The TSA Has Banned 6 Popular Travel Items

Let’s face it, a trip through airport security is pretty stressful. Between arriving with time to spare, making sure you have your boarding passes and identification, and hoping your suitcase isn’t over the weight limit, the last thing you want to worry about is TSA pulling your bag aside. Hence, it’s important to realize that these popular travel items have been banned or restricted by the TSA!

From everyday snacks and smartphone accessories to smart luggage and even toys, certain things just don’t make it past security. Here’s a quick rundown of items that could cause unexpected delays (or get tossed), so you can pack smarter and avoid any airport surprises.

Loose Lithium Batteries

The TSA has some pretty strict rules when it comes to spare or loose lithium batteries, like the ones used for cameras, drones, or even some rechargeable power banks. According to the agency, “lithium ion and lithium metal batteries, including power banks and cell phone battery charging cases, must be carried in carry-on baggage only.”  Beyond that, they’re limited to 2 grams of lithium per battery, and rechargeable batteries are limited to a rating of 100 watt hours (Wh) per battery.

Replica Weapons and Toy Guns

According to the TSA, “Squirt guns, Nerf guns, toy swords, or other items that resemble realistic firearms or weapons are prohibited.” Less realistic toy weapons are generally permitted, but the agency recommends that they be packed in checked baggage. It’s a common issue for families heading to theme parks or traveling during holidays, and these items can easily get confiscated during screening.

Alcohol Over 140 Proof

Most travelers know they can bring mini bottles of alcohol in carry-ons if they’re under 3.4 ounces, but what’s less known is that alcohol over 140 proof is completely banned in BOTH checked and carry-on baggage, including grain alcohol and 151 proof rum. The TSA prohibits these due to flammability concerns.

Wrapped Gifts

While TSA technically allows you to bring gifts through security, wrapped presents can be unwrapped by agents if the contents need further screening. It’s not uncommon for travelers to be surprised when a carefully wrapped gift is opened on the spot. So, if you’re traveling for the Holidays or a birthday, maybe go for a gift bag or, better yet, wrap when you reach your destination if possible.

Certain Foods

Be wary when packing snacks in your carry-on. The TSA treats many food items much like they do liquids. For example, spreadable foods like peanut butter, hummus, and dips over 3.4 ounces aren’t allowed in carry-ons. Ditto for canned goods with liquid, like soups or stews. That said, most solid foods should be good, so feel free to stock up on Mickey cookies before heading home.

Smart Luggage

Smart luggage is super convenient, especially with built-in USB ports and tracking features, but the lithium battery must be removable. If it can’t be removed, the TSA won’t allow it through security or onto the plane as a carry-on, and airlines also usually won’t accept them as checked luggage for safety reasons.

Next time you’re getting ready to fly, be sure to keep the TSA’s rules in mind so you won’t need to dump your bag – – and potentially miss your flight – – at the airport. Stay tuned to AllEars for more travel tips.

I Thought I Experienced Everything at Orlando Airport; Then This Happened

Have you ever had security tell you to dump items from your bag before your flight? Let us know in the comments below.

Post a Comment