9 TSA Approved Items That Might Shock Frequent Flyers
Security lines are full of surprises, and often feel like a place where logic goes to die. TSA rules don’t always match what people expect, especially if they haven’t read the fine print. Some banned items seem harmless, while others that get a green light feel like they belong in a magician’s suitcase.
Here are 15 TSA-approved items that might just raise your eyebrows.
Live Fish in Water
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Fish don’t fly, but they can accompany you in the cabin. But you must follow the rules. You can carry live fish as long as they’re fully submerged in water and swimming inside a clear, spill-proof container. TSA agents won’t scan your aquatic travel buddy, but they will inspect the container. Just make sure to check airline policies beforehand.
Peanut Butter (In Small Quantities)
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A jar of peanut butter feels solid enough until TSA labels it a “liquid.” You can bring it, but only if it’s packed in a container no larger than 3.4 ounces and placed in your quart-sized liquids bag. Bring a full jar, and it’s likely getting flagged and tossed by an agent.
Full-Size Frozen Liquids
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You can bring a large water bottle or juice if it’s completely frozen solid at the time of screening. Slushiness or even a bit of liquid at the bottom disqualifies it. If it melts too much before you get to the checkpoint, it suddenly becomes subject to the 3-1-1 liquid rule.
Tattoo Guns (But Not the Ink)
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Your tattoo machine can travel in either carry-on or checked baggage without issue. But since the ink is liquid, the 3.4-ounce rule applies. So if you’re planning to ink on the go, just make sure your supplies are TSA-compliant. For in-flight artists, the device itself is fine to pack, but you’ll need travel-size bottles for any ink.
Corkscrews—If They’re Bladeless
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A surprising number of travelers attempt to bring wine keys that include small knives, which aren’t allowed. But a corkscrew without a blade is just fine. Just ensure yours doesn’t contain any kind of fold-out knife, and you won’t run into issues at the scanner.
Hair Clippers and Electric Razors
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Self-care tools get a pass, including electric razors and hair clippers. They’re treated like personal electronics and won’t cause trouble at security. But if your grooming kit includes scissors, blade length matters. Anything over 4 inches from the pivot point might get you a polite “nope.”
Live Lobsters in Containers
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Yes, really. TSA permits a live lobster in a clear, sealed container, ensuring it can legally fly in your carry-on. Agents will do a physical inspection, but it won’t go through the scanner. The airline might have its own views, though—especially if turbulence makes it click.
Artificial Skeletons and Bones
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You can pack a full plastic skeleton without issue, which is helpful if you’re teaching anatomy or just like company in your seat. TSA doesn’t ban fake bones in carry-ons or checked bags. They might prompt a second look or a few staff jokes, but they’re entirely legal.
Microwaves, Seriously
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If your idea of travel includes personal reheating, TSA doesn’t object. Microwaves are permitted in carry-ons, but they count as large electronics, so be ready to take them out at screening. The only catch is that it needs to fit under a seat or in the overhead bin, which rules out most models.
Pizza (Whole or Slices)
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Food confuses many travelers, but TSA allows solid items, including entire pizzas. Whether it’s boxed, wrapped, or stacked on a tray, it can go through security. Keep it separate in the bin during screening for easier inspection. And yes, the smell might spark envy in the line.
Knitting Needles and Crochet Hooks
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Those intimidating metal spikes don’t seem to bother TSA. Knitting needles and crochet hooks—wood, plastic, or metal—are cleared for carry-ons. TSA may ask questions, but they won’t confiscate them. Bonus: you get something to do while waiting for boarding.
Robot Vacuums
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Yes, you can bring your robot vacuum. TSA considers them standard electronics. Just remember: lithium batteries must go in your carry-on. If it’s battery-free or removable, it can go in checked bags. Just hope your Roomba doesn’t start roaming mid-flight after a bumpy takeoff.
Snow Globes (Under Certain Conditions)
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Snow globes with less than 3.4 ounces of liquid are allowed in carry-ons if they fit inside your quart-sized bag. Most souvenir-sized globes qualify. Anything larger must go in checked luggage. Security agents may still give them a shake for inspection purposes, of course.
Ice Packs and Gel Packs (If Frozen)
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Cold packs are permitted if they’re solid at the time of screening. This is useful for travelers with medication or perishable snacks. Once the pack starts to thaw, it’s treated as a liquid. Plan accordingly if your journey includes long waits or warm airport terminals.
Fresh Eggs
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Uncooked eggs aren’t banned, but packing them is a gamble. They’re allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage, but TSA recommends they be clearly visible to avoid confusion during screening. They’re fragile, temperature-sensitive, and wildly unpredictable in turbulence. Make sure to pack them with care, and maybe a backup plan.