What Not to Pack in Your Carry-On: A Guide to Avoiding Security Issues

Packing your carry-on might seem straightforward, but there are strict regulations about what you can and cannot bring on a plane. Failing to follow these rules can cause delays, force you to throw away items, or even lead to fines. To help you avoid any issues at the TSA checkpoint, here’s a guide on what not to pack in your carry-on and how to ensure a smooth security screening process.


1. Liquids Over 3.4 Ounces (100 mL)

TSA’s 3-1-1 rule for liquids is one of the most common sources of confusion for travelers. The rule states that liquids, gels, and aerosols must be in containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller. All of these containers must fit in a single quart-sized, clear plastic bag.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Full-sized shampoo or conditioner bottles
  • Large perfumes or colognes
  • Bottles of water, juice, or other drinks (unless purchased after security)

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Use Travel-Sized Bottles: Transfer your favorite liquids into 3.4-ounce bottles or purchase travel-sized versions.
  • Pack Full-Sized Liquids in Your Checked Bag: If you need larger containers, pack them in your checked luggage to avoid confiscation.

2. Sharp Objects

TSA prohibits most sharp objects in carry-on luggage to prevent potential security threats. Items like knives, scissors with blades longer than 4 inches, and certain tools can’t be brought on board.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Knives (including pocket knives)
  • Scissors with blades longer than 4 inches
  • Razor blades (disposable razors are allowed, but loose blades are not)
  • Box cutters and utility knives
  • Ice picks, corkscrews, or any tools with sharp edges

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Pack Sharp Items in Your Checked Bag: If you need to bring any of these items, store them safely in your checked luggage.
  • Opt for TSA-Approved Alternatives: For example, safety razors and blunt-tipped scissors are typically allowed in carry-ons.

3. Weapons and Firearms

It goes without saying that weapons and firearms are strictly prohibited in carry-on luggage. This includes not only guns but also items that may resemble or be used as weapons.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Firearms and ammunition (must be checked, declared, and properly secured)
  • Fireworks or explosives of any kind
  • Stun guns and tasers
  • Toy or replica weapons
  • Martial arts equipment (nunchucks, throwing stars)

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Declare Firearms in Checked Luggage: If you’re traveling with a firearm, you must declare it to the airline and pack it in a locked, hard-sided container in your checked luggage.
  • Leave Replica or Toy Weapons at Home: Even if they’re not real, toy weapons can cause delays at security and should be packed in checked bags or left behind.

4. Flammable and Explosive Items

Anything that can catch fire or explode is a no-go in your carry-on. This includes many common household items that travelers might not realize are prohibited, such as certain aerosols or chemical products.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Lighter fluid or fuel
  • Fireworks, flares, or sparklers
  • Aerosols not specifically approved for personal care (hair spray, deodorant) or medical use
  • Camping stoves with fuel
  • Paints, thinners, or other flammable liquids

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Stick to Approved Aerosols: You can pack small aerosols in your carry-on if they are for personal use (like deodorant), but larger items or those with flammable contents must go in checked luggage.
  • Leave Flammable Items Behind: If you’re not sure whether something is flammable, it’s better to leave it at home.

5. Sporting Equipment and Tools

Certain types of sporting goods and tools are prohibited in carry-on luggage because they can be used as weapons or cause injury. This includes bulky or potentially dangerous items.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Baseball bats, golf clubs, hockey sticks
  • Pool cues
  • Skateboards (some airlines allow them, but check beforehand)
  • Hammers, screwdrivers longer than 7 inches, wrenches
  • Drills or saws

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Check Sporting Equipment: Most airlines allow you to check sports equipment, often as part of your free checked luggage or for an additional fee.
  • Small Tools Can Fly: Some tools, such as small screwdrivers and wrenches less than 7 inches long, are permitted in carry-ons. Double-check TSA regulations for specifics.

6. Large Quantities of Powdered Substances

While small amounts of powdered substances are allowed in carry-ons, large quantities (more than 12 ounces or about 350 milliliters) may be subject to additional screening. This includes items like protein powders, flour, or baby formula.

Prohibited in Carry-On (Large Quantities):

  • Protein powders
  • Makeup powders (more than 12 ounces)
  • Flour or spices
  • Baby formula (subject to screening)

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Pack Large Quantities in Your Checked Bag: If you need to bring large amounts of powdered substances, pack them in your checked luggage to avoid extra screening.
  • Be Prepared for Extra Screening: If you do carry powders in quantities over 12 ounces, be prepared for additional TSA checks.

7. Miscellaneous Prohibited Items

There are a few other items that travelers often overlook, but which are prohibited in carry-on luggage.

Prohibited in Carry-On:

  • Self-defense items: Mace, pepper spray, brass knuckles, or other personal defense tools are not allowed.
  • Gel candles: While regular candles are allowed in carry-ons, gel candles are prohibited.
  • Batteries: Most types of batteries are allowed, but spare lithium batteries must be packed properly. Lithium batteries larger than 100 watt-hours are prohibited in carry-ons.

How to Avoid Issues:

  • Store Self-Defense Items in Checked Bags: If you need to bring items like pepper spray or tasers, check your airline’s policy and pack them in checked luggage.
  • Understand Battery Rules: If you’re bringing electronics powered by lithium batteries, check the watt-hour limit and be aware of how to pack them.

Bonus Tip: Pre-Book Your Airport Parking for a Smooth Start

Avoid security line delays and start your trip on the right foot by planning ahead. Pre-booking your airport parking ensures that you have a reserved spot, making your travel day stress-free from the moment you leave your car.

Ensure your trip goes off without a hitch! Reserve your airport parking with Airport Parking Boston and enjoy a hassle-free travel day from start to finish.

By keeping these items out of your carry-on, you’ll save time at security and avoid the hassle of having items confiscated. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a smooth journey. Safe travels!

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