10 Seemingly Innocent Things That Will Get Your Bag Pulled by Airport Security
Most travelers expect airport security to be strict, but few realize how unpredictable it can be. Every day, people are stopped for items that seem completely harmless. Even when you follow every rule, a small thing in your bag can still raise questions. The TSA screens millions of carry-ons each year, and many get pulled aside simply because something inside looked confusing on the scanner.
Here are ten ordinary items that can slow you down at security.
Peanut Butter (and Other “Liquids”)
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Liquids aren’t limited to what you drink. Anything that can be poured, smeared, or spread falls under the same rule, and peanut butter is one of them. Some travelers have even had jars taken away after security deemed them “too spreadable.”
Electronics Packed Together
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A single laptop isn’t a problem. A laptop that is stacked with a tablet, charger, camera battery, and headphones can create issues. Dense piles of electronics block the scanner’s view, which makes it difficult to see what’s inside. According to the TSA, electronics are one of the top reasons bags get flagged.
Wrapped Gifts
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A neatly wrapped present might look great, but it can slow you down at security. If officers can’t see what’s inside, they’ll have to unwrap it. Paper, ribbons, and tape can block the scanner’s view. It’s better to pack gifts unwrapped and bring the paper separately so you can finish the job after your flight.
Portable Power Banks
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Power banks are a travel must-have, but they also raise red flags. They use lithium-ion batteries, which can overheat or catch fire if damaged. That’s why they’re banned from checked bags and often checked closely in carry-ons.
Dense Snacks and Foods
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Dense items like bags of nuts, protein bars, or a stack of brownies can show up on X-ray as solid masses that hide what’s behind them. When scanners can’t get a clear image, officers often open the bag for a closer look. Pack snacks in smaller containers or spread them out across your carry-on to reduce the chance of extra screening.
Candle Jars and Wax Items
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On a scan, a jar of wax appears as a solid block, which may look suspicious. A glass container makes things worse by hiding what’s inside. If you’re traveling with candles, pack them near the top of your bag so they’re easy to remove if asked.
Tools or Multi-Tools
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Even tiny tools can get you stopped. Anything with pliers, screwdrivers, or sharp metal tips can look like a weapon. TSA confiscates thousands of these items every month. Also, double-check your pockets for keychains and tool kits before you leave home if you really want to catch that flight.
Souvenir Snow Globes
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They might look adorable, but snow globes are one of the most commonly confiscated souvenirs. The problem is liquid volume. Most hold more than the allowed 3.4 ounces, and since you can’t measure it, security won’t take the risk. But, smaller globes that fit inside your quart-sized liquid bag are usually fine.
Books and Thick Stacks of Paper
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A thick stack of books is anything but innocent as far as the TSA is concerned. It can block the X-ray just like electronics or food. Paper layers create “blind spots” that agents need to check. Business travelers often run into this with binders or printed documents.
Powdered Substances
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Protein powder, baby formula, and hot cocoa mix are all allowed, but anything over 12 ounces will get extra attention. Powders can hide other substances or look suspicious on a scan. If you’re carrying a large container, security personnel may swab it or conduct additional tests.