Here are ten unusual items that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) surprisingly allows travelers to carry through security at airports in the United States.
You might think you know the oddest items allowed through airport security, but guess again. While everyone is expected to have a passport or ID, and carry-on items typically include toiletries and clothing, there are some truly unexpected items you can bring with you.
Beyond the obvious illegal items like drugs and weapons, there are some peculiar things people have attempted to bring onboard, like animal parts.
If you’re curious about the peculiar items you can legally take through security, this list will surprise you.
Most travelers likely don’t need to bring antlers on their trip, but if they do, it’s perfectly fine.
“You may transport this item in carry-on or checked bags,” the TSA states. However, the antlers need to be a manageable size to fit in the overhead compartments.
The TSA advises: “For items you wish to carry on, you should check with the airline to ensure that the item will fit in the overhead bin or underneath the seat of the airplane.”
If you’re considering bringing a laser hair remover on your trip, it’s allowed in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Is it truly necessary to bring one along? Perhaps it’s best to laser before your journey. The answer remains a mystery.
Ever fantasized about being in the Star Wars universe? You can live out that dream while relaxing with a cocktail on a beautiful Greek beach.
The TSA mentions on their official page: “Sadly, the technology doesn’t currently exist to create a real lightsaber. However, you can pack a toy lightsaber in your carry-on or checked bag. May the Force be with you.”
Thinking of bringing live marine life like coral, fish, or lobster on a plane? The TSA allows it, pending an inspection by their staff.
According to the TSA, live fish and coral must be transported ‘in water and a clear transparent container,’ while lobsters need to be in ‘a clear, plastic, spill-proof container.’
Planning to bring a microwave because you might get hungry mid-flight or found a great deal on one? You can carry it on as the TSA allows kitchen appliances through security.
However, it’s wise to check with the airline before bringing such a large item to the gate.
While most travelers aren’t likely to carry a tattoo gun, it’s permissible under certain ‘special instructions.’
The TSA specifies: “Devices containing lithium metal or lithium ion batteries should be carried in carry-on baggage. Most other consumer devices containing batteries are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage.”
Though these items might be allowed in hand luggage, the TSA advises packing them in checked baggage.
They caution: “Squirt guns, Nerf guns, toy swords, or other items that resemble realistic firearms or weapons are prohibited.”
And unsurprisingly, ‘replicas of explosives, such as hand grenades’ are strictly forbidden.
Not the most comfortable footwear choice, cowboy spurs can still be worn at the airport.
If you can’t part with your balloons, you can bring them through security. Just don’t inflate them at the airport.
Although not essential for a tropical vacation, travelers can pack body armor if desired.
The TSA states: “Generally, body armor is allowed in carry-on or checked bags. Please note however that even if an item is generally allowed, our officers make the final decision on whether an item is allowed through the checkpoint.”