

Lithium Batteries

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
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Loose lithium batteries are banned from checked luggage because they are fire hazards. As the FAA stated, lithium battery incidents have risen 388% in the last decade, which points to their hazard potential.

The batteries installed within devices generally pass but must be discharged below 30% capacity. To prevent short circuits, place extra batteries in carry-ons using protective cases. Airlines may have stricter controls; therefore, it is important to check with them for specific rules before flying.

Live Fish or Coral

17 Items That Could Land Your Checked Luggage in TSA Trouble
Image Credit: Germano Roberto Schüür/Wikimedia Commons

Live fish or corals must be transported by TSA and Wildlife regulations. They must be packed in leak-proof, transparent containers. They are usually allowed only on carry-on baggage.

Airlines may further restrict this, especially for international flights. Check the destination’s wildlife import laws to avoid fines or confiscation. Improperly packed marine life can suffer harm; humane transport conditions must be ensured.

Disclaimer This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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