Packing for a trip can be troublesome enough without the additional worry of running afoul of airport security. While we all know about explosives and liquids exceeding a certain amount, there are a surprising number of everyday items that can land you in hot water (or, more accurately, have them confiscated) at the check-in counter. For your sake, these are those items that could derail your travel plans:
Lithium Batteries
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Those seemingly harmless spares for your camera or headlamp? They might be flagged for fire risk. Pack lithium batteries in your carry-on and check with the airline for specific guidelines. The Federal Aviation Administration particularly cautions against packing loose lithium batteries in checked luggage for potential combustion.
Snow Globes
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Snow Globes are the quintessential souvenir from a winter wonderland. However, the liquid inside most of them violates carry-on liquid restrictions, and checking them could lead to breakage. Even small sizes might exceed the allowable liquid limits set by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Certain Medications
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When it comes to packing medications, both prescription and over-the-counter types usually fly under the radar. However, beware that certain ingredients can be a no-go in some countries. To save yourself a headache at customs or, worse, legal troubles, always double-check with your destination's drug regulation authority before you travel. This small step can keep your trip smooth and stress-free.
E-cigarettes and Vape Pens
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Airline policies can differ, but a common rule is that e-cigarettes and vape pens must stay in your carry-on, not your checked baggage. This is mainly because they can overheat and potentially catch fire. To play it safe and steer clear of any issues, keep these devices and their refills with you or in your carry-on bag during the flight.
Matches and Lighters
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You might think a pack of matches is essential for travel, but packing them in your checked luggage is asking for trouble because of the fire hazard they pose. Your best bet is to carry a refillable butane lighter in your carry-on, provided the airline permits it. Usually, this is the only type of lighter you're allowed to bring on board.
Power Banks
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Portable phone chargers can be a real lifesaver, but keep in mind that airlines have different rules about how powerful they can be. Before you fly, make sure to hit up the airline's website or app to get the scoop on any limits regarding their battery capacity, like Watt-hours (Wh) or lithium content. This way, you can evade any last-minute hassles at the airport.
Fresh or Frozen Food
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Planning to pack a mini charcuterie board for your trip? You might want to rethink that. Perishable items often don't clear customs or agriculture inspections because they can bring pests or diseases into a new country. It's safer to stick with snacks with a longer shelf life to avoid any issues.
Paint and Paint Thinner
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If you're not planning to tote your latest art creation on vacation, it's best to leave the paint and paint thinner at home. These art supplies are labeled as hazardous because they're flammable and can pose serious safety risks during a flight. They're a no-go in checked luggage, so steer clear to keep your travel plans smooth.
Self-Defense Sprays
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Pepper spray and mace might feel like good options for personal security, but don't pack them in your checked luggage—they're not allowed. The TSA has a firm ban on these items because of their safety and security risks. It's a good idea to look into other security measures permitted at your destination instead.
Alcohol (In Excess)
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Sure, snagging booze at duty-free shops can be a great deal, but don’t go overboard. If you exceed the allowed limits, those bottles could be confiscated and possibly even fined. Generally, you can bring up to five liters of alcohol with an alcohol content of 24% to 70% by volume in your checked bags, as long as it’s packed correctly. Make sure you know the rules and stick to them to avoid any travel hiccups.
Flammable Liquids
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Nail polish remover, lighter fluid, and various cleaning products are no-gos in your checked luggage because they're considered hazardous materials. These items can seriously raise the risk of a fire in the cargo hold. It's best to leave them out of your bags to avoid any potential issues during your flight.
Power Tools
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Unless you're going on a very specific work trip, drills, saws, and other power tools are likely flagged as potential security risks and won't make it through checked baggage screening. Therefore, they can be used as weapons and are generally restricted to cargo shipments.
Certain Sports Equipment
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Baseball bats, hockey sticks, and other pieces of sporting equipment can be a hassle to fly with—they're often too big or could be seen as weapons. Before you head to the airport, give your airline a call to find out about any extra fees or specific packing rules for your gear. It's better to know what you're dealing with in advance so you can check everything in smoothly.
Live Plants
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Thinking about bringing a souvenir cactus back with you? You might want to reconsider. Many places have strict agricultural rules that ban live plants because they could introduce pests or diseases to the local ecosystem. It’s best to check the regulations first to avoid any issues at customs.
Creamy Cosmetics
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Watch out when it comes to mascara, foundation, and other creamy cosmetics—they can get flagged as liquids at check-in. To breeze through security, pop them into travel-sized containers or just stash them in your carry-on. Remember, the TSA caps liquids, gels, and aerosols at 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) each, so size them down to keep things smooth.