Packing for a trip can be a bit challenging when it comes to following the rules set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). You may need to double-check the size limits for liquids in your toiletry bag and end up leaving behind items like toothpaste, lotion, conditioner, or shampoo. However, there are some things that the TSA allows that you might not have considered bringing and some prohibited items that have interesting reasons behind their restrictions. In this small travel guide, we'll explore some surprising things you can and can't bring through airport security. Let's get to it!
So what can you really bring on a plane?
Items you're allowed to bring
Source: Ilona Ivanova/Unsplash
- Live lobsters. If you want to bring home some very fresh seafood, you may be able to bring a live lobster on your flight, depending on the airline. The TSA allows live lobsters to go through security, but an officer will need to inspect the lobster and its container. The container must be spill-proof but it can be filled with water. Keep in mind that this might be easier for domestic flights, as some international customs agents may not allow live animals to enter the country.
- Antlers. If you just went on a hunting trip, you can bring your prized antlers with you in a carry-on or checked bag. The TSA says that antlers aren't a threat, but packing them in the overhead compartment might be a bit tricky.
- Live fish. Just like you can bring your cat or dog, you can also bring your pet fish on your flight. The TSA allows live fish to go through security if they are in a clear, spill-proof container. The container can be bigger than the 3.4-ounce limit, but an officer will need to inspect it by hand. However, unlike lobsters, live fish cannot be checked.
- Lightsabers. Even though the Star Wars movies might make people think otherwise, TSA agents don't see lightsabers as weapons. You can pack them in your carry-on or checked bag. But packing this big item might be tricky. Good luck with that!
- Eggs. It may seem strange, but TSA agents don't consider fresh, unbroken eggs to be a liquid. You can bring them through security in your carry-on or checked luggage, so you can cook them when you get to your destination.
- Bowling balls. It can be hard to fly with sports equipment because many clubs or bats are seen as dangerous and have to be checked. But surprisingly, you can take a bowling ball in your carry-on through TSA. Or you can just roll it through security if you want.
Items you're not allowed to bring
Source: ROMAN ODINTSOV/Pexels
- Foam swords. You might be surprised to learn that foam swords aren't allowed in your carry-on bag. They must be checked instead. This is because some of these toys look like real weapons, so the TSA has banned them from being packed in your carry-on luggage.
- Christmas crackers. British citizens might be disappointed to know that the TSA doesn't allow English Christmas crackers to be brought on the plane. They also can't be checked, as they contain traces of gunpowder. Even though they seem harmless, these explosive firecrackers can't fly under any circumstances.
- Thawed ice packs. If you're bringing a cooler with you for a mid-flight meal, make sure the ice packs inside are completely frozen before boarding. The TSA allows gel ice packs to go through security, as long as they aren't partially melted, slushy, or have any liquid at the bottom of the container. This might be tricky to do, so it might be easier to just pack a peanut butter and jelly sandwich in a brown paper bag instead.
- Peanut butter. The amount of peanut butter you bring in your carry-on bag can be a problem. The TSA considers peanut butter a liquid. You can only bring a small amount like a small packet or a light amount on a piece of bread. A full jar of peanut butter will be taken away during security.
- Snow globes. Snow globes are a popular souvenir, but they can cause trouble at airport security. If the water inside the snow globe is more than 3.4 ounces, you can't pack it in your carry-on bag. Larger snow globes have to be checked instead.
Travel smarter, pack lighter with our smart booking platform – ParkingNearAirports.io!
Source: CHUTTERSNAP/Unsplash
Planning a trip to NYC, New York? Avoid the hassle and expense of airport parking by reserving your spot with our smart booking platform! Through ParkingNearAirports.io, you can easily find and book parking near major airports around the country, including cheap Atlanta Airport parking with shuttle, affordable Ronald Reagan Airport long-term parking, and more! Just compare different options on our website to find the best deal. Moreover, you might even be able to find special airport parking coupons to save some extra money. So ditch the stress of airport parking and book your spot with our friendly team today!
