Have you ever gotten to security at the airport and been forced to throw away pricey face cream? What about the expensive treats and souvenirs you’ve had to ditch at the last second? While it may seem obvious what is and isn’t allowed in carry-on luggage, make sure you don’t get it confiscated. Know what not to pack in your hand luggage.
Heightened Security Means Longer Wait Times
Tighter security and regulations in our airports means longer lines and wait times. Knowing what and what not to bring on the plane can greatly reduce the amount of time you spend going through security.
Instead of having your bag screened multiple times, pack correctly the right way first.
Bath Products
Aerosols are prohibited, unless they are brought in small quantities of 3.4 ounces or under for use as a toiletry.
Disposable razors for shaving may be brought onto the plane, as long as they are stored in the appropriate cartridge.
Any toiletry, bath, or personal items that are liquids or gels should always be 3.4 ounces or less.
Personal Items
Don’t plan on bringing back a gel candle as a gift, because it isn’t allowed on board. Knitting needles are allowed, however. Feel free to bring these in your carry on bag.
You might be surprised to know that many sporting equipment items aren’t allowed in or as carry on items. Ice skates, surprisingly, are allowed, however. Prohibited items include:
Dangerous Items
Fireworks, fire extinguishers, or flammable liquids, gels, or paints are not allowed. Gasoline and lighter fluid cannot be brought on board, either.
While strike-anywhere matches are prohibited, one book of safety, non-strike anywhere matches are allowed on the plane as a carry on.
Most sharp objects should be left out of carry on bags as well. This includes box cutters, knives, meat cleavers, razor blades not in a cartridge, scissors, and swords.
It may seem like basic logic, but don’t bring axes, crowbars, drills, hammers, saws, or other tools on board the plane.
Firearms and Weapons
Almost all types of firearms and everything related to them are prohibited on the plane, so be sure to keep these out of your carry on luggage:
If you’re planning on checking a firearm or related items, be sure to check TSA’s rules closely as there are many varying specifications.
Items such as brass knuckles, martial arts weapons, night sticks, nunchucks, throwing stars, and stun guns are also prohibited from being brought onto the plane.
Food
Most types of food and drink are allowed on the plane, but only if they are in containers of 3.4 ounces or less. These include:
- Alcohol
- Creamy Dips and Spreads
- Gravy
- Jam and Jelly
- Maple Syrup
- Oils and Vinegars
- Salad Dressing
- Salsa and Sauces
- Soups
- Yogurt
If you’re unsure if the food you’d like to bring on board falls into one of these categories, bring it in a 3.4 ounce container or less to be safe. All 3.4 ounce containers in the bag you’re bringing on board must be able to fit in a one quart bag.
When you’re not sure if you can pack it, the safest thing to do is visit the TSA website or call the airline you’ll be flying on. If there’s something in your bag that isn’t supposed to be there, not only will you hold up yourself and those behind you during security screenings, you’ll likely loose the objects or items in question. Don’t get it confiscated and know what not to pack on your hand luggage.
