Traveling by plane often comes with surprises, but few things confuse passengers more than the rules about what you can and cannot bring in the cabin. TSA (Transportation Security Administration) carefully screens items to keep passengers and crew safe, but some banned items are downright unexpected. From everyday objects to hobby equipment, travelers are often shocked when their favorite souvenir or personal item is taken away. This guide covers 15 items that are banned and still surprise travelers, explaining why they can’t be carried in your carry-on bag.
While some items have obvious reasons for being banned, others seem completely harmless but are still treated as potential risks. Understanding these rules can save you time, money, and stress at the airport. With a little planning, you can enjoy your trip without any unpleasant surprises. Let’s take a look at the items TSA bans that continue to catch travelers off guard.
Snow Globes
You might think snow globes are harmless souvenirs, but TSA sees them differently. Snow globes larger than a tennis ball are banned in carry-on bags because they contain liquid that cannot be easily screened. Travelers are often surprised when their holiday gift or keepsake is confiscated at security.
To avoid disappointment, TSA recommends packing them in checked luggage. Even though they seem innocent, small amounts of unidentified liquid can be a security concern. Many passengers forget that even tiny souvenirs can fall under strict regulations. Additional rules also apply for multiple small globes in one bag, which can slow down screening.
Pecan Pies and Fruit Pies
While regular fruit pies are usually allowed, cream or caramel-filled pies can be considered a gel or liquid and are banned. Travelers often don’t realize this when bringing a pie as a souvenir or gift. Large amounts of filling and moisture can be problematic during screening.
Packing pies in checked luggage is the safest option. This rule may seem odd, but it helps maintain safety at checkpoints. Always check TSA guidelines if you plan to bring baked goods through security. Some airports may allow smaller pies if packed in transparent containers, so it’s worth asking in advance.
Sports Equipment
Whether it’s a baseball bat, hockey stick, or golf club, sports equipment is not allowed in carry-on bags. TSA considers them potential weapons in the cabin, even though they are commonly used for recreation. Travelers packing equipment for tournaments are often caught off guard.
Checking these items in a suitcase or a specialized sports case is the best solution. Many airports provide helpful guidelines for transporting sports gear safely. Items like tennis rackets or ski poles are often allowed only in checked luggage.
Helium Balloons
Helium-filled balloons are prohibited in carry-on bags because changes in cabin pressure can cause them to explode. Travelers often think it’s only the larger balloons that are risky, but even small balloons can be problematic. Buying balloons at your destination is usually the easiest workaround.
It may sound silly, but this rule is about passenger safety. Helium is lighter than air, but in a pressurized cabin, even small amounts pose a risk. Additionally, foil balloons can trigger metal detectors, causing further delays at security.
Bottles of Ketchup, Mustard, or Mayonnaise
TSA treats these condiments as liquids, which means they must be in containers of 3.4 oz (100 ml) or less in carry-on bags. Larger bottles will be confiscated, surprising many travelers. Packing them in checked luggage or buying them at your destination avoids the problem. These rules are part of global liquid restrictions for air travel. Even small travel-sized bottles are often subject to extra inspection. Travelers often overlook sauces in travel kits, which can still be flagged by scanners.
Electronic Cigarettes (E-Cigs)
E-cigarettes are allowed in carry-on bags but are strictly prohibited in checked luggage. The reason is the lithium-ion battery, which can pose a fire risk. Travelers often forget this rule and have their devices confiscated. Keeping them in your carry-on ensures safer travel. Some airlines also limit how many spare batteries you can bring. Passengers should always protect batteries from short-circuiting by covering terminals or keeping them in original packaging.
Self-Defense Sprays
Pepper spray and similar items are completely banned in carry-on bags. Even small bottles for personal protection are not allowed. Travelers are frequently surprised by this rule at security checkpoints. If you must bring them, check TSA and airline guidelines for special permissions. This rule is in place to prevent dangerous items from entering the cabin. Some sprays with very low concentrations may still be prohibited, so checking local regulations is wise.
Alcohol Over 140 Proof
Alcohol with more than 70% alcohol content (140 proof) is prohibited in both carry-on and checked luggage. This includes certain liquors and spirits. Travelers who don’t check labels are often surprised when TSA stops these items. The restriction is due to flammability and safety concerns. Lower-proof alcohol may still have quantity limits for carry-on bags. Alcohol above this limit cannot be transported even with special packaging, so plan ahead.
Live Fish in Water
Live fish are allowed in carry-on bags, but only under strict rules, special containers, enough water, and protection from leaks. Travelers are often unaware of these requirements. Failing to follow the rules can lead to confiscation. It’s always best to review TSA guidelines if transporting live animals. Some airlines also require prior notification before bringing aquatic pets, adding another layer of planning.
Hoverboards
Hoverboards are banned in both carry-on and checked luggage due to lithium-ion batteries that can cause fires. Travelers who assume they’re just another electric gadget are often shocked. Sending them via courier or leaving them at home is usually necessary. Even if a hoverboard is small, battery safety regulations are strict and unavoidable. Additionally, airlines may require written permission for any electric personal device, making planning essential before traveling.
Hair Spray
Aerosol hair sprays are treated as flammable and cannot be carried in hand luggage. Travelers often pack them with toiletries without realizing they’re restricted. Small travel-sized bottles under 3.4 oz may be allowed, but larger ones will be confiscated. Some brands with special safety caps are still flagged by TSA scanners, so caution is required. It’s also recommended to place aerosols upright in a clear bag to minimize the risk of leaks or spills.
Honey and Peanut Butter
These spreads are considered gels and cannot exceed 3.4 oz (100 ml) in carry-on bags. Many travelers assume solid foods are fine. Packing larger jars in checked luggage solves the problem. Even small containers may be examined at security. TSA may also scrutinize homemade spreads, imported jars, or decorative packaging more carefully, so transparency and labeling are helpful.
Video Games and Consoles With Lithium Batteries
These are allowed in carry-on bags, but often require extra screening. Travelers are sometimes surprised by additional checks. TSA measures this for fire safety. Spare lithium batteries must follow airline guidelines and are never allowed in checked baggage. Using protective cases or keeping batteries in original packaging can prevent confiscation and ensure smoother passage through security.
Liquid Soap
Liquid or gel soaps are treated like any other liquid and restricted to 3.4 oz (100 ml) per container. Travelers often think soap is harmless. Packing solid soap or checked luggage is safer. All liquids must fit in a single quart-sized bag for carry-ons. Even liquid hand sanitizers are subject to the same rule, so travelers need to plan carefully.
Gel Candles
Gel candles may look harmless, but TSA bans them in carry-on bags. The gel inside is treated as a liquid, and its consistency cannot be screened easily. Many travelers are surprised when decorative candles are pulled from their bags. Checked luggage is the safe option. Even small, decorative items can be confiscated if they resemble a liquid hazard. Some scented or glitter-filled gels are scrutinized even more strictly, making them risky to carry in hand luggage.